Hunkeler AG wins IHZ innovation award
Wikon/Lucerne - Hunkeler AG has won this year's Innovation Award from the Central Switzerland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHZ). The Wikon-based company was recognized for its solution that produces digitally printed books and single editions.
Hunkeler AG from Wikon in the canton of Lucerne has won the IHZ Innovation Award 2023, according to a statement from the Central Switzerland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. With the annual award, the chamber recognizes the exceptional performance of one company from the cantons of Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden and Nidwalden. Hunkeler AG was honored for its automated book solution Hunkeler Starbook Plowfolder.
The digital printing system developed by Hunkeler AG facilitates the production of digitally printed books in various editions, including single copies. This is particularly relevant for mail order companies that want to produce books «on demand». The Hunkeler Starbook Plowfolder makes this economically feasible, according to the statement.
«With increased consolidation in the book publishing market, this innovative process comes at just the right time,» commented jury president Hans Wicki in the statement. In addition, the machine's flexible adjustment options keep paper waste to a minimum. «In terms of sustainability, this is a big plus point,» said Wicki. For Hunkeler CEO Daniel Erni, the Innovation Award confirms «that we are doing many things right as a progressive Swiss company and that we are perceived as a technology leader in the digital printing industry».
One of this year’s two IHZ recognition awards went to another company from the canton Lucerne, with Swisens AG from Emmen receiving the accolade. The second recognition award was given to Rigitrac Traktorenbau AG from Küssnacht am Rigi in the canton of Schwyz.
