LabelProfi adds pouch press

LabelProfi has installed an HP Indigo 200K digital press at its site in Slovenia to print Doypacks, stand-up pouches and other flexible packaging at speeds of up to56 m/min.

The HP Indigo 200K was developed specifically for digital flexible packaging production and uses HP Indigo LEP and One Shot Color technology. LabelProfi says it will produce stand-up Doypacks, flat pouches, zipper pouches, spouted pouches and printed flexible packaging films, on a range of flexible packaging substrates. It is aimed at short and medium runs, and at jobs with several designs, SKUs and product variations.

Digital printing removes the need for conventional printing plates and long setup procedures, so artwork moves more directly into production, and a change of design does not need a new plate set. LabelProfi says this lets brands order quantities closer to their actual needs, which can reduce packaging inventory, storage requirements and the risk of obsolete stock when launching products. It points to uses such as new product launches, seasonal products, limited editions, promotions and market tests, and to brands that need several flavors, sizes or languages for different markets.

The HP Indigo ink system supports extended color and spot colors, and HP says the gamut can reproduce up to 97 percent of the Pantone range. LabelProfi says this matters for brands whose identity depends on specific colors. The company lists protein powders, supplements, coffee, tea, snacks, pet food and confectionery among the products that suit Doypacks, and sauces, purées, drinks and household products among those that suit spouted pouches. It says the right material structure depends on the product, barrier requirements, filling process and intended use.

LabelProfi, which has more than 30 years of experience in printing and packaging, says it wants to offer professional pouches to companies of different sizes, including start-ups and growing brands.