PACKAGING THAT POPS Flexible substrates and stunning quality wins new business
In today’s competitive market, great presentation builds great brands. And the first tangible asset any brand has is packaging. As once-unique features become commonplace, the need for short-run flexible packaging is on the rise. Produced by digital packaging converters, flexible packaging is easier to ship and distribute, and it can protect and extend product shelf life.
Digital opens doors The digital label and packaging market is expected to grow from $1.95 billion in 2009 to $4.05 billion in 2014, according to InfoTrends’ March 2010 report, “Digital Color Printing in Packaging: The Ecosystem.” And flexible packaging can position digital converters to stake their claim. “We see the ability to offer high-quality flexible packaging as a major advancement for the CPC market,” says Kathy Popovich, director of marketing for Innovative Labeling Solutions (ILS). ILS uses an HP Indigo digital press in combination with the AB Graphic Digilam to provide turnkey flexible packaging solutions for virtually every segment. Brand owners rely heavily on consumer trial to build awareness around new formulations and SKUs, so being able to deploy a robust program is a must. With HP Indigo digital technology, digital converters can deliver high-quality packaging that can meet these needs better than conventional printing methods.
Investing in HP Indigo Packaging converters can add flexible packaging to their offerings, and win new business, using one of HP’s end-to-end digital printing solutions, including the HP Indigo WS6000 Digital Press. Already in use at facilities around the world, HP Indigo digital presses can print on a wide variety of flexible packaging films and other substrates.
Delivering packaging that pops on store shelves, HP Indigo digital presses replicate PANTONE® Colors and special brandspecific hues. Eric Knop, director of business development for ILS, explains, “HP Indigo technology provides us with the print quality of gravure, without the minimum order quantities, lead time or setup waste and costs.” And the HP Indigo WS6000 prints at speeds up to 98 feet per minute in 4-color mode, getting packaged products to market faster than traditional processes. HP SmartStream workflow solutions offer a special Labels and Packaging module for increased productivity from start to finish.
Winning business By offering more—stand-up pouches, three-side seal bags and mock-ups—packaging converters can really grow business. Knop says that so far, ILS’ new flexible packaging services have been incredibly well-received, both by current and potential customers. “Impact at shelf is paramount for today’s brands, whether they are private label or a worldwide brand,” adds Popovich. “The versatility that HP Indigo digital presses offer in terms of graphic flexibility, print quality and speed-to-market is critical to success in this new consumer landscape. We’re excited to be one of the first to deliver it.”
Learn more at www.hp.com/go/packaging
© Copyright 2011 Hewlett·Packard Development Company, LP. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
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T H E I N D I S P E N S A B L E T O O L F O R C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
Table of Contents ®
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18 COVER FEATURE Quantifying Your Sustainable Practices One company’s sustainable changes are pushing it into a more efficient business position.
25 FEATURES 10 FPA UPDATE
36 SPECIAL REPORT ON FLEXO
Association Activities Update Corporate Sustainability Metrics...2011 Board of Directors Announced...Students Design Innovative Flexible Packages...and more.
Flexible Materials Manufacturer Named First American HD Flexo Certified Printer The process and use of HD digital flexographic technology provides high-resolution laser optics and advanced screening technologies to deliver extended color gamut, higher contrast, increased tonal range and smoother vignettes.
25 PRINTING: WORKFLOW &
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ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT Efficiently Connecting Software, Workflow and Production With an MIS software solution in place, system maintenance overhead costs can be kept to a minimum, while return is maximized.
DEPARTMENTS
27 TECHNOLOGY:
8 EDITOR’S FORUM
PLASTICS ADDITIVES Nucleation of PE Cuts Cycle Times and Boosts Performance By utilizing nucleated PE, film converters can reduce cycle times and take advantage of downgauging opportunities to lower system costs.
16 CONVERTER NEWS Retort Flexible Packaging Program Expanded… and The End Result. 31 SUPPLIER NEWS Distribution Agreement Signed...and Flexographic Press Purchased.
29 INDUSTRY Q&A:
36
COLOR MANAGEMENT Ensuring Optimal Color Management As a founding employee of Color Logic, Mark Geeves, director of sales and marketing, understands the color management market’s demands.
33 INDUSTRY INSIGHT 34 HOT PRODUCTS 38 CLASSIFIEDS
30 ROUNDTABLE ON SURFACE TREATMENT (SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION)
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42 CALENDAR OF EVENTS & AD INDEX
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T H E I N D I S P E N S A B L E T O O L F O R C O N V E R T E R S & P R I N T E R S O F FLE X I B LE PA C K A GI N G
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WWW.FLEXPACKMAG.COM FAST ACCESS TO WEB-ONLY FEATURES SUCH AS:
JOB SEARCH epackagingjobs.com, the premier online job search site for packaging professionals. “Unwrap your potential!”
