CARTES surpasses 30 installed finishing machines in Japan alongside SCREEN GP JAPAN

Penetrating the Japanese industrial printing market is notoriously difficult for Western manufacturers, demanding uncompromising precision, absolute reliability, and flawless local support. Italian equipment manufacturer CARTES has successfully navigated these barriers, confirming an installed base of more than 30 converting and embellishment machines across Japan. This operational milestone was the focal point of the company's presence at Label Forum Japan 2026, held from October 14 to 16 at Tokyo Big Sight.

The achievement is intrinsically linked to the strategic partnership with SCREEN GP JAPAN, which acts as the local agent for the Moglia-based manufacturer. In a market where converters require immediate technical response and deep integration expertise, combining Italian engineering with SCREEN's established domestic network has proven to be a highly effective commercial formula.

Modular architecture for complex label demands

Japanese brand owners are known for their stringent requirements regarding label aesthetics, often demanding intricate combinations of tactile effects, metallic finishes, and complex die-cutting. To meet these needs, CARTES has deployed its modular equipment architecture, allowing converters to integrate multiple finishing processes into a single production platform.

During the Tokyo event, the companies highlighted the specific technologies driving these 30 installations:

• Jet D-Screen: A proprietary digital embellishment system capable of producing raised varnish effects, multilayer applications, and metallic doming without the need for conventional tooling.
• Laser die-cutting: Contactless processing technology that provides an alternative to mechanical die-cutting, essential for intricate shapes and specialized finishing where traditional dies fall short.
• Conventional integration: Modules for hot stamping, screen printing, flexographic printing, and embossing, seamlessly connected to the digital units.

Bridging European engineering and Asian precision

The transition toward hybrid and highly embellished labels requires converters to adopt platforms that do not sacrifice speed for complexity. The Jet D-Screen technology, in particular, allows Japanese label producers to execute high-value decorative finishes on shorter runs, a growing necessity in the premium consumer goods sector.

Reaching a critical mass of 30 active production lines provides CARTES with a robust foundation for future expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. The ongoing collaboration with SCREEN GP JAPAN ensures that the technological capabilities developed in Italy are matched with the rigorous operational standards expected by Japanese converters, securing a long-term competitive edge in the high-end label finishing segment.