Smurfit Kappa unveils DigiStar premium papers for packaging printing

Paper-based packaging major Smurfit Kappa has expanded its printing solutions portfolio with the launch of DigiStar premium papers.

Suitable for use with digital and flexographic printers, the company developed the new papers to cater to the need for a multi-purpose solution for the premium-printed paper-based packaging industry.

The solution is claimed to maximise digital printing capabilities by allowing companies to use one type of paper for multiple printers.

Customers can use the DigiStar papers for UV and water-based inks, as well as reduce waste and control stock.

Smurfit Kappa paper division product development vice-president Lars Henriksson said: “Digital printing is evolving strongly and our paper technology is developing at a similar pace.

“We created DigiStar to respond to the need for a premium, multi-purpose paper and we are very excited about the potential that it holds.

“Feedback has been very positive and we’re already working on additional types of paper to augment the range.”

Smurfit Kappa has 350 manufacturing facilities across 35 countries with around 46,000 employees.

Earlier this month, the paper-based packaging major announced its intention to buy an additional 15.54% stake in Cartón de Colombia for €90m ($101.92m) in cash. It currently holds a 69.94% stake in the Colombian company.

Cartón de Colombia produces virgin-fibre pulp and packaging products, corrugated boxes and paper sacks, as well as printing and writing papers in Colombia.

In February, the packaging firm expanded its operations in Mexico by opening a new folding carton plant in Tijuana.

The new plant will strengthen the company’s presence in Baja California and neighbouring Northern Mexico states.