Arden Software is returning to the Hybrid Fusion Packaging Summit, where we will showcase the latest evolution of our flagship packaging design software, Impact, alongside powerful new workflow integrations with PACKZ.
Taking place in Sarasota, Florida from April 19-22, Hybrid Fusion brings together industry leaders to explore the latest advancements in print, packaging and workflow technology, offering attendees valuable insights into industry trends, hands-on demonstrations and opportunities to experience new innovations.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural event in Amsterdam, Arden Software is proud to once again be a partner sponsor of the summit, organised by our partner Hybrid Software for its customers, resellers and partners.
The Arden Software Team will be showcasing Impact 2026, featuring the first AI-powered capabilities. These new features are designed to transform packaging and tooling design workflows, delivering intelligent tools that enhance productivity, reduce manual processes and unlock new efficiencies for designers and die-makers.
Seamless integration for smarter workflows
In addition, we’ll be highlighting the seamless integration between Impact and Hybrid Software’s pre-press solution – PACKZ. This powerful connection brings structural design and pre-press editing together into one efficient, streamlined workflow, enabling secure, web-based access to Impact CAD data directly within PACKZ via Arden’s nService technology.
How it works
- Browse and search your Impact CAD designs directly within PACKZ
- Open structural designs and layouts instantly in PACKZ
- Automate step-and-repeat and imposition tools for artwork and production
- Work within a single, connected design and pre-press environment
- Secure, web-based connectivity with reliable, centralised access to your Impact data
- Fast, intuitive search within PACKZ to find the exact design you need from the central database
Key Benefits
- No manual file exchange – Removes the need to export, email or duplicate files
- Instant access to Impact design assets – Quickly locate and use the latest CAD drawings
- Cross-platform flexibility – Access designs across Windows and MacOS environments
The latest PACKZ V11 release further enhances the integration between Impact and PACKZ, with extended CF2 capabilities for folding carton and corrugated packaging. This update includes detailed fold angles and creasing sequences, enabling accurate 3D visualisation and automated folding.
With V11, Impact CAD designs flow even more seamlessly into PACKZ, while the extended CF2 format is fully interpreted by iC3D and compatible with structural design management systems and digital cutting/folding machines.
By adopting these standards, Arden and Hybrid are strengthening interoperability across the packaging production workflow, making it faster, smarter and more precise, and ensuring designers, pre-press teams and production operators can work in a fully connected environment.
Matt Hewitt, Technical Director at Arden Software, said: “We’re pleased to be returning to Hybrid Fusion to once again support such an important event for the packaging industry. This year, we’re excited to showcase the AI-powered future of Impact, alongside our growing collaboration with Hybrid Software.
“The integration with PACKZ, combined with advancements such as extended CF2 support, is helping to create a truly connected workflow – from structural design through to pre-press and 3D visualisation – enabling our customers to work faster, smarter and with greater accuracy.”
Attendees can look forward to three days of innovation, collaboration and knowledge-sharing, with a strong focus on driving operational efficiency, embracing digital transformation and shaping the future of packaging design.
