Hybrid Software Group has announced that it has appointed Steven Steenhaut as Director of Marketing. In this role, Steenhaut will coordinate group marketing activities across the company’s six business units, building a unified effort and market presence. Steven will be based in HYBRID Software’s office in Gent, Belgium.

Steenhaut has spent most of his career in sales and marketing, primarily in high tech and IT companies—particularly software—spanning a number of global regions. Beginning his career in sales allowed him to apply that experience into marketing to fully support the sales effort. He has experience in start-ups as well as more institutionalized companies. All of this comes within an international context with the ability to manage and coordinate several remote teams.

While Steenhaut comes to the Hybrid Software Group from Igepa Belux, where he was Marketing and E-Commerce Manager, he spent most of his career at Nuance, market leader in speech recognition, AI, PDF and OCR software. There he ultimately managed the Global Marketing Demand Center, guiding and supporting local marketing teams across the globe. The company grew from $170 million revenue to nearly $2 billion before being acquired by Microsoft in 2021. Steenhaut began his career as a copier salesman for Océ-copiers, quickly developing experience in the marketing departments of Panasonic and Fujitsu-Siemens. He earned a Master’s degree in Applied Economics (University of Ghent) and an MBA from the Management School of Antwerp.

“Hybrid Software Group has undergone considerable growth during the past few years. We are comprised of six business units whose technologies complement each other, but we must act as one company to our customers. While we have contributed to the success of many print providers, we also provide vital OEM technologies to many vendors who use our products and expertise to create digital front ends as well as fast and powerful digital presses. As a group, we are much stronger than our individual parts,” states Mike Rottenborn, Hybrid Software Group CEO. “Particularly given the importance of making a strong presence at drupa in a few months, we are fortunate to be able to rely on Steven’s expertise. We look forward to Steven’s efforts to provide a strong, unified identity.”

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, developer of innovative productivity tools for label & package printing, has launched Version 9.5 of its PACKZ and STEPZ packaging and label editors. Version 9.5 is a significant upgrade which includes several new technologies and numerous enhancements to improve operator productivity for digital, flexo, and offset printing of labels and packaging.

HYBRID Software’s new Colorspace color management technology is accessible from within both PACKZ and STEPZ, providing color consistency between different printing methods like flexo and digital printing as well as between different digital printing devices themselves.  Its easy-to-use interface simplifies the process of high-quality color conversion and optimization of CMYK, RGB, multicolor and expanded gamut printing.  The sophisticated technology uses spectral data, supports CxF/X-4 spot color definitions, and builds DeviceLink profiles on-the-fly with a high color accuracy across all printing methods, allowing packaging to be easily moved from flexo or offset printing to digital print production.

HYBRID Software’s Packzimizer now offers lane planning for efficient gang printing of roll-fed digital labels, while cut-and-stack labels that are printed in bulk on large sheets profit from the cost-effective block imposition with less wastage in cutting and finishing. The full complement of step and repeat solutions in PACKZ and STEPZ support all varieties of package printing and production methods while automating the layout process.

PACKZ 9.5 also marks the introduction of CAPTURE 3D, an optional expert application for shrink sleeve quality and 3D modeling. “We successfully showcased CAPTURE 3D at Labelexpo Brussels earlier this year, mapping 2D artwork to 3D modeling. With innovative technology of CAPTURE 3D, precise grid distortion can be performed in minutes instead of days, speeding up time to market while improving quality. And since CAPTURE 3D eliminates dead zones, shrink sleeves gain valuable real estate for increased visual appeal and brand awareness,” remarks Product Manager Pascal Wybo. PACKZ and STEPZ integrate with Capture 3D to display the compensation of artwork shrinkage live in a visually realistic 3D preview.

Last but not least, PACKZ’s industry-leading trapping technology, which compensates for unacceptable gaps between artwork elements during flexo printing, gets a major upgrade in PACKZ 9.5.
The Trap Rules feature models how artwork edges should be trapped and increase the efficiency and quality of trapping for both images and graphic elements in an interactive and automated prepress process.

Discover all innovative productivity tools of the only all-in-one PDF editors for label and packaging graphics at www.hybridsoftware.com.

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Article courtesy of CERM:

The CERM-HYBRID Partnership highlights our commitment to streamlining and enhancing prepress operations. We feel that awarding HYBRID Software our Premium Integration Partner quality label is another great step forward and adds extra punch to our high-end and automated prepress workflow solutions for the label and packaging printing industry.

The significance of prepress workflow automation

At CERM, we believe in connecting all elements of your business and creating a seamless integration of your complete workflow, from CRM to invoicing. An integrated workflow improves your productivity and from this conviction, we suggest automating as much of your workflow as possible.

Prepress workflow is often the ideal starting point for automation. Subsequent stages can smoothly integrate your printing presses and finishing machines into the already established automated prepress workflow. This step-by-step integration process ensures a cohesive and efficient workflow.

Key standard integrations with industry leaders

Recognizing the importance of collaboration, we have invested significantly in our partner integrations with leading prepress software suppliers for the label and packaging printing industry. Awarding HYBRID Software with the CERM Premium Integration Partnership is not just a quality assurance and sign of their proven excellence. It also further empowers our automated partner solutions for (prepress) workflows for CERM customers and prospects.

Inside the CERM-HYBRID CLOUDFLOW integration

The integration between CERM and HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW is designed to automate the entire process from product creation in the CERM MIS Software to the approval of the soft proof by the print buyer. CLOUDFLOW’s Proofscope module for soft proofing and collaboration is seamlessly integrated in the Web4Labels CERM application for a smart approval workflow.

This automation not only saves time and reduces errors but also allows prepress operators to focus on high-value operations, leveraging their expertise.

The CERM-HYBRID CLOUDFLOW integration operates on bidirectional JDF-JMF data exchange. Utilizing product properties from the CERM MIS system, JDF instructions are sent to HYBRID CLOUDFLOW, initiating an automated prepress job.

This process includes bidirectional synchronization of artwork status and the exchange of product color details, which become part of the product description in the CERM MIS. Finally, the soft proof PDF generated by HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW is sent to the print buyer for approval. Upon approval, the prepress workflow for the product is complete, ready for production upon customer order.

Conclusion

This partnership and the integration between CERM and HYBRID Software combines expertise and technology. It sets new standards in the label and packaging print industry, emphasizing our commitment to innovation and excellence.

For more information on the CERM-HYBRID partnership, please contact our marketing department at marketing@cerm.net or reach out to our CERM Business Development Team at sales@cerm.net.

More information on the CERM MIS Software can be found at www.cerm.net, read all our latest news and client testimonials in the news section (www.cerm.net/news).

CLOUDFLOW CERM Integration

1. Approval Overview in CLOUDFLOW
2. Asset Viewer in the 3D Library
3. Workflow Approval

Specimen for the evaluation of new features as described in the R&D project.

HYBRID Software Extends CLOUDFLOW Maker for 3D Binder Jet Applications with Innovation & Entrepreneurship Grant from Flemish Government

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the global software solutions provider for the printing industry, announces its continued investment in the expansion of its Additive Manufacturing (AM) software portfolio, with an additional R&D project aimed at adding multiple new functionalities to its CLOUDFLOW Maker AM workflow software. The Flemish Government has committed to supplying HYBRID Software with a grant, confirming the relevance of the innovative research to be undertaken in HYBRID Software’s AM Business Unit.

The project’s goal is the development of next-level functionalities in CLOUDFLOW Maker, including a “from CAD to postprocess” software solution for Binder and Material Jetting technologies. These new functionalities will drive down the Cost Per Part while increasing the quality, reliability, and repeatability of the process.

Kris Binon, HYBRID Business Unit Manager for AM, is very pleased to hear the confirmation of government endorsement: “We have a solid business case, driven by true market need and delivered from our in-house expertise. We’re glad we’ve been able to adequately substantiate this claim to the government, as we believe this project is going to create tangible added value for AM machine operators. Our team has already begun setting up tests that will quantify some of the parameters to be applied in our software, in alignment with our goal of achieving positive effects on binder usage, print speed and energy efficiency.”

Nick De Roeck, Co-President of HYBRID Software, shares “The 3D-printing industry is at a crossroads: as printer producers and users turn towards industrialization, they need software to support that evolution. At such point in time, optimization and streamlining are key concepts. To achieve that, HYBRID can leverage its expertise in the industrialization of printing for labels & packaging and develop value-added functionalities for 3D and Additive Manufacturing. This project fits that scope entirely. It takes us where we intend to be and lays the foundation for further growth of the group.”

Adds De Roeck, “Some of the R&D efforts will also benefit our existing solutions. We’re particularly looking at applying AI to further enhance the development of new algorithms, for example for advanced dithering and ink management. Our co-development projects with the first selected Binder and Material Jetting OEM’s will also be announced in the near future.”

Kris Binon, AM Business Development Manager, poses with the Meteor Inkjet team during Formnext 2023 – the Hub for Additive Manufacturing.

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the global software solutions provider for the printing industry, is launching CLOUDFLOW Maker, an enterprise workflow solution for industrial-scale Binder and Material Jetting at the Formnext trade show in Frankfurt. CLOUDFLOW Maker was developed specifically for these Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies and provides printer producers and users with an exceptional tool to prepare and execute their prints.

CLOUDFLOW Maker is advancing the state of the art in many ways. First, the solution is truly industrial – which is what the AM sector is craving right now. Built on OPC-UA standards, the solution ensures interaction with all connected devices and machines. And, as the software is fully API-based, it offers smooth connections with all other systems – acknowledging the reality that one-solution-for-everything is non-existent.

Yet real world connectivity isn’t the only reason to consider talking to HYBRID Software, according to Kris Binon, AM Business Unit development manager. ”Having decades of experience in jetting the right drop on the right spot is just one thing; industrial printing software is about the ability to provide fast, secure and modular solutions, as well as customer-oriented support, maintenance and upgrades.”

To raise the bar from a technical perspective, HYBRID Software can rely on two other sources. First, parent organization Hybrid Software Group boasts the world’s major provider of printhead electronics for Binder Jetting: Meteor Inkjet. Combining their hardware with HYBRID’s own software guarantees a direct, secure data stream from CAD up to printhead. Meteor’s expertise on drop formation, binder delivery systems, waveforms, etc., is unique in the 3D-print industry, and CLOUDFLOW Maker complements the existing offerings from Meteor Inkjet and its partners. Second, HYBRID Software’s experienced engineering team has 12+ years of successful product development for industrial printing applications like labels and packaging to bring to bear for CLOUDFLOW Maker.

Mike Rottenborn, CEO of Hybrid Software Group, summarizes the company’s position in the AM sector as follows: “The 3D-printing industry is at a crossroads: as printer producers and users turn towards industrialization, they need software to optimize and streamline their workflows for high-volume production. To achieve this, HYBRID is leveraging our expertise in enterprise workflow for printing to develop value-adding functionalities for Binder and Material Jetting.”

Parties interested to discuss their CLOUDFLOW Maker implementation can meet with HYBRID Software at the upcoming Formnext in Frankfurt (DE), from 7 – 10 November 2023. HYBRID Software is sharing a booth with the Meteor Inkjet colleagues at hall 12.0, stand B102.

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Kris Binon, AM Business Unit development manager, celebrates with the CLOUDFLOW Maker software development team the launch of the new workflow solution in the Gent headquarters.

Hybrid Software Group will be showcasing its wide array of software solutions and printhead electronics for packaging and all forms of digital and conventional industrial printing at booth #B8079 during PRINTING United Expo, from October 18-20, 2023. Featured will be Global Graphics Software’s SmartDFE, which received a 2023 Pinnacle Product Award in the Technology category, and ColorLogic’s CoPrA 9 color management technology, a 2023 PRINTING United Pinnacle Product Award recipient in the Non-Output Device category.

Product highlights from Hybrid Software Group’s six operating companies will include:

• HYBRID Software will demonstrate its complete portfolio of prepress & workflow software for labels and packaging. The updated HYBRID PACKZ editor adds tools to predict the color of printed artwork under various printing conditions, including different spot color strategies. The feature helps label and packaging producers accurately reproduce brand colors using the fewest possible spot colors—and therefore, the lowest production cost. Other recent developments include Content XML for dynamic content creation using standard markup language, and Packzimizer for intelligent ganging of digital and offset label production. MyCLOUDFLOW provides file processing, asset management, soft proofing and workflow automation hosted in the AWS cloud and professionally managed by HYBRID Software personnel. Both PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW now offer optional Colorspace modules built on ColorLogic technology for exceptional brand color matching along with cost-effective ink optimization.

• Global Graphics Software will be presenting live demos of its award-winning SmartDFE, the full software stack for high-speed, single-pass presses printing fully variable data. Built upon Harlequin Direct, the world’s fastest PDF RIP, and using patented components that leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning, it provides rasterization and inkjet drop generation for the best possible image quality and fastest printing speeds. Its automation capabilities provide complete control of the print workflow as well as valuable information for QA and inspection, press maintenance and stock control.

• iC3D Software, developer of 3D visualization and rendering solutions, will demonstrate Version 9 of its iC3D Suite. This includes a major enhancement to its PDF Editor, leveraging technology from HYBRID’S own PDF Libraries to deliver an enhanced user experience and faster, pixel-perfect rendering. Version 9 also offers seamless integration with HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW for high volume 3D automation.

• ColorLogic GmbH, leading provider of cutting-edge color management software solutions, will be offering demonstrations of their three flagship products: ColorAnt, CoPrA, and ZePrA. In particular, award-winning ColorLogic CoPrA is essential for any print manufacturer embracing extended gamut printing, creating high-quality profiles with a user-friendly interface for any color space and printing process.

