The German printing company Thüringer Papierwarenfabrik C. Schröter GmbH & Co. KG has achieved the world’s first certification under the newly developed ProcessStandard Flexo (PSF). Created by Fogra in collaboration with industry partners, the PSF standard defines precise process requirements and quality benchmarks for flexographic printing and proofing. Its goal is to streamline production workflows and ensure consistent, predictable colour reproduction between printers and clients.

“We decided to pursue certification because we want to improve our workflows, enhance internal and external quality standards, and increase customer satisfaction,” said Torsten Dreke, Managing Director of Thüringer Papierwarenfabrik in Mühlhausen. Head of Prepress Stefan Rößler added, “PSF provides us with measurable quality targets and a structured testing process. It helps us save costs, reduce our carbon footprint, and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.”

PSF serves as a practical framework that standardises communication across the flexographic value chain. Using a fingerprint as a reference, it defines colour reproduction parameters and tone value ranges, supported by an evaluation system that verifies achievable colour space accuracy. “Our goal is to make flexographic print quality measurable and to simplify communication between clients, repro houses, and printers,” explained Jürgen Gemeinhardt, Head of Printing Technology at Fogra.

Certification under PSF offers flexographic printers a way to demonstrate consistent production quality to their clients, while giving customers confidence that certified providers meet defined standards for print accuracy and reliability. Fogra reports that additional companies have already expressed interest in PSF certification, with further audits planned.

In related developments, Fogra has also introduced certification for water-based flexo cleaners. Approved cleaning agents can be used in Baldwin washing systems without impacting warranty conditions, and the first manufacturers are already preparing their products for testing. The introduction of PSF and associated certifications marks a significant step toward greater standardisation, sustainability, and transparency in the flexographic printing industry.