Data Points: Hybrid Digital Label Presses

The converting challenge

Conventional flexographic presses typically combine process color analog printing with synchronized in-line physical conversion capabilities. Some standalone digital presses also have in-line conversion features, usually focused on diecutting, although most digital presses do not offer this as an integrated feature. Hybrid digital label presses, on the other hand, often offer at least some in-line conversion by default, because those capabilities are used with the flexographic portion of the press. As a result, the hybrid systems tend to be bigger and more expensive ($1M+) than most standalone digital label presses, and come from conventional flexographic equipment vendors that typically offer label converting on existing presses.