At drupa 2024, Bobst’s Regional Business Director for Africa, Middle East, Turkey, Russia, CIS Business Unit Printing and Converting, Eric Pavone, spoke with Ben Daniel of Packaging MEA. The conversation revolved around Bobst’s emphasis on digitalization and their newest innovations tailored for the Middle East and African markets.
Bobst Connect Steals the Show
Pavone emphasized Bobst Connect, their digitalization platform, as a key driver for Bobst. “Our vision, our strategy is really to shape the world of packaging and the key point is the digitalization of our industry,” Pavone explained. Bobst Connect aims to streamline the workflow, “from receiving the PDF from the brand owner to the end product,” enhancing efficiency and quality throughout the process. The concept of Bobst’s machine-less stand at drupa showcases this journey for folding carton, corrugated board, label, and flexible packaging segments.
Drupa Premieres with Regional Appeal
Bobst unveiled several drupa premieres with a clear focus on the Middle East and Africa:
- Folding Carton: The world’s first die-cutter with zero patching, designed to significantly boost productivity and quality in the folding carton sector, a key area for both regions.
- Flexible Packaging: The ECG Gravure press, capable of achieving precise seven-color registration in gravure printing. This press, certified by Pantone for ECG compliance, caters to the growing demand for high-quality flexible packaging in these markets.
Soaring Demand for Bobst Digital Solutions
Pavone highlighted the rising popularity of Bobst’s digital printing solutions. He revealed that Bobst is nearing 100 digital press sales globally this year, a significant portion likely coming from the Middle East and Africa. The D55, a digital and flexo combination press with inline embellishment and die-cutting capabilities, was showcased as a prime example for these regions.
Sustainability Solutions for a Growing Market
Bobst presented its Hero 3.0 structure with high-barrier paper and blown PP structures, addressing the increasing focus on sustainable packaging in the Middle East and Africa. Additionally, they offer rPET solutions for sheet extrusion with barrier coating, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging options.
Record-Breaking Response from Middle East and Africa
An exciting collaboration with Reifenhäuser was discussed. Bobst successfully conducted a printing trial on an 18-micron film within just two months. They are finalizing the barrier coating, with the potential to use either gravure or flexo printing.
Pavone expressed his enthusiasm about the overwhelmingly positive response from the Middle East and Africa, particularly. “We have the highest volume of bookings worldwide as per today and the opportunities even higher for the next coming four days,” he revealed. Pavone emphasized strong interest in folding carton and flexible packaging solutions, indicating significant growth potential for Bobst in these regions.