Brobygrafiska – A Testbed for the Sustainable Print and Packaging Technology of the Future

With state-of-the-art equipment, advanced machinery, cutting-edge expertise in print and design technology, digital solutions, and high confidentiality, Brobygrafiska welcomes actors from around the world who want to test new materials, optimize printing processes, and develop innovative packaging solutions. At this testbed, nothing is impossible!

"They develop new solutions – we supply them with our knowledge"

In the early 1990s, Tetra Pak established parts of its production in Sunne, which increased the demand for expertise in graphic production and packaging technology in the region. Entrepreneur and principal Inga-Lill Lindqvist played a key role in the founding of Brobygrafiska and laid the foundation for the close collaboration between school, academia, and industry that still characterizes the organization.

“The education started on a modest scale but quickly gained a strong reputation in the industry,” says teacher Lollo Zetterqvist, who is one of those responsible for the innovation and development work at the testbed.

“Initially, it was mainly the school’s partner companies that used our advanced machines and modern equipment to test new ideas.”

Over time, this part of Brobygrafiska’s operations has evolved into a test and training environment for external actors across the graphic industry’s value chains.

“The testbed is a neutral space where companies can conduct tests, develop new solutions, and train their staff,” Lollo continues. “We are at the forefront in terms of equipment, technology, and expertise to best support the development of the graphic industry.”

Focus on Sustainability

In every project, the team strives to find the very best solution.

“Customers don’t just buy time in our print halls — they also gain access to our knowledge and experience,” says Frida Andersson, graphic technician and operator at the testbed.

Lollo Zetterqvist and Frida Andersson estimate around 50 test days per year. Some tests are completed after an intensive day in the print hall, while other development projects take longer.

Due to the complete confidentiality surrounding all testbed activities, it’s difficult to share specific examples. Currently, the graphic industry is heavily focused on sustainability. Material development is an ongoing process, with intense efforts to reduce the amount of plastic in packaging — without compromising functionality or quality.

Six Cameras Offer Digital Presence for the Customers Off-Site

In Sunne Municipality, there is a cluster of significant players in printing technology and prepress, as well as packaging design and manufacturing, such as Miller Graphics, Marvaco, the industry association Sweflex, and Tetra Pak.

“We have a very broad target group,” says Frida Andersson. “The Värmland-based actors both support the school and benefit from all the opportunities at the testbed. Many customers come from other parts of Europe and even from around the world. Our equipment is the same as that used in commercial production, allowing them to conduct realistic tests under controlled conditions.”

During the pandemic, Brobygrafiska invested in a digital platform and technical solution that enables remote participation in tests and training.

“We have six cameras installed on-site, and those who can’t physically come to Sunne can instead see and hear everything happening in the print hall via screens at home,” says Lollo Zetterqvist. “They control the video production themselves.”

“By offering digital presence, more employees from a company can be involved in the development process,” adds Frida Andersson. “The solution is popular and makes it easier for international teams to collaborate. After the tests, we can always send physical samples so everyone can feel and see the results in real life.”

The School Contributes to Long-Term Supply of Skills

Brobygrafiska is now a well-established graphic design school with four different higher vocational education programs that supply the industry with expertise in graphic design and printing. The school maintains close collaboration with industry, universities, and research institutes.

“The education our students receive in this environment prepares them for the job market of the future,” says Lollo Zetterqvist. “The school contributes to innovation and the long-term supply of skills to the industry — just as was intended when it was founded in the early 1990s.”

With funding from the EU Erasmus+ program, the school welcomes over 25 students and teachers each spring from a similar vocational school in Milan.

“It’s an exciting collaboration appreciated by both participants and the industry,” says Frida Andersson. “Two of the students from last year’s exchange are currently doing their internships at companies here in Sunne for an entire term.”

Brobygrafiska – Testbed

The testbed at Brobygrafiska in Sunne offers a unique opportunity for actors across the graphic industry’s value chains to test new solutions in a neutral environment with access to industry-leading technology, machinery, and graphic expertise.

Location: Sunne, Värmland
Website: brobygrafiska.se