Solidus Strengthens its Position in Solid Board Packaging with Two New Large‑Format Presses

Amid ongoing challenges in the packaging market, Solidus is strengthening its position through strategic restructuring and targeted investment in production technology. The company has installed two new large-format presses from Koenig & Bauer to enhance efficiency and productivity across its operations.

Solidus operates three in-house cardboard mills and ten converting facilities across Europe, positioning it among the leading producers of solid board packaging. According to Jan-Willem Kleppers, VP Converting, increasing quality demands and a shift toward sustainable alternatives to plastic are driving the company’s investment strategy.

The new installations include a Rapida 164 press at the Hoogstraten site in Belgium and a Rapida 145 press in Oude Pekela, the Netherlands. The difference in format reflects the existing finishing capabilities at each location. In Hoogstraten, the presses are complemented by a chemical-free ECO3 CtP system to align prepress and production processes.

Designed to handle solid board materials ranging from 500 gsm up to 1.8 mm thickness, the hybrid six-colour presses with varnish capability support multiple ink types, including UV, conventional, and food-safe inks. This flexibility allows Solidus to process coated and water-resistant board produced using its Sapino method.

The installation process involved close collaboration between Solidus, Koenig & Bauer, and Wifac. The setup incorporates advanced automation features such as non-stop feeding, integrated logistics, dust extraction, and customised delivery systems.

The new presses are expected to improve standardisation and reduce waste through inline quality control and faster start-up times. Solidus also invested in workforce training to support the transition to higher-speed, automated production.

The company said the upgrades mark a significant step toward meeting future demand for sustainable packaging while maintaining consistent print quality.