• Meteor Inkjet will showcase their complete portfolio of industrial inkjet solutions including the world’s largest range of electronics driving all major industrial inkjet printheads; cutting-edge printhead nozzle status detection and image quality enhancement technologies; software development kits enabling bespoke printers to be built from the ground up; and DropWatcher Systems to support printer OEMs in the design, optimization and production of inkjet print systems.

• Xitron, developer of Harlequin-based Navigator RIP and workflow products able to drive virtually any output device—including litho, flexo, screen printing, digital, and high-speed inkjet—will demonstrate their entire line of prepress workflow solutions. Offering true prepress independence in each segment and based on the fastest RIP on the market, Navigator workflows are cost-effective solutions that feature exceptional functionality with blended technologies from sister companies HYBRID Software and ColorLogic. For digital presses built with any inkjet printhead, Xitron will demonstrate Navigator DFE, which recently surpassed 5,000 installations worldwide.

“Hybrid Software Group is a unique resource for PRINTING United Expo 2023 attendees. Our software products have contributed to the success of many print providers, ranging from commercial printers to packaging converters as well as wide format/specialty printers. However, our six business units also provide vital OEM technologies to many vendors who use our products and know-how to create digital front ends for fast and powerful digital presses. We’re proud to deliver the heart of industrial printing to many of our co-exhibitors at PRINTING United Expo and look forward to showing everyone our latest technologies,” comments Mike Rottenborn, Hybrid Software Group PLC CEO.

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1. Stacked Label shown in Packzimizer, the solution for intelligent ganging of digital and offset label production

2. Packzimizer for Lane Planning maximizes press uptime and minimizes substrate waste

3. Both PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW now offer optional Colorspace modules built on ColorLogic technology for exceptional brand color matching along with cost-effective ink optimization

4. Content XML Technology is used for dynamic content creation using standard markup language

5. Content XML is shown being inserted in the PACKZ prepress editor

Guido Van der Schueren, Olivier Moeyersoms, & Pascal Pernot of Hybrid Software ring the bell to celebrate a new order with Christophe Seguin, Managing Director of ELC Etiquettes

(Gent, Belgium) Hybrid Software is pleased to announce the successful outcome of Labelexpo Europe, held last week at the Brussels Expo. More than 550 companies visited the Hybrid Software Group stand for product demos during the four days of Labelexpo, and more than 30 customers placed orders for packaging workflow and editing software, with an order value of more than €1.5 million. Hybrid Software shared the stand with group companies ColorLogic GmbH, Global Graphics Software, Meteor Inkjet, and Xitron which together deliver the group’s value proposition: The Heart of Industrial Printing.

Labelexpo also marked the successful launch of Global Graphics’ SmartDFE, the fastest available Digital Front End (DFE) for digital printing of labels and packaging. SmartDFE is built entirely with leading edge technology from all Hybrid Software companies: blazing fast rasterization from Harlequin Direct, spot color matching for CMYK and extended gamut digital presses from ColorLogic GmbH, as well as workflow automation tools adapted from Hybrid’s CLOUDFLOW software and file preparation and VDP tools based on PACKZ. SmartDFE and Xitron’s Navigator DFE were on display at several partner booths at Labelexpo.

“This was my sixteenth appearance at Labelexpo in Brussels, one of the most important events for our industry,” stated Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of Hybrid Software. “Although I look forward to the next incarnation of Labelexpo Europe in Barcelona, I will always remember the Brussels exhibitions fondly and am very pleased that the final Brussels show was such a big success for Hybrid Software and our customers.”

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From left to right: Sascha Fischer, Head of Product Management Koenig & Bauer, Christopher Graf, Chief Marketing Officer HYBRID Software, and Ralf Sammeck, CDO and CEO Segment Sheetfed Koenig & Bauer, check the final details of PrintFusion in the press manufacturer’s CEC

Announcing PrintFusion: Exclusive Software from HYBRID Software for Koenig & Bauer Rapida Sheetfed Offset Presses

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the innovative software solutions provider for labels and packaging, and Koenig & Bauer, the leading press manufacturer have combined competencies to supply an exclusive product for Koenig & Bauer’s Rapida sheetfed offset presses.

Acting as a gateway, PrintFusion steers Koenig & Bauer presses with PACKZ prepress software and the CLOUDFLOW production workflow suite.

• Innovative workflow solution for packaging printing
• Koenig & Bauer and HYBRID Software combine competencies
• Short set-up times and greater efficiency when changing jobs

The key to optimizing the prepress to print workflow

Parallel to plate creation, all printing data is securely and efficiently delivered to Rapida sheetfed offset presses. As PrintFusion supplies all relevant setting data in advance, users benefit from automation through shorter setup times and greater efficiency between job changes. In addition, printing parameters can be conveniently stored with the job data for subsequent repeat jobs. This end-to-end packaging workflow solution allows for superior efficiency through an automatic retrieval of job data from connected MIS/ERP systems.

Thanks to intelligent learning, PrintFusion maximizes press and substrate utilization and continually optimizes printing accuracy. Koenig & Bauer Rapida Sheetfed Offset presses can run far more independently and with a substantially lower less risk of errors.

Ralf Sammeck, Chief Data Officer at Koenig & Bauer describes the partnership: „The strategic decision to join forces stems from a mutual understanding of our industry’s needs, with the prioritization of best-in-class standards and innovation. PrintFusion is the result of a symbiotic partnership: what is achieved together is greater than the sum of its parts.”

Christopher Graf, HYBRID Software Chief Marketing Officer reflects, „We have built our partnership on mutual trust and common values. Already today, it is much more than a traditional supplier-vendor relation. We have combined our people to develop an innovative solution for our customers; supplying a unique technology which drives productivity to new heights.”

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Photo 1:
At this year’s Sales & Service Conference, Sascha Fischer presented the new software solution for the packaging workflow

Photo 2:
The Proofscope module within PrintFusion provides a browser-based soft proofing and collaboration solution for a seamless end-to-end packaging workflow

New collaboration between HYBRID Software and A B Graphic International raises the bar for label and packaging finishing automation

HYBRID Software, developer of innovative productivity tools for labels & package printing, and ABG, market leader in finishing equipment for label converting, are pleased to announce a collaboration to streamline operations and enhance efficiency on the shop floor.

The integration between the two industry leaders is centered around three key areas that promise to deliver unprecedented operational enhancements:

1. Streamlined Setup with Automated Slitting Parameters: HYBRID Software’s automation will seamlessly transmit slitting parameters to the ABG Digicon Series 3 machine through the ABG Connect platform. This integration will effectively eliminate the need for manual setup, reducing human touchpoints and paving the way for increased productivity.

2. Enhanced Inspection Automation: The partnership brings about a more automated process for driving ABG’s proprietary camera inspection technology, fleyeVision. Through a direct link to HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW software, fleyeVision can effortlessly retrieve the “golden image” required for inspection, minimizing the potential for errors and optimizing quality control.

3. Efficient Laser Cutting: The ABG DigiLase machine will benefit from CLOUDFLOW’s ability to incorporate QR codes representing corresponding dielines for laser cutting. ABG’s laser technology and its innovative approach ensures precise and efficient laser cutting while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy.

Matt Burton, ABG Sales Director, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are very pleased with this new collaboration with HYBRID Software which marks another significant step towards reducing manual touchpoints in our processes. This is another key component of our ABG Connect package as we push towards automation that will not only add greater efficiencies to production but also reduce operator error whilst reducing waste and downtime.”

Bert Van der Perre, Associate Director of Sales at HYBRID Software, echoed the sentiment, saying, “Linking our prepress automation solution to ABG equipment elevates the overall equipment effectiveness for our many mutual customers. This partnership extends the boundaries of our software’s capabilities, showcasing our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. We are truly going beyond print!”

The industry is witnessing a transformative leap in production efficiency and operational excellence. HYBRID Software and ABG’s collaborative efforts are set to redefine the landscape of label and packaging production, ushering in a new era of automation, accuracy, and innovation.

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Executive team members from Hybrid Software Group companies celebrate
winning two PRINTING United Pinnacle Product Awards in 2023

Hybrid Software Group is proud to announce that products from two of its operating companies have received prestigious awards from the PRINTING United Alliance. Global Graphics Software’s SmartDFE has received a 2023 Pinnacle Product Award in the Technology category. In addition, ColorLogic GmbH has also been honoured with a 2023 PRINTING United Pinnacle Product Award in the Non-Output Device category for its CoPrA 9 colour management technology.

“Colour management was the missing piece in our technology stack for digital printing of labels and packaging, and we filled that with the acquisition of industry-leader ColorLogic GmbH last year,” notes Mike Rottenborn, Hybrid Software Group CEO. “SmartDFE breaks through the performance ceiling for digital printing, combining on-the-fly colour management with powerful workflow automation from HYBRID Software, real-time rasterisation via Harlequin Direct, and the inkjet expertise of Meteor Inkjet and Xitron. We believe that it’s critical to develop these technologies in-house rather than license them from third parties who lack the deep industry expertise of our team of 280 employees. Our mission is simple: we’re the technology at the heart of industrial printing, with a technology stack that is unmatched in the industry, and we’re honoured and grateful to be recognised with these important awards.”

SmartDFE is a turnkey Digital Front End for high-speed, single-pass presses printing fully variable data. Built upon Harlequin Direct, the world’s fastest PDF RIP, it provides rasterisation and inkjet drop generation for the best possible image quality and quickest printing speeds. Its automation capabilities provide complete control of the print workflow as well as valuable information for QA and inspection, press maintenance and stock control. Thus, SmartDFE transforms the role of the inkjet printer: it not only meets the demands of OEMs who need to build wider and faster digital presses, but also meets the requirement to add a print subsystem to a manufacturing operation or a smart factory to produce mass-personalised products. OEMs can choose to take as much or as little as they require from the software stack to get their digital inkjet presses to market.

ColorLogic’s CoPrA 9 is an essential asset for any print manufacturer embracing extended gamut printing. CoPrA creates high-quality ICC profiles for any colour space and printing process—digital or conventional—and is a key component of the powerful ColorLogic Suite for a complete colour management solution. CoPrA also plays a key role building spectral profiles in SmartDFE so, in effect, it earned two awards this year.

Hybrid Software Group and its individual operating companies intend to make several major OEM announcements at both Labelexpo Europe and Printing United Expo over the next two months.

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Quality Assurance at its Highest Level: EyeC and HYBRID Software Present Groundbreaking Workflow Integration at Labelexpo Europe 2023

(Ghent, Belgium) EyeC and HYBRID Software have expanded their successful collaboration and will be presenting their latest workflow integration at Labelexpo Europe 2023. The direct integration of the web-based artwork proofreading system EyeC ProofText into CLOUDFLOW by HYBRID Software enables maximum efficiency already in the artwork creation process. The collaboration of the two software experts raises quality assurance within the pre-press stage to a new level.

The partnership with HYBRID Software, a leading developer of enterprise solutions for label and packaging printing products, aims at the joint development of web-based SAAS and on-premise software solutions for the graphic industry. Both companies have been working together successfully on various levels for many years to improve prepress processes with the help of smart productivity tools. In order to meet the ever-increasing demands of customers, the latest joint project focuses on the complex process of artwork creation.

To do this, EyeC ProofText uses Mako Core technology from Global Graphics Software, a HYBRID Software company, to process PDF documents. Designed as the ultimate software development kit (SDK), Mako Core uses a unique document object model (DOM) to control color, fonts, text, images, vector content, and metadata. Through so-called DOM APIs, content can be queried and edited across formats and platforms, and digital documents can be modified. The highly automated, web-based artwork proofreading system EyeC ProofText reliably detects and evaluates deviations within the revision check, including content and font style, within a single process step thanks to an intelligent algorithm.

The combination of the two companies’ technologies enables complete automation of repeat jobs in a fluid workflow. In addition to shorter processing times and the avoidance of costly errors, this ensures that the final product is of the highest quality right from the artwork management process. At the same time, the digital workflow principle optimizes quality assurance and saves resources by reducing manual effort. Even with very complex cases, the system combination offers up to 50 % faster performance.

“We are proud to further extend our successful partnership with HYBRID Software and to support customers with this innovative solution to increase their efficiency within their artwork management processes. The direct integration of EyeC ProofText into CLOUDFLOW enables a consistent connection between both systems, allowing us to offer our customers even more security in the pre-press process,” says Ansgar Kaupp, CEO of EyeC GmbH about the cooperation.

Christopher Graf, Chief Marketing Officer of HYBRID Software, adds: “The partnership with EyeC allows us to drive digitalization in artwork creation and further simplify increasingly complex workflows. At the same time, we are setting new standards together in the graphics industry by expanding our range of innovative solutions.”

EyeC and HYBRID Software experts will be at Labelexpo Europe 2023 from 11 to 14 September. Live demonstrations of the new workflow integration will be available at EyeC stand #A864 during this time.

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HYBRID Software Brings Leadership in Innovation to Labelexpo Europe to Increase Productivity of Label Production

Gent (Belgium) 11 July 2023 — HYBRID Software brings a major presence to Hall 8, Stand B/45, as Labelexpo Europe returns to Brussels on September 11th -14th after a four-year hiatus. This is a challenging time for the label industry, with a perfect storm of high prices for energy and substrates, a shortage of skilled labor, and higher interest rates that make capital equipment purchases more challenging. Software’s role in driving production efficiency is more important than ever. At Labelexpo, HYBRID Software will demonstrate our continued innovation to boost productivity and improve the competitiveness of our customers who print and convert labels.

HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW software is used for workflow automation by thousands of label printers and converters worldwide. But industry consolidation has resulted in many printers with multiple printing locations, so centralizing prepress automation in the cloud provides a real advantage. MyCLOUDFLOW delivers all the power of CLOUDFLOW in a multi-tenant workflow solution hosted in the AWS cloud and managed by HYBRID Software to provide ease of use and extreme performance that is scalable on demand. MyCLOUDFLOW is not just for multi-site printers; even smaller label companies can benefit from lower infrastructure costs, with no servers to purchase or local IT support required, and a new customer can be up and running in a matter of hours.

True workflow automation requires a tight link between workflow and MIS/ERP systems so that the parameters for an order can be used to create the job layout and drive platemaking systems or digital presses. At Labelexpo, we will highlight MyCLOUDFLOW’s turnkey integrations with CERM, Label Traxx, and Radius, the leading MIS systems used in labels and packaging today. We’ll also demonstrate a major new release of Packzimizer for automated lane planning of label repetitions for digital print production as well as stacked label imposition for sheet-fed “cut & stack” label production.

With many label converters producing shrink sleeves and in-mold labels, 3D modeling has become an important prepress tool for the label industry. HYBRID Software acquired industry-leader iC3D last year and has now integrated their technology into Proofscope for high quality 3D rendering of labels and shrink sleeves, including photorealistic ray tracing and visualization of embellishments. This process can be automated with MyCLOUDFLOW for efficient production.

Workflow is only part of the story; creating high quality, press-ready labels remains a challenge for the industry, and HYBRID Software has continued to innovate with many new capabilities in the PACKZ editor. Content XML is a new technology in PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW which provides data-driven creation of labels and packaging by inserting text, graphics, and other design elements dynamically from an asset database. This is especially useful for creating multiple copies of a label in different sizes or languages and for managing nutrition facts and ingredients panels, but it can be extended for many other complex label applications.

PACKZ Advanced Color uses technology from our ColorLogic division to provide an accurate snapshot of printed artwork under various printing conditions, including different spot color strategies. The feature is designed to help label and packaging producers accurately reproduce brand colors using the fewest number of inks and the least amount of each ink to achieve the lowest production cost. Once the spot color strategy has been selected, it can be applied automatically using MyCLOUDFLOW for all future instances of that color.

HYBRID’s variable data printing (VDP) software has been enhanced for easier preparation of variable data labels for digital printing. Its output format is standard PDF which is compatible with any RIP, but it has been especially optimized for our own Harlequin RIP, the world’s fastest RIP used by many preeminent manufacturers of digital presses as well as our own Digital Front Ends: Xitron NavigatorDFE and Global Graphics SmartDFE. Customers tell us that PACKZ VDP jobs print up to four times faster than VDP jobs created with other software, enabling digital presses to run faster and produce more labels per shift.

But digital printing isn’t the only game in town; most labels are still printed with flexo, offset, or gravure presses, and we continue to innovate in analog printing as well as digital printing. At Labelexpo, visitors can see a variety of print samples from our new Velvet Screening, the next generation hybrid AM/FM screening technology for flexo printing which provides unprecedented control of highlight dots and smoother gradations on all types of flexo plates, even at lower output resolutions. Velvet Screening can also be combined with Intelligent Flexo, the surface screening solution for high quality flexo printing across a wide variety of plates and substrates.

Says Executive Chairman Guido Van der Schueren, “Labelexpo Europe is our most important show in 2023 and it never disappoints. This year’s show promises to be even more significant for HYBRID Software as it’s the last time the show will be held in our country, so we’re pulling out all the stops to provide a meaningful experience for our customers and visitors at the show. The label industry has always been a very important segment for HYBRID Software, and we work closely with our customers to provide software solutions that increase their production efficiency. I’m looking forward to demonstrating the results of our continued innovation.”

Example Packzimizer Stacked Label Imposition

Example Packzimizer Digital Lane Planning Imposition

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Cambridge (UK), 5 July 2023: Hybrid Software Group is primed to showcase its innovative stack of products which power the heart of industrial printing at Labelexpo Europe 2023, from 11th to 14th September 2023 in Hall 8 B/45. Hybrid Software Group is comprised of six globally recognised brands: ColorLogic GmbH, Global Graphics Software, HYBRID Software, iC3D, Meteor Inkjet, and Xitron.

“We are very much looking forward to Labelexpo Europe 2023, where visitors to the booth can not only expect to discover innovations to individual companies’ product lines, but also an advanced level of value as Hybrid Software Group technology is further synergised and new products are introduced to the market for the first time,” shares Christopher Graf, Chief Marketing Officer, Hybrid Software Group.

HYBRID Software will be demonstrating innovations to the PACKZ and STEPZ PDF editors for prepress and the CLOUDFLOW modular production workflow suite for file processing, asset management, soft proofing and workflow automation.

The newest features of PACKZ include Advanced Color: Analyze & Fix for intelligent production estimation, which provides a snapshot of printed artwork under various printing conditions, including different spot colour strategies. The feature is designed to help label and packaging producers accurately reproduce brand colours using the fewest possible spot colours and therefore the lowest production cost. Other recent developments include Content XML for dynamic content creation using standard markup language, step and repeat for complex label production, and Packzimizer for intelligent ganging of labels, including sheet-fed and flexibles.

CLOUDFLOW’s highlights include the brand-new integration with ColorLogic technology for state-of-the-art spectral colour prediction, new flexo plate layout features in Tectonics, and Intelligent Flexo, the surface screening solution for high-quality flexo printing across a wide variety of plates and substrates. At Labelexpo, visitors will experience first-hand the launch of Velvet Screening, the next-generation hybrid AM/FM screening technology for flexo printing and learn more about MyCLOUDFLOW, the SaaS offering of CLOUDFLOW, perfect for companies looking to modernise and ramp up production without the cost and hassle of initial setup and IT operation.

iC3D Software, developer of 3D visualisation and rendering solutions, will be demonstrating Version 9 of the iC3D Suite. Closing the gap for high-resolution rendering, iC3D Software will introduce CLOUDFLOW and iC3D Automate for high-volume 3D rendering production. Booth visitors will see the benefits of automated workflow integration and the cutting-edge technological innovation in its latest release.

ColorLogic GmbH, leading provider of cutting-edge colour management software solutions, will be providing live demonstrations of ColorLogic’s three flagship products: ColorAnt, CoPrA, and ZePrA and how they integrate with PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW.

Global Graphics Software will be presenting live demos of SmartDFE, the fastest Digital Front End (DFE) for digital printing of labels and packaging. Also on display will be SmartMedia, a suite of components that simplifies the process of obtaining the best quality and colour output from a digital press. Available with SmartDFE, SmartMedia also controls PrintFlat screens and ColorLogic colour profiles. SmartMedia packages all the OEM’s reference press settings for each media and ink set into a library of media definitions and enables press operators to easily select the appropriate media and ink set combination without needing specialist knowledge.

Meteor Inkjet will showcase their complete portfolio of industrial inkjet solutions for labels and packaging including the world’s largest range of electronics driving all major industrial inkjet printheads; cutting-edge printhead nozzle status detection and image quality enhancement technologies; software development kits enabling bespoke printers to be built from the ground up; and DropWatcher Systems to support printer OEMs in the design, optimisation and production of inkjet print systems.

Xitron, developer of Harlequin-based Navigator RIP and workflow products for litho, flexo, screen, digital, and high-speed inkjet, will be highlighting the powerful Navigator Flexo Suite: turnkey workflow automation optimised for flexo label printers, with a macOS- and Windows-compatible client interface, hybrid screening, advanced and automated step-and-repeat functionality, and robust trapping tools. Navigator Flexo Suite with SmartFlexo screening is completely configurable based on printing conditions. Finally, Xitron will also demonstrate Navigator DFE, the dynamic Harlequin-based front end for high-speed digital inkjet presses.

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HYBRID Software’s compare functionality from CLOUDFLOW’s module Proofscope is shown seamlessly integrated within TGS’s Flow

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Tallon Graphic Solutions (TGS), a Belgian software company that provides packaging and artwork management solutions for brand owners, retailers, and design agencies. HYBRID Software will become the preferred reseller for TGS’s flagship software product, Flow.

Flow is a comprehensive, SaaS-based artwork management solution that helps brands and retailers manage their large portfolios of complex graphical projects. It provides an easy overview of projects, supports detailed briefings, visual approval, and much more. Through its API functionality, Flow is easy to integrate with ERP, PIM, or DAM systems.

The partnership between HYBRID Software and TGS will allow for a common development and technology roadmap, leading to accelerated feature development and a consistent link between the artwork management process and various production workflows. Flow is tightly coupled with HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW, bringing advanced pre-press functionality including Proofscope viewing, 3D visualizations, approval loops, and automated pre-press to TGS’s Flow customers.

Says Igor Vandromme, Hybrid Software’s Business Manager for New Market Segments, “HYBRID Software has long been focused on production applications, selling mainly to packaging printers and converters. But recently, the activity in the brand space has increased through the acquisition of iC3D and Quadraxis. Our new partnership with TGS is the next logical step to further grow our business in the brand owner and retailer segment.”

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HYBRID Software and ICScolor offer color-accurate Remote Director proofs directly from within HYBRID CLOUDFLOW

HYBRID Software and ICScolor, the world leader in remote digital color proofing, announce the seamless integration between HYBRID CLOUDFLOW and ICScolor Remote Director to offer a simple and exact way to view and approve color-accurate digital proofs. While CLOUDFLOW users could always access Remote Director, now they can launch the Remote Director color viewing window directly within CLOUDFLOW.

HYBRID CLOUDFLOW is a modular production workflow suite for file processing, asset management, and workflow automation. It is a web-based application platform specifically tailored for packaging graphics with support for PDF, color separation, trapping, screening, proofing and much more.

Remote Director patented software guarantees all are viewing the same color on calibrated monitors and “heals” the break caused by hard copy proofs in the otherwise totally digital workflow. All color conditions, version control, auto compilation of comments and approvals and full audit trail assure that a project is completed properly and accurately—reducing errors, cost and increasing quality while being more environmentally friendly.

While CLOUDFLOW with Proofscope has always allowed content proofing views and annotations, Remote Director adds the direct ability to view color-accurate proofs on a remote monitor. Using tools from Hybrid Software Group’s ColorLogic to create accurate profiles and IC3D three-dimensional views, CLOUDFLOW now offers a complete, color-accurate digital proofing environment.

To view accurate color, the user clicks a button within CLOUDFLOW that opens Remote Director. Anyone invited to review/approve a proof will receive an email message with a link. Remote Director will check the calibration of monitors and confirm ISO certification. If a monitor is not calibrated, Remote Director’s calibration module will guide the user to calibrate and profile the monitor correctly. That, combined with all the critical color information for proofing built into the design will assure that accurate proofs are displayed on the screen. Just as important, all critical proofing information, such as annotations or suggestions, will be easily available in one location.

“These days, the entire print workflow is digital until a provider creates an inkjet proof, places it in an envelope or box, and mails it to somebody. You can stay fully digital. ICScolor understands that getting to market quickly is perhaps the most important impetus for brand owners,” explains Vicki Blake, ICScolor VP of Business Development. “The direct link to Remote Director from within CLOUDFLOW saves a lot of time and ensures the client sees accurate color. We are really looking forward to this. I think the partnership with HYBRID Software is going to be very beneficial for both of us as well as our clients.”

“Our work together really started during the pandemic, when it was more urgent to easily provide realistic, contract quality soft proofs virtually. It is terrific to show the openness between two organizations and our technologies. The implementation was quite straightforward. It’s another example demonstrating that open systems can play ‘nicely’ with each other,” comments Mike Agness, HYBRID Software Executive Vice President, Americas. “For anyone who wants to conduct accurate color proofing, it is seamless from within CLOUDFLOW.”

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the leading software provider and innovator for the label and packaging industry, announces MyCLOUDFLOW, enterprise workflow software delivered as a leading edge Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution.

MyCLOUDFLOW presents customers with rapid, hassle-free access to their award-winning CLOUDFLOW enterprise workflow software. MyCLOUDFLOW is hosted by HYBRID Software on the fastest cloud computing platforms to bring convenience and security to the label & packaging industry, without requiring in-house IT support or heavy capital investment.

MyCLOUDFLOW not only fast-tracks access to powerful workflow tools hosted within the cloud, but also assures customers of unbeatable availability and performance, top-notch security, and vigilant monitoring of system health including daily backups and disaster recovery. MyCLOUDFLOW’s multi-tenant architecture gives each individual customer their own private workflow experience and assures maximum data security for all users.

“With MyCLOUDFLOW, we put the power and scale of cloud computing in the hands of customers who are looking for an easy, cost-effective way to implement enterprise workflow software”, explains Nick De Roeck, Co-President of HYBRID Software. “Cloud computing is very scalable, and is ideally suited to quickly adopt new automated processes, to grow in alignment with business growth – or even to scale up to deal with temporary or seasonal peak periods. We call it ‘Smart Print IT’”.

MyCLOUDFLOW service is available on a subscription basis. To discover more about workflow automation and the unique benefits to your business requirements, contact HYBRID Software at hybridsoftware.com/contact-locations.

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software has created an internal startup unit within its Ghent office to develop and advance the company’s software solutions for the 3D & additive manufacturing sector. The unit plans to develop new application-specific solutions and will initially utilise the existing products and expertise throughout the company to create new 3D applications. The unit is headed up by Kris Binon, the former director of Flam3D, the Benelux Additive Manufacturing Association.

