XSYS Prepress NV and Hybrid Software have announced the signing of a strategic collaboration to integrate Hybrid Software’s Tectonics plate layout and workflow optimization software with XSYS’s Thermoflex (formerly: ThermoFlexX) Imager devices. The partnership will be supported by a joint quality certification label for its users.
Under the agreement, XSYS will offer a digital flexo production workflow solution designed to enhance interoperability, streamline plate layout operations (also called ‘merging’), and provide customers with a modern migration path from the Multiplate software currently used for plate merging in XSYS’s Thermoflex production workflow offering.
The collaboration will establish a framework for XSYS to market and distribute Tectonics as an OEM product under the FlexoFlow brand alongside Thermoflex devices, giving access to new features such as automated plate layout, patching for corrugated plates and various cutting table outputs.
“We are pleased to formalize our collaboration with Hybrid Software,” said Steven Vandevoorde, general manager Prepress at XSYS. “This agreement marks an important milestone in our efforts to deliver a more integrated and future-ready workflow for flexographic customers. By combining our technologies, we can offer a more advanced flexo plate merging solution that supports an open workflow approach and strengthens our digital flexo portfolio. FlexoFlow will be compatible with any workflow software generating standard 1-bit TIFF files.”
From Hybrid Software’s perspective, the agreement reflects a shared commitment to innovate and create customer value across the flexographic plate production workflow.
“Tectonics was developed to help customers improve efficiency, consistency, and usability across plate merging workflows,” said Bert Van der Perre, VP/GM, labels & packaging at Hybrid Software. “Working with XSYS enables us to combine complementary technologies and bring a more connected, future-proof solution to the market for flexo customers looking to modernize their operations.”
As part of the collaboration, the companies will introduce a jointly defined “Certified Solution” label to verify interoperability and provide customers with added confidence in the combined offering. The agreement also supports a phased migration pathway for existing Multiplate installations across XSYS’s customer base, subject to technical feasibility and the agreed commercial framework.
Headquartered in Willstaett, Germany, XSYS is a global supplier of integrated solutions for the flexographic and letterpress printing industries, serving customers worldwide through a network of regional offices and production facilities. The company operates manufacturing sites in Europe and the United States, ensuring close proximity to key packaging markets.
XSYS offers a comprehensive portfolio of prepress solutions, including printing plates, sleeves, adapters, plate processing and imaging equipment, workflow software, and professional services. Its product portfolio includes brands such as nyloflex and nyloprint plates, Thermoflex, LAVA and Catena plate processing systems, rotec mounting solutions, and Woodpecker surface screening software.
Headquartered in Ghent, Belgium, with offices across Europe, the Americas, China, and a global partner network, Hybrid Software is a leading enterprise software company specializing in productivity tools for the graphic arts industry.
Its solutions, including the PACKZ native PDF editor, CLOUDFLOW production workflow, color management solutions, and advanced print quality technology, deliver key advantages such as native PDF workflows, enterprise cloud solutions, scalable architecture, low total cost of ownership, and seamless integration with leading MIS systems and output devices.
