Koenig & Bauer's strategic initiative begun in 2014 is intensifying with a major restructuring planned for 2025. Moving from three segments to two âeuros Paper & Packaging Sheetfed Systems (P&P) and Special & New Technologies (S&T) âeuros the company is focusing on optimizing responses to the specific needs of its customers. This structural overhaul is part of a drive to simplify decision-making and adapt offerings to the growing demands of the packaging market.
The central role of packaging solutions is confirmed, while the segment also retains activities linked to commercial printing.
Paper & Packaging Sheetfed Systems: a consolidated division
As part of this reorganization, the P&P segment will bring together all activities relating to production solutions for folding carton and corrugated packaging. This approach now includes Celmacchâ??s Chroma technologies, previously integrated into the Digital & Webfed segment. With an extended offer covering the entire production workflow âeuros prepress, printing, finishing.
According to company CEO Dr Andreas Pleßke: "The main aim of this reorganization is to improve responsiveness and ensure greater proximity to customers and markets."
Special & New Technologies: innovation at the heart of special applications
The S&T segment will group together niche activities, including security printing machines, industrial marking systems and battery manufacturing equipment. This segment will also integrate digital and flexographic solutions, responding to specific needs, notably in rotary and digital printing.
The enhanced autonomy of the business units in this segment will enable greater responsiveness to ever-changing markets. Christian Steinmaßl, who will join the management team in December 2024, will play a key role in this structuring by piloting strategic technological projects.
Organizational simplification and new objectives
At the same time, Koenig & Bauer is simplifying its administrative structures by eliminating central functions such as Chief Operating Officer (COO). The aim of this decision is to decentralize operational responsibilities further within the segments. Michael Ulverich, who held this position, will leave the company at the end of November 2024. Under his leadership, significant progress has been made in supply chain management and the standardization of machine platforms.
The refocusing on the P&P and S&T segments reflects a clear vision of the future: rapid adaptation to customer needs and a reduction in structural costs. The Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Prof. Dr. Raimund Klinkner, emphasized the importance of this development against a background of generational succession in management.
This restructuring heralds a new phase for Koenig & Bauer, in which simplification and adaptability are key priorities. This approach opens up perspectives on the evolution of business models in the printing industry, particularly around digital printing and sustainable technologies. The strategic choices we are making today will have a significant impact on how the company, and the industry more broadly, will adapt to future market transformations.
