From: Packaging News

DS Smith has taken delivery of the bespoke HP T400 Simplex Color inkjet web press, and is also set to be the world’s first user of the HP T1100 Color Inkjet web press.

The HP T400 press is deployed at the firm’s Belper site, and is designed for digital preprint solutions for high-volume corrugated packaging.

The narrow-width press, which will print four colours onto the liner prior to corrugating, precedes the delivery of a wide-web machine – currently in development – which is more size-compatible with high-volume fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) corrugated packaging needs.

The investment will enable DS Smith to deliver products to market faster, customise batches to support brand and marketing initiatives, deliver short and long print runs, and ensure consistent print quality.

The press is installed at the Belper site, part of DS Smith’s UK packaging division, which has been chosen as the test site.

This installation is a big step in DS Smith’s collaboration with HP towards deploying a high-volume, digital preprint solution, to meet the corrugated packaging needs of FMCG markets.

Stefano Rossi, divisional chief executive for DS Smith, said the company invests in new printing technology at an early stage to ensure customers have unrivalled access to the highest quality and widest range of printing techniques.

“This is a big investment; it shows our determination to be at the forefront of technology, to lead the market and to continually enhance the service and support we provide to our customers.”

Eric Wiesner, general manager for HP’s Inkjet high-speed production solutions division, added: “We believe our HP T400 Simplex Color Inkjet Web Press and the HP T1100 Color Inkjet Web Press preprint solution will provide DS Smith innovative new capabilities, and that combined with DS Smith’s vision and focus around quality and customer service will help us sharpen our packaging presses offering to the market.”