TIMELINE OF INNOVATIONS in Flexible Packaging from the past 10 years.
NEW! FLEXPACKREPORT NEWSLETTER delivers the latest research and business data needed by flexible packaging converters. Includes links to sources of current resin prices. Sign up for your FREE subscription today.
BREAKING NEWS about film manufacturers and converters—get your competitive intelligence here!
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APRIL 2011
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Editor’s Forum
THE INDISPENSABL E TOOL F OR CONVERTERS & PRINTERS OF F LEXIBLE PACKAGING
®
GO GREEN AND STILL PROSPER he more you think about the direction of business these days, the more you realize the arrow points to sustainability. Even though the economy had slowed, sustainability has grown in business. Consumers want sustainable solutions, whether in products, services or even packaging. Not to mention, the benefits sustainable changes offer to the environment. That is why it is so important to immerse your business in making a green impact. Many companies are hesitant to alter workflow and production practices to more earth-friendly ones, but I say if you can make a few tweaks here or there, and it doesn’t impact the business, that makes good business sense. Flexible Packaging’s cover story highlights a few companies’ green initiatives that have brought impressive returns on investment. One company’s sustainability policy is, “Adopting strategies and activities that allow a company and its stakeholders to realize their profit goals in ways that protect, sustain and restore the Earth’s life support system.” Find out how your company might be able to make similar green changes on page 18.
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Return on investment is still the name of the game. The April issue’s focus is keen, lean or green. Choosing to do business more keenly, more leanly, or more greenly will ensure success, no matter the choice. Printers will appreciate the information presented on page 25. This article highlights software that can improve workflow and enterprise management, as well as production. There’s also a great explanation of Plastics Additives on page 27. Page 29 offers information on Color Management and why it’s so integral to the printing process. Even our Special Advertisers Section includes the Roundtable on Surface Treatment and how to troubleshoot accordingly. As always, our Converter News and Supplier News sections will keep you in the know on industry goings-on (pages 16 and 31, respectively). This month’s issue is sure to give you knowledge on how to create a more effective, seamless workflow. Green initiatives seem to be here to stay. So take a seat and read how to update your company’s practices and processes. You might be pleasantly surprised to read how much companies are getting back for their investments. After all, return on investment is still the ultimate name of the game. Go green and still prosper. FP Sincerely, ERIN J. WOLFORD (847) 405-4042
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Packaging Group Publisher Mike Barr,
[email protected] Publisher Randy Green,
[email protected] Senior Marketing Manager Steve Liput,
[email protected] Inside Sales Kristina Lorio,
[email protected] EDITORIAL Editor-In-Chief Erin J. Wolford,
[email protected] Executive Editor Rick Lingle,
[email protected] Marketing Coordinator Elisabeth Cuneo,
[email protected] Art Director Frank J. Mayeran Advertising/Production Manager Courtney Warnimont EDITORIAL BOARD George Thibeault, Constantia Hueck Foils LLC Michael Impastato, Flint Ink. Fredy Steng, Berry Plastics Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association FPA OFFICERS Chairman John Baumann, Ampac Packaging LLC Immediate Past Chairperson James E. Love, III, Printpack Inc. Executive Vice-Chairman (chairman-elect) William Burke, Nordenia USA Treasurer Michael Impastato, Flint Group President (non-voting member) Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association Executive Committee Members At Large Hans Deamer, Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp.; Jim Mize, Sealed Air Corp.; Ken Swanson, Berry Plastics Corp.; Rob Tiede, Sonoco Flexible Packaging AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Corporate Audience Development Director Rita M. Foumia Audience Development Manager Kourtney Bell Multimedia Specialist Katie Jabour Audience Audit Coordinator Carolyn M. Alexander For subscription information or service, please contact Customer Service at: Tel. (847) 763-9534 or Fax (847) 763-9538 or e-mail
[email protected] List Rental Postal contact: Rob Liska at 800-223-2194 x.726
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[email protected] BNP MEDIA CORPORATE OFFICERS Publishing: Timothy A. Fausch Publishing: John R. Schrei Corporate Strategy: Rita M. Foumia Marketing: Ariane Claire Production: Vincent M. Miconi Finance: Lisa L. Paulus Creative: Michael T. Powell Directories: Nikki Smith Human Resources: Marlene J. Witthoft Conferences & Events: Emily Patten Clear Seas Research: Beth A. Surowiec FOR VOLUME REPRINTS: Reprints Sales Representative Jill DeVries Phone: (248) 244-1726 • Fax: (248) 244-3934 E-mail:
[email protected] CONTACT FLEXIBLE PACKAGING Phone: (847) 405-4000 • Fax: (847) 405-4100 Mail: 155 Pfingsten Road, Suite 205, Deerfield, IL 60015 Internet: www.flexpackmag.com Circulation: (248) 244-6421
BNP MEDIA HELPS PEOPLE SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITH SUPERIOR INFORMATION. VOLUME 13, NUMBER 3
