SHERIDAN, WYOMING - November 10, 2025 - U.S.-based packaging manufacturer Southern Champion Tray (SCT) has achieved a significant production milestone with the commissioning of HEIDELBERG's Boardmaster inline flexographic printing press. The investment marks a key step in SCT's modernization program, enabling faster delivery times, higher efficiency, and a new benchmark in sustainable folding carton production for the North American food packaging sector.
Next-Generation Flexo Technology Redefines Performance
SCT, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has integrated the Boardmaster system as part of a $60 million expansion into a fully automated production site. Founded in 1927, the family-owned company employs around 900 people and specializes in recyclable packaging for retail, bakery, and food service industries.
Replacing a 25-year-old press, the new Boardmaster provides a quantum leap in productivity-operating at speeds up to 600 meters per minute with a web width of 1,425 mm. Equipped with automated plate setup, non-stop job changes, and AI-powered Intellimatch scanner technology, the system reduces waste, minimizes setup times, and supports continuous production.
"In the past, flexographic printing was not efficient enough for smaller runs, but HEIDELBERG's Boardmaster has changed that and exceeded our expectations-not only in terms of efficiency, but also in terms of print quality and ease of use. It is a key component of our strategy to redefine customer service," said Brian Hunt, CEO, Southern Champion Tray.
AI Automation and Coating Capabilities Expand Production Versatility
The new press also integrates advanced drying and coating technologies that allow SCT to explore plastic-free barrier coatings, aligning with the company's sustainability goals and growing customer demand for eco-friendly packaging.
HEIDELBERG's engineering enables simultaneous print and coating operations across multiple substrates, making the system suitable for both long and short runs. This flexibility is crucial for packaging converters serving brands that require frequent design changes or customized short batches without compromising quality.
System Integration Supports Sustainable Packaging Growth
The Boardmaster technology underpins HEIDELBERG's position as a system integrator in the fast-growing folding carton and flexible paper packaging markets. The company is leveraging its expertise to connect printing, finishing, and workflow automation into comprehensive production ecosystems.
As part of its broader strategy, HEIDELBERG is collaborating with Solenis, a global chemicals company, to enable industrial-scale application of water-based barrier coatings. These coatings replace traditional plastics in flexible packaging for products such as chocolate and pasta-segments expected to grow 4.5% annually through 2030.
Quote from HEIDELBERG Leadership
"The high international demand from customers for the Boardmaster underscores that we are operating in attractive growth markets with our solutions," said Dr. David Schmedding, Chief Technology & Sales Officer, HEIDELBERG. "The global trend toward more sustainable packaging solutions made of paper or cardboard will continue to rise worldwide. We deliver state-of-the-art technology and reliable service to optimize our customers' production and reduce their costs."
Strategic Impact for Packaging Manufacturers
For SCT, the installation translates into tangible business advantages:
- Higher output with reduced waste and downtime.
- Shorter lead times, increasing responsiveness to customer orders.
- Improved sustainability, replacing plastic coatings with renewable alternatives.
- Consistent quality at industrial scale through AI-based print control.
These benefits illustrate how modern flexographic systems can rival digital production in agility while retaining the economics of high-volume manufacturing.
HEIDELBERG's Broader Industry Vision
The project highlights HEIDELBERG's strategic focus on packaging, automation, and lifecycle services, which are central to its long-term growth. With operations in over 170 countries and a workforce of approximately 9,500 employees, the company continues to expand its role as a total solution provider for the global print and packaging value chain.
By combining hardware innovation with integrated software and service, HEIDELBERG is helping converters like SCT stay competitive in a market increasingly defined by speed, flexibility, and sustainability.
To learn more about HEIDELBERG's flexographic printing innovations and sustainable packaging technologies, visit heidelberg.com.