Mondi Jackson has been rotogravure printing for many years. But not too long ago, when it was serious about expanding more into flexo, it needed someone to come in and take its operations to the next level. The task was left to James Giannini, a packaging printing veteran.

Most machinery manufacturers design, engineer and build equipment according to how they perceive the overall market, and then competition follows suit. It is the old cookie-cutter approach.

Sustainability, printed electronics and 3D Printing are just a few “buzzwords” we hear a lot about, but UV LED technology may be the most “emerged” technology that we come across today.

While the benefits of flexible packaging compared to other formats are well documented, one often overlooked area is the resins that go into the inks. Not only do they make the graphics and packaging more attractive, they also provide functional benefits.

In an effort to meet market demands, flexible package printing is transitioning from conventional flexographic to digital printing. This change is resulting from cost reductions in digital technology as well as a need to keep up with trends shaping the growth in flexible packaging.

One of the fastest growing options for differentiation comes through in-mold labeling, especially for packaging of food products with a shorter lifespan, such as butter, margarine, ice cream, cottage cheese, yogurt and other dairy items.

How can you create better, more vibrant packaging that pops out on the shelf? Good printing can help, and arguably the most important ingredient in a good print job is the ink that is used.

One of the main trends witnessed at this year’s Natural Products Expo West was the different SKU variations of products and flexible packaging options offered within the same brand.

With the return of NPE, held once every three years, in addition to spring mainstays in Converters Expo and FTA Annual Forum/InfoFlex, printers and converters have a lot to keep up with this year. Here’s a closer look at the three upcoming events.