The term hybrid refers to the composition of elements derived from different sources. In the automotive industry, a hybrid car relies on multiple power sources such as internal combustion and an electronic motor. In golf, a hybrid features the qualities of an iron and a fairway wood. In printing, a hybrid combines flexo and digital technologies.

This trend is making headlines in the label-printing world. Historically, flexo press manufacturers have responded to the demand for short run labels by integrating digital platforms into a flexo workflow. The goal is to meet demand for large run flexo orders on the same press that is capable of handling a 500-label order from a local winery.

Major players in flexo are making inroads in developing hybrid technology. Gallus, Mark Andy, MPS, Nilpeter and Omet have all responded to the market’s need for digital. In the case of Durst and FFEI with Fujifilm, digital printing specialists have integrated flexo into their digital workflows.

Gallus, for example, offers the Labelfire 340, which has been developed to meet the requirements of quickly changing markets. This system is based on digital UV