In the fast-evolving packaging industry, staying ahead demands packaging innovation, efficiency and sustainability. Schumacher Packaging, a family-owned leader specializing in customized corrugated packaging and solid board, embodies this approach. With over 29 sites across Europe, Schumacher  Packaging has consistently invested in advanced technologies to meet the shifting demands of the market.

A pivotal step in this strategy was the installation of the Highcon Beam 2C digital die cutting system at Schumacher Packaging & Display in Breda,  The Netherlands, in August 2022. This decision has transformed their production capabilities and opened up new avenues for business growth. The integration of the Highcon Beam 2C is part of Schumacher Packaging’s broader strategy to maintain its leadership in the European packaging market, positioning the company for continued growth and innovation.

Enhancing Production Capabilities

Schumacher Packaging’s commitment to innovation is driven by CEO Björn Schumacher’s vision of digital technology revolutionizing the packaging industry. Recognizing the need for shorter runs, faster cycle times, and quicker turnarounds, the company has heavily invested in digital production to stay ahead of market trends. The Highcon Beam 2C plays a crucial role in this strategy, enabling the company to handle complex projects with efficiency and precision.

On their website, Schumacher describes the benefits of digital die cutting technology: “No tools are required for the subsequent die cutting with the laser. Neither wood, metal nor rubber are used, which are required for the production of a conventional cutting die. And there is also no need for transport and storage. This saves material, costs, and time.” This reduction in setup time and material usage not only improves production efficiency but also aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals.”

Unlocking New Business Opportunities

The Highcon Beam 2C has been transformative for Schumacher Packaging, especially in projects requiring quick turnarounds. Its fully digital workflow, including patented DART (Digital Adhesive Rule Technology) and contactless laser die-cutting, allows for the efficient production of customized packaging that were previously impossible with traditional methods. This has been particularly advantageous in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, where agility is essential.

“The Beam 2C closes the gap between design creativity and production capability and takes digital punching and creasing to a new dimension of added value – both for us and for our customers,” states the company. This digital workflow enables Schumacher to run more jobs per shift, offering shorter run lengths with no minimum order quantities (MOQs), providing brands with the flexibility needed to remain competitive.

A standout example is the creation of an award-winning, candy-shaped packaging featuring a detailed winter landscape. This intricate design, which earned Schumacher Packaging a gold award at the Display Superstar Award 2023, was made possible by the precision and flexibility of the Beam 2C laser die-cutter. “Their production was only possible digitally using the Beam 2C laser die-cutter,” notes Schumacher, highlighting the unique possibilities enabled by digital die cutting and creasing.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of Schumacher Packaging’s operations. The company has made significant investments in renewable energy and resource-efficient technologies across its European sites. The Highcon Beam 2C supports these initiatives by enabling the use of lighter-weight boards, reducing material consumption, and minimizing the carbon footprint of their products. By eliminating the need for traditional cutting dies, the Beam 2C also contributes to waste reduction and enhances the environmental responsibility of Schumacher Packaging’s processes.

“On our way to climate neutrality, we want to further advance the digitalization of our production processes. For this reason, we have installed the first Highcon Beam 2C laser die cutter for corrugated packaging at our display plant in Breda,” Schumacher Packaging states. “This commitment to digitalization not only supports sustainability but also positions Schumacher Packaging as a leader in the transition to more environmentally friendly production methods.”

The installation of the Highcon Beam 2C laser die cutter at Schumacher Packaging’s Breda facility has proven to be a transformative move, enhancing production efficiency, unlocking new business opportunities, and reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability. As Schumacher Packaging continues to grow and innovate, the partnership with Highcon will undoubtedly play a crucial role in driving the company’s future success.

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