Flexo printer Delo has installed Fujifilm’s Jet Press FP790 digital inkjet press at its facility in Germany. The move makes Delo the second company outside Japan – and the first in Germany – to adopt the FP790, following UK-based Eco Flexibles’ installation of the machine in January 2024.

The installation was completed in January 2025 and reflects Delo’s strategy to integrate digital printing into its existing flexographic operations. With 17 wide-web flexographic presses and two more currently being installed, Delo predominantly focuses on large-scale production. However, growing demand for short-run, high-quality packaging led the company to seek out a digital alternative to complement its conventional print capacity.

“Short runs are a big factor right now,” said Bernd Böckmann, head of printing at Delo. “Digital allows us to take on jobs that are not feasible on flexo while still meeting the same quality standards.”

The Jet Press FP790, designed for flexible packaging, enables fast turnaround times and is suited to short and mid-sized runs. According to Mr Böckmann, some customer deadlines – such as two-week delivery windows – can be challenging to meet with flexo alone. The digital press helps bridge that gap.

Delo’s facility in Germany

“We’re now able to handle jobs around 1000 metres efficiently, which were previously difficult to justify on flexo,” he said. “It gives us the flexibility to balance traditional and digital production depending on job size and deadlines.”

Delo’s managing director Ralf Wilkens added that the digital press helps relieve pressure on flexographic lines. “Flexo setup times are the same whether you’re printing 4000 or 400,000 metres. Digital is simply more viable for smaller jobs,” he said.

Mr Wilkens also noted that the investment in digital aligns with shifting customer demands. “We’re seeing changes in job profiles. While large runs remain with flexo, the market for smaller, customised runs is growing. The FP790 allows us to meet that demand more effectively.”

The company was introduced to the FP790 after visiting Eco Flexibles in the UK and subsequently decided to proceed with the installation. Eco Flexibles has since signed on to take another Fujifilm FP790, announced at drupa 2024.

Fujifilm’s head of packaging for EMEA, Manuel Schrutt, welcomed the partnership. “Delo’s investment is another sign that digital inkjet is becoming an important part of flexible packaging production,” he said. “It offers the speed and flexibility required for modern packaging demands.”

Delo plans to continue operating its flexographic lines while using the Jet Press FP790 to handle short runs and supplement its core production.