ProPack Pro February 2024

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A FOCUS ON:

Labels & Packaging Leaders Forum Local and international executives talk trends and challenges in 2024

Renz Australia enters new market Renz Australia makes first foray into luxury packaging market

Explore the possibilities of the Jet Press FP790 Digital Inkjet Press for flexible packaging Learn about all our products Visit us at Drupa Hall 8b, Stands A02–6 May 28 - June 7, 2024

The bling factor

How brands are embracing embellishment for health and beauty labels ALSO INSIDE...

Ball & Doggett Q&A, beer packaging trends

Great work, reliability and quality really help us look good to our customers, meaning you get more work.

Thanks for everything.

The book is fantastic and is the cumulation of great graphic design and excellent printing!

Thank you for helping.

Thanks to you for all your help which has been more than just doing the basic job.

Ian - 12/12/23

Thanks also for all the hard work on the split delivery this week.

They look great and I know you guys worked so hard to make that happen at your end.

Daniel - 22/11/23

Jeff - 4/12/23

Wow! Thank you for the amazing service!

Got my order and the customer service and updates etc. Were all very much appreciated Love them.

Sophie - 21/11/23

Just wanted to send a huge thank you for all your quoting, recommendations, advice and assistance always – I know I throw you a few curve balls sometimes!

Thanks for the quick turnaround, high quality print and professional service.

Leeanne - 21/11/23

Calendars arrived safely yesterday.

I wanted to just say thank you for such a seamless process.

The quality of the product is fantastic.

I will definitely be recommending hero print!

Tim - 17/11/23

OF OUR NEW CLIENTS ARE REFERRALS YOU CAN SEE WHY...

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Industry leaders share 2024 plans and predictions Welcome to the first edition of ProPack.pro for 2024 and our inaugural Labels & Packaging Leaders Forum. Our Leaders Forum features interviews with leading executives from the local and international labels and packaging industry – reflecting on the year that was as well as sharing their plans and predictions for the year ahead.

While the local labels and packaging industry reported solid growth in 2023, it’s clear that the year was not without its challenges, with many of these, such as ongoing cost pressures, supply chain disruption, and skilled labour shortages, anticipated to remain this year, according to some of the thought leaders in our report.

Sustainable packaging and environmental stewardship were high on the agenda for

Claire Hibbit

many businesses in 2023 and this heightened focus, not only on the adoption of biodegradable packaging and recyclable materials, but also on sustainable practices and processes, such as minimising waste and energy consumption, is predicted to continue.

Companies will need to approach sustainability this year with a more holistic view.

Düsseldorf, Germany, from 28 May to 7 June. It’s the first physical event in eight years, with attendees set to see first to market products from around the world. However, it’s only new technology that the industry is seeking, but customercentric innovation that allows for greater customisation, personalisation, and flexibility that can help businesses cater to changing customer needs.

2024 is also shaping up to be a year that is heavily focused on digital production and automation. Those that have the technology and capability to deliver faster and more efficiently will be ones that stand out in an ever-increasing competitive market. Product innovation will also be a key focus this year ahead of Drupa – the world’s leading trade fair for print technologies – which takes place in

We would like to say a sincere thankyou to those who contributed to our inaugural Labels & Packaging Leaders Forum.

Whether you are a supplier or converter, the report is an essential guide of industry knowledge, and we hope there are some valuable insights.

Claire Hibbit Managing Editor

Stay informed… visit www.propack.pro and subscribe to receive the latest packaging industry news and views

ProPack Industry Supporters

Managing Director & Publisher: James Wells Managing Editor: Claire Hibbit News Editor: Melissa Parker Production Manager: Jacqui Cooper

Pre-Press Manager: Tony Willson Design: Sarah Vella Printed by: Hero Print, Alexandria, NSW 2015 Mailed by: D&D Mailing Services

ProPack.pro is published by Printer Media Group, registered in Australia ABN 47 628 473 334. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, it is a condition of distribution that the publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in the publication.

ProPack.pro Magazine National Sales Manager Carmen Ciappara +61 2 410 582 450 carmen@proprint.com.au

DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials.

The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

Copyright © 2024 — Charted Media Group Pty Ltd

4 ProPack.pro February 2024

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CONTENTS

IN THIS ISSUE...

P10-12

Durst Oceania appoints new labels and packaging sales manager

P6

Durst Oceania has appointed Graham Blackall to lead the sales for labels and packaging in Australia and New Zealand

Local industry welcomes new head of HP Labels P6 Jeremy Goh has been appointed as labels business manager – Asia Pacific and Japan for HP Indigo – including the Australian and New Zealand markets

IVE CEO confirms packaging growth strategy following JacPak acquisition

P8

COVER STORY: Jet Press FP790: Digital inkjet press for flexible packaging P10-12 The Jet Press FP790 digital press from Fujifilm has been designed to be suitable for mainstream flexible packaging applications, thanks to a number of market leading features

Renz Australia makes foray into the luxury packaging market with Zechini

P22

The inaugural Labels & Packaging Leaders Forum features leading local and international executives examining the key trends from the last 12 months and the important predictions for the year ahead 24 CMYKhub

26 Currie Group 28 Durst Oceania 30 Pakko

32 Hybrid Software

34 Etivoet

34 Finat

Renz Australia has inked a new distribution agreement with renowned packaging equipment provider Zechini – marking the company’s foray into the luxury packaging market

35 Germark

35 Weldon Celloplast

36 GM Finishng

37 Heaford

38 HP Indigo

39 Labelexpo Global Series

40 Thai KK

41 TLMI

Leading by example

42 Yupo America

P14

P16

Anthony Rossi, Ball & Doggett sales executive for labels & packaging, and a recipient of the 2023 ProPrint Supplier 50, shares his journey from sales cadet to leading the industry’s next generation

Color-Logic certifies Currie Group Melbourne Demonstration Centre

The bling factor

Colour management software specialist Color-Logic has certified the Currie Group Demonstration Centre in Melbourne

2024 Labels & Packaging Leaders Forum

23 MediaPoint

IVE CEO Matt Aitken has confirmed that he will pursue a ‘growth mindset’ either ‘organically or by acquisition’ towards the folding cartons space following the recent JacPak purchase

P8

P18-21

P14

P18 – 21

When it comes to health and beauty product labels, embellishments are non-negotiable.

Technology today not only offers the ability to create intricate embellishments but also offers sustainability benefits

Pull away from the pack

P45

Though beer packaging can often seem uniform, the industry has a seen a swift and innovative evolution, driven by consumer demand, environmental impact, and a changing economic climate

Pack diary

P46

A guide to the upcoming events globally

THIS ISSUE SUPPORTED BY

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February 2024 ProPack.pro 5

NEWS

Durst Oceania appoints new labels and packaging sales manager Durst Oceania has appointed Graham Blackall to lead the sales for labels and packaging in Australia and New Zealand.

Blackall has more than three decades of experiences in the printing industry and joins the business from Durst’s NZ distributor, Aarque. Blackall will be based in Auckland and travel to Australia frequently to meet with new and existing Durst customers.

“After 34 years with the industry, this is an exciting progression in my career. I have previously worked as a Trans-Tasman business development manager, so I am very familiar with the challenges of both markets,” said Blackall.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Australian and New Zealand companies in my new role and sharing the knowledge that I have gained over many years.

“There is a huge opportunity for Durst inkjet technologies that will benefit business that are looking to differentiate themselves

Graham Blackall and Matt Ashman

from their competition.

“Durst is continuing innovating further and is the clear leader in the market. I am looking forward to meeting with customers from Australia and New Zealand at drupa as well as throughout the remainder of 2024 to identify their thirst for information.”

Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman said he was looking forward to having Blackall join his team.

Local industry welcomes new head of HP Labels Jeremy Goh Jeremy Goh has been appointed labels business manager – Asia Pacific and Japan for HP Indigo – including the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Prior to his promotion, Goh was security business manager for Asia Pacific and Japan for HP Indigo for three years and prior to this was regional category manager – labels & packaging in Asia Pacific and Japan for four years.

Local industry representatives from HP and Currie Group have congratulated Goh on his promotion.

“I was thrilled to hear Jeremy’s appointment,” HP Indigo country manager – Australia and New Zealand, Craig Walmsley told ProPack.pro.

“Many of our Australian and New Zealand clients have had interactions with Jeremy

6 ProPack.pro February 2024

Jeremy Goh

while in Singapore. He is a very accomplished and experienced label and packaging professional. His expertise and dedication will enhance our team and further elevate our commitment to providing innovate solutions for our clients.”

Currie Group Australia and New Zealand director of labels & packaging, Mark Daws, also welcomed Goh’s promotion.

“We are thrilled to see Jeremy progress his career with this move into the new role,” Daws said.

“We have had the pleasure of working with

“Graham brings significant experience across several print disciplines as well as representing the trans-Tasman footprint for Durst Oceania,” Ashman said.

“His expertise and knowledge in the label production category specifically is unparalleled and this is why he has been appointed as labels and flexible packaging sales manager responsible for sales of the Durst Tau product range in Australia and New Zealand.

Jeremy in various capacities over the years and he is a tremendous asset to both his team and ours. Jeremy has extensive knowledge of the industry and products that HP represent and we are looking forward to working with him moving forwards.”

Goh told ProPack.pro he is excited to embark on this new professional journey.

“I am excited to contribute to the growth of Currie Group in Australia and New Zealand.

Over the past three years, there has been a notable 8 per cent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) observed among our Asian Labels customers, surpassing the market average by 30 per cent.”

Goh replaces Rickard Ådén who has been promoted to a new role as HP’s business manager for labels for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Ådén told ProPack.pro he is very pleased for his “good friend” to be taking over his role.

“Jeremy has an incredibly high level of energy and drive which allow him to deliver over and beyond expectations. His also has an entrepreneur mindset and strong ability to thinking outside the box with a never giving up spirit that helped us overachieve our quotas again and again. He is a true team player without prestige always letting others shine when many times he was behind the success just as much.”

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NEWS

IVE CEO confirms packaging growth strategy following JacPak acquisition IVE CEO Matt Aitken has confirmed that he will pursue a ‘growth mindset’ either ‘organically or by acquisition’ towards the folding cartons space following the recent JacPak purchase.

IVE confirmed the acquisition of Melbournebased JacPak in October 2023 for $35 million.

“We are in a growth mindset towards the folding carton sector, and this can happen organically or through acquisition,” Aitken told ProPack.pro.

“If you go back through our investor communications, you will see it is a complementary adjacency for our business, and It is also a growth sector with strong ESG credentials,” he said.

Aitken said the early results from the

IVE Group CEO Matt Aitken

JacPak acquisition were “encouraging”.

JacPak is a leading Melbourne based short to medium run length packaging player in the $800 million folding cartons segment of the Australian packaging sector.

At the time of the acquisition IVE said the strategic acquisition will continue to expand and diversify IVE’s integrated service offering which also includes creative services, data-

driven communications, e-commerce, brand activations, premiums and apparel, print, 3PL, household distribution and integrated marketing services.

The $800 million folding cartons market makes up a core component of the preferred packaging format for large food and beverage customers, with this segment growing around 10 per cent over the last year.

Color-Logic certifies Currie Group Melbourne Demonstration Centre Colour management software specialist Color-Logic has certified the Currie Group Demonstration Centre in Melbourne.

Mark Geeves, director of sales and marketing, Color-Logic, said the certification now enables the Currie Group, which has been a Color-Logic dealer since 2012, to demonstrate brilliant Color-Logic metallics and custom embellishments on the HP Indigo presses in their showrooms.

“Printers and their graphic designers from ANZ can now witness first-hand the power of Color-Logic software,” said Geeves.

Mark Daws, director – labels and packaging ANZ, Currie Group, said that by

8 ProPack.pro February 2024

Mark Daws, Currie Group Director – Labels and Packaging ANZ

gaining Color-Logic certification in the Currie Group Demonstration Centre, the company can provide working proof of just how easy and consistent Color-Logic makes producing metallic labels and other print products.

“Printers throughout the ANZ region

can now witness the simplicity and reproducibility of metallics with Color-Logic on a working press,” said Daws.

The Currie Group Melbourne Demonstration Centre is located at 2-4 Guest St Hawthorn, Victoria.

