Koenig & Bauer has signed a joint venture agreement with Durst to develop digital production in packaging.
The new company, called Koenig & Bauer Durst, will develop a single pass digital printing system for the folding carton and corrugated fibreboard industry.
Initially, the joint venture portfolio will comprise the Koenig & Bauer CorruJet 170 and the Durst SPC 130, including all associated services and the ink business, as well as the development of the VariJET 106. Christoph Gamper, chief executive officer at Durst, says, “It was a short path from letter of intent to official signature because the negotiations had already been conducted in a spirit of genuine cooperation.
“We want to work efficiently and purposefully towards a common goal – tapping the huge potential that digital production lines offer for the packaging industry.”
The companies expect approval from antitrust authorities in Europe by the end of May, so they can commence operations. The new entity will have a managing director and a registered office will be in Wurzburg, Germany.
Claus Bolza-Schünemann, chief executive officer of Koenig & Bauer AG, says, “Koenig & Bauer Durst will combine different key technology areas and market expertise to perfect effect. I am convinced that the joint venture will benefit from the spirit embodied by both companies and that something really special is emerging here. The packaging industry is looking for new, more efficient production opportunities and Koenig & Bauer Durst will supply the necessary digital solution.”
