At the end of 2023, the Lacroix Group will acquire a new-generation Koenig & Bauer Rapida 106-6+L high-speed offset press for its Sans-Vallois site. This German manufacturer's 6-color plus varnish press replaces an older press from another manufacturer. The multi-material food packaging manufacturer, which specializes in cheese packaging in particular, is thus increasing production capacity at its Vosges site, which is dedicated to the production of intermediate parts for cardboard food packaging, such as bottoms and lids.
David Noël, manager of the Sans-Vallois plant, which employs 45 people, comments: " We're counting on the new press to be able to absorb peaks in activity and help us adapt to market variability. The ability to print on thick substrates (up to 1.4 mm, Editor's note) and switching quickly between UV and tradi is crucial for us."
The Rapida 106 is a top-of-the-range medium-format offset press described by its manufacturer, Koenig & Bauer, as follows "world champion in stalling time" with a print speed of 18,000 sheets/hour on a wide range of substrates.
The Lacroix Group has 31 production sites, including seven printing plants. Since 2012, when it acquired its first Rapida 106, the group has turned to manufacturer Koenig & Bauer to renew its offset and die-cutting presses.
David Noël emphasizes: "Thanks to the monthly visit contract, our oldest machine has not suffered any loss of productivity in over ten years, which is a real guarantee of quality."
The latest arrival is a two-color Rapida 105 installed in 2020. The only one of its kind, it can be used for special applications thanks to the application of specific varnish in large quantities.