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COVER STORY

Jet Press FP790: Digital inkjet press for flexible packaging The Jet Press FP790 digital press has been designed to be suitable for mainstream flexible packaging applications, thanks to a number of market leading features.

F

ujifilm has continued to achieved industry acclaim for setting a new standard in print quality since the launch of its Jet Press range of inkjet digital production presses to the global commercial printing market in 2011.

Now, Fujifilm is applying these industry leading technologies and know-how to flexible packaging.

Using its unique expertise in worldclass inkjet system development, Fujifilm can offer packaging converters an exceptional opportunity with its groundbreaking Jet Press FP790 digital platform.

10 ProPack.pro February 2024

“In the past year, there have been a number of very exciting developments to our packaging portfolio, with the launch of the groundbreaking Jet Press FP790 a particular highlight,” explains Troy Neighbour, Divisional Manager, Graphic Systems, FUJIFILM Australia.

Suitable for mainstream flexible packaging

“The Jet Press FP790 has been designed to help printers and converters adapt to changing market dynamics that are driving shorter print runs and product life cycles, faster delivery times and more sustainable production, whilst also adhering to the regulatory requirements of flexible packaging.”

Firstly, the Jet Press FP790 digital press produces ultra-high print quality, wide gamut print similar to the Jet Press 750S, making it possible to convert analogue flexo and rotogravure jobs to digital.

The Jet Press FP790 digital press has been designed to be suitable for mainstream flexible packaging applications, thanks to a number of innovative features.

The press can also run at high productivity levels, with a print speed of 50 m/min

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COVER STORY

irrespective of the ink colours, and very high uptime contributing to the overall performance.

Critically, the Jet Press FP790 is also able to fit into existing production processes with no other capital investments, along with being a much more sustainable solution than its analogue counterparts.

The maximum substrate width is 790mm (31 inches) with a productivity of 50 m/min (164 feet per minute), no matter the number of colours.

“The high machine uptime and ability to change printing jobs and design adjustments within a matter of minutes contribute to the overall improvement of production efficiency of the entire factory,” says Neighbour.

Wide colour gamut and ultra-high quality “At Fujifilm, we understand how print can add value to packaging and are combining expertise in the very latest digital print technologies with an analogue heritage, to create a product portfolio that supports the production of both analogue and digitally printed packaging.

“We work with packaging producers whatever the stage of their journey; whether it’s helping them to optimise analogue production lines to maximise efficiency or introduce a digital capability.

We don’t do one-size-fits-all – we do the right solution, for the right producer, at the right time.

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“Our inkjet technology portfolio is the strongest in the industry, allowing us to develop leading digital production systems,” says Neighbour.

“Using its unique expertise in worldclass inkjet system development, Fujifilm can offer packaging converters an exceptional opportunity with its groundbreaking Jet Press FP790 digital platform.”

Using 1200 X 1200 dpi resolutions with CMYK inks, the Jet Press FP790 can achieve more than 90 per cent of the Pantone colour gamut, while also using two white ink channels for delivering high white opacity, all achieved with unprecedented colour stability. The wide colour gamut allows converters to achieve special brand and spot colour matching with no need for additional special inks.

A more sustainable print process “All our solutions, whether analogue, digital or somewhere in-between, are designed to reduce waste and the use of environmentally harmful chemicals, minimise energy consumption and to be as sustainable as possible.”

Fujifilm employs environmentally friendly water- based primers and inkjet technologies, which meet or exceed all regulatory requirements for flexible packaging printing.

The Jet Press FP790 is also able to minimise waste, reduce the number of consumables associated with traditional analogue production, and eliminate all elements of the plate-making process.

February 2024 ProPack.pro 11

COVER STORY

“We work with packaging producers whatever the stage of their journey; whether it’s helping them to optimise analogue production lines to maximise efficiency or introduce a digital capability. We don’t do onesize-fits-all – we do the right solution, for the right producer, at the right time.”

Fits existing production processes With the challenging demands of the flexible packaging market, particularly the short turnaround times and regulatory requirements, Fujifilm has carried out extensive testing of printed output from the Jet Press FP790 with various laminating, slitting, and finishing processes, to ensure customers of the press are in the best possible position

12 ProPack.pro February 2024

to maximise the production opportunities from day one.

Fujifilm extensively tested Henkel’s renowned portfolio of laminating adhesives to ensure compatibility with the Jet Press FP790 ink as well as verify adhesion properties and lamination performance in post-press production, to guarantee the highest quality output.

Given the excellent results and positive outcomes from these rigorous tests, Henkel’s solvent- free laminating adhesives are Fujifilm’s recommended solution for use with the Jet Press FP790.

Fujifilm also successfully tested Nordmeccanica’s Simplex range of twolayer laminating machines for solvent-less adhesives. The environmental benefits of the Jet Press FP790, combined with Henkel’s solvent-free adhesives and Nordmeccanica’s solvent-less lamination technology, delivers a truly sustainable production solution.

In addition, it will enable packaging converters to remain compliant with the increasingly stringent environmental regulations that are now commonplace throughout the industry.

“By collaborating with renowned and leading manufacturers of pre-press and post-press technologies, Fujifilm can

clearly demonstrate that its new Jet Press FP790 is fully compatible and integrates effortlessly into existing production environments offering a ‘plug and play’ digital solution that delivers the highest quality finished packaging with minimal testing, training, or setup.”

XMF Packaging powered by HYBRID Software Fujifilm’s Jet Press FP790 will feature a unique smart Digital Front End (DFE) and unified workflow solution developed specifically by HYBRID Software to optimise the productivity and output of Fujifilm’s press. This new XMF Packaging DFE is the first of its kind to be developed by a software company for use in the packaging market and is a result of a close working partnership between Fujifilm’s R&D team and HYBRID’s specialist software developers.

Based on proven technology, the webbased, open architecture production workflow offers fully automated pre-press functionality to ensure the Jet Press FP790 press offers accelerated turnaround times, maximum productivity and reduced operating costs. In addition, its modular configuration allows for greater workflow expansion and upstream customisation to cater for specific user requirements.

See the Jet Press FP790 in full operation in hall 8b at Drupa 2024

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Jet Press FP790

The Jet Press FP790 digital press could be considered to be three presses in one, able to: • Print digitally, with all the benefits of digital production • Print mainstream flexo jobs • Print rotogravure quality jobs

FUJIFILM and FUJIFILM Value for Innovation are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation. ©2024 FUJIFILM Corporation. All rights reserved.

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RENZ AUSTRALIA

Renz Australia makes foray into the luxury packaging market with Zechini Renz Australia brings innovation, efficiency, and quality to the luxury packaging market in partnership with Zechini. automatic format change, touchscreen controls, and compatibility with various packaging materials makes it a versatile addition to any production setup.

Symphony 3/3C Automatic Board Grooving Machine

Kissy Automatic Cover Material Gluer and Box Positioning Machine

Symphony 3/3C Automatic Board Grooving Machine

R

enz Australia has inked a new distribution agreement with renowned packaging equipment provider Zechini – marking the company’s foray into the luxury packaging market.

The partnership follows RENZ Australia’s recent addition of the Morgana ColorCut Digital Die Cutters to its portfolio of innovative packaging solutions.

“Our new distribution agreement with Zechini underscores our commitment to provide a diverse and expansive range of cutting-edge solutions for the local luxury packaging market,” explains RENZ Australia, Sales Director, Tim Killen.

Founded in 1981, Renz Australia represents a range of quality equipment and supplies for binding, laminating, shredding, and related paper handling machines for both the office and industrial user.

“For more than 40 years, Renz Australia has been a market leader in the printing and bookbinding industries. We have always prided ourselves on our service, ingenuity, and our ability to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our customers, which had led us to enter the luxury packaging market. We’re thrilled to be able to offer our customers access to Zechini’s comprehensive suite that caters to a wide variety of box manufacturing needs.”

14 ProPack.pro February 2024

The Symphony 3/3C Automatic Board Grooving Machine, is equipped with versatile V & U-shaped blades, capable of grooving boards at multiple points without generating dust. Its ability to kiss-cut cardboard adds another layer of flexibility to the production process while the 3C version can remove the cut-off corners of the board.

ESB 2.0 Box Wrapping Machine

Family-owned Zechini has designed, developed, and produced market leading equipment for the bookbinding and paper converting industry for more than 70 years. More recently, the company has expanded its core business by creating solutions for packaging technologies.

The Zechini range boasts an extensive lineup of semi-automated and automated machines. From the innovative Kissy Automatic Cover Material Gluer and Box Positioning Machine to the CT150 2.0 Corner Taping Machine, and Symphony 3/3C Automatic Board Grooving Machine, each machine is designed to enhance efficiency and deliver a consistently high-quality finish.

Kissy Automatic Cover Material Gluer and Box Positioning Machine The Kissy Automatic Cover Material Gluer and Box Positioning Machine, which thanks to its vacuum conveyor belt and robotised mounting, can prepare up to 900 boxes per hour, is available as semi-automatic or robotic – improving efficiency, while also reducing additional labour.

ESB 2.0 Box Wrapping Machine The ESB 2.0 Box Wrapping Machine is an ideal solution for customised luxury boxes in small to medium production runs. Its

Complementing these cutting-edge machines is the Box on Demand Software (B.O.N.D) specifically designed for covered luxury boxes. The software’s functionalities, ranging from selecting parametric models to automatic layout generation, underscore its role as a crucial component in streamlining the production process and ensuring cost-effective operations.

“For 43 years our focus as a business has always been on providing the highest level of service and aftersales support to our customers, as well as offering them the most innovative solutions available on the market.

“The Zechini range allows customers to manufacture boxes of different sizes and configurations with remarkable efficiency, precision, and with a repeatable highquality finish,” says Killen, adding the company has already received significant interest from the local market.

“The industry is rapidly changing, and we all must adapt. To stay ahead of the game, we will continue to look at new ways to cater to our customers and expand our service offering – we want to make sure we’re here for another 43 years!”

Zechini will be demonstrating the range at Drupa 2024, which will take place May 28 to June 7, 2024 in Messe Düsseldorf, Germany.

For more information about the Zechini range of machines available from RENZ Australia, to book a demonstration at Drupa or an online virtual demonstration, contact the team at RENZ PH: 1300 859 471 E: sales@renz.com.au

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FOCUS Q&A

Leading by example Anthony Rossi, Ball & Doggett sales executive for labels & packaging, and a recipient of the 2023 ProPrint Supplier 50, shares his journey from sales cadet to leading the industry’s next generation.

C

an you share some more background about your family’s connection to the industry – were you always going to follow in their footsteps?

When I first started working at Ball & Doggett, my dad Mario was working as the senior account manager in Adelaide, while my sister began her career as the business development executive.

It was my dad who first spoke to me about the part time position that was available in the warehouse in the converting department. At that point, I was still at school and uncertain about what I wanted to do as a career.

Once I commenced the position in the warehouse, it was a conversation with my former manager, Michael Patterson, now the sales director of South Australia-based Multi-Colour Corporation, that opened my eyes to the career and growth opportunities available at Ball & Doggett.

some significant impact into my professional career.

Influential figures such as Jason Brown, Brad Partington, Daniel Jones, Michael Byrne, and Jai Simpar have significantly contributed to my personal and professional development, shaping me into a more goal driven individual.

While Ball & Doggett proudly holds the status as the largest distributor of printable materials and press consumables, what truly sets it apart, in my opinion, is the people.

Can you share some more insights into your work during the pandemic? How do you remember this period of your career?

The era of Covid-19 stands out as one of the most mentally challenging, as well as one of the most transformative periods of my professional journey.

It was also really inspiring to see how dedicated, professional, and enthusiastic my dad was in his job in my childhood days.

Having relocated from Adelaide to Melbourne, away from my own comforts, friends, and family, I found myself struggling, however, it was the support of my colleagues that became a crucial lifeline during this time.

This whole concept really excited me, and my initial inclination was to undergo an administration related role, as I felt this was right in my comfort zone, which led me to a full-time position as sales cadet.

The surge in demand for labels & packaging consumables, in conjunction to the heightened demand for home consumption and pharmaceutical needs, added some assurance during this global chaos.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

Knowing how unpredictable life was back then, it was just good knowing that the labels & packaging industry still thrived and most importantly provided me with a sense of stability and purpose.

