The label, flexible packaging, and folding carton industries have gone through tremendous changes in recent years and the requirements for an industry-specific MIS have evolved significantly over time. Shorter print runs, added complexity, the need for more automation and efficiency, and new and deeper integration requirements have all triggered the development of a new cloud-based MIS for converters. At the same time, the rotation and turnover of staff with label and packaging workflow experience and know-how call for a smarter MIS system, one that knows and learns about what the user actually needs to achieve using state-of-the-art technologies such as AI.
Today, CERM is taking the next step in addressing that complexity with O2, a new cloud-based MIS developed specifically for the industry. O2 brings together modern cloud technology, an enhanced user experience, automation, and built-in print industry intelligence while maintaining the principles that have been at the core of CERM for decades: helping converters automate production processes, improve productivity, and manage increasingly complex operations.
The development of O2 is driven by a growing need for accessible cloud-based software that combines modern technology with a deep understanding of label, flexible packaging, and folding carton production. CERM is capitalising on more than 40 years of industry experience and the development of its flagship MIS solution CERM7, which is used by more than 500 companies globally.
The acquisition of OMIKAI in 2025 brought additional cloud development experience and technology into CERM, helping the company accelerate its transition to a new generation of MIS software.
“Our team has traditionally been very strong at covering labels-and-packaging-specific needs and functionality through our well-proven CERM7 suite of products,” said Jan Heyse, CEO, CERM. “We continue that development while now adding a next-generation, cloud-native MIS product to our offering, built by a dedicated team, that relieves customers from IT infrastructure and security concerns, while giving them access to 40 years of labels and packaging industry workflow experience in a modern stack.”
O2 focuses on enhanced user experience, increased automation, built-in print industry intelligence, and an API-first approach fueling integrations. The new cloud-based MIS will benefit from the strong partner ecosystem CERM has developed over the years, leveraging established relationships with leading technology providers including Esko, HYBRID Software, ABG, SCREEN, and many others.
Rather than attempting to replicate the full scope and complexity of CERM7 from day one, CERM is taking a progressive approach to the new platform. O2 will initially target specific use cases for small and medium-sized converters that can benefit from digitalization and automation without requiring the depth and complexity of a traditional enterprise MIS implementation.
While the first version of the product is mostly centered on label converters, functionality focused specifically on flexible packaging and folding carton production will be added in a second phase.
