Packaging technology

Bobst blows for revolution

BOBST CEO Jean-Pascal Bobst announced nothing less than a revolution at his press event. The company promises „more connectivity and proximity“ and presents networked machines, combination lines and a new solution with a high barrier effect for flexible packaging at its headquarters near Lausanne. We show the most important innovations.

BOBST CEO Jean-Pascal Bobst announced nothing less than a revolution at his press event. The company is promising „more connectivity and proximity“ and is presenting networked machines, combination lines and a new solution with a high barrier effect for flexible packaging. We show the most important innovations.

Jan Malte Andresen reports from Switzerland

The world is undergoing major changes, says the head of the Bobst Group at the opening of its annual event for the international trade press. The packaging industry would particularly benefit from these changes. And just looking at the figures proves him right.

More packaging in use worldwide

Even though sustainability and packaging avoidance are key issues: Packaging consumption is on the rise worldwide. Smithers Pira forecasts an increase of 4.5 per cent in flexible packaging by 2026 compared to 2021. The consulting firm predicts an increase of 3.8% for corrugated board, 4.7% for folding cartons and an increase of 4% for labels.

Bobst has also recognised these trends correctly, says Jean-Pascal Bobst. The company has implemented a strategy and built up a portfolio of solutions and services with which packaging and branded goods manufacturers can also operate successfully in this new packaging world.

More connectivity and proximity

Proof of the thesis of the revolution is the new updated BOBST Connect be. The aim of the digital solution is to network the entire packaging value chain in such a way that packaging and brand manufacturers gain a clear insight into the production process.

BOBST Connect offers solutions for preparation, production, response, maintenance and workflow optimisation for production jobs, designed to help customers optimise their packaging in all areas.

Machines already offer up to 80% automation

At a time when packaging and branded goods manufacturers are faced with higher demands than ever in the booming e-commerce market, while at the same time struggling with challenges such as a shortage of skilled labour and raw materials, automation and productivity are more important than ever.

In the corrugated board sector, the new EXPERTLINE - It consists of an EXPERCUT 1.7 I 2.1 and the EXPERTFLEX - a large-format processing line that combines flatbed die-cutting and post-print flexo printing and is ideal for the production of e-commerce applications. It offers high flexibility and is available in a standard and a mirrored version. With its special register accuracy and perfect print register, this line produces folding boxes of unrivalled quality.

For the folding carton market, BOBST announces SPEEDSET offers a new, improved set-up time reduction package that is available for all of the company's flatbed die-cutters. This package significantly reduces changeover times and increases performance. SPEEDSET offers improved ergonomics, such as an additional 15“ screen at the feeder for faster set-up of the optical register system.

Other highlights this year include the MASTERLINE DRO. This new rotary die-cutter enables manufacturers of Corrugated cardboard packaging more performance and greater added value. It is the most versatile, automated and networked solution on the market and is also characterised by its high level of ergonomics. The MASTERCUT 1.65 PER is the only flatbed die-cutter capable of cutting folding cartons, corrugated board and laminated corrugated board with thicknesses from 0.5 mm to 2,000 g/m² processed, optionally single or double shaft.

New sustainable flexible packaging

New sustainable materials are being researched and worked on in many places. Bobst points out that it is working with up to 50 partners in order to ultimately offer only the most practicable solutions and thus save customers years of development work. Even before the official presentation on 15 June, the company will be providing an insight into its latest solution.

In co-operation with Tipa, a specialist in the development of sustainable packaging, has been working on a compostable packaging solution for household use. FibreCycle is a fully paper-based and recyclable solution with a high barrier effect called FibreCycle. It is part of the oneBARRIER family of new alternative and sustainable solutions that Bobst is developing with its partners.

Back in the spring, Bobst presented a new packaging solution as part of the CEFLEX initiative (Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging). New solution with high barrier effect for flexible packaging which is recyclable.

It is a new pouch made from recycled polypropylene (rPP), a metallised mono-material with a high barrier effect that has been printed using flexographic printing. It is the first bag on the market made from recycled material collected from households (rPP) with a printed surface and barrier.

„There is no question that the challenges in today's packaging environment are greater and more diverse than ever before. However, we at BOBST know that we have the portfolio, the services and the partnerships to help packaging and branded goods manufacturers overcome them successfully. We chose the right strategy in 2020. Now packaging and branded goods manufacturers can actually benefit from it. Together, we can look to a brighter future with confidence.“
Jean-Pascal Bobst, CEO Bobst Group