The most rewarding part of my career, aside from the privilege of starting my career alongside family members, particularly with my sister, Marisa Smyrneos, who continues to play an integral role in the South Australian branch, has been the opportunities and support offered to me by Ball & Doggett.

Where do you see the future of sustainability in the labels category?

Why do you think premium labels seeing a resurgence in the category?

The company’s commitment to investing in staff development, personal growth and self-discovery has steered me onto the pathway that I always aspired for. It has undoubtedly, paved the way to grow but also enabled me to thrive in my current role as a sales executive for labels & packaging.

The future of sustainability in the labels category is very exciting and being able to promote our products in Victoria adds to that enthusiasm. Ball & Doggett’s collaboration with exceptional supply partners such as Wausau, Yenom and Adestor lays a solid foundation to meet the dynamic demands of our evolving world.

The other aspect is the experience of collaborating with some exceptional individuals and mentors – past and present of Ball & Doggett – who have left

Among our eco-friendly label offerings, the Bright White Felt range is something special. Bright White Felt is made of 30 per cent post-consumer waste and is FSC

16 ProPack.pro February 2024

Anthony Rossi

certified, this high-white, textured label, with wet strength properties is a versatile choice across many applications.

From dominating the wine and beverage label market to making waves in other boutique labels such as candles and perfumes and even finding a niche in cheese labels, our Bright White Felt range continually evolves to meet the needs of this everchanging market, and I cannot wait to show what Ball & Doggett has installed for 2024!

What is the best part of working at Ball & Doggett?

I think the best part of working for Ball & Doggett is the personal journey that came along with it. From the hesitant 17-yearold in the comforts of Adelaide, I have evolved into an individual who now confidently trusts their own instincts and decisions. The impactful journey owes much to the incredible individuals who have played a significant role, none more so than Leigh Hooper, the GM for labels & packaging and my boss, Chris Jackson.

Their belief in my potential has been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today. Acknowledging the role my dad played in my career, the next chapter for me involves transitioning into a leadership role to mentor the next generation. I am excited to pay forward the empowerment and guidance I received, and this aspiration came from how impactful Ball & Doggett has had on my own growth. I am so proud to have reached 10-year milestone with Ball & Doggett. I take immense pride in the relationships I have been able to build with both my colleagues and clients and I am excited for the challenges ahead.

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DURST HAWK EYE

Significantly less waste

For more information, please visit

durst-group.com/label

Automated quality

In-line & real time nozzle compensation

The bling factor When it comes to health and beauty product labels, embellishments are non-negotiable.

Technology today not only offers the ability to create intricate embellishments but also offers sustainability benefits, Akanksha Meena reports

I

n the dazzling world of cosmetics and beauty, spotting a product with packaging that does not include embellishments is almost as rare as finding a unicorn.

Brands are not just settling for shelf appeal; they are aiming to catch the elusive eyes of shoppers navigating through a sea of beauty products in a supermarket. Special effects and finishing touches on beauty and cosmetic product labels turn packaging into irresistible works of art.

Adam Frey, director of North American sales for Wausau Coated Products, says that the cosmetic and healthcare industries, like many, are always looking to create an emotional response with the buyer to drive purchases of their products.

Label embellishment is one of the ways to create that connection.

“If you can connect with your buyer in a few seconds because you personalised or customised the label material with a specific foil emblem or highlight a feature or benefit of the product with varnishes or texture, you have a much better chance of that consumer choosing your product over other packaging that lacks these qualities,” Frey says.

“If you can connect with your buyer in a few seconds because you personalised or customised the label material, you have a much better chance of that consumer choosing your product” “Quality, special ingredients, awards, and safety are just a few of the features of a product that can be accentuated with the use of embellishments.”

For example, hygiene and beauty brand Dove’s classic dove logo in gold embellishment shines against the backdrop of a white label on almost all of its products. High-end skincare brand

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Iosu Álvarez and Eider Lizarbe of Lemugroup explain the two major trends in label embellishments. The first is the specialisation of labels that are increasingly challenging to manufacture and visually appealing. This is mainly achieved through eye-catching finishes that include holes in

Skincare brand Necessary Good uses eco-refill pouches London-based refillable skincare essentials brand, Necessary Good offers refills in compostable pouches.

The brand’s products are packaged in glass packaging designed by packaging company Croxsons.

Minimalism is among a growing design trend in beauty product labels

L’Occitane integrates gold and silver metallic foils into its label design, enhancing the packaging’s appeal. Popular beauty brand Pixi makes healthy use of metallic accents in delicate details on its labels over soothing pastel hues, soft pinks, mint greens, and calming blues.

Ryan Chai, strategic account solutions specialist at Nobelus, says: “In the realm of cosmetics and health labels, there’s a long-standing emphasis on luxury and quality. Presently, there’s a discernible shift towards designs that are both minimalistic and impactful. The allure of foiling, characterised by its reflective quality, provides a distinguished highlight to streamlined label designs.

Furthermore, there’s a mounting interest in holographic and multi-faceted foiling techniques, capturing both a sense of premium craftsmanship and a contemporary edge.”

Design agency Kingdom & Sparrow’s managing director Kieron Weedon agrees: “We’re seeing a real polarisation of approaches to embellishment in the healthcare and cosmetics industries.

On the one hand, is the minimalist approach that focuses on clean beauty – often also used to denote a more premium,

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Actega Ecoleaf metalization system uses a donor roll of nano-metallic flakes attracted to a printed trigger image

luxury feel. It reflects the consumer trend for authenticity and simplicity. On the other hand, there is a shift to a much more playful and joyful space – for consumers that embrace the glamour and excitement of beauty routines – these embellishments are often much more tactile, encouraging people to play and touch products.”

Finishing techniques Finishing machine manufacturers are developing technology to keep up with the ever-evolving demands of brand owners.

These machines not only offer aesthetic labels but also come with automated variable finishing options on labels along with material-saving capabilities.

Established in March 2023, Necessary Good makes essential skincare products. Glass packaging was chosen by its founder given its durability, recyclability, and aesthetics. The brand has launched an initial range of hero products consisting of face mist, face wash, moisturiser, and micellar water. What distinguishes Necessary Good is its refilling service, which utilises eco-refill pouches that can be conveniently composted at home and disposed of sustainably.

When consumers begin to run low on their Necessary Good products, they can order a 100 per cent biodegradable refill pouch and transfer its contents. The company firmly believes that compostable, biobased, and biodegradable packaging presents the ideal solution for addressing waste issues within the beauty industry.

Croxsons launched its lifestyle, beauty, health, and wellness division early in 2021 to complement its existing core business of supplying glass bottle containers, closures and decoration to international food and beverage brands. Since then, the new division has provided brands in the sector with an unrivalled, fast-tracked NPD service and an engaging customer journey, ensuring that every project fully meets the brief and exceeds expectations.

February 2024 ProPack.pro 19

more importantly personalized and customized for the consumer.”

Kurz Distorun module is a material-saving cold transfer unit for processing single images and endless décor

the labels or the use of multiple labels with different materials. The second trend is automation and digitalisation of production for speed and accuracy. In this context, the incorporation of digital inkjet varnish for greater homogeneity and productivity stands out.

In response to these market trends, Lemugroup presented at Labelexpo Europe 2023 the LI220RFID, a machine that enables the insertion of luxury labels and the integration of RFID technology at high speeds, all with spectacular registration.

In addition, with a focus on automation and consistency, Lemugroup also introduced an inkjet embossing varnish module (MI350) as part of its MA350+ machine. This module demonstrates highspeed productivity, ensuring no labels are lost during machine stops and starts.

Actega EcoLeaf metalization system uses a donor roll of nano-metallic flakes attracted to a printed trigger image. Kurz offers its DM-Uniliner 2D/3D digital embellishment systems and the Distorun module, a material-saving cold transfer unit for processing single images and endless décor. It operates by reading a print mark on the web and positioning the images in relation, at the same time monitoring and syncing with the speed of the press.

Kurz also offers an inline metalization technology developed specifically for the Xeikon toner press, using a part-cured ‘tacky’ toner to adhere the metallisation effect to the substrate.

An interesting decoration technology for shrink sleeves is by Pantec, which offers its Cheetah N rotary embellishment system for applying single 3D images to shrink sleeves. Such effects cannot be achieved on shrink sleeves by embossing. The customised 3D images are applied to the shrink sleeve by heat and pressure from a carrier film at up to 20 images a second.

Wausau’s Adam Frey adds: “Without a doubt, the advancement of digital embellishment capabilities is changing the landscape and making it easier to provide embellishments on labels efficiently but

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He points out that Wausau is seeing interest in pressure-sensitive label materials that can play well with new digital forms of embellishment.

Customised pressure-sensitive materials that provide the right base to allow these emerging technologies to function and provide value on a variety of surfaces are key to maximising options for high-end cosmetics and healthcare products.

Factoring in sustainability Christophe Dujardin, global business development manager of sustainability/ cold transfer at Kurz highlighted at Labelexpo Europe 2023 that Kurz transfer products are 100 per cent recyclable. Any metallic or printed transfer finish from Kurz on paper, cartons, labels, and traditional plastics can be sorted, recycled, and re-purposed within today’s supply chain.

“With the availability of recycled or alternative content papers and films paired with specific adhesives to allow for recycling downstream, the sustainable material options are growing quickly” According to Dujardin, it is a common misconception that foil is transferred to the substrate during hot stamping and cold transfer, creating a composite (laminate) that is difficult or even impossible to recycle. But that is not the case. Although foil is used for both processes, it only serves as an intermediate carrier for Kurz finishing products. The actual finishing is a sequence of ultra-thin varnish or metallisation layers separated from the intermediate carrier in the machine and transferred to the material to be finished by heat and pressure (during hot stamping), or pressure and adhesive (during cold transfer). The coating itself does not affect the recyclability of the product. Plastic packaging with finishes from Kurz can be mechanically recycled, coated paper and cardboard can be recycled as normal or sometimes even composted.

Another factor to consider is the deinkability of paper and cardboard in the recycling process. This means that printing inks and other surface treatments

(finishes, paints, and fillers) from paper fiber can be dissolved so that new paper can be produced from the cleaned fibers.

The International Research Association for Deinking Technology (INGEDE) has certified Kurz transfer products, both cold transfer and hot stamped, as deinkable.

The deinking residue is usually used thermally to generate electricity and process heat (steam) in paper mills.

Kurz also picks up embossed PET carrier material from the finishing plant as a part of its Recosys program to produce PET recyclate for the plastics industry.

And of course, sustainability starts with the substrate the embellishments are applied to.

“With the availability of recycled or alternative content papers and films paired with specific adhesives to allow for recycling downstream, the sustainable material options are growing quickly,” Frey explains.

“We work hard to provide these sustainable options to perform with embellishment technology the same as previous non-sustainable materials, but it is not always possible. The impact can be two-fold. On one hand, products that contain tiny defects because they contain recycled content may be considered unacceptable, but for others seeing those defects confirms they are making a sustainable buying decision and creates that emotional bond to drive a purchase.”

Refillable packaging Cosmetic brands are considering refillable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint.

Several beauty and wellness brands offer flexible packaging refills that are lighter in weight and easier to produce in contrast to complicated rigid packaging.

Weedon says: “Sustainability is high on everyone’s agenda. But that’s not just a shift from recyclable and eco-friendly products, but also refillable ones. That means harder wearing finishes that can last longer on the packaging that will live in bathrooms for much longer periods.”

One such beauty product brand Stella McCartney Beauty joined forces with manufacturing company Sabic and three French plastic converters (Texen, Leygatech and STTP Emballage) to create a set of new skin and eye care refill containers produced with certified renewable polymers from Sabic’s Trucircle portfolio. The containers have already been introduced in the market in North America and the United Kingdom.

Flexible packaging refills can also be increasingly observed in every day-use hygiene product brands as well such as

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detergents, liquid soaps, shampoos, and lotions. Dettol, a Reckitt brand, is among the leading players in hygiene products that offer refills in flexible pouches to reduce packaging waste.

Players such as Nobelus are also working towards the shift: ‘Sustainability transcends being a mere industry buzzword for Nobelus; it represents a core commitment,’ Chai says. ‘In response to the sector’s increasing demand for environmentally conscious alternatives, we have pioneered the development of films, notably our EcoElement range, that are compostable, yet do not sacrifice aesthetic appeal or functionality. Additionally, our dedicated R&D division is ceaselessly exploring strategies to curtail waste and reduce our carbon footprint during production phases.

