Koenig & Bauer (KBA) has been a member of the in der International Packaging Group (IPG) since January 2013 and takes the place of a German competitor who recently left the group.

Founded in 1963 in Switzerland, IPG is an international association of folding carton producers. Its members include leading folding box manufacturers from 24 countries.

The folding carton industry is a growing market which continues to challenge manufacturers and offers them exciting new options. In this era of continuing globalisation, dynamic markets and leaps in technology, an active and international network is becoming more and more important to the success of its members. IPG represents their interests by promoting an active and open exchange of experience and information regarding technology used, production methods, marketing know-how, environmental protection and social-political understanding on a global level.

The association seeks a diversified membership in which each member represents a single country as well as offering a wide range of products. IPG conducts regular meetings to promote innovation, quality improvement and cost effectiveness within the industry. These meetings also serve as active communication platforms, promote a sharing of know-how about topics, such as an assessment of new materials, processes and equipment, productivity data analysis for internal bench marking, and assist members in solving problems.

In addition to the regular IPG membership category there is also a group of Associate Members. These members represent the major equipment and material suppliers to the packaging industry, like KBA, who contribute their expert knowledge and experience to the regular meetings.

As the market and technological leader in offset packaging printing, KBA maintains a strong focus on providing innovative solutions for the folding carton industry. With 200 years of experience in press engineering, KBA takes its responsibility very seriously and wishes to actively contribute to future-orientated printing technologies within the framework of IPG. The exchange of information amongst folding carton manufacturers also plays a key role.

KBA made its debut as a new member of IPG at a meeting in Cincinnati, USA, from 28 April to 2 May which nearly all members attended. KBA executive vice-president for sheetfed sales and marketing, Ralf Sammeck and VP technical sales director from KBA North America, Walter Chmura shared information on current sheetfed offset innovations for the folding carton industry, in particular solutions for process optimisation, fast job change and reducing makeready times. The 19-unit Rapida 106 at Amcor Tobacco Packaging in Rickenbach, Switzerland, which for the first time features inert UV end-of-press-curing in connection with a new suction cylinder (AirTronic Drum), was a subject of great interest. Along with other presentations and workshops, a visit to the host’s printing plant, Zumbiel Packaging, was also on the meeting’s agenda.

2013 is an important year for IPG. The association will be celebrating its 50th birthday from 20 to 22 September in Bern, Switzerland.