APRIL 2011
THE NEW STANDARD IN FLEXO STACK
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F LE X I B L E PAC K AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY METRICS FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING MANUFACTURERS FPA Releases Corporate Sustainability Metrics & Guidance Document emands on businesses to provide proof of sustainable business practices continue to escalate across the value chain. In response to requests from stakeholders for transparent flexible packaging manufacturing information, the Flexible Packaging Association commissioned Packaging and Technology Integrated Solutions to conduct research and identify corporate sustainability metrics, including definitions and reporting methods for what should be measured, and how it should be measured. The results of that study are available in the FPA Corporate Sustainability Metrics for Flexible Packaging Manufacturers Report. The Report provides guidance on responding to stakeholders’ requests and is intended to provide a
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consistent reporting method for the most frequently requested information on greenhouse gas emissions, energy and water use, and waste management. The Report also includes a list of sustainability goals and expectations from key brand owners, retailers, and investment firms; and, publicly available supplier questionnaires from Walmart, P&G, SAM (DJSI World), Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP Water Disclosure, and Bloomberg. For more information on The Corporate Sustainability Metrics for Flexible Packaging Manufacturers Report, contact the association at (410) 694-0800. The Report is a benefit of FPA membership. FP
FLEXIBLE PACKAGING ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES 2011 BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Flexible Packaging Association is pleased to announce its 2011 Board of Directors. Directors are elected by FPA voting members through mail ballot. Directors are elected for a term of one year and assume their directorship at the FPA Annual Meeting. For more information, contact FPA at (410) 694-0800. FP
OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DIRECTORS:
Chairman of the Board: William Burke, Nordenia USA Immediate Past Chairman: John Baumann, Ampac Packaging LLC Executive Vice Chairman (chairman-elect): Jim Mize, Sealed Air Corporation Treasurer: Michael Impastato, Flint Group President (non-voting member): Marla Donahue, Flexible Packaging Association
Fred Crowe, Master Packaging Michael D’Angelo, Bobst Group North America Jeff Dowd, Belmark, Incorporated Paul Griffith, ExxonMobil Chemical Company Terry Harper, Printpack Incorporated Ernest Holley, Oracle Packaging John Hotz, NOVA Chemicals, Incorporated Jack Knott, Exopack, LLC Jeffery Lammers, Bemis Company, Incorporated Larry L. Lanham, Polymer Packaging Incorporated
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS AT LARGE:
Tom Cochran, Amcor Flexibles Pedro Fernandez, DuPont Company Ken Swanson, Berry Plastics Corporation Rob Tiede, Sonoco Flexible Packaging Battle Wall, St. Johns Packaging Ltd.
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Joseph Marinacci, Graphic Packaging International, Incorporated Jon McClure, ISO Poly Films, Incorporated Charles Murray, Sun Chemical Company Paul Nietvelt, The Dow Chemical Company Michael Nowak, cei Irv Robinson, Robbie Madeleine Robinson, LPS Industries, LLC James Ross, Siegwerk USA Co. Jeffery Taylor, Westlake Chemical Corporation
APRIL 2011
STUDENTS DESIGN INNOVATIVE FLEXIBLE PACKAGES Creative Concepts for Windshield Wiper Fluid, Cupcake Mix Receive Top Honors in 2011 Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge Forty-six creative flexible packaging concepts were submitted into the Flexible Packaging Association’s 7th annual Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge. Entries included a wide range of flexible packaging ideas for food, beverages, cleaning, health, and beauty items. Of those, two concepts were selected to receive top honors in the 2011 Student Design Challenge. First place honors were presented to Mohawk College students Michelle O'Connell and Tasha Aird for their development of the Windshield Washer Fluid Package. “This package includes a unique innovation that also acts as a funnel for filling automobile fluids. Attached to the end of the hose is a semi-rigid threaded cap closure,” explained O’Connell. Their proposed design would replace the one gallon semi-rigid container, which is currently used in the market. The new package would offer many benefits
including a reinforced handle for easy carrying and a unique pull-off hose incorporated into the side of the stand-up pouch, which eliminates the use of a separate tool for filling the fluid reservoir. Michelle and Tasha also received second place honors for their Topper’s Cupcake Package. “This package represents a creative flexible design for individually portioned and premixed cupcake batter. It is a polymer-based pouch with a convenient pouring feature. All ingredients are in dry form – the customer only needs to add water, pour, and bake!” said Aird. The new design would contain enough mix to create a dozen cupcakes and would be available in several different flavors including vanilla, double chocolate and cha cha cherry. The unique shape of the pouch combined with vibrant graphics SDC continues on page 12 >>
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F LE X I B L E PAC K AG I N G A S S OCIATI ON | UPDATE
