Esko has introduced Flexo Front End, a new software platform designed to simplify flexo platemaking workflows while providing scalable production capabilities for flexo printing operations.
The company said it makes achieving high-quality flexo achievable for any sized business.
Developed as the backbone of Esko’s flexo platemaking ecosystem, the platform combines advanced software solutions that connect PDF workflows and flexo platemaking production. The system integrates imaging control, screening technology and workflow management tools aimed at improving efficiency and print quality across a range of production environments.
According to the company, the platform addresses challenges associated with selecting and managing the various tools traditionally required for flexo production.
“In a fast-changing, complex world it is not always easy to know which tool is the best to handle the specifics of each job,” said Robert Bruce, flexo product manager with Esko. “That’s why we’ve made it a lot easier for our customers to make the right choice with a solution that not only simplifies the process but is also completely scalable to help them meet any challenge, depending on the nature of their business and specific requirements.”
Mr Bruce said Flexo Front End addresses one of the most complex stages of flexo production by bringing screening, calibration and file preparation into a single platform. Traditionally, platemakers have relied on multiple tools and manual processes, often leading to inefficiencies and inconsistent results. By consolidating ripping, screening and calibration into a standardised workflow, the software reduces the need for extensive testing and configuration while providing pre-defined solutions based on proven flexo applications.
He added that the platform not only simplifies operations and improves consistency, but also offers a scalable solution that can grow alongside a business.
Mr Bruce continued: “As the flexo industry faces increasing pressure for faster turnaround times, higher quality, and reduced waste, Flexo Front End provides a future-ready solution that simplifies complexity while enhancing performance,” he said. “By automating repetitive tasks, standardising workflows, and embedding expert knowledge into the software, this latest innovation enables platemakers to focus less on setup and troubleshooting, and more on delivering exceptional print results.”
Flexo Front End is powered by a RIP engine that converts print-ready files into output formats optimised for flexo imaging. Esko said the software is designed to support precise dot placement, efficient processing of complex files and consistent output across different devices and jobs.
The company highlighted several potential benefits of the platform, including workflow consistency, reduced manual intervention, sustainability improvements through waste reduction, and scalability through modular software editions.
Mr Bruce said Flexo Front End helps generate plate-ready files tailored to specific applications and hardware, improving press performance while accelerating prepress workflows. He concluded that the platform is designed to support future developments in flexo printing, with plans for increased automation, connectivity and potential cloud-based workflow integration.
