Koenig & Bauer showcased a wide range of digital innovations and advanced printing technologies at drupa 2024, held in Düsseldorf from May 28 to June 7. CEO Dr. Andreas Pleßke noted the industry’s significant changes, emphasizing sustainability and digitalization as key themes.
Digital innovations, particularly the digital intelligence Kyana and the myKyana portal, attracted significant attention. The new connected packaging solution FOLLOW also drew interest, transforming packaging into multimedia communication channels and supporting future regulations like the Digital Product Passport.
Koenig & Bauer reported a strong order intake, especially in the sheetfed offset division, surpassing targets. The seven-color Rapida 106 X, the world’s fastest medium-format sheetfed offset press, was sold to I.G.B. in Italy. Postpress systems like the Omega Alius 90 folder gluer and the CutPRO Q 106 flatbed die-cutter were also popular.
Koenig & Bauer Durst’s VariJET 106 digital folding carton printing press made its debut, impressing visitors with its print quality and flexible configuration. The joint venture confirmed two beta customers and announced an upcoming installation.
Technological advancements in the Digital & Webfed segment were highlighted with the RotaJET digital decor printing. The AI-generated décor and high-volume digital packaging printing showcased Koenig & Bauer’s innovation.
CFO Dr. Stephen Kimmich stated, “The great interest and the remarkable sales successes show that Koenig & Bauer has once again lived up to its claim of developing pioneering technologies for the printing industry for over 200 years.” Since late May, Koenig & Bauer has secured new orders worth €250 million, with around €200 million in legally binding orders. The company maintains its forecast for the current financial year and aims for an EBIT margin of 6 to 7 percent by 2026.
Reflecting on the event, board member Ralf Sammeck noted the special atmosphere created by technical discussions with customers and industry experts.