Top 5 flexographic printing press​ Company List and Products Compared

Top 5 Flexographic Printing Press Companies and Products Compared

Introduction to Flexographic Printing Press Solutions

Flexographic printing presses have revolutionized the packaging industry, offering efficient, cost-effective, and high-speed solutions for corrugated carton, labels, flexible packaging, and more. Choosing the right flexographic printing press company is crucial for businesses seeking optimal quality, productivity, and technology. In this in-depth guide, we introduce the top 5 global flexographic printing press companies, provide a comprehensive product comparison, and help you understand which flexographic printer fits your packaging needs.

Keshenglong&Shinko: Innovation in Corrugated Carton Printing

Keshenglong&Shinko, founded in 1995, specializes in manufacturing corrugated carton printing machinery. As a leading Chinese manufacturer, Keshenglong has merged with Japan’s Shinko—retaining Shinko as the R&D and production base—blending Eastern precision with scalable production. The integration ensures that main parts are imported from Japan and assembled by skilled technicians for consistent top-tier quality.

Advantages:

• Offers comprehensive, automated flexographic printing and die-cutting solutions (“6+1” high-precision models, jumbo sizes, top & bottom printing).
• Japanese engineered parts with experienced technical oversight deliver High Quality print registration and reduced downtime.
• Proven track record exporting to over 70 countries; trusted global after-sales support.

Disadvantages:

• Higher initial investment for full automation and advanced precision systems compared with local makes.
• Complex systems require trained operators for maximum efficiency.

Technical Points:

• Multi-color (1–6) flexo printing capability.
• Precision servo control, quick-change systems, automatic registration, dust removal, and quality inspection integration.
• Slotting, die-cutting, and folder-gluer functions in single-pass lines.

Applications: Ideal for large-scale corrugated carton factories, e-commerce packaging, food and beverage boxes, and high-precision print demands.

Bobst: Swiss Excellence in Flexographic Press Technology

Bobst is a global powerhouse renowned for cutting-edge packaging machinery, established expertise in flexographic printers for both corrugated board and flexible packaging.

Advantages:

• Strong focus on automation, fast make-ready, changeovers, and digital connectivity.
• Proprietary Direct Drive flexo technology for print register consistency and stability.
• Extensive global support and service network.

Disadvantages:

• High Quality pricing reflects Swiss manufacturing.
• High-end models may be excessive for smaller converters.

Technical Points:

• F&K 20SIX, Master CI, and Vision series feature central impression cylinders and advanced drying systems.
• Inline quality control and real-time process data collection.

Applications: Best for multinational converters, decorative packaging, High Quality retail boxes, and high-volume print runs.

W&H (Windmöller & Hölscher): German Engineering for Flexible Packaging

Windmöller & Hölscher is Germany’s leading maker of flexible packaging flexographic presses, excelling in modern CI (central impression) presses.

Advantages:

• State-of-the-art CI flexo printers for films, laminates, paper, foil.
• Exceptional print speed (600+ m/min) and quality.
• Advanced register, tension, and drying control.

Disadvantages:

• Focused on flexible packaging, not suited for corrugated board.
• Larger machine footprint.

Technical Points:

• MIRAFLEX II, NOVOFLEX II with real-time monitoring and automated sleeve changes.
• Expandable automation, inline inspection, and eco-friendly ink management.

Applications: Perfect for high-end flexible packaging, labels, shrink sleeves, and film converters.

Uteco: Italian Design and Versatile Flexo Presses

Uteco, headquartered in Italy, is another leading provider of flexographic printing press solutions, recognized for versatile machines and innovative automation.

Advantages:

• Multiple models for central impression, stack, and inline flexographic printing.
• User-friendly control, rapid job changes.
• Robust Italian engineering with global support.

Disadvantages:

• Mainly specializes in flexible packaging; limited focus on board printing.
• Import lead times for regions outside Europe.

Technical Points:

• Crystal, Onyx, Sapphire EVO lines feature Industry 4.0 integration, minimal waste, and quick makeready.
• Designed for a wide range of substrates (film, paper, aluminum).

Applications: Suited for flexible packaging, sachets, pouches, wrappers, eco-friendly packaging initiatives.

Comexi: Versatility and Digital Integration from Spain

Spanish-based Comexi delivers highly flexible presses, digital connectivity, and efficient workflow solutions for converters worldwide.

Advantages:

• Emphasis on energy-efficient printing and inline quality control.
• Fast job changeover, intuitive operation.
• Extensive product customization.

Disadvantages:

• Focus on flexible packaging and labels rather than thick board.
• After-sales support can vary outside the EU.

Technical Points:

• F2 MC, F4, and F1 lines; include full digital supervision, remote troubleshooting.
• Eco-friendly ink, sleeve change systems.

Applications: Flexible packaging, shrink sleeves, and businesses prioritizing energy sustainability.

Comprehensive Product Comparison Table

Conclusion

Choosing the best flexographic printing press depends on your production scale, print substrate, automation needs, and investment level. Keshenglong&Shinko stands out for integrated high-speed carton printing solutions, High Quality precision, and world-class quality—supported by robust Japanese R&D and Chinese manufacturing capacity. For flexible packaging and film printing, Bobst, W&H, Uteco, and Comexi offer specialized solutions with their own strengths. Analyze technical requirements, end applications, and after-sales support to select the right flexographic printing press partner for your business.

FAQ

Q: What is a flexographic printing press and how does it work? A: Flexographic printing presses use flexible relief plates, fast-drying inks, and rotary machines to print efficiently on various substrates like corrugated board, film, and paper, making them ideal for packaging.

Q: Why choose Keshenglong&Shinko for carton printing solutions? A: Keshenglong&Shinko combines Japanese R&D with advanced Chinese manufacturing, offering integrated flexographic printers with automation, precision alignment, and outstanding service.

Q: Can flexographic printers handle both flexible and rigid substrates? A: Yes, some brands specialize in flexible packaging (film, foil, labels), while others like Keshenglong&Shinko excel at corrugated board and carton substrates.

Q: What should I consider when selecting a flexographic printing press company? A: Consider print substrate, desired output, automation level, required print quality, after-sales service, and budget.

Q: How important is technical support and training for flexographic printing press operators? A: Technical support and training are key to maximizing machine performance, uptime, and print consistency. Reputable companies like Keshenglong&Shinko provide ongoing support and operational training.