Smurfit Kappa has invested in eight HP Scitex corrugated presses across for its European sites to boost its digital printing capability for the corrugated packaging industry.

HP Printer

Image: A HP printer. Photo: courtesy of Smurfit Kappa Group.

The firm has installed Scitex HDR technology corrugated presses including the HP Scitex 11000, HP Scitex 15500, and HP Scitex 17000 in sites in Belgium, Denmark, France, Portugal, Poland and the UK.

The firm plans to make additional installations at its sites in the UK and the Netherlands in future.

The new printers are designed to produce enhanced graphics which make display and promotional packaging come alive, Smurfit Kappa said.

Smurfit Kappa Group Europe corrugated and converting chief operating officer Edwin Goffard said: “There is an industry-wide consensus that corrugated is ready for digital. We are using HP digital solutions in many of our plants to provide pioneering, market-leading solutions for our customers.

“Our strong relationship with HP enables us to stay ahead of any printing trends and fits in with our sustainability goals.”

Additionally, the printers can be used for short runs to meet the increasing demand for reduced turnaround times from brands.

HP Europe, Middle-East & Africa PageWide Industrial Business general manager Cristóbal Macedo said: “We’re thrilled to be assisting Smurfit Kappa with their printing requirements after a wonderful three years in partnership.

“The HP Scitex HDR press offers customers both speed and quality, ensuring that high standards do not suffer for the sake of productivity.”

In April, Smurfit Kappa has installed first commercial HP single pass press in Europe at its Interwell plant in Austria.

Smurfit Kappa said it has been using digital print in shelf-ready packaging which is delivered through its ShelfSmart service.