Nick De Roeck, CTO and co-president of HYBRID Software, explains, “HYBRID sees 3D & additive manufacturing as a significant growth opportunity. Our recent acquisition of iC3D and the purchase of the Quadraxis IP gives us key technologies to further develop our business in this market. Inkjet 3D printing is one of the most flexible additive manufacturing technologies. Its ability to create radical new products is helping to drive 3D printing adoption in the traditional manufacturing space. The company’s expertise in industrial inkjet systems is already extensive. We bring a huge amount of value to manufacturers whom we help to harness the power of inkjet for additive manufacturing applications without the distraction of having to design electronics and software solutions in-house. In view of the growth potential of this market we felt it was time to consolidate the many skills that are distributed across the company to expand our offering.”

3D & additive manufacturing are strategic markets for Hybrid Software Group, which owns Cambridge-based Meteor Inkjet, a leading developer of printhead drive electronics, software, tools and services for industrial inkjet systems and printing devices. Meteor’s customer base already includes some of the largest manufacturers of 3D printing and additive manufacturing equipment. Global Graphics Software and Xitron, two other Hybrid Software Group companies, also have decades of experience in providing solutions for inkjet printing manufacturers.

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(Gent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, a leading enterprise software company for the label and packaging industry, announces the release of PACKZ and STEPZ 8.5 PDF production editing software. This is a major release for both products containing hundreds of new features and enhancements that meet the challenges of professional packaging prepress and illustrate once again the power of innovation.

Pascal Wybo, product manager of PACKZ and STEPZ PDF editors, shares: “To support the growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging, we are excited to announce a new feature called “Press View”. The functionality supplies professionals with instant views of how graphics, especially spot colors which are critical to brands, are printed under various printing conditions. In many cases, accurate colors can be printed with fewer inks, less plates, and faster press speeds.”

Spot colors can be defined as named Pantone colors or specified directly using the CXF standard. In addition, PACKZ and STEPZ now support the new GMG Version 2 API for full compatibility with the latest GMG Open Color software.

PACKZ 8.5 Press View shows the color accuracy of a spot color transformation

PACKZ 8.5 also introduces a powerful new feature called Content XML, allowing print service shops to transform PDF artwork templates into standard XML markup language, with the ability to drive high quality dynamic artwork creation from their ERP or MIS systems. The creative variation of text, linework, colour, and images can be easily leveraged in digital print-on-demand web solutions for engaging one-to-one packaging.

A packaging file is transformed into “Content XML”

PACKZ 8.5 also adds tools to create Digimarc digital watermarks, which encode the artwork surface with an imperceptible pattern for new data insights and smart packaging recycling for a circular economy.

Finally, HYBRID Software closes the loop with the verification tools in PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW, allowing error-free inspection of Digimarc watermarks within the PDF editors and workflow processes.

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Watch our webinar What’s New in PACKZ 8.5 here.

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the innovative software solutions provider for packaging, labels, and print, will showcase its products along with Hybrid Software Group’s sister companies’ technologies (Global Graphics Software, iC3D, ColorLogic, Xitron, and Meteor Inkjet). On display on booth N763 will be a broad spectrum of packaging, digital and commercial print applications at Printing United Expo, October 18-21 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

One of the HYBRID Software booth highlights will be 3-D visualization throughout the entire prepress process offered by recent acquisition iC3D. iC3D’s software suite offers the industry’s largest library of modelling templates for digital packaging and POP design and prototyping. iC3D lets users generate live 3D virtual mockups on the fly, along with in-store and outdoor visualization.

HYBRID Software highlights will include:

• PACKZ 8, HYBRID Software’s native PDF editor: Complex layered artwork can be viewed in color and wired modes simultaneously. The Smart Flattener professionally manages spot color and transparency interactions as well as press gamut conversion. The Pactions programmed toolset with action lists reduces the amount of operator time needed to edit, approve, and print a new package design.

• CLOUDFLOW workflow management, controlled from a web-browser, features a wide range of production workflow components along with a plug-in suite that facilitates interaction from the desktop or from Adobe Illustrator and PACKZ.

• STEPZ 8, an interactive software package based on the award-winning technology of PACKZ, allows for the preparation and execution of step-and-repeat and variable data tasks for high-speed digital printing of labels.

• Variable Data Printing (VDP), an InterTech Technical Award recipient, highlights the ease of use and capabilities of variable data preparation and execution of files, while providing customers the use of any open output device they require.

“Printing United is a comprehensive printing event and, while HYBRID Software has focused on packaging our products, combined with our sister company technologies, offer solutions for a wide variety of applications. What is also attractive is that our technologies are modular. You do not need to invest in an entire suite of solutions, but just easily connect one to the other, as well as a broad range of partner solutions—for example, MIS/ERP,” explains Mike Agness, HYBRID Software executive vice president, Americas. “We look forward to showing visitors why there is probably a productive Hybrid Software Group solution for just about any print facility.”

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An Interview with DPS Magazine

In your opinion, what types of software are utilized to add automation to the print production process?

There are many pieces of production automation software. In the front end, particularly with jobs that are reasonably rote or repetitive, we start with order entry. Typically, CRMs will get involved in describing the job in MIS/ERP systems. This provides not only job specifications, but can trigger the workflow to operate in a particular way.

Then you get to production software. Preflighting will assure that all the pieces of a job are available for processing correctly. Sometimes this could include editing software to fix problems in the file (or to make customer-requested changes; or AA’s). Automated print production takes the file and prepares it for the press—traditional or digital. Color management will get involved to assure the job’s colors are printed correctly, no matter the output device. Often a layout optimization application will prepare the plate or print job to save as many resources and materials as possible.

Somewhere there is the artwork approval process to allow for (typically) soft proof reviews, edits, and approvals. From there, the job is sent to a RIP for output.

How does it extend to finishing?

Finishing is part of the complete print process. Just as with printing instructions, a good print production system can communicate effectively with finishing equipment, providing cutting, folding, stacking, etc. instructions.

In your opinion what are the most common areas for automation in a print environment? And the least?

We find that most areas have been automated within companies. Perhaps packaging companies require greater time-to-market efficiencies to compete. Maybe it also has to do with quality or error reduction. However, we find that web-to-print, prepress/preflight, color management, estimating/scheduling, MIS/ERP, document composition, imposition, output management, post-press, and inventory management systems are commonly implemented.

Those areas that we find less often include CRM, data analytics, and content management. Perhaps this is because these are not 100% directly tied to production. These are very important tools in their own right, but more to serve customers, offer a marketing service (in the case of content management), and tools to help printers improve their processes.

How have these tools evolved in the past two years? What is a driving factor?

When discussing the effects of COVID, the obvious requirement is communication and the ability to operate effective, secure production processes from outside the walls of the facility—and all the others who are involved in the supply chain. COVID has driven everyone to figure out how to offer easier access away from the office.

Where does artificial intelligence fit in?

We are not finding artificial intelligence. Perhaps it is found upstream with the brand, but not during print/packaging production.

There is one facet, but we would not really consider it ‘intelligence’. A good workflow system can be driven to go through different steps automatically, dictated by customer job specifications. Would we consider this intelligence? Not really. We would just consider this as conditional logic built into a very functional workflow system.

What are the biggest drivers for automation in the print production workflow (labor shortages, more digital work, e-commerce demands, etc.)?

We find that most automation is driven by customer requests—and the greater prevalence of digital presses. With product extensions, more SKUs, greater variety, and faster turnaround required, the use of automated production workflows is the only way to produce artwork fast enough to feed presses and meet brand deadlines.

In your opinion, what leading challenges/issues are leading to bottlenecks in print production workflows today?

We find that reluctance of the printer to reject technological change is one of the greatest differentiators between failure and success. By embracing new technology—and this is not only by management but by every operator on the plant floor—we usually find that almost anything is possible.

Another important determinant is the connectivity between Web2Print, MIS, and production workflow systems. This not only speeds the communication of job data throughout the facility and allows workflows to adapt to each job. It also allows a printer to tie all business functions together—estimating, job setup, production, approvals, shipping, billing, etc.

Can you describe a highly automated print environment? What differentiates this from an environment with medium or low automation?

We have seen companies introduce different software pieces of print production for decades. So, what makes a highly automated print environment? It’s the ability to integrate everything together. This means Web2print, CRM, MIS, and production systems. Those who are not doing this are markedly less efficient. The way we describe it to people is very simple. Is paper transmission to different departments efficient? Do you think Amazon is printing a ticket to assure it sends an order to you?

Please describe your workflow automation solutions for print and finishing. Where does it fall in the production lifecycle? What types of devices/equipment does it support?

We connect all of HYBRID Software’s solutions to everything. As we like to joke, ‘We’re the monkey in the middle’.

Without data, you’re not manufacturing. Customer job information is always ultimately handed over to prepress. As prepress systems, our solutions gather, collect and fix customer data and files. And we connect the job to the customer for review/approval. From there, it goes to finishing.

We’re the ones in the middle, taking graphics and data and preparing a job for print.

Our apps include:

CLOUDFLOW is a modular production workflow suite for file processing, asset management, soft proofing and workflow automation. It is a web-based application platform specifically tailored for the packaging graphics with support for PDF, color separation, trapping, screening, proofing and much more.

PACKZ, for labels and packaging, is the unique blend of automated actions and dedicated prepress tools. With its editing and quality assurance functions, the professional PDF editor makes designs print-ready for any printing process. PACKZ enriches designs with priming and finishing separation, handles ink sets and object-based screening, applies trapping and generates dynamic marks and panels.

The application also produces unique seasonal packaging and personalized labels with the VDP wizard, produces warp and 3D visualizations, and even optimizes substrate utilization using numerous step and repeat solutions, and more. Running on OS-X and Windows, the adaptive multi-display work environment in PACKZ ensures maximum performance and usability.

STEPZ is a powerful PDF editor based on the award-winning PACKZ technology. The complete and easy-to-integrate prepress software is perfect for digital printers looking to increase production efficiency and improve the quality of their prints. STEPZ offers solutions for variable data printing, step and repeat, print optimizations, quality control and more. STEPZ transforms the condensed prepress cycle into a time-effective operation.

What sets your software apart from the competition?

We like to think that HYBRID Software solutions are the most open packaging production workflow systems available. All our applications are based on open, data standards. They are easy to access from any other application. I’d like to think that is why we were the first to ever receive FTA Technical Innovation awards in two successive years.

In terms of customer service, we offer a favorable licensing model that is scalable and expandable and provide world-class support. It’s why I think people want to buy solutions from us.

What segments does HYBRID Software support?

Of course, an automated production workflow system could work almost anywhere. However, our systems are more configured to work among label and package printers, general commercial printing and, in some cases, wide format. We are found among print facilities that use traditional presses as well as those who feature digital print.

How do your tools integrate with others to support end-to-end automation?

We connect very well to just about any application. We have an open API, and our applications are built on industry standard formats. We believe we never met a database we couldn’t talk to.

Article courtesy of dpsmagazine.com.

HYBRID Software showcases the power of iC3D visualization at Labelexpo Americas 2022

On booth 3015, Hall B, HYBRID Software focuses on virtual mockups, workflow automation, and variable data for digital label printing

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the innovative software solutions provider for labels and packaging, will showcase its recent acquisition of iC3D by showing 3-D visualization throughout the entire prepress process at Labelexpo Americas 2022, September 13-15 in Rosemont, IL. On booth 3015, Hall B, HYBRID Software and iC3D will join a number of their Hybrid Software Group sister companies, including Global Graphics Software ColorLogic, Xitron, and Meteor Inkjet.

One of the highlights will be the integration of PACKZ and iC3D, allowing HYBRID Software users to visualize 3D packaging in real time, from labels and flexible packaging to shrink wrap products. iC3D is an all-in-one visualization software package that lets users generate live 3D virtual mockups on-the-fly. At the booth, people can see how easy it is to model and drive a design, whether it’s a label or flexible package. High end effects, embellishments and lighting will be shown.

Other highlights are:

• Version 8 version of PACKZ, HYBRID Software’s native PDF editor: Enhancements include complex layered artwork that can now be viewed in color and wired modes simultaneously, and object-based screenings can be inspected per separation. The Smart Flattener guarantees artwork quality and consistency, professionally managing spot color and transparency interactions as well as press gamut conversions. Pactions is a programmed toolset with action lists, responding to customer needs for advanced automation. It reduces the amount of operator time needed to edit, approve, and print a new package design.

• STEPZ 8, an interactive software package based on the award-winning technology of PACKZ, allows for the preparation and execution of step-and-repeat and variable data tasks for high-speed digital printing of labels.

• Variable Data Printing (VDP), an InterTech Technical Award recipient, highlighting the ease of use and capabilities of the variable data preparation and execution of files, while providing customers the use of any open output device they require.

• CLOUDFLOW will be highlighted to demonstrate workflow management controlled from a web-browser. Featured CLOUDFLOW components include PACKZFLOW, PROOFSCOPE, CLOUDFLOW RIP, and the plug-in suite that facilitates interaction with the workflow, from the desktop or from Adobe Illustrator and PACKZ.

• SmartDFE combines products from all Hybrid Software Group companies to provide a turnkey digital front end (DFE) for high-speed digital presses. It combines Harlequin Direct, the world’s fastest RIP, along with Meteor Inkjet’s printhead electronics, ColorLogic color mapping, and CLOUDFLOW’s workflow automation tools into a powerful DFE that is fast to integrate and efficient in its hardware requirements. SmartDFE will be featured by key OEM partners at Labelexpo Americas 2022.

