Founder Marco Baio said that the aim of the Belgian firm was to "supply an inkjet press that needs little or no maintenance".

With a maximum speed of 720sqm per hour it is one of the fastest digital machines available, and is designed to be competitive against screen and litho. Biao claimed ink costs would be below €0.40 (35p) per square metre.

It uses the latest Xaar 1001 print heads with greyscale printing to deliver high quality and high speed.

The Vega is a modular machine, and is designed to allow the imaging system to be upgraded without investing in a whole new press.

"The machine is ready mechanically to accept new printhead technology," said Baio.

Four models are available in the range the 4000, 8000, 16000 and 32000, ranging in productivity from 100sqm per hour to 720sqm per hour. Prices range from €250,000 for the Vega 4000 to €650,000 for the Vega 32000.

The Vega 16000 and 32000 can be fitted with optional automated feeder and stacker. There is also a roll-to-roll option under development, which includes corona treatment and nitrogen to work on multiple substrates including nylon, polyethylene and PVC.

The firm, which started as an ink supplier in 2007, acquired an 85% stake in Italian converting equipment firm Teba to develop and manufacture the machines.

So far the firm has two installations at a German and an Italian firm, and expects to have installed five by the end of July and 17 by the end of the year.

Dealers have been appointed for some countries, but the firm is continuing to look for representation in others around the world.