Press maker Koenig & Bauer will exploit facilities at its factory in the former east German city of Radebeul to expand its partnership with Durst.

The two have committed to build further research and development capability for the joint venture company they set up almost five years ago to exploit opportunities in folding cartons and corrugated packaging.

Its digital printing portfolio includes the CorruJet and Delta SPC 130 systems for corrugated markets, as well the jointly developed VariJet 106 for folding carton markets. All use water-based food-safe inks and coatings that comply with all regulatory requirements.

Managing director Robert Stabler – who has run the company since its inception – is standing down in favour of Daniel Velema, who is joining Koenig & Bauer Durst next month. He was previously prepress general manager at Xsys Global, which makes plates, sleeves and prepress equipment for the segment.

K&B board member and sheetfed segment chief executive Ralf Sammeck says the spirit embodied by both companies in the joint venture continues to grow. “In building on the initial foundations, we are increasing our capabilities in our R&D centre in Radebeul, headquarters of the sheetfed division.”