Anticipate further innovations in our product offerings in the near future.’

Choosing the right finishing technique When determining embellishments, it is crucial to ascertain alignment with the brand ethos, Chai highlights. While the allure of cutting-edge designs is undeniable, the product must resonate seamlessly with the brand narrative.

Furthermore, it’s advisable to adopt a long-term perspective, favouring materials and finishes that offer enduring quality and aesthetic relevance.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the design, beyond its visual appeal, is feasible from a manufacturing standpoint.

This ensures that production remains streamlined, is cost-effective and aligns with branding objectives in the long haul.

Kingdom & Sparrow designed Schwarzkopf’s SalonLab&Me products with hyper-personalized labels with clean and minimal embellishments

Weedon suggests simplicity in design: “As packaging becomes hyper-personalised, for example with Schwarzkopf’s SalonLab&Me products, consumers’ names and personal products are added to the branding. This means embellishments are kept clean and minimal to allow for bespoke additional features.”

And thanks to new technology, packaging has become a key part of the brand experience - not only offering something visually and tactile but also building on brand stories. QR codes have become the simplest way to allow consumers to access more information about a product, but AR and packaging that change color to indicate if it’s running low, is becoming increasingly prevalent.

Kingdom & Sparrow’s work with Ethica CBD is a great example of how QR codes

Cosmetic giants team up for sustainability Global cosmetic and healthcare giants have come together to form the EcoBeautyScore Consortium to develop an industry-wide system for measuring and communicating the environmental impacts of products to consumers.

The collaboration is now live with 71 industry players in an initiative to enable more sustainable consumer choice.

The EcoBeautyScore Consortium is developing an industry-wide environmental impact assessment and scoring system for cosmetics products. The approach has a global scope and may help provide consumers with clear, transparent and comparable environmental impact information, based on a common sciencebased methodology. This will contribute

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to meeting growing consumer demand for greater transparency about the environmental impact of cosmetics products (formula, packaging and usage).

The Consortium is working with the experienced sustainability consultancy Quantis to ensure a robust and scientific approach to co-build an assessment methodology and scoring system that is guided by and articulated around: A common method for measuring environmental impacts throughout the lifecycle of products, backed by the principles of the ‘Product Environmental Footprint’ (the European Union’s PEF scientific method based on life cycle assessment (LCA) for quantifying the environmental footprint of products).

can educate consumers on an unknown category such as CBD healthcare.

Stella McCartney chooses new skin and eye care refill containers produced with certified renewable polymers

A common database of the environmental impact of standard ingredients and raw materials used in formulas and packaging, as well as during product usage.

A common tool that enables the assessment of the environmental impact of individual products, usable by non-experts.

A harmonised scoring system that enables companies, to voluntarily, inform consumers about the environmental footprint of their cosmetic products. The methodology, database, tool and scoring system will be verified by independent parties.

Operationally, the EcoBeautyScore Consortium is also supported by Capgemini Invent (project management) and Mayer Brown (legal counsel).

This Consortium is open to all cosmetics and personal care companies, regardless of their size or resources.

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2024 S P E C I A L

R E P O R T

Compiled by James Quirk and James Wells

LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

Packaging to continue strong growth trajectory Jamie Xuereb Sales Director Mediapoint

of the job. The biggest advantage is turnaround times and consistency, which allows us to pass on these benefits to our customers.

“The packaging sector has been going from strength to strength, and growing even in the current market landscape as more work is being done locally.”

A

fter a 12-year break, it was good to re-enter the labels and packaging market again in 2023. Obviously, it is a very traditional part of the printing market which we have seen there is not as much rapid change compared to the other areas of print we are involved in.

The packaging sector has been going from strength to strength, and growing even in the current market landscape as more work is being done locally. We see this continuing.

We are seeing our customer base running smaller campaigns but more frequently.

This is allowing our trade partners’ customers to test different messaging before committing to a larger run. We are also noticing that smaller runs done locally are increasing. Since Covid there has been a massive swing from importing as run lengths are getting smaller, so we are seeing this trend to continue.

Our key message would be: is the trade partner you are looking for 100 per cent trade only? Or is there a risk they can poach your customer? Also, what edge does your trade supplier give you? At

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Mediapoint we are giving our trade partners custom laser cutting without white edge as well as custom shapes and fast two business day turnaround times.

We are printing on a Durst Tau with white ink and cutting with a Grafotronic dual laser cutter. The quality of the Durst Tau is simply phenomenal – and we are receiving a lot of positive feedback from our customers. In certain conditions, we have been able to print 5mm QR codes which scan and 1pt text, which is legible through a loupe.

We believe that diversification and offering a mix in product range for our customers has been very advantageous when it comes to winning work. A lot of our large format customers have equipment of their own, so it is all about finding the gaps to help our customer base.

We can offer things that no one else in trade printing can offer – ultra-fast turnaround and dispatch in two business days with unique offerings including custom shapes, custom sizes, and custom quantities.

We wanted to approach the labels category from a different angle to other converters. We wanted to offer outdoor durability on uncoated stock – and the Tau UV inks provide a slight raise which all our customers love, and this is a clear point of difference from using toner based or other UV inkjet technologies.

When it comes to investing in the best equipment it has been shown some new technology has not been tested or might negatively affect customers such as when cutting leaves white edges on labels or scores backing paper. However, some technologies which have been tested really help with satisfaction such as the increased durability of ink outdoors from Durst inks.

We have also introduced white ink, which is a very solid white ink, and the benefit is it does not require lamination. Compared to toner-based machines, the Durst Tau delivers no variance from page to page which also assists with the cutting aspect

We are looking forward to Drupa this year as is it forces the manufacturers to innovate and bring something new to these shows. Without them these innovations would be a lot slower to hit the market.

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LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

In for the long haul

Steve Bonanno Head of Product - Labels & Packaging CMYKhub

F

or CMYKhub, 2023 was a huge learning experience as we ventured into the roll label market for the first time. As a trade printer, we relied on advice from our partners that this was a space we needed to be in. Most of our resellers are on-demand printers who can’t wait weeks for product from outsource suppliers, so we took heed of their requests and boldly invested in the category.

Launching in May 2023, we took our time to introduce a small range of stocks and begun with a modest die library with a mix of common shapes and sizes.

Refining our production and creating efficiencies that came with the recruitment of the experienced, Dean Hill (formerly of Action Labels), we were able to create more attractive pricing.

By October, we saw rapid growth month on month right into the Christmas period, whilst introducing more stocks and our die library expanding daily.

The packaging segment is not something CMYKhub has intentionally sought to delve too deeply into, however, like labels our partners have identified it as a growth category. We have always had some of the production capability, but over the past five years we have seen a steady increase in quote requests for flat sheet printing where our reseller engages finishing houses to complete the order. With this growth we have invested in wide format and small format digital cutting capability, along with high-speed rotary die-cutting to support our old cylinder die-cutting.

For 2024 we see continued growth within the markets we have mentioned and huge opportunity for brand management companies like designers and agencies to re-engage with printers for labels and packaging. We have been pleasantly surprised where many of our orders have

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come from so far in this category, where these creative businesses have seen the value in providing the finished product to their client. This tells us that there is fantastic margin in labels and packaging.

We also see a great opportunity for ecommerce labels, our keyword search data indicates that labels and stickers now rank higher than business cards (CMYKhub’s highest selling product) for average monthly searches. We have identified and consulted European businesses catering for these short-run, high volume daily orders and matched our production capability with theirs.

“We can’t wait to share our new headquarters with our partners and suppliers later this year. This will be the largest single investment we have made in the business and feel it’s a strong statement that we are here to support the industry for the long haul.”

Further consolidation, mergers, and acquisitions of existing businesses within Australia are likely to continue next year.

General printers are steadily venturing into the pressure sensitive label market either via individual investment in equipment to cater for the label market or strengthening their partnerships with their trade partners such as CMYKhub who have heavily invested in the best equipment in the market to offer true

trade pricing to their established and valued resellers.

We’ve experienced rapid growth in sales as well as our die-library. Dies often more expensive than the production cost of some orders we produce, given many orders are as few as 500 labels. We identified even before we launched using our rotary die-cutting that we’ll need a digital cutting solution. We also knew that our partners are fantastic at up selling the value of bling! We have seen them embrace Scodix, Metal and Spot UV throughout our offset and digital sheet-fed business.

When we heard ABG International were going to ‘Frankenstein’ their laser cutting and embellishment unit to display LabelExpo in Brussels we knew we had to have our name on it. This world first combination of the DigiLase Laser cutting and DigjiJet digital varnish and foiling embellishments offering our valued customers embellishments for labels that you normally only see in the high-end Wine & Spirits and Personal Care markets normally incurring high added tooling costs. This is not the case with our new technology where embellishments are created digitally on a fully automated finishing machine in runs as small as 5001000 labels to a broader range of end users and markets to enhance their packaging.

We can’t wait to share our new headquarters with our partners and suppliers later this year. This will be the largest single investment we have made in the business and feel it’s a strong statement that we are here to support the industry for the long haul. The new site allows for further growth of labels and packaging along with departments we haven’t even considered yet. We are buoyed by the early success of labels, and we feel that our trade partners are already diversifying to meet the requirements of Australian packaging.

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LABELS Australia’s largest & most trusted trade printer is now offering labels

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LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

Leading the technology charge Mark Daws Director - Labels & Packaging ANZ Currie Group

T

he effect of Covid had tremendous impact on label and packaging converters and many of our customers had multiple record sales months throughout the pandemic due to increased consumer demand for packaged goods. While 2023 showed signs of the industry re-setting, the demand still proved to be above pre-pandemic levels.

For Currie Group, the flow through resulted in our most successful FY in sales of equipment into the label and packaging space, particularly in Australia. The recent increase in cost of living coupled with climbing interest rates have resulted in more discretionary consumer buying, which has certainly impacted converters towards the back end of last year.

customers and are high on the agenda when considering technology requirements. The emphasis has shifted to technology that demonstrates reduced power consumption and that uses environmentally friendly consumables and ecologically considerate materials.

So, the tables are turning on how to lead the sales process, giving digital printing an even bigger competitive advantage.

2023 was another exciting year for Currie Group, as we travelled overseas to meet with international industry leaders at both Dscoop Edge and HP Indigo VIP events.

We’ve been front and centre to witness the release of emergent new technology in the digital printing space and come together to share in the collaborative spirit that is the strength of our tight knit global community.

Bringing our customers along to these major industry events helped forge new alliances for all attendees and we all left inspired by the moving keynote address

by Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson at Dscoop.

In 2023, our business also announced key partnerships with Canon Production Printing Australia, B&R Moll, and JetFX, whilst further strengthening ties with HP Indigo and AB Graphic International with new strategic ideas for collaboration.

The V12 launch certainly created a buzz and we look forward to introducing this technology into the local market in 2024.

Outside of this, the main takeaway from the expo was the focus on digital converting – more automation. Digital embellishments and laser die-cutting have come a long way since their inception. We’ll see a transition towards this as the technology continues its evolution.

With important topics such as sustainable packaging and environmental stewardship being top of mind for us all both personally and professionally, we have seen the industry discourse altered by new and compelling narratives. Sustainability discussions led by global leaders have now filtered down into the everyday discussions we are having with our

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Events such as Labelexpo 2023 ushered in the launch of the game-changing HP Indigo V12 platform, which has crossed the boundaries of digital versus flexo, by offering fully digital print options that have the potential to replace two or three conventional flexo presses.

Sales of our technology offering have been strong, which is an indication that the industry is positive, particularly in Australia. High interest rates and the impact of Covid continue to buffer our New Zealand partners, however signs of resurgence are strong. Converters continue to invest in the latest and best-inclass technology. We will no doubt continue to see our industry consolidate, whilst many print service providers will look for new entries in labels & packaging, particularly labels and flexible packaging applications. Our industry is resilient, adaptive and will no doubt continue to be a leader in technology adoption.

In conjunction with AB Graphic Int. we are excited to announce ABG By Appointment

in our Melbourne showroom on 5-7 March.

Latest platforms in the Digicon and SRI range will be on hand, along with industry experts and partners. The ever-successful Dscoop Indianapolis will take place in late March, followed by Drupa 2024, a large focus for our business.

