With Kocher+Beck USA celebrating its 25th anniversary, the company is proud to look at its list of accomplishments while addressing the newest goals and products that are positioning it for a successful future. These initiatives include investments into R&D, people, and new innovation.

David Morris, president and CEO, Kocher+Beck USA, recently sat down with L&NW to describe what to expect from the company as it looks to drive growth for the next 25 years.

L&NW: What can you say about Kocher+Beck as it reaches its 25th anniversary?
DM: Kocher+Beck USA is incredibly proud to be celebrating its 25th anniversary. While being a privately second generation-owned company, this has allowed for depth in R&D and innovation in our overall organization to support our industry and allowed us to earn the right to do business with some fantastic customers and partners, and for that, we are very grateful.

L&NW: How has innovation and product development been a core philosophy for the company during this time?
DM: Innovation and product development have always been at the core of Kocher+Beck. It all began with our founder, Mr. Rolf Beck, who was a true pioneer in the development of magnetic die technology in the early 1980s. Kocher+Beck introduced the first laser-hardened flexible die and designed and manufactured the very first adjustable anvil system, known as the “GapMaster.” Today, this system is available as the GapMaster EM, allowing for adjustments as small as 0.25 microns using an extremely user-friendly HMI.

L&NW: How has Kocher+Beck emphasized investment back into the company, and how has that driven success?
DM: In 2016, Kocher+Beck USA doubled the size of the Lenexa, KS, production facility, emphasizing its commitment to both the North and South American markets it serves.

Kocher+Beck has always recognized the importance of investing in its production processes, new technology, software, equipment, and most importantly, its people. Such investment is key to driving continuous improvement and product development – and ensuring that we are always ideally positioned to meet the needs of our customers.

L&NW: What trends are you seeing in the industry, and how is Kocher+Beck ideally suited to meet demand?
DM: In the flexo printing industry, there is a trend toward wider presses and cutting stations. Kocher+Beck has developed cutting stations specifically for high-speed wide format diecutting applications. These stations have been designed to handle higher forces and provide extreme stability.

The digital print sector is experiencing continued growth, leading to a demand for fast turnarounds on flexible dies. Kocher+Beck USA introduced a digital die fast-track production line several years ago, and this year, additional production equipment has been added.

L&NW: How has the company expanded recently?
DM: In early 2024, Kocher+Beck USA initiated an expansion program, increasing its flexible die production facility by an extra 8,000 square feet. This expansion involves substantial investments in cutting-edge technology and equipment, as well as the addition of more highly experienced staff. This investment aims to strategically position Kocher+Beck to cater to its customers’ present and future needs.

L&NW: What can we expect from Kocher + Beck in the future?
DM: As we look ahead to the next 25 years, Kocher+Beck USA remains committed to providing its customers with the highest quality products, services, and support. We will continue to invest in equipment, software, technology, R&D, and, most importantly, people to support our customers’ needs. Working today on solutions for tomorrow is critical for our customers’ future growth and success.