The packaging industry is at a crossroads. With the combination of an unpredictable external environment, ever-increasing requirements for shorter runs and faster time to market and a surge in technological innovation, there is understandably some new opportunities to grasp for all converters across the globe. At BOBST, we believe there is a clear path ahead – a profound transformation of the entire industry built on four pillars: Connectivity, Digitalization, Automation and Sustainability.

These four pillars will all progress in parallel as they are interlinked and influence each other. Connectivity will advance as all machines will be connected providing the data needed to make fact-based decisions. Secondly, the digitalization of the entire production chain will accelerate – not only in printing but also in converting. Machines and processes will be digitalized, and a digitalized workflow will become the backbone of application-centric production. Thirdly, automation of all processes will continue. While this isn’t a new trend we mustn’t underestimate the benefits it can bring. Automation, including quality control systems, reduces human errors and waste significantly. Finally, the demand for more sustainability in the process will accelerate with new substrates improving recyclability. This topic is strategic as it is pushed by all brand owners and consumer demands.

Although the pandemic has created an unpredictable environment, it has accelerated the path we were already on. It has highlighted that agility and flexibility are fundamental to packaging production and the best way to make these a reality is by connecting the entire workflow, from initial file creation to finished product. We also expect remote assistance to grow further across all industries – during the pandemic, connected customers all enjoyed the benefits of being connected to BOBST virtually.

While we are proud to be leading this necessary packaging industry transformation, we believe that this can only be done through partnerships looking at end-to-end solutions and not only at distinct technologies. To ensure we roll-out our new vision effectively we have deployed a new company structure with an entrepreneurial spirit to be closer to our customers. Feel free to contact us anytime.

Register for the session ‘Shaping The Future Of Packaging’ here.

View the full Leaders Summit schedule here.

Find out more about BOBST here.