Eco3 partners with Nela

Eco3 has formed a strategic partnership with Nela, a provider of automated plate handling and pre-press logistics technology. The collaboration extends Eco3's upcoming APOGEE IQ platform into physical plate automation, further connecting pre-press workflows with pressroom operations. 

Announced in September 2026, APOGEE IQ is Eco3's next-generation platform for connected print production, integrating business systems, production equipment, and operational data into one environment. 

The partnership with Nela extends these capabilities into automated plate handling and pre-press logistics. By connecting production planning with plate validation, tracking, and delivery, the integration will help printers reduce manual intervention, minimize errors, and gain greater visibility across the entire plate lifecycle. 

‘The print industry continues to move toward connected, data-driven production,’ said Tobias Lerch, director hard- and software R&D, at Nela. ‘Our partnership with Eco3 combines Nela's leadership in plate automation with the workflow intelligence of APOGEE IQ, creating new opportunities for printers to optimize operations, reduce waste, and improve pressroom performance.’ 

Powered by Adobe Print Services and supported by color management tools of Bodoni, APOGEE IQ continues to expand through strategic industry partnerships. Following the recently announced collaboration with PlanProphet, Nela brings additional expertise in physical production automation to the platform. 

‘Printers are increasingly looking for solutions that connect every stage of production and eliminate manual touchpoints,’ said Arnaud Becuwe, global head of software at Eco3. ‘With APOGEE IQ, we're building an open automation platform that brings together best-in-class technologies from partners such as Adobe, Bodoni, PlanProphet, and now Nela. Together, we're helping printers create smarter, more efficient production environments.’ 

The Nela integration into APOGEE IQ is planned for Q2 2027.