We are anticipating a strong number of attendees from the labels & packaging space this year at Drupa. With the decline in commercial printing globally, many machine manufacturers are aiming to penetrate the packaging space, so expect to see new platform releases. Our key vendors such as HP Indigo will showcase a range of updates, with a key focus on the recently released HP Indigo V12 and HP Indigo 200K digital presses, with new concepts from AB Graphic, Karlville and OMET also being announced at Drupa.

Lookout for planned localised events during 2024 both in the lead up and post the show, including VIP Events in Singapore and of course we will have Labelexpo Chicago taking place in 2024.

A very active year ahead for our teams and industry.

We will see a strong focus on the new HP Indigo V12 as it hits our shores, along with the HP Indigo 200K for flexible packaging/ label applications of which the first installation will be announced soon. Our industry leading HP Indigo 6K will continue to thrive, with more than 10 units installed in the last 12 months and more to follow.

Digital embellishments and laser diecutting continues to be embraced by our local industry, so expect more on these also.

The ever-changing industry excites us!

New start-up sites are coming soon, technology revolutions will hit our shores.

For me, it’s the challenge of keeping up the pace, to ensure our customers have the best-in-class solutions and services. After all, our success can only ever be measured by theirs.

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LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

Innovation to the fore

Matt Ashman Managing Director Durst Oceania

I

n 2023, Durst had a fantastic year locally and globally – sales were strong across the board with labels and flexible packaging a standout category.

We noticed a number of key trends including the popularity of our hybrid solution with our global business partner Omet at Labelexpo as well as the trend of commercial printers entering the labels and packaging category, and in some instances labels and packaging companies crossing back over into commercial printing.

Label converters are demanding for more integration and at Durst we are looking to be able to deliver a less confused go-to-market strategy in 2024 with our hybrid solutions. Local converters are always looking to add inkjet to their portfolio as this is the key sector that requires a hybrid solution.

Some converters work with an inline or nearline solution, but the high production dyed-in-the-wool label converters require a hybrid solution.

Durst has always had strong relationships with converter manufacturers, especially Omet for hybrid solutions, however we identified the need to streamline the go-to-market strategy globally. At Labelexpo in Brussels, it was confirmed that Durst and Omet hybrid solutions would be re-sold by Durst subsidiaries in every region including Australia and New Zealand and the entire Oceania region. We are not seeing to criticise the great job that the existing Omet distributors have done and will continue to do in the local market.

But the good news is that Durst Oceania can now sell the X-Jet – as well as new and exciting products that will be unveiled at Drupa in May and June – as full hybrid solutions with full Durst integration.

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The benefit for traditional label converters is they’ve always worked with hybrid solutions – a complete line will consist of an unwinder, a pretreatment maybe posttreatment, maybe a flexo unit, maybe an embellishment unit and then right to the end with a converting unit slitting and finishing the label. With the Omet hybrid solution, we can drop in a Durst high speed inkjet solution within that mix, and then the label converters can use it with the inkjet or without the inkjet as they can bypass inkjet and have the option to use some of the flexo stations as the whole unit is upgradeable. If they have two pre-flexo and three postflexo units, they can use it as just a standalone flexo station or a hybrid solution. Therefore, it gives them the comfort to know what they know with the bonus of having the latest inkjet technology.

We have also seen a continuous trend with the demarcations to be broken down between commercial print, large format print, label converting and packaging. If you’ve got a machine that can print you’ve got a machine that can deliver solutions.

Run lengths are compressing, but the volumes are still there. We have noticed that customers or end users want them to be delivered in smaller batches. We have customers now printing thin card on the

Durst’s Matt Ashman celebrates the partnership and Omet’s 60th birthday with Claudio Piretta on the Omet stand at Labelexpo in Brussels last year

label press – not just self-adhesive – for actual packaging purposes, as well as many other cross- fertilisation printing techniques. With the Durst RSC-E solution – you have an immediate turnkey solution.

You can buy a laser finisher and a business that has never actually produced labels before can produce high quality labels in-house straight away and satisfy a need that their customers have – creating a one stop shop. What is also interesting – We have also started to see label converters, who have been exposed to the Durst wide format technology saying to us – ‘Hey, maybe I can do this as well’. So wide format is now not only a possible threat to the traditional label converters, it’s also an opportunity.

Labelexpo 2023 was a digital inkjet show.

Everybody was talking about digital inkjet because of the robustness of the machines and because the ease of use. Digital inkjet also delivers a massive reduction in wastage as need to produce products in the most sustainable way. We are reducing the energy consumption of the machines by being the first inkjet producer to introduce LED curing delivering a massive reduction in the power consumption of the press. We’re also removing all the TCOs from our chemistry so that our inks will be the most sustainable and most environmentally friendly they can be while remaining best in class and without compromising on performance.

Durst is continuing its investment in the labels and packaging category. We are one company who are growing that sector in many different directions. There is some incredible technology to be announced within this category and across the portfolio and we look forward to showing label converters the next stage in the evolution of the Durst labels and packaging at Drupa later this year.

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LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

Embracing innovation and collaboration Nina Nguyen CEO and Founder PAKKO

T

he labels and packaging industry in Australia experienced remarkable growth in 2023, mainly driven by technological advancements, a notable shift towards digital production, increased automation, and a heightened focus on sustainable practices.

However, the industry also faced significant challenges, including skilled labour shortages, inflation, and evolving customer demands. These challenges prompted many business leaders to revise their strategies, focusing on operational efficiency and sustainability.

Sustainability emerged as a key topic throughout 2023, many businesses adopted practices aimed at reducing waste, using energy efficiently, and optimising resource allocation. What I also noticed was a trend towards businesses reshoring to local production, as cost and timelines were becoming a concern.

Despite these challenges, I think the industry demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in a dynamic market environment.

Looking back at 2023 we focused heavily on our technology piece combining efficiency, innovation, and sustainability, aiming to reshape the packaging industry.

We introduced a new tool called the “ES” (Estimating System), enabling customers to quickly receive quotes directly through our website in 30 seconds, delivered to their email inbox. We also developed our own chatbot “Vira,” designed in-house to deeply understand all aspects of Pakko’s operations and processes.

One of the most interesting trends in 2023 was the significant shift towards sustainability. It wasn’t just about using eco-friendly materials it was also the approach to implementing sustainable practices. For us, we saw the rapid adoption of biodegradable packaging and recyclable materials. What made this

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interesting was how fast it scaled and the adoption of it across all industry/ sectors, not just labels and packaging.

Based on the trends and developments in 2023, my key predictions for 2024 are: •

•

•

•

•

•

Continued growth in digital production: A shift towards digital production is likely to continue. There will need to be flexibility in design and production and the ability to quickly adapt to market changes and consumer demands.

Increased automation: Enhancing operational efficiency, reducing manual errors, and shortening production timelines.

Sustainability: Companies will likely innovate further in developing environmentally friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable materials and processes that minimise waste and energy consumption.

Reshoring of production: There might be an increased trend towards local production or reshoring, as companies seek to mitigate supply chain risks.

Challenges in skilled labour: This could lead to increased investment in training and development, as well as the exploration of new technologies to offset labour shortages.

Technology advancement: In areas like digital printing, smart packaging and sustainable materials.

This year, Pakko’s primary focus is on further developing strategic partnerships within our supply chains and collaborating with global partners. We aim to diversify our product offerings and extend our market presence into new regions. We’re also going to keep improving our technology, like trying out new methods and tools. This includes looking into areas such as smart packaging that uses IoT technology and packaging specifically for online businesses. We’re also using data

analysis to better understand what’s happening in the market and what our customers want to create new products and how to market them.

This year, we’ll also be promoting a lot on our advancements in technology and efficiency. I’ll be highlighting our ability to deliver packaging solutions faster and more cost-effectively, an essential aspect in the face of rising inflation and increased cost-consciousness among businesses.

Our commitment to sustainable, ecofriendly packaging will also be a key part of our messaging.

To foster growth and improvement in the next 12 months, I believe the labels and packaging industry should focus on several key strategies: •

•

•

•

Embrace digital transformation: Continuously invest in and adopt digital technologies for production.

This includes digital printing, automation of workflows, and integration of software solutions for design and manufacturing. Digital transformation can increase efficiency and allow for greater customisation and flexibility in production.

Innovate in sustainable practices: Given the increasing consumer and regulatory emphasis on sustainability, the industry should focus on developing and using environmentally friendly materials, such as biodegradable or recyclable packaging.

Focus on customer-centric innovation: Stay attuned to changing customer needs and preferences. This includes offering personalised and customisable packaging options and being responsive to feedback and market demands.

Build strategic partnerships: Collaborate with technology providers, material suppliers, and other stakeholders to drive innovation and efficiency in the industry.

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Opportunity awaits Brenton King Sales Manager Australasia Hybrid Software

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or Hybrid Software, 2024 will see the rollout of our solutions to some of the most prominent vendors in the Australian labels and packaging market.

It will be an excellent opportunity for everyone to take advantage of our solutions. Although you may not be a direct customer, either through our OEM partners or customers, Hybrid Software will be driving the packages we see on shelf every day.

Hybrid Software Group is uniquely placed in the market. Our OEM business through Global Graphics Software gives us a deep understanding of the software and electronics that drive digital presses, and the challenges front-end users face to create complex graphics and S&R those graphics to get those files on the factory floor. 2023 was our first full year under the Hybrid Software Group, and the acquisition of iC3D, Color Logic GmbH, and Quadraxis gave us an exciting new direction for the company, all of which was showcased at Labelexpo in Brussels.

Labelexpo was the first time Hybrid Software was able to showcase a fully integrated workflow solution from Web to Print via Infigo, MIS with our Premium MIS partners CERM, prepress automation utilising Hybrid Software CLOUDFLOW; the product printed on HP Indigo 6K and finished on AB Graphic’s DigiJet. All these systems were connected to create a seamless connection, allowing a user to make a customer beer can via a website; apart from operators on the machines, the job not being touched again until it was delivered to the customer.

Following on from Labelexpo, drupa has always been the standout show for the printing industry. Having missed out on 2020, this year’s drupa will continue to be an important show for both vendors and customers. For Hybrid Software, drupa holds a special place in our CEO Guido Van

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der Schueren’s heart as it will be his 11th drupa showcasing innovative labels and packaging solutions.

The biggest trend facing this category continues to be the migration from traditional flexo or offset to a hybrid environment that includes digital output.

Digital presses have been around for a long time but what is surprising is the choice and applications these days.

Locally in this market, we have seen the first installations of digital presses from new vendors and increased application for substrates of digital presses. However, within the flexibles, corrugated, paper and metal categories - flexo and offset aren’t going anywhere. Still, companies need to be agile and adjust to market trends, and only by having a hybrid environment can they keep up with those trends.

The key product for Hybrid Software this year will be CLOUDFLOW – our enterprise workflow solution. It has been a worldwide success for years and very successful in the higher to mid-range converters. 2024 brings our Discovery version aimed at bringing the same efficiencies that larger companies benefit from to the mid to smaller market.

Colour management is also a major priority this year as the move to digital means customers must move away from traditional colour management best practices to a standardised model. Doing press checks on a digital device is a recipe for failure and wasted time on repeats.

This year I expect the labels and packaging industry will continue to do the same thing it has been doing for years – innovate, adapt, and thrive. I’m excited not only by the innovative products and solutions Hybrid Software has but also by being continuously amazed at what other vendors can achieve. Digital finishing is one of the last hurdles that has held back some innovative products, as we needed

to use analogue dies or knives. Removing those barriers will lead to more innovative variable designs and greater efficiency on the factory floor.

I am very passionate about making sure the label and packaging industry is thriving not only today but for years to come, and we can only do that by bringing younger talent and inspiring them to be part of the industry. We need to embrace and train apprentices and understand that the same processes and procedures that traditionally have been in place don’t always resonate with younger apprentices.

Industrial automation, web2print innovation, and integration are part of everyday life, and as stakeholders in the labels and packaging industry, we need to embrace this in our workplace.

I see 2024 having many of the same challenges as previous years – economic and political conditions worldwide will remain challenging, affecting consumer and business behaviour. Businesses will always go through peaks and troughs.

The positive news is that these economic conditions will turn around, and companies with that stable foundation of efficient processes will strive when things turn around.

