STI Group leads investment in premium packaging technology

STI Group is the first packaging manufacturer in Germany to invest in the latest hybrid offset printing technology from Koenig & Bauer. The Rapida 106X-7+L will expand the group’s premium folding carton capacity and quality at its facility in Greven.

‘In recent years we have grown very strongly in the European packaging market with a highly competitive folding carton offering,’ says STI Group CEO Jakob Rinninger. ‘This investment in the new Rapida X version will help us to build on this positive development and drive further growth. Brilliant print results and premium finishing are crucial for our packaging customers in the cosmetics, OTC, electronics and food industries. This new press will significantly enhance quality and expand the options for creative finishes while also improving efficiency and process reliability.’

A hybrid press with seven inking units and one coater, the Rapida 106X-7+L can handle both conventional and UV inks and coatings as well as printing special coatings such as metallic silver. It also enables even higher quality images when printing onto silver foil-laminated materials or natural surfaces.

Having this printing technology in house will make it even easier and quicker for STI Group to deliver packaging that reflects and enhances the quality, luxury and appeal of high-value brands and products. At a time when packaging may be the only touchpoint a consumer experiences – on shelf or on screen – it is important to be able to respond in an agile way to the latest consumer trends.

That Koenig & Bauer could manufacture the press in a carbon compensated way was another argument in favour of STI Group's decision to invest in this state-of-the-art technology. ‘As a company we strive to reduce our CO2 footprint as much as possible, with the ultimate goal of net zero emissions,’ explains Rinninger. ‘We like to work with partners who have a similar focus.’

As a packaging industry pioneer, STI Group’s forward-looking products and services shape markets, making the company a powerful partner for brands that are looking for competitive edge.