“The conference’s theme is ‘Turn your converting playbook from good to great.’ HYBRID Software believes it has been doing that for its clients for years—and we continue to build on PACKZ, the standard for PDF editing and the CLOUDFLOW enterprise packaging workflow system,” comments Mike Agness, HYBRID Software executive vice president, Americas. “While we have always worked well with complementary systems—including MIS/ERP—we now have a roster of new sister companies including iC3D and ColorLogic. HYBRID Software is in an ideal position to combine our label and packaging print expertise to build all-encompassing systems for any printer or converter. We believe Labelexpo attendees can benefit from a visit to our booth, and look forward to meeting them.”

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, developers of innovative productivity tools for the graphic arts industry and a subsidiary of Hybrid Software Group (Euronext: HYSG), has appointed industry veteran Dan Pulling as product manager for flexo technologies.

Mr. Pulling has a wealth of experience in flexography. Between 2000 and 2020 he worked in a variety of roles at Artwork Systems and Esko Graphics in Belgium including business development, product management, support, quality assurance, and applications. In 2020 he set up an independent consultancy to specialise in flexographic printing technologies.

Dan will become worldwide product manager for flexo technologies at HYBRID Software. In this role, Dan will work closely with the HYBRID engineering team, and the sales force and directly with HYBRID’s printer/converter customers base to continue to drive flexo technology to new heights.

Dan says, “Joining the HYBRID Software team that just received back-to-back FTA Technical Innovation awards for flexography seems like the ideal next step in my career. Building powerful and open solutions is at the heart of HYBRID’s DNA, and helping focus more of that effort and innovation on flexography is exciting. Flexo is the fastest growing packaging segment worldwide, and PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW are powerful products which allow our customers to control their flexo printing. The CLOUDFLOW RIP, with its extensive features to manage curves and screening, Intelligent Flexo to intelligently apply quality enhancement, and Tectonics to optimize plate use and reduce cost, are perfect examples of HYBRID’s commitment to innovation on behalf of flexo printers.”

Nick de Roeck, CTO of HYBRID Software, comments, “I’m delighted to have Dan on board. His expertise in flexo and screening, and his many years’ experience in technical sales support will help drive our customers’ adoption of our products. With more innovations in our pipeline, Dan’s appointment comes at the right time as we expand our offering to help customers improve their print quality from their existing equipment and increase their productivity. His technical background and communication skills will make him an important resource for our customers.”

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From left, Mike Rottenborn, Trevor Haworth, and Guido Van der Schueren celebrate the acquisition

Cambridge (UK), 15 March 2022 (08:00 CET): Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) announces today that on 14 March 2022 it acquired the business and assets related to iC3D from Creative Edge Software LLC.

The iC3D software suite generates photorealistic 3D virtual mock-ups on the fly, allowing cartons, labels, flexibles, bottles, shrink sleeves, point of sale displays, and in-store visualisation to be accurately rendered for design verification and e-commerce applications. In addition, iC3D offers the industry’s largest library of modelling templates for digital packaging design and prototyping as well as an online viewing platform which allows designers, brands, and print providers to collaborate on new designs with accurate real-time 3D rendering. Further information can be found at https://www.creativeedgesoftware.com/ic3d/.

Mike Rottenborn, CEO of Hybrid Software Group, comments, “3D and additive manufacturing applications are one of our fastest-growing market segments for printhead drive electronics and software, but visualisation of packaging designs in 3D was a gap in our technology portfolio. The acquisition of iC3D strengthens our 3D offering and closes the loop between the design of high-end labels and packaging and industrial print manufacturing. We already have an integration of iC3D in our PACKZ and CLOUDFLOW software with a substantial installed base of users that have licensed the iC3D option and we look forward to broader integration of iC3D in our Digital Front Ends (DFEs) and other software products.”

Trevor Haworth, CEO of Creative Edge says, “We formed Creative Edge Software in 2013 to develop 3D software that would give packaging and label designers an all-in-one product to replace the many partial rendering solutions in use at the time. Since then, iC3D has become the product of choice for many leading brands. Almost since the start, HYBRID Software became one of our largest value-added resellers by combining iC3D’s fast visualization capabilities with their range of packaging production software products, and a close relationship between the development teams was established. Our acquisition by Hybrid Software Group is the logical step in co-development of some exciting new products for the packaging market and I look forward to our expansion under the additional resources provided by such a successful group.”

Consideration for the acquisition is $4.0 million in cash, which has been paid in full.

Watch a video about iC3D here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mHerA0zj9w

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(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the innovative software solutions provider for labels and packaging, has opened a dedicated branch in Barcelona, Spain through the acquisition of its regional reseller. The new office will be a vital hub for support and sales across the Iberian region. The team will be led by industry veteran David Morales, Managing Director of HYBRID Software Iberia since September 2016.

The new office positions HYBRID Software as a market leader in Spain and Portugal: an important and vibrant region for the labels and packaging market with an understanding of the local packaging market and the ability to offer sales and support in Spanish and Portuguese languages. The company expects an appreciable increase in support excellence, customer satisfaction, and long-term client relationships.

Says David Morales, Managing Director of HYBRID Software Iberia, “I and my team are looking forward to serving label and packaging printers and tradeshops in the Iberia region by delivering the most innovative solutions on the market.”

To get in contact with the office, please find the details below.

E-mail: info-es@hybridsoftware.com
Office address: Hybrid Iberia, S.L.U. is located at C/Riera dels Frares, 8-10, 08907 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain

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HYBRID Software Announces Release of Version 7.5 of PACKZ PDF Editor for Labels & Packaging

(Ghent, Belgium) Version 7.5 of PACKZ, HYBRID Software’s native PDF editor, delivers the next generation of prepress software for labels and packaging. STEPZ 7.5 is being released concurrently for digital printing applications. Both tools provide bespoke solutions for prepress experts who require high efficiency, quality, and performance in preparing packaging files for conventional or digital printing.

Production jobs in the packaging industry have been increasing and as a result, many package printers and converters are converting to data-driven production. Pactions 7.5, the automated toolset in PACKZ and STEPZ with parameterized action lists, responds to the needs of these customers for advanced automation. This powerful tool decreases the amount of operator time needed to get a new package design edited, approved, and printed and connects seamlessly to packaging RIPs, workflows, and Digital Front Ends (DFEs). Pactions can also be used for barcode generation, including the GS1 Digital Link Datamatrix code.

In-App Solution Store
PACKZ and STEPZ now offer a direct link to HYBRID Software’s online store, allowing customers to download ready-made templates, dynamic marks, and metadata export filters quickly as required for new production methods or job types.

Key Improvements 7.5 Versions
Both PACKZ and STEPZ 7.5 support the newest M1 processors from Apple for real-time editing.

Complex layered artwork can be viewed in color and wired mode simultaneously, and object-based screenings can be inspected per separation. Enhancements to the Smart Flattener guarantee artwork quality and consistency, professionally managing spot color and transparency interactions as well as press gamut conversions.

PACKZ 7.5 automatically tags artwork elements with Processing Steps defined in the ISO 19593 standard, while the Analyze and Fix technology checks incoming files for compliance.

HYBRID Software continues to champion innovation on behalf of label and packaging printers and tradeshops to surpass their requirements for accuracy, cost reduction, process automation, and faster turnaround times.

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Hybrid Software Group reduces carbon footprint with Ecologi

Cambridge UK, 21 December 2021: Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) has partnered with Ecologi, the platform that facilitates the funding of carbon offset projects and tree planting around the world, to offset its carbon footprint.

Since October this year, Hybrid Software Group has been working towards compensating for the environmental footprint of every employee in their work and personal life. At work, the Group is implementing policies to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 footprint such as sourcing renewable energy and low-carbon travel, and is talking with supply chains to measure and push down on Scope 3 carbon footprint. Through the partnership with Ecologi, the Group now offsets the carbon footprint of all Group employees, whether at home or at work.

To date the Company has achieved an offset of 655 tonnes of CO2e and contributed to environmental projects across the globe such as solar power generation in Tamil Nadu and Telangana, India, and using waste biomass to produce electricity in Chile. More information about the projects and the positive environmental impact can be found on the Company’s dashboard at https://ecologi.com/hybridsoftwaregroup.

Chairman Guido Van der Schueren comments, “As a board we are very aware of our responsibilities towards the environment and to our employees. Driving sustainability goals through the business is not only the right thing to do for future generations but it makes good business sense too. For instance, in many of our key growth markets, such as packaging and textiles, environmental factors are influencing how those markets develop. Improving our environmental credentials shows our commitment to the expansion of these markets as they continue to transition towards digital production.”

Hybrid Software Group is the only full stack supplier of all critical core technologies for inkjet printing. Its solutions enable OEMs to be nimble in their response to develop new digital printing equipment for emerging applications and enable print service providers to benefit from the added value of digital production. Inkjet production is inherently more sustainable than analogue, generating less waste, facilitating just-in-time production, and permitting the use of more sustainable raw materials.

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HYBRID Software and Digimarc announce avant-garde solutions for packaging printing

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, a global software company focused on innovative prepress and workflow tools for the graphic arts industry, has entered into a partnership with Digimarc Corporation. This agreement positions HYBRID Software as the ideal solution for driving sustainability and efficiency in the packaging pricing market.

Combined with HYBRID’s cutting-edge software, this partnership will leverage Digimarc’s expertise in digital watermarking techniques to deliver a seamless solution in the automation of brand protection and traceability.

“Our partnership with Digimarc will allow HYBRID Software to enhance our technology to address our customers’ increasing needs in sustainable packaging and brand integrity solutions,” said Patrick Coussement, Managing Director HYBRID Software. “We look forward to a long relationship with Digimarc and a shared commitment in providing scalable technology for our customers and partners.”

The Industry Benefits from the Forward-Looking Partnership

HYBRID and Digimarc have a longstanding history of providing leading technology to the packaging print market. Digimarc Verify has been available to select customers since 2020, in HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW software to allow for error-free inspection of Digimarc digital watermarks within automated workflow processes. Digimarc digital watermarks offer covert and overt protection for physical products, packaging and digital assets, adding a crucial layer that supports brand protection. These digital watermarks are fully compliant with industry standards, yet imperceptible to the human eye. Since the imperceptible watermark is embedded throughout the artwork’s entire surface area, scanning is expedited.

Users of Digimarc Verify benefit from an extra level of security due to the integrated robust workflow automation. The margin for error from the creation until the approval cycle is drastically reduced, and expensive printing mistakes will be avoided. Building on the integration already available in CLOUDFLOW, HYBRID Software also plans to add Digimarc support to its PACKZ PDF editing software enabling application and detection of digital watermarks during the prepress phase.

SGK, a leading global provider of packaging and brand experiences and trusted partner of HYBRID Software and Digimarc, has implemented new Digimarc functionality in HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW packaging workflow system, across its facilities worldwide. “We believe that our partnership with HYBRID Software and Digimarc directly benefits SGK’s global clients by offering advanced levels of automation and quality control on jobs with Digimarc watermarks,” said Francois Estellon SVP, Global Operations & Chief Technology Officer. “Our intent is to play a key role in the future development of greater integration of Digimarc watermarking into HYBRID Software solutions, thereby helping the world’s leading brands and retailers accelerate their packaging connectivity and sustainability initiatives.”

Upcoming Availabilities in HYBRID Software Products

The current integrated version of Digimarc Verify with CLOUDFLOW is available today, offering robust reporting and verification tools. The next version, scheduled for early 2022, will include advanced decoding and extended grading of Digimarc digital watermarks.

“We are excited to join in this partnership with HYBRID Software,” said Ken Sickles, Digimarc chief product officer. “Our organizations will continue to work closely to identify further opportunities for integration and a seamless customer experience across both platforms.”

The release of HYBRID Software’s native PDF Editor, PACKZ 8, is scheduled for release mid 2022. The PACKZ user community will be able to recognize the Digimarc digital watermarks using the Barcode Recognition functionality.

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Thorsten Braun and Barbara Braun-Metz

Cambridge (UK), 28 October 2021 (17:45 CEST): Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) (the “Company”) announces today that on 27 October 2021 it acquired the entire issued share capital of ColorLogic GmbH (“ColorLogic”), a company with its registered office in Rheine, Germany.

ColorLogic was founded in 2002 and has developed an extensive portfolio of color profiling and conversion software, recently winning the 2021 Pinnacle Product Award from the PRINTING United.  Its products are sold worldwide to both end users with demanding requirements for color quality, as well as to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of printing equipment.

Hybrid Software Group CEO Mike Rottenborn comments, “Our Harlequin RIP is the market leader in speed and quality for digital printing and is used by many industry-leading OEMs.  But its color management has historically been built around the 4-color CMYK process.  As the production of labels and packaging shifts to digital printing, more capable 7-color printing devices are required to provide color-accurate matching of brand colors.  ColorLogic has long been respected as an industry leader in extended gamut color management, and their tools provide the perfect combination of speed and quality for these demanding applications.  ColorLogic will become the fifth operating company in Hybrid Software Group, joining Global Graphics Software, HYBRID Software, Meteor Inkjet, and Xitron, and its products and technology will enhance the offerings of all of these companies.”

Barbara Braun-Metz, ColorLogic’s Founder and CEO, adds, “I founded ColorLogic almost 20 years ago and together with the help of my great team we are proud to say that we are the leading developers of high-end color management technologies. We have great products which are used for the daily print production all around the world and numerous partners using our technology to develop outstanding products on top of it.  Now we are ready for the next big step – to ensure the future development of our technology and our products we decided to join forces with Hybrid Software Group PLC. This will allow us to grow and allocate the resources needed for future requirements while continuing to provide uninterrupted support for our existing customers and partners.”

About Hybrid Software Group
Through its operating subsidiaries, Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) is a leading developer of enterprise software for industrial print manufacturing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, Hymmen, and hundreds of packaging printers, trade shops, and converters worldwide.

