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.

Going digital on a flexo press may sound like a contradiction to many people. Weinand van Kesteren, however, has been perfecting his “smart digital flexo” concept for over a year.

When you speak with Charlie Guida these days, you can just sense the excitement and enthusiasm in his voice. And this is for good reason, as the VP of sales for Diamond Flexible Packaging has a lot to be excited about.

We sat down and discussed printing equipment with Brian Cook- MacDermid Graphics Solutions; Todd Blumsack- Bobst North America Inc.; Roy Oomen- HP Indigo; Klaus Kleemann- W&H North America, Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp.; Raúl El-Fakdi- Comexi, and Mario Mucciacciaro- Uteco.