Comexi Group, the Spanish specialist in machinery solutions for the flexible packaging conversion industry, has set up a 550 sq m R&D dedicated to both its own prototype testing and validation tasks (software, mechanisms) and for equipment and solutions to be incorporated into Comexi's products. Speaking at a pre-K press conference in Germany in July, President of the company Manel Xifra said that the firm will also establish later this year a 2,200 sq m technology centre, with the aim of becoming the benchmark for the flexible packaging sector "as a knowledge driving force". The CTec Manel Xifra Boada will focus on training and consultancy, academic activities and innovation.

Meanwhile, Xifra said the firm keeps up to date with technology in the industry. "To cater to solventless printing, we launched the Offset C18 machine last year, since gravure printing is used in most flexible packaging printing. It costs less and is more sustainable."

Founded in 1954, the family-owned company with 500 employees, turnover of EUR100 million and presence in 100 countries, exports almost all of its machinery output and manufactures 60% standard machines and 40% customised equipment, according to Xifra.

To further development of its machines, the R&D centre is equipped with a flexographic printing system. Is also has a multi-trolley laminator as well as a slitting and rewinding machine of the latest generation. Furthermore, it will have a gas chromatograph to control the solvent retention and a digital dynamometer to control the bond strength: tools that will improve the company's performance and the quality of its research. The Research Centre will earmark a research area for all the company's product lines: Comexi Flexo, Comexi Acom, Comexi Offset, Comexi Nexus, Comexi Proslit and Comexi Enviroxi. In the last few years, the group has developed an investment and growth line based on R&D into new solutions "to mark a turning point in the flexible packaging sector". Xifra is optimistic of the future of the flexible packaging market, pointing to a higher market share and a brighter future.