Hybrid Software Group PLC is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are printing software developers Global Graphics Software; enterprise software developer HYBRID Software; the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists, Meteor Inkjet; prepress workflow developer Xitron; and most recently color technology developer ColorLogic.

For further information, please contact us via email to investor-relations@hybridsoftware.group

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Cambridge UK, 20 October 2021: Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) celebrates its change of name and corporate identity today by ringing the bell to open trading at the Euronext Stock Exchange in Brussels.

Hybrid Software Group PLC changed its name from Global Graphics PLC following shareholder approval on 13 October 2021. The new name underlines the Group’s position as a software company providing innovative technology for industrial print manufacturing processes at a time when industry is accelerating towards mass customization, smart factories, and Industry 4.0. The Group’s solutions are hybrid because they meet the needs of analogue and digital production processes and because they integrate both software and printhead drive electronics.

The Group’s new strapline “enterprise software for industrial print manufacturing” represents all the solutions available from Hybrid Software Group’s global operating companies: Global Graphics Software, HYBRID Software, Meteor Inkjet and Xitron. The individual branding of these operating companies is unchanged.

Speaking at the Bell ceremony Chairman Guido Van der Schueren said, “For many years, the success of HYBRID Software has been built on a simple formula: our future depends on advanced automation as embodied by Industry 4.0, multiplied by extreme customer care. We partner with our customers for the long term and act upon their input. I believe these concepts equally apply to the broader Hybrid Software Group and look forward to continuing to expanding our support for all areas of industrial print manufacturing.”

CEO Mike Rottenborn added, “Our customers have long viewed Global Graphics as a collection of great companies: Global Graphics Software, HYBRID Software, Meteor Inkjet, and Xitron. But as an integrated group, we offer technology and products that go beyond what’s available from any individual company. It’s important that we communicate the proper brand message at the group level to our customers and investors. Rebranding as Hybrid Software Group brings this group strategy into focus and lays the foundations for continued growth of the company.”

Hybrid Software Group is the only full stack supplier of all critical core technologies for inkjet. Its solutions enable OEMs to be nimble in their response to develop new digital printing equipment for emerging applications and enable print service providers to benefit from the added value of digital production.

Earlier this year the four companies launched their first joint product, the SmartDFE, (digital front end) that is designed to be the heart of a fully automated manufacturing system for labels and packaging, one of the Group’s strategic growth targets.

A webcast of the ceremony can be viewed here: https://channel.royalcast.com/hybridsoftwaregroup/#!/hybridsoftwaregroup/20211020_1
and can also be accessed from the investor section of the new group website www.hybridsoftware.group.

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HYBRID Software’s employment activities honored as an ‘Inclusive Company’

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, a Hybrid Software Group company, that develops innovative productivity software tools for the graphic arts industry, is proud to announce that it has been recognized as an ‘Inclusive Company’ by Divergent.

Divergent is a Flemish government-funded, and University of Ghent backed, organization that helps people with workplace challenges to be pointed to job openings. They promote the employment of people who may have occupational disabilities, and strive for inclusive recruitment, job retention and reintegration. Among its many responsibilities, Divergent also provides policy support and raises awareness among relevant stakeholders and actors around ‘work experience’, ‘workplace learning’ and ‘work-based learning’.

“HYBRID Software has been building on its initiative to hire very capable employees with the assistance of Divergent. We are committed to engaging people in the labor market through workplace learning. We strongly believe in equal opportunity employment, and being a well-balanced and socially responsible company,” explains Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of HYBRID Software. “The most significant result has been that we have added very talented people to our staff—individuals who have made significant impacts to our company’s performance. We are both pleased to participate in a significant initiative as well as adding very capable staff.”

A new colleague by HYBRID Software shares, “With Divergent’s help, I was able to overcome my feelings of insecurity about applying for a new job. The fact that I could start at HYBRID Software with an internship eased the pressure. I received excellent coaching from the software development team of HYBRID Software. They gave me small but interesting tasks at first and gradually increased the difficulty. They were very available for help and advice. I have learned a lot in a short time. I am happy to have become a full member of the HYBRID team!”

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HYBRID Software launches revamped STEPZ website designed for digital packaging printers

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, the global software development company supplying solutions for label and packaging printing, has announced the re-launch of their product website STEPZ. Based on the award-winning PACKZ technology, STEPZ is the entry-level software perfect for digital printers looking to enter the HYBRID Software world.

The PDF Editor boasts an extensive feature set and encompasses a complete prepress solution for variable data printing, step and repeat, print optimizations, quality control, warping and 3D, and more.

The complete and easy-to-integrate STEPZ software is perfect for digital printers looking to increase production efficiency and improve the quality of their prints. 

Christopher Graf, Chief Marketing Officer at HYBRID Software, shares: “The rapid growth of digital printing in the label and packaging segment has galvanized us to validate the market’s needs. We are excited about the relaunch of STEPZ as we give access to our time-saving and cost-effective solution printers have been searching for.”

Visit the website at stepz.hybridsoftware.com.

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HYBRID Software Celebrates its Tenth Year as a Global Leader in Productivity Tools for Label and Packaging Printing

(Gent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, a Global Graphics company that develops innovative productivity software tools for the graphic arts industry, is excited to announce that it has reached its milestone tenth anniversary as a global company.

The company’s original focus was order lifecycle management based on MIS and Web2Print integration. Two years later, the company pivoted with the birth of PACKZ, a revolutionary application—with native PDF support, color separation, trapping, screening, quality control, and much more—that made high quality editing of packaging and labels accessible to small, medium and high production volume professionals. In 2013, the company also introduced CLOUDFLOW, a modular production workflow suite for file processing, asset management, soft proofing and workflow automation. With these two products, HYBRID Software became the prepress and workflow company people are most familiar with today.

Ten years of milestones
In just ten years, HYBRID Software has enjoyed a series of achievements, building to an admirable position in the industry. Among its many accomplishments over this time span are:

• The company made its industry premier appearance during Labelexpo 2011, attended by a number of executives who are still with the company today: Guido Van der Schueren (Chairman of HYBRID Software), Christopher Graf (Chief Marketing Officer), Jan Ruysschaert (Chief Commercial Officer) and Mike Rottenborn, who now serves as Chief Executive Officer, Global Graphics PLC.
• Over the years the company has built a network of partners supported by offices based in Belgium, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, China and the Americas.
• The acquisition of HYBRID Software by Global Graphics PLC was completed in January 2021, creating the foremost enterprise software supplier for digital printing, as well as for traditional label and packaging market segments.
• Most recently, the company received a 2021 FTA Technical Innovation Award for its new product, Intelligent Flexo. Along with its award last year for CLOUDFLOW Patchplanner, HYBRID Software became the first company ever to win this coveted award in two successive years.

Reliable partner for the past ten years, with a bright outlook for the future
HYBRID Software’s 124 employees work with thousands of customers—including some of the industry’s largest—around the world. HYBRID Software’s mission is to be a driving influence for innovation in the industry. HYBRID Software has been able to distill the prepress craft into software, creating a repeatable manufacturing process that is truly intelligent. And in keeping with its open systems philosophy, they built a solution that would work with any flexo workflow, not just their own. The company believes that everyone should have the freedom to choose any system that offers true quality or productivity benefits.

For example, many existing workflow systems are restrained by outdated core technologies or architectures, but CLOUDFLOW was built from the ground up as a web-based enterprise solution, with no inherent limitations in functionality or flexibility. Because HYBRID’s software is based on the foundation of state-of-the-art industry standards such as native PDF, HTML5, and other technologies, it is much faster to implement innovative systems that resolve today’s customer challenges.

“10 years ago, I realized that the packaging industry was looking for more customer-driven innovation, and I brought this DNA to HYBRID Software. We have always operated on the three pillars of prepress automation, customer collaboration, and tight integration with customers’ systems and processes. We know that this takes hard work and—even more significant—the loyalty and trust of our customers. HYBRID’s biggest strength is our ability and willingness to listen to customers and act upon their feedback. Our successes would not be possible without them,” comments Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of HYBRID Software. “It’s exciting how far we have come in just ten years. The acquisition with Global Graphics is a continuation of our strategy for innovation. We hope, and expect, that this will bring another decade of exceptional innovation that truly serves our customers.”

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HYBRID Software Launches Groundbreaking Service for Packaging: CLOUDFLOW RIP Farm

(Ghent, Belgium) HYBRID Software, a Global Graphics company, is pleased to announce the launch of a new enterprise RIP (Raster Image Processor) solution for packaging and label printers and tradeshops: the CLOUDFLOW RIP Farm.

The business model for RIPs in the packaging market has traditionally been simple: each platesetter is sold with a bundled software RIP. This works fine for packaging printers with one CTP device, but it becomes unwieldy when multiple platesetters are needed, and completely unmanageable across enterprise operations with more than one production facility. It does not provide any mechanism for load balancing across multiple CTP devices, and if production constraints force a job to be moved to another press or different location, the job must be RIPped again. Another drawback to this approach is the cost: having a separate RIP for each platesetter is expensive to purchase and inefficient to maintain.

Label and packaging production has fared relatively well during the COVID-19 pandemic, but this segment faces increasing price pressure every day. And the consolidation that continues to take place in the packaging industry means that there are more multi-location enterprises than ever before. These are the companies who can benefit most from a centralized RIP architecture like the CLOUDFLOW RIP Farm, based on the powerful Harlequin® Core.

Unlike digital printing, platemaking places few demands on the RIP. The time required to RIP and screen each color of a packaging job is a small fraction of the total platemaking time. Many customers are looking for efficiency gains and technology improvements with their legacy RIPs, and computing clouds like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure provide the ideal environment for enterprise customers to implement a centralized RIP architecture. This also provides a much more efficient workflow, since jobs can be RIPped and stored in the cloud, then transferred to the printing location for platemaking the day before the job is scheduled to run on press. With CLOUDFLOW’s highly efficient compression technology, the download time for each output-ready bitmap is only a small fraction of the platemaking time, and it’s easy to load balance across platesetters and printing plants if production schedules change. Customers with perpetual licenses can install the RIP Farm in the hosting environment of their choice. Subscription customers utilize the newly-developed multi-tenant MyCLOUDFLOW Gigacluster, which is hosted in AWS and managed by HYBRID Software.

“A large enterprise prepress provider needed to migrate their multitude of legacy RIPs installed at each site, and HYBRID’s CLOUDFLOW RIP Farm suits their needs perfectly, running 24/7 to RIP jobs for their worldwide production. This has delivered massive gains to the customer, as they can simplify and downscale their hardware footprint, and at the same time pool the RIP licenses centrally to drastically reduce the amount of software they need. This customer was able to reduce their footprint from more than 50 dedicated RIPs installed across the world in different locations, to a centralized CLOUDFLOW RIP Farm of 16 RIP engines running in Amazon Web Services (AWS),” explains Nick De Roeck, CTO of HYBRID Software.

Mike Rottenborn, CEO of HYBRID’s parent Global Graphics PLC, adds, “Many companies talk about plans for cloud services and subscription licensing, but HYBRID Software has been walking the talk for years. Since its introduction in 2014, CLOUDFLOW has been available in AWS and other public cloud environments, and centralized RIPping is the perfect application for the combined technology of HYBRID Software and Global Graphics.”

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iMS builds global business with agile solution from HYBRID Software

Creative design, prepress and artwork production agency iMSGlobal has chosen CLOUDFLOW from HYBRID Software to ensure full production workflow flexibility across its multi-site operation. This is a symbiotic partnership that over the past five years has benefitted both companies and helped lay the foundations for the global expansion of iMS.

Headquartered in Sydney, iMSGlobal provides integrated marketing solutions for many of the world’s best-known brand owners, such as Danone, Nestlé and Unilever. With offices in Australia, Singapore, India, China, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, the company has a global reach, based on a knowledge workflow and single platform system that reduces time to market and improves productivity.

Working with clients, their agencies and print providers, iMS offers artwork, pre-press, colour and print management across all packaging, point of sale formats and print processes. It operates on a “Follow the sun” principle, with teams in different time zones collaborating to support clients and meet deliverables around the clock.

“Although we are a global company, we’re that little bit different to some of the other players, because we really focus on listening to our clients’ needs and being flexible,” says CEO Mark Mahoney. “So, we look for partners that have the same ethos and are happy to work with us to implement agile solutions that support our goals. As soon as we met the team at HYBRID and heard about their innovative approach, we could see that this would be the right fit for us.”

Following the sun
Underpinning the iMS vision is CLOUDFLOW from HYBRID Software, which has been rolled out across the four main production hubs in Sydney, Mumbai, Shanghai and Hull (in the UK). This is an Enterprise Packaging Workflow System that is fully integrated with the company’s own MIS (management information system). As a fully Cloud-based application platform with powerful Share technology, it links across the internet to exchange and synchronise project data and resources to optimise their utilisation.

Andrew Gale, iMS COO, says, “We wanted to find a model that really worked in our industry on a global scale. With CLOUDFLOW, we can easily manage projects around the group and truly ‘Follow the sun’. One of the real game-changers for iMS is access to all the global hubs within the same infrastructure; managing data in real-time is a huge bonus.”

CLOUDFLOW is specifically tailored for the packaging industry with support for PDF, colour separation, trapping, screening, proofing and much more. The modular nature allows users to define their own configuration and create a system that works best for their business. iMS is also using HYBRID Software’s PACKZ native PDF editor, which has been designed for labels and packaging to capture all elements of a print job in a single file for seamless prepress production.

