As digital printing has become mainstream in label and package printing, converters are increasingly seeing the need for added capabilities. Faster speeds, inline finishing, and higher quality are just a few of the demands.

Therefore, hybrid printing has turned into a game-changer for label converters. Based on recent technology launches from Durst, hybrid printing combines high-resolution inkjet with traditional flexo. This advancement delivers 1200 dpi quality at high speed, along with fast changeovers and reduced waste.

“Converters can now achieve swift turnaround for multiple SKUs with consistent color and minimal setup, blurring the lines between short- and long-run production,” states Steve Lynn, executive director for North America, Durst. “Durst’s 1200dpi inkjet innovation, especially with its integrated hybrid platforms, is redefining what’s possible—bringing automation, quality, and flexibility previously unattainable for label converters.”

Durst has increasingly seen stronger demand from the industry for hybrid printing. The company has responded to customer demand for enhanced automation, speed, and quality. The solutions have included advanced systems like the KJet, which is equipped with inline flexo modules, finishing components, and powerful workflow software and Analytic software tools. 

“Our hybrid portfolio has been expanded to support wider web widths of 13”, 17” and 20″, speeds of 328 fpm, and integrated digital flexo configurations to meet this demand,” notes Lynn. “Durst now supports clients with complete solutions—from inkjet engines with integrated flexo, diecutting, workflow, analytics, and color management—ensuring one unified partner for all label production needs.”

A first in North America

Converters are beginning to make this transition. In November 2024, South Carolina-based Century Printing & Packaging emerged as the first North American converter to install of Durst’s 1200 dpi KJet hybrid press.

Owners Neil and Ben Waldrop worked closely with Durst, defining expectations and ensuring the press met their throughput and quality requirements.

According to Lynn, Neil emphasized the KJet’s speed, exact registration and automation—highlighting features like the die station auto-loading and rapid changeovers that simplify operation and boost productivity. Ben added that ink operating cost was lower than expected, now enabling more competitive pricing on jobs and higher margins. 

“We have developed a strong partnership throughout this investment and journey into 1200 dpi hybrid label production,” says Lynn.

Read an in-depth profile on Century here.

Durst continues to guide customers with a consultative approach. Its dedicated team evaluates customers’ SKU mix, expected run lengths, throughput targets, substrate needs, and margins. For high-variety, short/medium run production, standalone digital solutions, like the Tau RSCi, are ideal. For mixed-mode production that combines fast, repeatable flexo runs and digital flexibility, hybrid solutions like KJet or XJet offer optimal balance. 

Durst has continually emphasized metrics such as total cost per job, waste reduction, ink and substrate efficacy, automation levels, and ROI over time. Software plays a big role in this endeavor.

“Our integrated Durst Workflow Label software and Analytics tools help guide that decision efficiently,” explains Lynn. “We have a wide portfolio of standalone and hybrid, all at available widths of 13”, 17” and 20”, conventional and LED UV ink, along with simple to complex hybrid solutions to cover any label converter need.”

Heading to Labelexpo

Durst will once again bring these cutting-edge technologies to the world stage at Labelexpo Europe 2025. The event takes place in Barcelona, Spain, from September 16-19. Durst will showcase its full portfolio with advancements in automation and operational efficiency updates. The KJet hybrid system will feature prominently, showcasing an end-to-end hybrid label solution. This hybrid system will come fully integrated with flexo, finishing, and Workflow tools. 

“Visitors can expect live demos of hybrid label production in action, showing how high-resolution inkjet and servo flexo combine for productivity, inline converting, finishing, and automated quality control,” remarks Lynn. “The Durst booth will deliver versatility, efficiency, and a vision of the future of hybrid label production.”