Koenig & Bauer (US/CA) CEO and CFO Gerrit Zwergel is entering 2026 with an optimistic outlook for the North American printing market, emphasizing the role of automation, data-driven workflow, and AI-enabled production ecosystems in shaping the industry’s next phase of growth. With more than 40 years at Koenig & Bauer, Zwergel brings a long-term perspective focused on helping printers adapt to shifting market demands across packaging, commercial print, labels, and emerging applications.

Under Zwergel’s leadership, Koenig & Bauer continues expanding its portfolio across offset, digital, and postpress technologies while strengthening its digital ecosystem through platforms such as myKyana and authentication technologies from Koenig & Bauer Vision & Protection. The company is also increasing its focus on service infrastructure and training, including expanding its apprenticeship programs to attract and develop the next generation of talent in the print industry.

Zwergel said the company’s strategy centers on enabling customers to differentiate themselves through automation, sustainability, and integrated production systems. He noted that innovations across the Rapida sheetfed platform, CI flexo systems, corrugated solutions, and digital technologies, such as the RotaJET and VariJET presses, will enable printers to expand their applications and improve profitability. As the industry continues its shift toward connected production environments, Koenig & Bauer is positioning itself as a long-term technology and service partner supporting customers’ operational transformation.