Johan Mikaelsson · VP Inline · Plockmatic Group · PRINTING United 2025

At Printing United Expo in Orlando, Wayne Beckett from INKISH speaks with Johan Mickelson, Vice President of Inline Business at Plockmatic. Johan describes the event’s opening day as strong, with high attendance and valuable leads. A major announcement for Plockmatic at the show is the full acquisition of Renz, including operations in Germany, Argentina, Australia, Turkey, and the UK. This marks the first time Renz equipment is displayed as part of the Plockmatic Group, strengthening its offering in binding, punching, and winding systems. Johan explains that the integration complements Plockmatic’s coating and finishing solutions, expanding value for customers in both digital and offset environments.

Discussing the North American market, Johan notes that it remains stable though slightly flatter this year due to tariffs, financing challenges, and geopolitical uncertainty. The U.S. accounts for more than half of Plockmatic’s global business, supported through both dealers and direct partnerships. He confirms that the 15% tariff on European-made equipment has forced pricing adjustments but says efficiency improvements and production cost savings are helping to offset part of the impact.

Johan also highlights several new product launches showcased at the expo, including the DigiFold Ultra cutter/creaser, a new AutoCreaser line for small- and medium-format applications, and expanded ColorFlare embellishment solutions. Plockmatic is also presenting flatbed and sheet-cutting systems for packaging and labeling, broadening the applications possible from digital presses. With an extensive and growing product range, Johan emphasizes that Plockmatic is evolving into a complete one-stop finishing provider, aligning its acquisitions and innovations to meet changing customer demands in an increasingly automated print environment.