There are always concerns to consider. You just have to look at the news every night or look at inflation figures to see things are challenging at times, but without challenges, there is never the opportunity to grow and be more successful. I’m sure there will be challenging times this year for some companies, and I wish success to all.

As long as the population grows, so will the label and packaging industry. How did the sector perform last year? We grew.

Yes, there is consolidation and offshoring, but as an industry we grew and we will continue to and it is exciting to be part of that growth.

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Cautiously optimistic Philippe Voet CEO Etivoet President FINAT

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his has been a strange kind of recession – not quite officially a recession, but certainly a mild one at least.

Usually in this kind of economic downturn we see people buy cheaper products. But now it seems that consumers are in fact buying fewer products.

There is a lot of uncertainty. One major retailer I spoke to recently said they used

to buy two months’ worth of labels and packaging stock at a time, but now they are ordering half of that.

But the label industry will live through it, as it always does. We must remain optimistic. Look at the last recession, in 2008-2012 – we will recover again.

There are still companies doing good business – those who are more specialised have been less affected. Their orders are

Spotlight on sustainability and innovation Jules Lejeune Managing director FINAT

I

t has not been a good year in Europe.

In the first three quarters of 2023, label stock demand fell at an unprecedented rate of 32.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2022.

Around this average, paper roll demand declined by almost 34 per cent, while filmic rolls recorded a decrease of nearly 29 per cent.

The decline matches the downturn in final label demand since Q4 2022 as reported in the latest FINAT RADAR survey released in October. The last four quarters of continued decline come after a period of severe volatility,

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offsetting excessive growth numbers recorded just before and during the pandemic.

Supply chain disruption and paper shortages in 2022 led converters to stockpile materials, and then the market went into a mild recession, so destocking has taken longer than expected.

According to AWA, which compiles the FINAT RADAR report, there was a glimmer of hope in a slight rise in label stock demand towards the end of the third quarter. Sustainability, innovation, and digitalisation are the key factors influencing the European label market.

not down, but customers’ habits have changed: they are making smaller orders but more frequently.

It is difficult to predict when things will improve, as the macroeconomic situation is so volatile and uncertain.

But, whenever it comes, there will be a good period that follows the bad. This is part of entrepreneurship – even in difficult times, you must remain positive about the future.

Labelexpo Europe 2023, for example, provided cause for optimism. It was a very good show, and that is always a confidence booster and demonstrates the optimism the industry has for the future.

It helps to get together as an industry and see how everyone is doing. There were lots of companies looking to invest in new technology.

Automation has made huge strides since the last show and with this comes more digitalisation and more digital presses being installed.

The data compiled by AWA show slight improvements in the market towards the end of Q3, so hopefully things will continue to improve. But much depends on the macroeconomic situation: what happens to inflation rates and consumer demand, for example. The label industry is very closely linked to the economy and is not an exception in terms of the direction of volumes and demand in many sectors.

There remains a lagging effect from the pandemic, as well as the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Palestine. The economic prospects for 2024 are not great, which might feed through to our industry. On the other hand, economic policy has perhaps helped to keep the recession under control. Governments’ pockets are empty after Covid, which reduces their possibilities to intervene.

A key question is whether economic concerns will impact the European Green Deal and other sustainability initiatives.

Sustainability is a driver of innovation in our industry, as we need to adapt to the rules and regulations. Brand owner requirements are becoming stricter, but that doesn’t always feed through to higher prices for converters.

The whole world is struggling with a shortage of qualified employees. This drives the trend towards digitalisation and automation. AI will also affect how the industry operates.

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Adopting a greener mindset Iban Cid CEO Germark

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023 has been a hard year, mainly because of rising interest rates.

Consumers are spending less money in the shops. Orders from our customers are down: less so in labels – though that market too has been affected – but particularly in our applicator machinery division.

During Labelexpo Europe 2023 I spoke to many converter colleagues from around the continent and everyone was saying the

same thing: it hasn’t been a good year, and we don’t know how much longer it will continue. Until the high interest rates come down, the outlook for the label industry won’t improve.

As a label converter, the major trend is environmental sustainability. It’s definitely the key focus. Previously, end users were reluctant to pay more for sustainable products – nowadays they realise these products are more expensive

Driving growth through diversification Harveer Sahni Chairman Weldon Celloplast

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he Indian label industry consistently maintains strong double-digit growth. This was the case even during the pandemic and in the aftermath.

have been suffering. There has been a huge influx of new label printing companies, including many wide web offset printers, entering the market.

Competition is fierce.

One of the key drivers is India’s population of 1.4 billion and consumers’ increasing purchasing power. A small rise in sales of consumer goods results in a huge rise in label production volumes.

Flexo now dominates in the local market, having displaced letterpress. Digital sales are rising, though hybrid machines have not yet been embraced by local converters.

So the market has been growing, but on the other hand converter margins

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Local manufacturing has come on leaps and bounds, as evidenced by the high number of Indian press manufacturers at

and they are willing to pay extra, particularly in high-end markets such as cosmetics, which is one of our main areas of focus.

One of the key things for our business in 2024 will be new projects. One is nothing to do with labels, but something we can print roll-to-roll which is the result of three years of research and development. It’s a new client and a new market for us.

One of the biggest threats to label converters is direct-to-container printing.

It’s a huge threat. Therefore, diversification is important. In-mold labels is another area we are looking at.

We are also beginning a new linerless project for prime labels in the automotive sector, for car oils and lubricants.

Linerless labels are becoming more popular because you use less than 50 per cent of the material that you would otherwise need. We have tested the automatic application of these labels and the technology works.

We offer our clients a free upgrade of their application lines, so they can test the process and see the results for themselves.

Labelexpo India 2022. In earlier editions of the show, the press manufacturers who exhibited were all from the US and Europe.

This time they were all Indian manufacturers, producing modular, servo-driven machines with automatic registration systems. It demonstrated the advances made by local manufacturers.

Digital presses have been entering the market and sales will continue to rise. The presses produced by local manufacturers such as Multitec and UV Graphic Technologies are getting wider, as converters seek to diversify into new types of production.

Label converters in India are becoming package printing companies – many have now begun to produce shrink sleeves, in-mold labels, folding cartons, and other forms of packaging. This diversification will continue and is also encouraged by the high numbers of wide web companies moving into the label sector.

The Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ campaign has successfully encouraged a move away from imports and towards local manufacturing. There is strong growth in sales of consumer products, and packaging for e-commerce continues to grow rapidly.

The large brands are driving the move towards sustainability. They are increasingly demanding of local converters.

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LABELS & PACKAGING LEADERS FORUM

Automation to accelerate

Uffe Nielsen CEO GM

2

023 was a rough year for label converters. According to the Nordic Label Association, in Q1 and Q2 there was a 30 per cent decrease in demand.

From a supplier point of view, there are fewer major converters to sell to, because of all the M&A activity. But this has had an interesting effect: this year we have been selling to multiple start-up converters – often founded by people ‘left over’ following a merger or acquisition.

We’ve managed to come through a tough year thanks to having multiple business areas: 40 per cent is OEM production – we built full web transport equipment for some of the major digital press manufacturers; 40 per cent is the label market; 20 per cent is specialty applications. This latter area has risen from five per cent just over the past year.

We have seen a huge increase in demand for specialty printing applications such as printed electronics, RFID and track & trace, for example. We have set up a new webpage, gmfunctionals.com, dedicated to this area. We also build automated industrial equipment for non-label applications, such as passport printing.

We specialise in automating complex production processes, which is currently much in demand. So, if one area of the

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business dips, we can fill up production with one of the others. RFID label machinery is one which had been quiet until just this year: the desire for traceability has increased.

Another area of growth is converting machines for multilayer labels. We have experience in this area, and it is growing thanks to requirements for multiple languages on certain labels. This type of production used to be dominated by flexo but we see many more companies nowadays wanting to produce them digitally. The 1,200 DPI print resolution now achievable by inkjet has narrowed the gap in what can be done on a multilayer label compared to a booklet label.

The US market has been growing for us, but Europe is lagging behind. The US has been more stable while in Europe it has been a turbulent year in terms of demand and shifting politics. We have lost a lot of our eastern European business due to the war in Ukraine. It can be hard even for Polish converters near the Ukraine border to get credit for financial investment.

Sometimes we step in and do direct financing with trusted clients, which isn’t something we’ve had to do before. We always make the effort to support our clients, no matter the situation on the ground. We even installed a converting

line in Israel recently, using a local engineer and remote monitoring.

I think we will see conventional screen be replaced by digital screen technology.

High-resolution high-speed inkjet will also replace some conventional embellishments.

You can replicate much of the result while significantly reducing the complexity of the work. The increase in inkjet’s speed and quality is impacting its role in label production. Then it is up to us and other manufacturers to build converting equipment which can match those speeds – ours is currently the fastest on the market.

There is also disruption happening in the digital toner market. Digital toner presses were often restricted to 30m/min, but can now achieve 1,200 DPI at 40m/min.

Economical toner presses from companies such as Mark Andy and Konica Minolta have eaten into the market.

Automation is a key trend. We see a lot of home-grown MIS systems built by clients. Often they will ask us: ‘We know you can connect to the major MIS brands, but can your machine connect to ours?’ This kind of automation and connectivity is a major step forward. Converters are looking for equipment that can adapt to their production environment and communicate with the rest of their systems.

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Maximising efficiencies in a competitive landscape

Nick Vindel International Sales Director Heaford

2

023 has been a good year. There are always converters who need plate mounters, and we sell all around the world. Australasia, Asia, and some parts of Europe have been a little slower – particularly in the wide web market; Latin America has also seen a slight downturn in some countries. But often when sales in one region or country fall, they rise somewhere else.

Asia is often a challenge in terms of pricing.

There is more price competition from Chinese manufacturers. However, we have noticed that converters from developing markets increasingly understand that they need to get things right first time: if you reduce waste, you reduce costs. Because the market in general is becoming more competitive, they need to be quick to maximise efficiency.

Automation is the key trend. Many converters say it is harder to recruit operators, so they want their equipment to be more automated and as simple to train on and operate as possible. Most of the mounters sold nowadays, particularly on the flexibles market, include some level of automation.

2024 will be an interesting year, particularly because of Drupa. It’s the world’s biggest print show and there hasn’t been one for eight years. In the wide web market, a lot more companies are investigating digital technology.

In some countries in Africa, for example, converters are beginning to invest in ancillary equipment. We have received orders from Kenya, which has traditionally been a very pricesensitive market.

“2024 will be an interesting year, particularly because of Drupa. It’s the world’s biggest print show and there hasn’t been one for eight years.”

Lead times on presses are high at the moment, and this can affect ancillary equipment such as ours. If a converter has to wait 12 months for a press, it will delay investment in the mounter.

Drupa will be a good way of gauging the market, for wide web in particular. These shows are good barometers. It was the same at Labelexpo Europe 2023: we had a good show and sold machines, but we

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noticed the lack of visitors from some regions due to geopolitical reasons.

They also make up a good number of visitors in the wide web market, so that might affect Drupa. Companies might also delay machinery investments until after the show, so the wide web market could be slow until then.

We think gravure will continue to decline.

Job runs are getting smaller, so flexo has the advantage there, and its improvement in quality along with changes in environmental policies in some regions in recent years has also had an impact on gravure.

The much higher production volumes in the corrugated market will continue.

There is a recent trend towards using more colours in that market, as well as shorter job runs, which necessitates more mounters.

Another trend which will continue is the younger age profile of our customers. There has been a generation shift in leadership at many converters. This requires a change in strategy from a sales point of view.

We now take LinkedIn and Instagram, for example, much more seriously than we used to, because of this shifting age profile.

The younger generation are keener on automation and new technology.

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Agility and the need for speed in 2024

Christian Menegon Business Development Manager, HP Indigo

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ales have recovered after the fall during the pandemic. Asia is a particularly good market for us at the moment. Last year, towards the end of the pandemic, was a great year for us and 2023 seems to be around the same level – so better than pre-Covid, but similar to last year. So, although the label market has been either flat or in decline this year, digital still performed well.

“Our new V12 and 200K presses, launched at Labelexpo Europe, have been well received by the market, and these will help bring us more growth.”

