Koenig & Bauer and Durst Group have committed to build further R&D capability in the joint venture company they set up almost five years ago to capitalise on the significant opportunities in folding carton and corrugated segments. The parent companies of Koenig & Bauer Durst GmbH will expand its operations in Radebeul, Germany.
Robert Stabler, who has run the joint venture company since its inception, will stand down as Managing Director. He will be succeeded by Daniel Velema, who will join Koenig & Bauer Durst in February 2024. In his last role, Velema was General Manager of the Prepress activities at XSYS Global.
Velema (pictured left) said, “I am looking forward to joining Koenig & Bauer Durst. Corrugated and folding carton printers/converters continue to digitize their production environment to increase efficiency, flexibility and to provide a better service to brands and retail. In the long term, this leads to significant cost reductions. Koenig & Bauer Durst’s machinery, software and services offering is well positioned to support and accelerate our customers’ journey and I look forward to working together with our customers, partners and suppliers.”
Christoph Gamper, CEO and Co-owner, Durst Group, said, “We are looking forward to welcoming Daniel to Koenig & Bauer Durst to drive the company forward to the next stages of development. We see a huge opportunity to grow substantially over the next few years. Solid foundations have been laid with the successful launch of the VariJET 106 press, as well as the adoption of our corrugated presses by some of the world’s most innovative and forward-looking corrugated companies. Robert has been instrumental in developing and leading the joint venture team that has developed high-end systems in fully automatic, industrial-scale production. We want to thank Robert for bringing the joint venture from an idea to a vibrant, standalone company.”
Ralf Sammeck, Board Member and Sheetfed Segment CEO, Koenig & Bauer, said, “The spirit embodied by both companies in the joint venture continues to grow. Combining our strengths is driving digitalization in the packaging industry. In building on the initial foundations, we are increasing our capabilities in our R&D center in Radebeul, the headquarters of the Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed division. To take the joint venture to the next level, we are delighted to have appointed Daniel Velema as the new Managing Director from next February.”
