Bobst has been given two accolades by the European Digital Press Association (EDP). The Large Format Digital Inspection Table has taken the top prize in the Print and Finishing Support Tool category, while the MASTER DM5 inline printing and convertingpress has been named the best combined label and flexible packaging printer of the year.

Each year, the EDP recognizes the best digital technological developments as voted for by the 21 trade industry magazines that together form the association. The nominated entries are selected by the EDP’s Technical Committee, which evaluates the features and qualities of each, and consult other experts in the field. Other aspects such as value to the user, support and service are also taken into account before in the final decision is made.

Launched in early 2020 for the corrugated board sector, the Large Format Digital Inspection Table (DIT) enables quality control of sheet sizes up to 2800 x 1600 mm. With enhanced digital projection and lighting, it provides augmented images of samples and original artwork, removing the need for printed overlays and proofs. Part of the Bobst oneINSPECTION system, it is the optimal workflow tool for achieving zero-fault production.

“Our pioneering Digital Inspection Table has now taken one step further and consolidated its position as a next-generation digital quality control center. The large format DIT will drive productivity and virtually remove print production errors, and it clearly demonstrates the commitment to our vision of shaping the future of the packaging world, by supporting our customers with digitalization, connectivity, automation and sustainability,” said Julien Laran, Head of Business Unit Service and Performance at BOBST. “To receive the endorsement of the EDP Association is incredibly gratifying and testament to the hard work of everyone involved in its development.”

The Bobst Master DM5 is an inline printing and converting press that combines digital and analog processes into a new All-in-One and All-Inline concept that BOBST has developed to deliver label production timely and efficiently – from priming and printing to varnishing, embellishment and die-cutting. It features the highest level of digitalization and automation using BOBST digiFlexo technology and Mouvent Cluster digital inkjet printing to achieve an exceptionally high press uptime, outstanding repeatability regardless of the operator’s skills and the ability to cost-effectively answer any label challenge.

“The innovative Master DM5 is the ultimate proof of Bobst’s vision for the labels industry, where every single step throughout the production process is digitalized from the job file to the finished reels of printed and converted label applications. All functions and tooling are seamlessly integrated, allowing you to effectively manage the production while performing quality control throughout the process,” comments Matteo Cardinotti, Managing Director of Bobst Firenze. “Winning this renowned industry award is hugely satisfying and further supports our vision, and I would like to thank the judges for their recognition.”

Both awards were officially announced by the European Digital Press Association on December 7, 2020.