Our new V12 and 200K presses, launched at Labelexpo Europe, have been well received by the market, and these will help bring us more growth. Running at 120m/ min and bringing digital benefits such as fast set-up and lower waste, the V12 can profitably replace flexo for a certain volume of jobs. Not every converter has the volume of jobs needed to run the machine efficiently, so sales will be gradual initially.

The 200K is a viable option for label converters not only because it allows them to diversify into certain flexible packaging applications, sleeves, in-mold labels and other products, but also because if you split the roll in two, the wider web width means you are essentially

printing two rolls at the same time. The wider machine gives a bigger throughput and therefore, for some jobs, it is not far from the V12 in terms of productivity.

Such is the agility and speed of the V12, its launch will stimulate other technology providers to respond with similar agility.

The press is only one part of the equation, so the converter must ensure there is no bottleneck caused by other steps in the job – particularly in areas such as workflow and converting.

One can’t predict what will happen with the economy. Of course, in difficult times, it is not easy for a converter to sign a cheque for a new machine. But the difficult times also help to make the case for digital.

As we emerged from Covid there was the energy crisis caused by, among other things, the war in Ukraine. But it was interesting that the usage of HP Indigo presses by our clients was not dramatically affected.

It’s the perfect tool not only for the label converter, in terms of optimising production, quicker turnarounds and reducing waste, but the benefits also transfer to the converter’s customers, the brands. The whole value chain can be positively impacted by the agility brought by digital printing.

The steps that converters could take to remain profitable when energy prices were spiking – reduce waste, increase efficiency – were facilitated by digital technology.

Drupa will be an interesting show.

Automation will be a key theme, not just in printing, but in workflow and converting too.

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Connectivity, efficiency, and waste reduction key trends

Andy Thomas Strategic Director, Labelexpo Global Series

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ne of the key developments at Labelexpo Europe 2023 was that mid-web flexo presses – which used to be seen as quite specialist – have become a mainstream technology for label converters. The show was a flexo bonanza. Nilpeter sold multiple wider FA-26 machines, as did Lombardi with its 670mm (26in) Invicta machine.

The arrival of private equity and the formation of bigger label and package printing groups means converters have more resources to invest in this higherspecification machinery. The wider format enables the printing of not only flexible packaging but also in-mold labels, shrink sleeves, and other packaging products which require wider web widths to avoid waste with larger packaging formats.

These wider presses really allow label converters to enter these new markets.

Another major trend seen at Labelexpo Europe is adding digital modules to new or existing conventional presses, creating new types of hybrid printing, and converting systems. Converters are often upgrading legacy flexo presses with digital modules rather than selling them on.

In both digital and flexo we are seeing improvements in automation, efficiency and waste reduction and integration into

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the wider factory workflow. We have reached something of a technology plateau phase in both inkjet and flexography, so now the emphasis is on how to integrate and automate it and how to reskill operators.

“As label converters continue to focus on flexible packaging, we will see a continued trend towards ‘technical paper’-based packaging as a replacement for non-recyclable multi-layer plastic films.”

The focus on sustainability will continue to evolve. Rather than just looking at using recyclable or recycled materials, for example, there is a new focus on how the label can help the container to be recovered – for example the adhesive releasing cleanly from PET and glass bottles. It’s a more holistic view.

Look out for growth in linerless labels.

One of the most interesting material

developments at Labelexpo Europe was Avery Dennison’s linerless labels for prime label applications. It could be a gamechanger, but the challenge is to convince end users to upgrade their application lines.

As label converters continue to focus on flexible packaging, we will see a continued trend towards ‘technical paper’-based packaging as a replacement for nonrecyclable multi-layer plastic films.

At Labelexpo we have already seen Xeikon with its Titon toner and Screen with waterbased inkjet focusing on these applications.

We will also see the launch of new waterbased inkjet presses for filmic flexible packaging, along with a move to recyclable mono-material film technology.

We will increasingly see blockchain and track and trace technology used by converters. New EU legislation requires every product to have a unique digital identity. But who is allocating this digital identity, and how does the converter access the information? Various vendors, such as Avery Dennison and Graphimecc, are setting up their own systems targeted specifically at label converters, as we saw at Labelexpo. The converter will play a key part in the process, and it provides a massive opportunity for a whole new business area.

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Outside the box thinking

Jenny Uvimolchai General Marketing Manager Thai KK

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t has been a pretty challenging year.

The global economy has not been doing well, and there has been a decrease in consumer demand. Excess stock bought by converters during the pandemic is still working its way through the system. Therefore, the market has been slow, but we are hopeful that it will pick up by the second quarter of next year.

particularly for sustainable materials with the right certifications. During Covid and in the aftermath, many US converters – especially on the West Coast – began approaching us as they were unable to source materials. Southeast Asia is a freetrade hub, and many countries have freetrade agreements with Thailand, where we are based, including the US. This has meant our export business has been increasing.

Our strategy to combat these challenges has been to develop new products to attract different kinds of customers. We have had success in the Asian market this year by offering competitive prices. We expanded into hotmelt adhesives, which have proved a popular item. And we have increased our focus on sustainable products. At Labelexpo Southeast Asia this year, we launched materials for linerless labelling and water-soluble labels.

We think the first two quarters will still be challenging, as global economic issues continue, but after that we hope that market conditions will improve.

We have also seen success in our materials for digital printing and have created a business sub-unit focused on materials for print-on-demand labels.

During the pandemic, we noticed that our customers’ demands were shifting many of them were looking for smaller volumes and printing labels on demand. We saw an opportunity to expand into this segment.

Another change since the pandemic has been huge growth for us in the US market,

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Many major brands in Thailand have committed to sustainability initiatives and are changing their packaging and labels to eco-friendly options. Linerless is one major trend and we think there will be lots of growth particularly in the food and beverage sector.

As well as the label industry, we also supply the food packaging sector with paper cups and boxes. We are seeing a lot of demand in this sector for print-ondemand labels. And surprisingly, even though demand for labels has been dropping, the opposite is true for food packaging materials.

We also supply these products in compostable options. Around half of our food packaging materials sales have shifted

towards compostable materials, and we think our label business will go the same way.

Currently, compostable materials for label applications make up 15 per cent of our label business, and we think this will rise to 20-25 per cent in 2024.

Digital demand will continue to grow, not just from our US customers but also in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Consumer behaviour is changing and digital is benefitting. Our customers are printing shorter runs and want the flexibility to order smaller quantities so they can change their products and packaging design depending on current trends.

We export 30 per cent of production, to the US, Australia, and Asian countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, as well as some to Japan.

Following the increased interest from US converters, we are now looking to grow in the European market and will exhibit at the next Labelexpo Europe for the first time.

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Attracting the next generation of talent

Linnea Kean President TLMI

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he same macro-economic factors – rising interest rates, high inflation – are impacting everywhere.

I attended my first L9 meeting at Labelexpo Europe, and all the regional associations around the world had a similar presentation. Even if the numbers weren’t the same, directionally they were similar.

It has been an interesting year for everyone in the supply chain. As we came off the high spike in demand caused by Covid, and all the stockpiling of materials, we were met with inflation and high interest rates. It has been difficult for converters to adapt to the post-Covid norm and underlying trends. The destocking phase has lasted longer than expected as inventories have been depleted throughout the value chain.

There has been talk of recession, and when demand might pick up again.

If you look at the latest figures from AWA and TLMI, there was a slight uptick in Q3 compared to Q2. But on average we are at pre-pandemic numbers – similar to 2018 and early 2019 – in terms of industry consumption.

Alan Beaulieu, an economist who spoke at the TLMI Annual Meeting, believes there will be a recession, but a ‘micro’ one – specific to particular sectors. This makes it hard for converters to predict and manage

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the situation – their business outlook will depend on the specific markets they serve.

Consumer behaviour has been shifting as well, adding to the challenge.

The automotive sector is still affected by a shortage of semi-conductor chips.

E-commerce is up. End users are bouncing between different formats, trying to enhance their brand and shelf appeal.

So what has historically been a very stable and predictable market – the cycles were known, how they lined up with consumer behaviour and where money was being spent throughout the year – is stabilising but still a bit unpredictable.

One trend that will continue is high M&A activity. Private equity funds have money to invest. The label and packaging market has been one of the highest-performing and most resilient, making it very attractive.

The multiples are reportedly not quite what they were over the past couple of years, but we will continue to see converter consolidation in the North American market.

As an association, TLMI will continue to enhance member value by providing more education in the form of conferences, market reports, webinars, and more, to help converters prepare for the future.

Looking to 2024, much will depend on

macro-economic factors. If the Federal Reserve holds or reduces interest rates that will give more confidence to consumers. Label industry growth might match GDP – somewhere in the low single figures. 2024 is a presidential election year in the US, so it may have an impact too.

Where can growth be found? RFID is one area – retailers including Walmart have mandated the use of RFID labels on certain products. Linerless labels is another, thanks to its sustainability benefits. The EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) sustainable packaging initiative has been adopted by six states so far with more expected to follow. These will all have knock-on effects which will benefit the label industry.

Converters continue to face struggles related to attracting and retaining employees. Many are investing in automation to improve efficiency, manage their costs and workforce.

Workforce is a priority and a strategic focus for TLMI is to attract workers to this industry. Gen Z now makes up 20 percent of the workforce – how do we as an industry adapt to these shifting demographics and provide the opportunity for an exciting career? Many of these topics will be the focus of our annual TLMI Converter Meeting in early March 2024.

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Turning challenges into opportunities

Mike Licata Business Development Director Yupo America

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023 had some challenges, with many label supply chain partners being overstocked with inventory.

The economic struggles over the year created difficulties for some brands as consumers were working to balance their household expenses while faced with much higher costs on essential products.

In some cases, this meant branded products didn’t move as quickly, so there was an increase in the use of private label products in some segments.

The cost-of-living-crisis has changed consumer behaviour, and brands have been conscious to support consumers as well as work towards being more sustainable. Yupo America’s strategy is to continue our support for brands and the market by expanding sustainable products. We feel our future is bright as we work to support the market with sustainable label opportunities.

Sustainability is the key trend. Brands know what is coming, and they are responding. Brands are looking to guidance from the US Plastics Pact, which brings together businesses, not-for-profit organisations, government agencies, and research institutions that work together toward a common vision of a circular economy for plastics, as outlined by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Initiative.

The US Plastics Pact’s adaptation to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Global Commitment Criteria for identifying problematic and unnecessary plastic packaging components has become the playbook for brands and supply chain partners.

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The Pact Activators are leading our industry by taking steps to eliminate various materials including problematic label constructions by 2025. The Pact published a document called ‘The US Plastic Pact’s Problematic and Unnecessary Materials List’. The list frames an entire category called ‘Problematic Label Constructions’ with examples of problematic label materials like paper, PETG, and PVC. The document also indicates that labels should meet APR (Association of Plastic Recyclers) Preferred Guidance.

“Brands who are seeking to improve their sustainability credentials and meet their stated goals are relying on help from material suppliers such as Yupo who are working towards a similar path in meeting sustainability goals.”

Brands who are seeking to improve their sustainability credentials and meet their stated goals are relying on help from material suppliers such as Yupo who are working towards a similar path in meeting sustainability goals.

In 2024, Yupo will commercialise a new line of substrates for labels called CleanSort.

Each of the substrates is designed to be

liberated from the container during the recycling process. In the IML space, we are expanding in-mold labelling options.

These next-generation CleanSort IML technologies are available for various moulding processes and container resins.

We believe CleanSort expands the toolkit for brands seeking sustainability, appearance, and durability.

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PACKAGING TRENDS

Pull away from the pack Though beer packaging can often seem uniform, the industry has seen a swift and innovative evolution, driven by consumer demand, environmental impact and a changing economic climate, as Jono Outred discovers

P

ackaging is one of the most vital components of the beer production process. While focusing on a brewpub model only can be successful for some operations, for the majority of brewers, beer needs to move out of the brewery to reach its audience and that involves packaging and labelling it. The packaging process starts at the tank and ends at the consumer (actually, technically, beyond the consumer when we consider waste streams) and through this process, unforeseen faults can potentially tarnish the product and have irreparable repercussions for brewers.

Thankfully as beer quality has evolved, so has packaging, and in the past 10 years in particular, the craft beer world has seen some sizeable shifts in how beer is presented to consumers. From the bottles and cans themselves to kegs, labels, four or six-pack holders, cartons and everything else, beer packaging has steadily evolved, not least in its approach to sustainability and environmental impact.

