The world’s biggest print and packaging software developer, eProductivity Software, has opened a new facility for its Escada corrugated software technology production.

Kolbus has a host of new solutions on its stand, including what it says is a 100 per cent rigid box production, and a new system to make and print Fefco boxes in a single pass.

Zund is launching its new Q-Line generation of cutters - with Board Handling System BHS180 and integrated Undercam optical capturing system - on the global stage for the first time. 

In its first drupa as a standalone business, Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems is debuting advanced new robotics, and what it claims is next generation digital cutting technology.

XSYS has launched EcoFillX, a software feature developed for the ThermoFlexX imagers, which the company promises to significantly reduce washout solvent usage.

Kurz has its biggest-ever stand at this drupa, in fact 50 per cent bigger than last time, and is showing the full range of its embellishing options, including foils, dies and digital embellishing systems

With the aim of taking away IT headaches and hardware investments for its users, specialist labels and packaging developer Hybrid Software has launched MyCloudFlow.

Smartech represents several leading exhibitors at drupa, including Canon, HP, Epson, and Jwei, manufacturer of digital die-cutting and finishing solutions, where Print21 caught up with Brett Wark.

This is the first drupa for Miraclon, which says it is developing modern flexo systems for packaging printers, and has nine new Flexcel NX technologies on its stand.

IVE has joined APCO, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation, a move it says is part of its environmental, social and governance strategy, as it gears up to be a major player in the folding carton sector.

This will be the first drupa for Miraclon, which says it is developing modern flexo systems for packaging printers, and will have nine new Flexcel NX technologies on its stand.

Sales at the world’s biggest packaging business Amcor, which includes Australia’s biggest flexibles printing operation, fell by seven per cent in the third quarter, but EBIT rose.

New lollie packs produced with Xeikon Titon  toner technology and Sappi Seal Silk paper are demonstrating sustainable and fully recyclable packaging solution that is also food-safe, claim the companies.

Global containerboard and corrugated board demand is facing a series of challenges and shifts in market dynamics across the next five years, according to print and packaging industry analyst Smithers.

Esko is co-exhibiting at drupa with sister businesses X-Rite, Pantone and Enfocus, as the company focuses on giving the market solutions for ultra-short turnarounds.

The final countdown is on to enter the inaugural PKN Women in Packaging Awards, which are open to all women engaged in printed packaging and converting companies. Entries close on 24 April.