NEWS

(18.03.2026 / sbr)

Amfortis v4 and PackIQ: ECO3's newest packaging prepress innovations

ECO3 announces the release of Amfortis v4, the latest update to its prepress workflow software for packaging printers and converters. The new version will be presented at the ExpoPrint & ConverFlexo trade show in Brazil. Amfortis is ECO3’s dedicated workflow solution for packaging, managing all prepress tasks such as preflighting, artwork editing, step-and-repeat, proofing and rendering. Version 4 builds on this foundation with significant advancements in automation and integration, solving the evolving needs of packaging printers and converters like shorter runs, tighter deadlines and more complex customer expectations.

PackIQ is a new automation module in Amfortis v4. It analyzes incoming files and, based on metadata, naming conventions and job tickets, automatically combines them into a single job. This eliminates manual intervention, limits the risk of operator error and accelerates job preparation. It is particularly effective for the rapidly increasing number of smaller customized production runs, where efficiency in file handling and job setup has become essential.

“With PackIQ, we focus on removing repetitive manual steps from packaging prepress,” says Arnaud Becuwe, Global Head of Software at ECO3. “As job volumes increase and deadlines become tighter, automation is key to keeping production efficient and reliable.”

Production marks are vital for accurate printing, finishing, quality control and distribution. Amfortis v4 introduces conditional marks that adapt to each job, a new pharma clock mark and support for custom production barcodes. These additions help facilitate print production and avoid costly mistakes.

Amfortis v4 further strengthens its open architecture, offering significantly more flexible integration with third-party solutions. Users can work more easily with externally created CF2 files, enabling seamless handling of layout, die cutting and folding data. Complimentary ECO3 solutions such as SPIR@L screening and SolidTune ink-saving can be more easily used with third-party devices.

Initial feedback on Amfortis v4 confirms its impact. Roger Staub, Prepress Manager at Swiss full-service provider JCM, who is one of the early adopters of the new release, reports: “We use Amfortis and PackIQ for both offset and digital printing, and it helps us produce more efficiently, sustainably and at lower cost.”

Visitors can experience the new workflow software live at ExpoPrint & ConverFlexo 2026, where ECO3 will showcase its full portfolio of offset and flexo packaging solutions. This show takes place from 24 to 28 March in São Paulo, Brazil. The ECO3 team will be present in hall Azul, booth C-9-140.