Although it promises "powerful packaging proofing functionality", the features are also expected to be attractive for other wide-format printing applications.

The new model will build on the features of last year's Stylus Pro 7900 and 9900 machines, which provided the colour gamut, quality and stability needed for proofing applications through the use of an onboard spectrophotometer and the latest inks.

Epson is expected to reveal further details about the specification of the new machine in the run up to the event, which takes place from the 23-26 September.

The firm will also show the latest version of its Digital Label Press, which has undergone extensive development since it was shown at Drupa. It declined to reveal further details in advance and has also yet to set a shipping date for the new machine.