Badger Tag & Label installs Durst press, Aztech finishing system

Badger Tag & Label has expanded its digital production capabilities with the installation of a Durst Tau RSC-E narrow web digital inkjet press and complementary Aztech finishing system at its Random Lake, WI, facility.

The investment follows the family-owned converter’s 90th anniversary in 2025 and responds to a growing volume of work better suited to narrow web digital label production.

The Durst Tau RSC-E adds high-speed digital inkjet and variable data printing capabilities to Badger Tag & Label’s production platform. The Aztech near-line finishing system provides full- and semi-rotary diecutting and lamination, with the ability to finish products into rolls or individual sheets.

“Badger Tag has always been very organic in growth. We invest in equipment to match demands we see over time,” says Ryan Will, president of Badger Tag & Label. “Our longevity is rooted in a disciplined approach: a combination of our customers’ needs and our desire to continue to evolve, which drive all capital decisions.”

While tags and labels remain the foundation of Badger Tag & Label’s business, the company has also experienced growth in specialty applications including magnets, gauges, guides, and faceplates. Increasing demand for these applications had pushed its existing wide-format digital equipment toward capacity, contributing to the decision to expand its digital platform.

Badger Tag & Label selected the Durst press following an extensive evaluation process that included visits to equipment showrooms and other printing operations. Most helpful, Will says, was the feedback the company received from fellow FLAG (Flexo Label Advantage Group) members as well as equipment suppliers.

“We’re proud to support Badger Tag & Label and their bold vision,” says Barry Wendell, national sales manager, Labels, Durst North America. “With Durst Tau RSC technology, 1200 dpi print quality and high-speed production, they are positioned for new opportunities and providing greater value for their customers.”

Badger Tag & Label brings more than 17 years of digital inkjet experience to the new platform. Durst has also provided onsite press training and workflow integration support as the converter brings the new equipment into production.

“We’re confident we made the right choice with Durst. The Durst team has been on site supporting both press training and integration with our workflow,” Will says, adding, “Our deliberate approach to training and testing will maximize this technology for future projects.”

Founded in 1935, third-generation Badger Tag & Label produces tags, labels and specialty products using flexographic, letterpress, Metalphoto and digital printing. The company serves customers across the US with products supplied in rolls, sheets, fanfold formats and custom shapes.