Liberdúplex is advancing its hybrid production strategy with the installation of the HP PageWide T490 Mono, which will significantly expand the role of digital printing in its Barcelona-based operations. Scheduled to go live in May 2026 at the company’s Sant Llorenç d’Hortons facility, the press will allow Liberdúplex to produce nearly 30 percent of its total annual volume digitally, exceeding seven million copies per year.

Supplied by HP, the PageWide T490 Mono features a 106-centimeter web width, making it the only HP digital press of this size currently installed in Spain. This capability allows Liberdúplex to use the same paper rolls for both offset and digital production, eliminating the need for separate inventories and simplifying logistics. Paired with a variable-speed folder, the system enables rapid format changes within a single production line, improving responsiveness and delivery times in a market increasingly driven by shorter runs and tighter schedules.

The investment opens new application opportunities for Liberdúplex, particularly in segments where digital quality has traditionally been a barrier. The company sees strong potential in comics and manga, where the PageWide T490’s ability to match offset quality enables economically viable digital production for demanding titles. The press also supports special and larger formats, such as 17 × 24 cm, broadening the company’s editorial offering and creating new possibilities for publishers seeking differentiation.

Sustainability is a central driver behind the transition. Liberdúplex estimates that shifting a significant share of production to digital will reduce its carbon footprint by approximately 30 percent, largely through the elimination of chemical processes and reduced waste. On-demand production further supports the company's efficiency goals and aligns with the sustainability roadmap it has pursued for more than a decade.

“For us, the arrival of HP digital technology is not just a technical improvement, but a real boost to our creative process,” said Víctor Trillo, CEO of Liberdúplex. “It allows us to respond quickly to our customers and open the door to projects that were previously impossible. Together with HP, we are building the future we want for Liberdúplex.”

Looking ahead, Liberdúplex expects hybrid plants combining offset and digital technologies to remain the industry standard for years to come, with industrial inkjet playing an increasingly central role. The company continues to evaluate additional digital investments and HP automation solutions to improve workflow visibility, optimize processes, and enhance operational flexibility, reinforcing its position in a rapidly evolving European publishing market.