1. What is behind the strategic focus on “System Integrator Packaging”?
Behind this technical term lies our approach to not only supply individual machines in the future, but to offer turnkey end-to-end solutions that span the entire value chain of packaging production. The exact services provided are determined by the end product and the specific customer application. Another new aspect of our approach is opening up the model to partner solutions before and after the printing process – for example, in packaging, intralogistics or quality assurance.
2. Which applications are suitable for this? How do customers benefit from it?
Typical use cases include integrated folding carton lines, for example in the food sector, pharmaceutical packaging or high-volume packaging solutions. All customers benefit from a reduced number of interfaces, greater process reliability and transparency thanks to the seamless data flow. In short: it becomes simpler. Depending on the application, there are additional specific benefits: pharmaceutical customers, for example, can more easily ensure compliance with regulations, and time-to-market is also reduced.
3. What does HEIDELBERG expect to gain from this approach?
Our primary goal is to expand beyond our core business and increase the value we deliver to each customer. This will also allow us to increase recurring revenue from software, robotics electronics and services. Since the Prinect workflow is already established as an industry standard in print shops, we are well-positioned to integrate and digitalize partner solutions as well. Thinking “from the end product” has long been one of our strengths.
Materials are assigned a digital fingerprint as soon as they enter the inbound logistics stage, which is updated throughout the entire value chain. This creates a “material DNA” that captures all relevant properties and applications – and provides customers with full traceability at all times. On this basis, materials can be continuously optimized, contributing to a cost-efficient, sustainable and appealing end product.
Finished goods are reported to the ERP system in real time. This reduces inventory and frees up working capital. This is achieved through live dashboards provided by HEIDELBERG to its customers.
The integration of finishing, warehousing, and filling improves compliance with shelf-life requirements and ultimately saves money.