“CLOUDFLOW is great for maintaining consistency across the board, so we have that continuity in every region where we are active. This is a massive advantage, not just for our technical teams, but for the whole business, and most importantly, for our customers,” says Andrew.

With floating licences that can be used irrespective of location, CLOUDFLOW has also proven to be the perfect choice during the COVID-19 pandemic as staff working from home can easily log in online without the need for specialised software.

Streamlining the businesses
It was at drupa 2016 that the two companies first connected and the plan for migrating to CLOUDFLOW and PACKZ was initiated. iMS was in the infancy of developing its own bespoke MIS as part of a drive to remove duplication of data and processes from the business, as they expanded to other countries.

“Australia is a smaller market, and it was a big decision for us to look abroad,” comments Andrew. “To support this move, we wanted a new fresh solution that would set us apart from the competition, because we needed to fundamentally change the business to make that leap.”

The goal was to streamline operations, keep an open platform and have full view of all assets at all times. Almost five years down the line, it is clear that the project with HYBRID Software has been a resounding success.

“During our negotiations with the HYBRID team, they were flexible and prepared to engage with us and help us to get the commercials right to suit the opportunity we had in hand,” says Mark. “Right from the start, we were very excited about what the solution promised to provide, and we are now seeing the real benefits and the technical advantages that this relationship is bringing us.”

Identifying the challenges and developing the software to each customer’s specific needs is the core mission for HYBRID Software. Paul Bates, who is the UK, Ireland & Global Accounts Manager, explains, “Although this sounds like a cliché, we do work very closely with our customers. CLOUDFLOW certainly wouldn’t be where it is today, if it wasn’t for that bi-directional relationship we have with the iMS team. Some of the functionalities you see in the software today were developed specifically for them to the benefit of all our customers. It has been a trailblazing cooperation.”

Mark concludes, “We’re looking to continue growing and we know we have a unique offering that not everyone enjoys. But this is only stage one and we’re excited about continuing the journey with HYBRID Software to see what we together can bring to the market.”

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Canon partners with HYBRID Software to offer front-end option for its LabelStream 4000 series

Canon has partnered with HYBRID Software, a leading provider of innovative software productivity tools for the graphics arts and packaging industry, to offer label converters an advanced front-end solution for the LabelStream 4000 series, the LSFE that delivers improved workflow capabilities and automation.

The LabelStream 4000 series offers an entirely open workflow structure that allows label converters to easily integrate the press into existing workflows. With the introduction of LabelStream’s PDF-based front-end solution, Canon offers an additional option, with an easy upgrade path to additional HYBRID Software productivity tools, for customers requiring a cost-efficient, stand-alone front end or advanced automation features.

The LabelStream front-end builds on the fundamentals of HYBRID Software’s CLOUDFLOW and is a tailored solution to enable a cost-efficient, standalone operation with a high-performance workflow based on PDF input. Functionality includes a RIP with integrated colour management, the processing of imposed PDF files, a direct connection to the LabelStream print server for automated print file routing, as well as additional customisation options for advanced workflow automation.

Walter Vogelsberger, Vice President Digital Packaging, Canon Production Printing says, “We’re excited to extend our partnership with HYBRID Software with the introduction of this jointly developed front-end, which enables us to offer our customers even more reasons to integrate LabelStream into their environments. With the new LabelStream front-end, customers get a cost-efficient, production-ready solution with additional automation features for hands-free operation.”

Christopher Graf, Chief Marketing Officer at HYBRID Software, comments, “Streamlined workflow processes based on open standards are key for an efficient print operation. We’re thrilled to work together with Canon to help our joint customers to further extend their product and service offerings and optimize their digital label production.”

For further information about the new LabelStream front end, please visit: https://www.canon-europe.com/business-printers-and-faxes/production-printing/labelstream-4000-series/

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About Canon Europe
Canon Europe is the EMEA strategic headquarters of Canon Inc., a global provider of imaging technologies and services. Canon Europe has operations in roughly 120 countries, with approximately 13,500 employees and contributes to around a quarter of Canon’s global revenues annually.

Founded in 1937, the desire to continuously innovate has kept Canon at the forefront of imaging excellence throughout its 80-year history and has commitments to invest in the right areas and capture growth opportunities, from cameras to commercial printers, and business consultancy to healthcare technologies.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei – ‘living and working together for the common good’. In EMEA, Canon Europe pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services.

At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

Further information about Canon Europe is available at: www.canon-europe.com

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(Mortsel, Belgium) The OEM partnership with HYBRID Software will provide Agfa’s Offset Solution division with access to the group’s specialized technological knowhow and full product portfolio, which focuses on enterprise software for the packaging printing industry.

Andy Grant, Global Head of Software at Agfa, stated: “We are pleased to be able to extend our existing relationship with Global Graphics thanks to HYBRID Software’s offering. We see this alliance as a logical next step, and as a way to build upon our existing technologies to develop innovative and customer-oriented solutions for our current as well as future printing industry market segments.”

Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of Global Graphics PLC, added: “We are eager to broaden and intensify our collaboration with Agfa. It will enable us to strengthen and grow the HYBRID Software solutions portfolio and to help optimize the next release of Agfa’s software products.”

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HYBRID Software is delighted to announce that HYBRID Software Intelligent Flexo, a breakthrough module in HYBRID CLOUDFLOW to boost flexo print quality from existing equipment and software systems, has successfully received a 2021 FTA Technical Innovation Award. For more than two decades, FTA has recognized and celebrated the incredible achievements made by individuals and companies, large and small, which have contributed to the growth of the industry. This is the second straight year HYBRID Software has received an FTA Technical Innovation Award. Last year, it won the award for CLOUDFLOW Patchplanner.

One of the most important determinants of high quality printing is producing high quality plates as easily and effectively as possible. For a flexo printer, there are two points to consider. First, are the flexo plates, and the platemaking equipment that makes them, optimized to produce the highest possible print quality? And second, whether those plates are made in-house or by a trade shop, are they produced using a repeatable manufacturing process so print quality will be consistent for every job?

The input to Intelligent Flexo is simply a set of screened color separations. These can come from HYBRID’s own CLOUDFLOW workflow or from any third-party RIP that can generate unencrypted TIFF or LEN files. It optimizes flexo print quality using existing equipment and software as the starting point. It identifies problem areas—looking for different zones in the artwork that warrant intervention—and then applies specific techniques to generate effects that will improve print quality. Its technology mimics “digital dot etching”, helping to disrupt ink viscosity to provide smoother gradations, more uniform solids, and overall better reproduction of graphic images and fine details.

HYBRID Software Intelligent Flexo operates as a configurable, automated workflow process module. For example, with surface screening, Intelligent Flexo will improve ink transfer and boost density repeatably and consistently. It does this while varying many parameters, such as custom patterning, cell wall size, and skipping small dots with enough intelligence to keep micro-dots solid on finished plates.

HYBRID Intelligent Flexo identifies different zones in the artwork that warrant inspection and, in these zones, applies specific editing to generate cleaner effects. The intention of these effects is to help overcome issues that are inherent with the flexo process.

Users can create their own customized area coverage patterns for Intelligent Flexo, so that it is truly unique for each printer. The significance is not only the screening options HYBRID Software offers but, more important, the freedom to experiment with any screening desired. Thus, it allows every trade shop or printer to add their own specially-developed technologies to the screens available—uniquely differentiating themselves from competitors with their own customized platemaking.

Because Intelligent Flexo works in a non-proprietary fashion, it fits into any plate processing environment with different print setups—from inks to substrates to resolutions to plates to anilox rolls, etc. It is compatible with all major flexo plate imagers, with noticeable quality improvements for images and graphics at any resolution. In an automatic, intelligent way, Intelligent Flexo improves the quality and stability of flexo printing, without a considerable investment—or change of prepress workflow or equipment.

The Intelligent Flexo technology is based on a collaborative effort between HYBRID Software and Steurs, a flexo repro house. The company, founded in 1949, is one of the leading repro houses in the Benelux. Their objective was to create a flexo plate that delivers higher quality and more stability, as well as color consistency for the printing of flexible packages and corrugated boxes. Steurs, a respected innovator, has its own R&D department where they develop innovative solutions to answer to the needs of their brand owners and printing companies.

“HYBRID Software is honored and grateful to receive another FTA Technical Innovation award in the Prepress – Graphics category, this year,” remarks Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of HYBRID Software. “Every flexo trade shop and printer works every day to maximize their print quality, but making the highest quality flexo plates has always been the realm of highly skilled craftsmen. By working with demanding partners like Steurs and SGK, Mavigrafica, and Tadam, HYBRID Software has been able to distill that craft into software, creating a repeatable manufacturing process that is truly intelligent. And in keeping with our open systems philosophy, we built a solution that would work with any flexo workflow, not just our own. We believe that everyone should have the freedom to install any system that offers true quality or productivity benefits—and the power to implement their own technological nuances to differentiate themselves from others. That’s the underlying potential of Intelligent Flexo.”

END

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Colorman Ireland Ltd, the leading print service provider, has chosen to partner with HYBRID Software to speed up operations in the prepress department. The company has seen substantial time and costs savings since introducing PACKZ, the native PDF editor, into its workflow.

Located in Broombridge, Dublin, Colorman’s printing campus covers 200,000 sq ft and employs over 160 staff. With a large portfolio of high-end clients, the company produces a wide range of print and packaging solutions. These include litho, digital, secure print and gift card manufacturing; ranging from healthcare fulfilment to print enhancements.

After investing in two floating PACKZ licenses, which are accessed across four Mac workstations, the time spent preparing each file for print has been cut by up to 50% on average. David Noone, Prepress Manager at Colorman, commented, “The jump up from our existing workflow and processes has been impressive, and we are now able to run a much leaner operation. The transition to PACKZ has also been remarkably simple and the software fits in well with our production workflow.”

New solution for packaging prepress
Colorman was first established in 1959 as a silk screen printing company, specialising in point of sale and poster hoardings for the advertising market. Over the years, it expanded into litho printing, and in the 1980s began diversifying into supplying the multi-national IT sector. Today, it is one of Europe’s leading full-service print and packaging companies, servicing the leading global companies in the technology, FMCG, corporate commercial, medical device and pharmaceutical industries.

In 2005, Colorman ventured into packaging and began supplying folding cartons to pharmaceutical and medical device clients. Since then, that side of the business has continued to expand, and today makes up over 50%. With more and more packaging jobs coming through the prepress department, it was becoming clear that a dedicated, more effective prepress solution was needed to continue on this growth path.

The team at Colorman started investigating the next-level software solutions that could replace the systems that were currently in place, including PACKZ from HYBRID Software.

As a native PDF editor, PACKZ has been developed specifically for labels and packaging with a number of features that eliminate repetitive tasks by introducing higher levels of automation. Version 6 released late last year comes with a redesigned user interface that contributes to an even better user experience.

Proof of concept tested live
During the evaluation process, HYBRID Software conducted a number of tests using job files from Colorman to show how the software would benefit their production. David explained, “The HYBRID team asked me to let them run one of our client’s jobs through the software, so we could compare like for like and really understand how many mouse clicks that could be saved. From there, we were able to quantify how quickly the investment would pay for itself and base our decision on that data.”

The job file testing in PACKZ was done remotely by HYBRID’s Solution Engineer Matt Dutch, who sent videos of the whole process back to Colorman’s prepress team for analysis. “We can demonstrate something until we’re blue in the face,” said Paul Bates, HYBRID Software’s UK, Ireland & Global Accounts Manager, “but Matt took David’s files and ran them as if he was one of their own production guys, so they could see the real-life advantages, rather than looking at one of our pre-prepared demonstration files.”

Once the software was installed, the Mac operators were also trained remotely by Tony Lawrence, who joined HYBRID Software six months ago with extensive experience of using PACKZ from his time as a studio manager. The sessions were scheduled around the productions shifts at Colorman to ensure a smooth and quick transition.

“The training was great and quite straightforward,” said David. “HYBRID was very accommodating and flexible, and the operators were very happy. Hats off to Tony too – his experience with using the product as a client really shone through.

“PACKZ is a big step up from what we had in place before. There’s a lot more efficiency there, and it was obvious from day one that we could get through file preparation so much quicker,” he added.

Set up for future growth
The sale was facilitated through HYBRID Software’s agent in Ireland, Litho Supplies, whose Sales Director is Richard Styles. He said, “Colorman has been able to reduce the number of steps in its processes, greatly increase efficiencies and demonstrate real time savings thanks to PACKZ. It is further proof that our decision to add HYBRID Software to our product offering in Ireland is truly paying dividends for our clients.”

The investment in PACKZ came just at the right time for Colorman and there is no doubt that it will be a vital factor in supporting the company’s future growth. “PACKZ has removed a bottleneck in our workflow and allowed us to free up significant amounts of time that we can now use more productively,” concluded David. “Most importantly, it enables us to respond quickly to our customers’ needs, especially in the packaging market, where we have seen a large increase in demand during the pandemic.”

END

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Designed to be the heart of a fully automated manufacturing system

Cambridge (UK), 19 April 2021: Global Graphics announces its first product co-developed by all group companies today. Global Graphics Software, HYBRID Software, Meteor Inkjet and Xitron have all collaborated to create a smart DFE for labels and packaging applications to transform the role of the digital press in the smart print factory of the future.

The SmartDFE is designed to be part of a fully automated manufacturing solution supporting Industry 4.0 telematics and MIS integration, plus connectivity with automated manufacturing lines via OPC UA. It brings together in one powerful solution the creation of optimized print-ready PDF files; workflow and job automation to connect with enterprise IT systems; RIPping; screening; optimized image quality; and, via Harlequin® Direct, it drives the print data directly to the printheads at blistering speeds through Meteor software and electronics, or through Xitron’s Navigator DFE platform. It meets the need for fully variable data, gives complete control of the print workflow, and provides valuable information for QA and inspection, press maintenance, and stock control.

