IVE Group opened the doors of its state-of-the-art printing plant in Braeside, Victoria, for an LIA technical showcase featuring live demonstrations of its brand-new Koenig & Bauer Rapida presses.
Celebrating the launch of the new world-class printing facility and showcasing the latest in offset print technology, the event, held on 21 October, emphasised the three qualities at the heart of IVE’s history – innovation, collaboration and sustainability.
The lineup of equipment on show comprised a Rapida 106X 10-colour commercial press with in-line coater, and a Rapida 106X 7-colour packaging press with two in-line coating devices.
During his opening statement, Matt Aitken, managing director of IVE, highlighted the significant investment in the Koenig & Bauer equipment, and spoke on the long partnership with Koenig & Bauer, which had been established since 2016.
The investment includes four new presses – two of which are still on the way, and all which Aitken says aim to enhance automation, precision and flexibility – benefiting clients in the commercial and packaging sectors.
“This investment isn’t just about machines, it is about what they empower – the ideas, the creativity, and the service excellence that defines our business,” said Aitken.
“When we talk about being Australia’s most diversified and innovative marketing and print communications business, technology like this is part of what makes it possible, and our partnership with Koenig & Bauer is central to that.”
In his address to the crowd, Markus Weiss, CEO Paper and Packaging at Koenig & Bauer Germany, emphasised the importance of digital and offset printing, and highlighted the value of smart production environments, AI integration, and predictive maintenance tools.
His discussion also covered the future of packaging, the importance of appealing to the new generation, and the development of innovative products.
“There is a lot to win in the printing industry. I truly believe, with the right mix between digital printing and offset printing, you can gain a lot. And I believe the IVE team is a great example of a company that has embraced both the offset world and the digital world,” he said.
Also in attendance from the IVE team were Shane Britten, executive general manager – Print and Jacpak; and Shaun Hodge, head of operations (Print VIC/CX and Data).
Joining Weiss were Koenig & Bauer Australia’s Graham Harris, CEO; and Rayne Simpson, sales manager – Australia and New Zealand, as well as Dirk Winkler, head of printing technology and product management from Koenig & Bauer Germany.
Representing LIA Victoria on the night was president Robyn Frampton and vice-president Jaz Allen, who were there with other committee members.
