Agfa and Hybrid Software have announced a collaboration aimed at supporting variable data printing in digital folding carton production.
The agreement brings together Hybrid Software’s packaging design, prepress and smart digital front end workflow software with Agfa’s digital printing technology, including the SpeedSet Orca single-pass digital packaging press and Asanti software.
The companies said the combined system is intended to help folding carton converters produce jobs where graphics, text, language versions or artwork change from carton to carton. The development comes as brand owners place greater emphasis on shorter production runs, faster turnaround and more versioned packaging.
For folding carton manufacturers, these requirements are increasing pressure on conventional production models, particularly where multiple versions, frequent job changes and waste reduction are key operational considerations.
Agfa’s SpeedSet Orca digital folding carton press is designed for high-volume folding carton applications and includes digital primer, water-based inks and inline varnish. The press is intended to support rapid job changeovers and reduced waste, while handling paper and micro-flute substrates across different packaging applications.
The integration also includes SmartDFE from Helix, Hybrid Software’s OEM business. The software enables complex inline variable data printing and uses patented AI software to optimise system configuration in real time. Hybrid Software’s ColorLogic colour management software is also included to support brand colour consistency across different versions and substrates.
“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to helping folding carton producers navigate the shift from analog to digital production, especially as demand for versioning and customization continues to grow,” said Michael Dupré, Head of Software Digital Printing Systems at Agfa.
Lawrence Geere, OEM Sales Director EMEA at Hybrid Software Helix, added: “By combining the expertise of the Agfa and Hybrid Software engineering teams, we aim to help converters unlock the full potential of digital production. This collaboration provides a clear, practical path to compete in a rapidly evolving market.”