The fully-automated, corrugated cutting machine for POS and short run production of packaging will run alongside HP’s other new machine, the HP Scitex FB10000 industrial press. Together, they will show how customers can achieve seamless, end-to-end workflow to improve productivity.

The announcement follows last week's news that Esko was to launch a "re-engineered and redesigned" Kongsberg digital finishing platform, the C-series, and showcase the 3,210x3,200mm C64 at SGIA Expo later this month.

Esko business development manager Stuart Fox said it was too early to know if and when HP may want to take a machine: "Even though we are a partner with HP, they don't tell us everything. We may get a phone call tomorrow saying 'can we have one?' but I'm not aware of any plans," he said.

Of the new Kongsberg XP Auto digital cutting table he said: "It sits very well beside the FB10000, the latest and greatest machine from HP. They are pushing themselves more into the corrugated packaging and POP sector."

The Kongsberg XP Auto fully automated die-less finishing machine is for packaging and point-of-purchase displays. The HP Scitex FB10000 large-format flatbed inkjet printer can run at up to 625m²/hr, or 1,000 B1 sheets in less than two hours. It combines high productivity with quality.

Agustin Comadran, EMEA sign and display category manager at HP Graphics Solutions Business, said: "The successful relationship between Esko and HP enables us to develop solutions that effectively address today’s market challenges."