RRD invests in robotic technology for GA facility

RRD has invested in HP’s first-to-market robotic technologies and advanced digital print presses to transform its Austell, GA facility into a state-of-the-art print hub. The investment doubles the site's workforce and sets a benchmark for rapid, high-volume digital production and automation.

The investment enables RRD to deliver high-speed, high-quality, variable print-on-demand services to meet evolving client demand and anticipated industry shifts. The Austell site features HP’s new Indigo 120K Digital Press and PageWide Advantage 2200 with HP Brilliant Ink.

RRD’s Austell location will also be among America's first commercial print manufacturing facilities to implement industry-first robot technology.

Through an ongoing partnership with HP, RRD will deploy two autonomous mobile robots designed specifically to bolster efficiency. The robots feature intelligent software that communicates with HP Indigo presses. This communication allows for interfacing with presses, manages pallet locations in the warehouse and near presses and finishers. The robots can load and unload media directly into and out of presses, streamline workflows, eliminate safety risks, and keep the presses continuously operational to bring client projects to life faster.

‘RRD is driven by a passion for innovation,’ said Craig Roberton, president of commercial print at RRD. ‘Our latest investment exemplifies a commitment to lead the industry and stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends that benefit our clients. We’re not just working to enhance RRD’s capabilities — we’re empowering our clients to achieve measurable results and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.’

‘Our longstanding and deep partnership with RRD demonstrates our mutual commitment to delivering innovative solutions that create new business opportunities in an industry where speed and personalization are increasingly important,’ said Oran Sokol, vice president and global head of strategic accounts at HP.

Beyond increased production space, RRD’s Austell facility will add new client-focused building enhancements including viewing and observation rooms where the production process can be observed. Upgrades are expected to be complete in the first half of 2025, with additional digital transformations planned across RRD locations over the next several years.