Why Flexo Print Quality Rivals Offset

The world of carton printing is evolving rapidly. As converters seek more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective ways to meet rising demand and shrinking lead times, flexo is stepping into the spotlight. But for some, there’s still a lingering doubt whether flexo can really deliver the same print quality as offset.

The short answer? Yes. In fact, today’s flexo presses rival offset in quality and outperform it in flexibility so it’s time to update the perception of what flexo can do.

For years, flexographic printing was associated with high-speed, high-volume jobs where ultimate quality took a back seat to speed and simplicity. Offset litho, by comparison, became the go-to for premium printing due to its sharp detail, and ability to handle intricate designs.

But that comparison no longer holds up.

Thanks to major technological leaps in plate imaging, servo-driven registration, tension control and drying systems, modern flexo presses – like the Edale CartonLine – have closed the gap. Print quality is now equal to, and in some cases better than, offset, particularly for short-to-medium runs, versioning and embellished cartons.

High-definition flexo plate technology is one of the main reasons behind this shift. Advanced plate imaging delivers pin-sharp resolution, smooth gradients and tight registration, even on textured or specialist substrates.

Combine this with precise servo motor control at every station and inline registration adjustment, and converters gain new levels of consistency, even across multiple jobs and substrate types. Print once, get it right first time, every time.

At Edale, we’ve built our reputation on pushing what flexo can achieve. Our CartonLine system, a fully integrated single-pass flexo press for cartons, is designed to meet and exceed the expectations of converters coming from offset.

That means:

Leaving you with premium cartons that match the visual impact of offset, without the delays, inefficiencies or setup demands.

Quality may be the conversation starter, but it’s far from the only reason to consider a flexo press for carton production.

Modern flexo systems like the Edale CartonLine also bring several benefits:

For converters feeling the pressure of labour shortages, cost volatility and demand for SKU variation, that flexibility is more than nice to have, it’s an absolute essential.

Still some offset carton printers remain hesitant. After all, flexo may be unfamiliar territory, and quality perception can be hard to shift.

But the reality is this. Flexo is no longer a compromise, it’s an opportunity to disrupt.

We work closely with converters moving into flexo for the first time. Our team ensures press configuration, operator training and all the required support are in place to make transition a success. And with the backing of Canon, we bring global experience and technical resource to every installation.

For those open to rethinking their production model, CartonLine gives you quality without compromise and a platform for the future.