XSYS Prepress NV and Hybrid Software have announced a strategic collaboration to integrate Hybrid Software’s Tectonics plate layout and workflow optimisation software with XSYS’s Thermoflex imager devices.
Under the agreement, XSYS will introduce a digital flexo production workflow solution aimed at improving interoperability and streamlining plate layout operations, also referred to as “merging”. The initiative is also intended to provide customers with a migration path from the Multiplate software currently used in XSYS’s Thermoflex production workflow.
As part of the collaboration, XSYS will market and distribute Tectonics as an OEM product under its FlexoFlow brand alongside Thermoflex devices. The combined offering is expected to provide additional capabilities, including automated plate layout, patching for corrugated plates, and support for various cutting table outputs, explained XSYS.
“We are pleased to formalise our collaboration with Hybrid Software,” said Steven Vandevoorde, general manager Prepress at XSYS. “This agreement marks an important milestone in our efforts to deliver a more integrated and future-ready workflow for flexographic customers. By combining our technologies, we can offer a more advanced flexo plate merging solution that supports an open workflow approach and strengthens our digital flexo portfolio. FlexoFlow will be compatible with any workflow software generating standard 1-bit TIFF files.”
Hybrid Software said the agreement reflects a shared focus on innovation and customer value across the flexographic plate production workflow.
“Tectonics was developed to help customers improve efficiency, consistency, and usability across plate merging workflows,” said Bert Van der Perre, vice president/general manager of labels and packaging at Hybrid Software. “Working with XSYS enables us to combine complementary technologies and bring a more connected, future-proof solution to the market for flexo customers looking to modernise their operations.”
The companies also plan to introduce a jointly defined “Certified Solution” label to verify interoperability and provide customers with additional assurance regarding the combined offering. The agreement includes provisions for a phased migration of existing Multiplate installations within XSYS’s customer base, subject to technical feasibility and commercial arrangements.
