A smarter approach to coding & marking for smoother packaging lines

Packaging manufacturers are facing rising demands: dependable day-to-day performance, consistently high code quality, and new requirements driven by the shift to 2D codes. At interpack 2026 (May 7-13, 2026, Düsseldorf, Hallo 8B, Booth D26), LEIBINGER will present a smarter approach to coding and marking, rooted in rethinking established CIJ conventions and supported by long-term development investment. Visitors will see how this translates into measurable customer value, driving smooth line operation, low maintenance, and future-ready code structures.

Whether in food & beverage, cosmetics, or pharma, packaging lines depend on stable performance. Coding and marking must keep pace — consistently, compliantly, and with minimal intervention, especially as requirements tighten. LEIBINGER CIJ technology enables reliable in-line printing across a wide range of substrates, delivering consistently strong results in day-to-day production, supported by easy-to-use plug-and-print solutions.

2D codes: future-ready marking – practical implementation

One topic shaping the packaging industry is the transition from 1D barcodes to GS1 2D codes as part of the 2D migration (GS1 Sunrise 2027). LEIBINGER actively supports this transformation and invites visitors at interpack to exchange perspectives on what this shift means in practice.

A key challenge is printing reliable, scannable 2D codes on a wide range of materials, especially in view of future product passport requirements. Data-rich and compact, 2D codes often include variable data, so they must be printed directly on the production line. As a result, requirements for print precision, contrast, and process stability increase significantly. Even minor factors such as substrate reflection, surface texture, or ink adhesion can influence scan results.

LEIBINGER supports customers with application expertise and a clear focus on practical, efficient implementation with minimal impact on existing lines. Customer consultation, typically before installation, covers the full picture: from designing code content, selecting the right format, to choosing the optimal ink for maximum contrast and ensuring reliable readability under real line conditions. This practical approach helps make implementation highly attractive and supports lower overall production costs.

Technology designed for unmatched efficiency: high uptime, low maintenance and lowest TCO

In the CIJ market, LEIBINGER is known for its clear strength: the automatic nozzle seal, which trade fair visitors can see directly at the booth via demo glass covers on the printheads. This prevents ink from drying out – which leads to immediate start-up without cleaning routines. Yet a key advantage of the LEIBINGER principle lies deeper inside the system – where many printers remain a black box: in the hydraulic system (ink management system).

LEIBINGER printers are designed so that ink remains continuously in motion in a closed-loop circuit. An innovative dual-chamber pressure tank system keeps the fluid flowing continuously, at constant pressure and with consistent viscosity (a stable ink/solvent mixing ratio). Thanks to this unique pressure tank system, the main hydraulic pump operates intermittently: it does not run continuously but only switches on for a very short interval every 10 seconds. This greatly extends the pump’s service life while also saving energy and resources. This LEIBINGER hydraulic system delivers maximum printer availability with minimal maintenance effort – a key reason why the IQJET requires no maintenance for up to five years.

Many conventional CIJ systems on the market still use gear pumps. This leads to high wear and, as a result, higher maintenance requirements – and gear-pump heads are expensive wear parts too. With pigmented inks in particular, additional disadvantages arise: the gears can grind pigment particles and place significant stress on the ink. At the same time, wear in the pump head increases, allowing more abrasion to enter the ink circuit - which, in some cases, can affect the ink’s chemistry and have a direct impact on print results.

LEIBINGER also uses a carefully engineered approach in the ink tank: an automated agitator keeps the ink moving – especially relevant for pigmented inks – to reduce sedimentation and deposits and stabilize the ink. This protects components and supports consistently stable print quality over the long term.

All these technological features lead to these clear customer benefits: resource efficiency and sustainability, long-lasting systems, fewer interventions, less downtime, and processes that remain stable over time. Taken together, this helps deliver one of the lowest total costs of ownership on the market.

Ink as a success factor: 70 solutions and the right one for your product

To ensure reliable coding & marking, whether text, DataMatrix, or other 2D codes, printer technology alone is not enough: contrast and ink performance are decisive. LEIBINGER develops and produces inks and offers around 70 inks for a wide range of requirements.

The portfolio continues to grow: currently including new colors such as purple and brown for PVC and other materials. Because successful marking always depends on the interplay of printer and ink - optimally matched to the substrate, line speed, and production environment (moisture, dust, heat, cold).

This approach is also reflected in the hardware: depending on requirements, LEIBINGER offers solutions with IP56 or IP66 as well as optional features such as an air dryer or integrated printhead ventilation – ensuring reliable marking in real-world production environments.

Digitalization in action

At interpack 2026, coding and marking becomes interactive: visitors can try the new LEIBINGER PrintDesigner and create print jobs conveniently on a mobile device. LEIBINGER will demonstrate how this is integrated into a digital platform that provides a real-time overview of the printer fleet. As an added highlight, the created print job is used immediately to print a personalized giveaway, offering a hands-on look at modern, digital coding and marking workflows.

A trade show visit that pays off in results.

At interpack, LEIBINGER presents a smarter approach to CIJ coding and marking – built around measurable customer value. By challenging established CIJ conventions, LEIBINGER delivers Made in Germany technology that proves itself in day-to-day operation across production lines worldwide. Visit us to explore practical next steps toward 2D codes, higher process efficiency, and future-ready coding and marking.

https://leibinger-group.com/interpack-2026

LEIBINGER at interpack

May 7–13, 2026

Düsseldorf

Hall 8B, Booth D26