Mike Rottenborn, Global Graphics Group CEO comments, “Digital printing presses are getting smarter all the time, and innovation is especially strong in the labels and packaging segment. These presses need a “smart” digital front end to take their place in today’s smart print factories, and this is challenging for many OEM developers of digital packaging presses. Global Graphics developed SmartDFE to simplify the integration of the DFE and the digital press and reduce time to market for our OEM customers.”

“SmartDFE relies on tight, high-speed integration, communication and control between components from the job creation all the way to the printheads,” adds Nick de Roeck, Global Graphics Group CTO. “It requires the ability to collect detailed data from an individual press and share with the wider factory and to generate knowledge gathered from the data to predict and control the press. All of this capability is now available from Global Graphics and gives us and our customers a unique position in the market.“

The SmartDFE for labels and packaging comprises PDF editing, layout, and automated Variable Data Printing (VDP) with HYBRID Stepz and CLOUDFLOW, job cost estimation and production controls that connect to the Smart Factory using OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture), rasterization and screening using Harlequin Direct directly to the printhead datapath from either Meteor Inkjet or Xitron.

“SmartDFE gives you everything you need to add label and packaging printing to any industrial production scenario,” says Eric Worrall, VP of products and services at Global Graphics Software. “It provides a complete single source software and electronics stack that does everything from job creation through to printheads. Our Artemis Print Operator AI builds print knowledge into the software to keep the workflow running at maximum speed and quality. We have also joined the OPC Foundation, the organization responsible for the development and maintenance of the OPC Industrial Interoperability Standard, so our SmartDFE can connect print to the Smart Factory.”

“SmartDFE will be a godsend for smart factories requiring large industrial inkjet print systems capable of streaming variable data jobs,” says Clive Ayling, the managing director of Meteor Inkjet. “The integration of Meteor’s proven electronics and software within SmartDFE means that print system builders can select from the widest range of printheads while benefitting from Meteor’s exceptional technical support service.”

“Full automation is the logical next step for Navigator support of presses using Memjet printheads,” said Karen Crews, president of Xitron. “Our base of installed systems has exploded over the last two years and the opportunity to enhance new presses with OPC UA connectivity presents us with a huge technological leap forward.”

Having originally invested in PACKZ from HYBRID Software in 2016, Aztec Label has confirmed it is investing in a second license for the native pdf editing software due to accelerating growth of the Kidderminster-based company.

Offering a range of label and tag production capabilities, Aztec has announced a number of new press and equipment investments in recent months, including a 4,000ft2 extension of the facility, to boost the company’s capacity, quality and performance.

Colin Le Gresley, Managing Director of Aztec Label, said of the latest investment: “Adding an extra seat to our prepress department ensures we are eliminating any potential bottlenecks as the company grows. I’m delighted that my eldest son, Oliver, who is currently completing his degree at Birmingham University, will be taking on this work. We desperately need new prepress capacity as we’ve had record sales over the last twelve months, despite the pandemic, and 2021 is looking like another exciting year for the business.

“PACKZ acts like a prepress one-stop-shop for us. With such a broad array of customers, we need the ability to deal with lots of files, coming from multiple sources, in a simple way. There are no file conversions needed, it’s universal, secure and self-contained. PACKZ offers the ability to check font issues and embedded information and deals with trapping, editing, and full step and repeat, all in one file that can go straight to platemaking. Making the decision to invest again, securing the prepress advantages we already have, was simple.”

Greg Heather, Sales Manager, HYBRID Software UK, added: “There are over 3,500 seats for PACKZ in operation now worldwide and we were delighted that Colin and his team wanted to invest again. The software is perfect for businesses like his that have moved from standard desktop applications years ago to a professional prepress software environment. PACKZ grows with the business realising more and more benefits and with our focus on staying close to our customers, it was great to see that HYBRID Software was once again the natural choice for this high growth business.”

To find out more about Aztec Label, please visit www.azteclabel.co.uk

To find out more about HYBRID Software and PACKZ, please visit www.hybridsoftware.com and https://www.packz.com.

Presenting HYBRID Software’s solutions for corrugated printing!

In this comprehensive video, you will be taken step by step on how HYBRID Software can maximise the performance of your corrugated printing processes.

HYBRID Software’s lights out automation saves you time and money in various touch points. We increase your efficiency by providing an intuitive to use, web-based interface to conduct your data delivery and 1Up editing, quality control and customer approvals, all the way up to plate optimisation and sheet output.

We’d be happy to discuss a personalised solution for your needs.

Contact us to learn how we can help you reach your goals at https://www.hybridsoftware.com/contact-locations/

(Sydney, New South Wales, Australia) Rentons Labels, a rapidly growing label printer from New South Wales Australia, expanded their capabilities by adding the latest HP Indigo press to its arsenal. To better serve their customers, Rentons Labels chose PACKZ to support them in their growth: HYBRID Software’s native PDF prepress production tool designed specifically for the labels and packaging markets.

“We have introduced new value-added solutions at Rentons Labels, such as security features on labels, which have significantly grown our business”, shares CEO, Romeo Sanuri. “This growth has required us to do more with the existing resources that we have. In this regard, PACKZ has helped us tremendously to reduce the time we spend on prepress and increase the speed to market for our valued customers.”

Brenton King, Sales Manager at HYBRID Software for the Australasia market, reflects that, “Just like everyone this year, Rentons Labels needed to make a pivot. One of the main reasons the company decided for PACKZ was the software’s ability to save time in the setup process. This empowered their team to spend more time on the road selling labels, and ultimately, selling recently launched solutions such as their label security solution, which helps protect customers and their brand against counterfeit.”

New PACKZ Nebula Interface for label creation

PACKZ implementation at Rentons Labels

Through the implementation of PACKZ, Rentons Labels’ production time was significantly reduced, especially through the white underprint feature which creates varnish and special colors intelligently and automatically.

The step and repeat and imposition increased their speed and accuracy of output, as approved artwork can be sent to the press just soon after being delivered to the print room. Moreover, the dynamic creation of Rentons Labels’ proof sheets using the Live Objects feature has dramatically reduced the time and reduced the scope for error. As an ongoing project, HYBRID Software and Rentons Labels are aiming to reduce this scope even further via an integration with their PRINT IQ MIS system.

“HYBRID Software is extremely pleased to assist Rentons Labels in this process”, adds Brenton King. “As with all of our installations, we are happy to partner with any size business by supplying software solutions to drive efficiencies, not only for today, but to keep up with the ever-growing demands of the market.”

PACKZ 6 brings further automation

With the most recent version of the software, PACKZ 6 offers even further automations providing customers time-saving benefits by sweeping away repetitive tasks from their workflows.

PACKZ captures all elements of a job in a single PDF file. The software contains all the features required for labels and packaging production such as trapping, full transparency support, colour separation mapping, Live Objects for variable content, barcode pre-flight and creation, tabular step & repeat, and structured assets including fonts, images, separations, object-based screening settings, barcodes, and other PDF objects.
For more information on PACKZ please visit www.packz.com/.

Rentons Labels Bio:

• A fast paced labels business recently purchased by Next Printing
• Added a HP Indigo label press in January 2020
• www.rentonslabels.com.au

PRESS RELEASE – REGULATED INFORMATION

GLOBAL GRAPHICS PLC COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF HYBRID SOFTWARE GROUP

Cambridge (UK), 13 January 2021: Global Graphics PLC (Euronext: GLOG) announces that it has successfully completed its acquisition of the HYBRID Software Group S.à r.l. (“HYBRID Software”) from Congra Software S.à r.l (“Congra”) following the passing of a shareholder resolution at a General Meeting held on Friday 8th January 2021.

HYBRID Software is a group of software development and marketing companies focused on enterprise software for the graphic arts industry, with a strong focus on labels and packaging. It becomes the fourth subsidiary company in the Global Graphics group and sits alongside Global Graphics Software, Meteor Inkjet and Xitron.

The acquisition roughly doubles the size of the Global Graphics group of companies in terms of headcount, expanding the global workforce to around 250 people. It adds several more operating locations to the group through HYBRID Software’s offices in Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, Italy, France and the USA. Global Graphics typically invests about one third of its revenues into R&D each financial year and has a strong software development team, which is now expanded to more than 75 engineers with the addition of HYBRID Software.

Global Graphics is dedicated to developing software and hardware solutions for graphics and industrial inkjet printing and has earned a reputation for innovation, with several of its companies being recognised with prestigious industry awards and, in the case of both Meteor Inkjet and Global Graphics Software, with the coveted Queen’s Award for Enterprise. It will continue to be a key supplier of original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) technology and, through HYBRID Software’s domain expertise in labels and packaging, a customer-focussed supplier of solutions for print service providers and converters as well as OEMs.

Guido Van der Schueren, Chairman of Global Graphics, says, “This acquisition is a great fit strategically. It’s good news for our customers, our employees and our shareholders. We will continue to grow the value of the company by supporting all our stakeholders and reaffirm our intention to remain a listed company. As the packaging industry continues its migration to digital printing, there are tremendous opportunities for Global Graphics’ hardware and software solutions, so bringing HYBRID Software into the group will help us grow our share in labels and packaging. Exciting times lie ahead as we launch new initiatives in response to customer demands, ranging from innovative new products to subscription-based licensing models.”

Global Graphics’ CEO Mike Rottenborn says, “This acquisition makes Global Graphics stronger than the sum of its parts. Market requirements are changing and it’s important for the future growth of the company that we are positioned to respond. Customers are asking for more functionality and we are well placed to offer a broader solution starting with a powerful new digital front end for the labels and packaging segment. Expect to see new product development for the industrial inkjet market too, which, as it evolves and matures, requires a new generation of software and hardware capabilities. We’ll be able to take HYBRID Software’s expertise in file preparation and enterprise production workflow gained in the labels and packaging segments and expand this out across all the industry segments we serve.”

HYBRID Software has been an integrator of the Harlequin RIP® for many years inside their CLOUDFLOW workflow product and in recent times has been working at a technical level with Global Graphics Software on the Fundamentals digital front end. Michigan-based Xitron, also a long-standing customer for the Harlequin RIP, is active in the commercial printing industry providing pre-press and digital solutions to OEMs. Its Navigator DFE supports drive electronics from sister company Meteor Inkjet, a leading developer of printhead driver solutions for industrial inkjet systems. Together with Global Graphics Software, developer of the Harlequin RIP and other technology components for digital printing, the Global Graphics group offers the market a compelling stack of solutions for graphics and industrial inkjet printing.

Consideration for the acquisition of HYBRID Software was EUR 80 million which was satisfied in full by issuing 21,074,030 Global Graphics shares to Congra.

For the year ended 31 December 2020, it is estimated that HYBRID Software’s revenue will be around EUR 17 million and EBITDA will be around EUR 5.5 million (subject to audit). HYBRID Software will be included in the group’s consolidated financial statements with effect from the reporting period that includes the closing date of the acquisition, i.e. for the year ending 31 December 2021, starting with the condensed consolidated financial statements for the six months ending 30 June 2021. Further information in respect of the acquisition can be found on the company’s website at https://investor.globalgraphics.com/investors/hybrid-software-acquisition.

Ends

About Global Graphics

Through its operating subsidiaries, Global Graphics PLC (Euronext Brussels: GLOG) is a leading developer of integrated hardware and software solutions for graphics and industrial inkjet printing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP, Canon, Durst, Roland, Hymmen and Mark Andy. Global Graphics PLC is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are printing software developers Global Graphics Software; the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists, Meteor Inkjet; and the pre-press software specialists Xitron

Contacts

Jill Taylor
Corporate Communications Director Tel: +44 (0)1223 926489
Email: jill.taylor@globalgraphics.com

Graeme Huttley
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: +44 (0)1223 926472
Email: graeme.huttley@globalgraphics.com

Presenting HYBRID Software’s solutions for folding carton printing!

In this comprehensive video, you will be taken step by step on how HYBRID Software can maximise the performance of your folding carton printing processes.

HYBRID Software’s lights out automation saves you time and money in various touch points. We increase your efficiency by providing an intuitive to use, web-based interface to conduct your data delivery and artwork editing, quality control and customer approvals, all the way up to step and repeat and statistics reporting.

We’d be happy to discuss a personalised solution for your needs.

Contact us to learn how we can help you reach your goals at https://www.hybridsoftware.com/contact-locations/

Presenting HYBRID Software’s solution for flexibles and trade shops!

In this comprehensive video, you will be taken step by step on how HYBRID Software can maximise the performance of your flexible printing and trade shops processes.

HYBRID Software’s lights out automation saves you time and money in various touch points. We increase your efficiency by providing an intuitive to use, web-based interface to conduct your data delivery and artwork editing, quality control and customer approvals, all the way up to step and repeat and statistics reporting.

We’d be happy to discuss a personalised solution for your needs.

Contact us to learn how we can help you reach your goals at https://www.hybridsoftware.com/contact-locations/

Presenting HYBRID Software’s solutions for label printing!

In this comprehensive video, you will be taken step by step on how HYBRID Software can maximise the performance of your label printing processes.

HYBRID Software’s lights out automation saves you time and money in various touch points. We increase your efficiency by providing an intuitive to use, web-based interface to conduct your data delivery and artwork editing, quality control and customer approvals, all the way up to step and repeat and statistics reporting.

We’d be happy to discuss a personalised solution for your needs.

Contact us to learn how we can help you reach your goals at https://www.hybridsoftware.com/contact-locations/