For many brewers, packaging plays heavily into their business, not only is it one of the key ways in which a business conveys its brand and identity to consumers, but it’s one of the biggest costs when producing beer. Throw in environmental considerations, logistics, consumer-driven trends and legal requirements, and packaging becomes a large part of the business of beer , and its one that brewers need to get right.

Evolution It may not feel like packaging has shifted too drastically in beer over the past five to 10 years, but just over a decade ago, craft was almost exclusively packaged in brown, glass bottles while cans were reserved for “cheaper” mass-produced beer. This is something of consideration given it was the norm in Australia since the late 70s, meaning almost 40 years passed where not a great deal changed in terms of vessels for craft beer. Of course, there were variations in size and shape, Little Creatures had some of their wares in beefy 500ml bottles, for example, and some breweries put their high-end, special releases into 750ml champagne bottles or “bombers” for a more premium effect – something that has persisted to this day.

44 ProPack.pro February 2024

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PACKAGING TRENDS pack “cube” being the volume of choice for many craft brewers today, all shifted back and forth.

Those changes were driven by a few factors and much of what is considered standard today is still evolving. In some cases, there seems to even be a slight de-evolution, with a few larger breweries playing in the craft realm reverting to the clear glass bottles made famous by Corona, in an effort to emulate a similar thirst-crushing style of beer for Australian consumers. Long considered detrimental to the quality of beer due to light penetration, these bottles are tied closely with nostalgia for many drinkers with brewers tapping into the aesthetic, including Balter and Modus’ Cervezas, Byron Bay Brewery’s Premium Lager and Stone & Wood’s Green Coast Lager to name just a few.

Jessie Jungalwalla, director at craft beverage design and brand development company Craft Instinct, believes bottles may even be making a comeback. “(Over the past five years) we’ve seen the majority of breweries move to cans, which before had been snubbed as ‘lesser than’.

This has also been a delight for designers as we have so much more real estate to tell a story on compared with bottle labels.

But with the Cerveza trend, it looks like some breweries are going back to bottles again, and clear ones no less! I see a move back to bottles on the horizon, which is not as fun for us as designers and isn’t as environmentally friendly as packaging in a can.”

Glass, and clear glass at that, is making somewhat of a comeback as some breweries look to this type of packaging to capture nostalgia in the consumer

Today, craft beer does feel somewhat unified. Cans are the vessel of choice, but how do all the other materials play into what our craft beer looks like? Labels have never been more intricate, environmental issues have never felt more pressing and many consumers choose their beer based off packaging. It’s one thing to keep your beer quality and ranging up to speed in such a turbid market, but decision making around packaging can be just as critical, a constant in the world of craft beer.

Innovation

But quickly, things shifted and in 2012, The Australian Brewery put its beers in cans, possibly the first domestic craft brewer to do so. For many, cans were somewhat of a novelty, with a handful of US brewers canning their beers and shipping them across the country.

Unsurprisingly, these beers weren’t immune to the detrimental effects of travel. At that point, it certainly wasn’t the done thing for Australian craft to be canned and perhaps in an ironic twist, the Rouse Hill brewery was trying to capture

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those consumers who were chasing massproduced canned beers.

It wasn’t until around 2016 that cans became the new norm – Mountain Goat, Pirate Life and CBCo (formerly Colonial Brewing) were early adopters – but among all of that there were other big changes across the industry. The way brewers labelled, consolidated beers into six-packs – cardboard to plastic and now back again to cardboard – and cartons, both in design and beer count, with the now popular 16

Packaging plays a vital role in how a beer gets from tank to consumer and it takes a considerable amount of time and financial investment for brewers – maybe more so than the actual tanks and brew kit themselves. Whether it’s bottles, cans or even just keg, decisions on how a brewery packages their beer can make or break a brewery’s business model.

Throw innovation and product development in the mix and brewers have plenty to consider when it comes to getting beer into consumers’ hands. One such company

February 2024 ProPack.pro 45

PACKAGING TRENDS innovating in the craft beer packaging space is Johnston Packaging. They’ve been in the packaging game for over 50 years and in craft beer they develop an array of products, including the KlippaKan – a product many breweries are now using, developed to reduce plastic waste.

“We developed this product to give the craft beer industry a sustainable choice,” explained their managing director Rodney Johnston. “And once we started to get into the design phase, we realised we had a really good product on our hands, and we can thank the craft beer industry for pushing us to develop this product for them.

“KlippaKan helps breweries brand their products and I think this product helps drive creativity, it offers brewers individualised SKUs and 3D branding.

The biggest benefit is sustainability, but we also have an exceptional local engineer that enables us to manufacture bespoke turnkey equipment and so the best thing really, is that it’s all Australian made.”

Rocky Ridge is one such brewery to switch to the KlippaKan handle solution and they’re a brewery that has razor sharp focus on their environmental impact, with much of their packaging choices centred on being as green as possible.

Co-founder and managing director Hamish Coates has been the driving force behind the brewery, which is carbon neutral and can boast a range of green initiatives. He believes the KlippaKan has been a game changer for their near 1.5 million litre per year brewery.

“We’ve experimented with a number of other biodegradable non-plastic-based four-packs, yet none of them were up to the task of containing and presenting our beers in an acceptable form. But the KlippaKan met and exceeded our needs.

Plus, having pre-printed barcodes on the packaging removes a huge amount of labour from our packaging line. And they look epic too.

“Overall, the KlippaKan aligns with our company objectives by reducing labour and cost, plus they’re environmentally and footprint friendly.”

While the KlippaKan is just one example of packaging evolving in Australian craft beer, there’s been quite a few shifts over the years; 16-pack cubes instead of 24-pack cartons being widely adopted alongside four-packs over six-packs, are examples of how beer packaging and branding have evolved. But, potentially the biggest shift, at least over the past five years, is a movement towards “greener” packaging.

Breweries like Rocky Ridge have found ways to reduce packaging waste, from noticeable changes – like the KlippaKan

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Pack Lite The Spanish brewing giant Mahou San Miguel has put its trust in a new type of secondary packaging – the LitePac Top produced on the Variopac Pro packer from Krones.

By replacing plastic rings, cans of Mahou, Alhambra and San Miguel beers have since late 2021 been held in the stable paperboard clips. Given their output of 50,000 cans per hour, which translates to an annual production volume of 213 million cans, that clearly provides environmental benefits.

Mahou San Miguel has had a strong partnership with Krones since the 1980s when the brewery purchased a Topmatic labeller. Both the technology and the service provided by the plant manufacturer from Bavaria have scored highly right from the start, and cooperation has since then been expanded incrementally. Today, the majority of the systems and lines

operating in the brewing conglomerate are made by Krones.

When Mahou San Miguel went in search for a sustainable type of packaging, the obvious choice was therefore to contact its long-standing partner. As luck would have it, Krones had just launched a new packaging solution on the market and was on the lookout for a first reference customer.

“So that was a perfect match,” Marc Borreda Benavent, head of the brewery’s plant in Alovera in Spain said.

To speed up the market launch of LitePac Top, the team of developers at Krones made sure the requisite production kit can be perfectly integrated into any customer’s everyday routine. Instead of designing a new type of machine for this innovative packaging variant, LitePac Top has been optimally matched to the fieldproven modularised Variopac Pro packer.

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PACKAGING TRENDS and other recyclable cardboard holders – to changes within the chain of supply that are unlikely seen by consumers, or at least unnoticed. Reusable and bio-based degradable pallet wraps, labels and tapes made from recyclable/biodegradable materials, for example.

It’s clear that brewers today want, and realistically need, to be greener. When packaging makes up much of the cost of the beer you drink, it’s inevitable that packaging itself will become much greener.

Green light Mitch Lowe is the managing director at Gypsy Hub – an award-winning contract beverage producer that offers a full endto-end service, from recipe and development, to producing and packaging product. For Gypsy Hub, going green has been a recent initiative with many efforts still a work in progress.

“Gypsy Hub is in the process of understanding its baseline carbon footprint with works underway to analyse how to invest effectively. Initiatives to re-use and re-capture carbon are currently in progress to better understand our CO2 usage in the brewery and for installation of recapture technology. There is also proposed works to re-use hot water, install solar panelling, and upgraded crossflow filtration which minimises overall product waste through the production process.

“We’ve also seen a big shift of beers moving into can instead of glass bottles.

This is due to many reasons including its aesthetics and consumer demand, but also optimum recyclability.”

Rodney Johnston explained that sustainability is a big focus for his company.

“We’ve seen a real push for sustainable packaging over the last five years, and the industry was pushing us for a solution. The craft beer industry was the main driver for us in developing products like KlippaKan. Johnston Packaging is a signatory to the Australian Packaging Covenant and member of APCO and we’re currently developing a range of sustainability initiatives to help reach Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Targets.”

For brewers, environmentally considerate decisions are becoming more and more vital, with consumers actively seeking out products that lean green, plus industry wide movements to create a more environmentally friendly industry.

Organisations like B-Corp and those that offer carbon neutral certification require businesses to understand their environmental impact at every level, which includes packaging and logistics.

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“Overall, the KlippaKan aligns with our company objectives by reducing labour and cost, plus they’re environmentally and footprint friendly,” HAMISH COATES, ROCKY RIDGE BREWING

As the movement grows and these initiatives become more attainable, so does greener packaging.

Hamish expanded on some of the work Rocky Ridge has been putting in to making their packaging greener.

“We have to ensure alignment with our overall company goals and ESG policywhich means ensuring alignment of the companies we are working with to our vision of reduced footprint throughout the supply chain, lower waste and overall better for the planet packaging. Included in this is a commitment to lower plastic use throughout the supply chain, like removing plastic from four-packs and every area possible in our packaging. We have reusable pallet wraps for all in-house beer storage, while all outgoing pallets use a bi-based degradable wrap to ensure minimal waste. While it’s not exhaustive, we’ve taken a low hanging fruit approach to systematic elimination of single use

sources from our packaging and will continue to build on this.”

With packaging having evolved so much over the past decade or so, and with environmentally friendly practices a focus for many breweries in a modern industry, there’s much to consider when it comes to looking forward. Will craft beer packaging have another “can” moment, or as some are suggesting, will breweries begin to revert to clear glass bottles? One thing is for certain, craft beer packaging will continue to evolve and change as the industry does.

Looking Ahead What the next 10 years of craft beer will bring is almost impossible to tell. In an industry built around ever-changing trends and consumer tastes, what drinkers will demand in a decade can be hard to predict.

But there are some certainties and importantly, there will always be beer.

February 2024 ProPack.pro 47

PACKAGING TRENDS Like anything, packaging is just one of many considerations for brewers and is something that plays heavily into the economics of brewing and the greater supply chain.

Mitch Lowe believes the changing economic landscape will be a consideration for many brewers into the future.

Rocky Ridge use reusable pallet wraps for all their in-house beer storage, while all outgoing pallets use a bi-based degradable wrap to ensure minimal waste.

“With some recent economic challenges not helped by rising excise, there has been a natural gravitation back towards more established names at lower price points.

Craft breweries have been quick to release more mainstream beer flavours and styles to have a position in the broader market.

“Brewers ultimately just want to brew, yet commercial packaging is another challenge not often coming naturally to craft brewers, and we have found smaller craft breweries’ access to packaging equipment and tech have been hamstrung by the often-prohibitive investment costs, particularly for bottling and canning gear.

Additionally, more disciplined packaging requirements have become more important as the breadth of beer styles and shelf-life expectations by retailers has increased within the craft beer scene.”

And while craft expands and adjusts with consumer demand, Jessie at Craft Instinct hopes the environment remains a focus for brewers as they push for even better quality.

“I hope the sustainability aspect gets pushed further. It’s great to see leaders like Capital Brewing seeing how far they can go in creating less waste in beer packaging.

Our new generation of drinkers coming through are highly aware of the sustainability of brands they engage with, so exploring how packaging can be better for the environment is not only good for the world, but for the future bottom line as well.

Breweries now understand the importance of branding, so the bar gets pushed higher and higher which is really inspiring to see.”

While many consumers likely aren’t thinking too intently about the packaging that surrounds the beer they drink, it’s clear that it plays a significant role in how our beer is made, sold and consumed. While big beer has made plenty of changes along the way, it was the dynamic craft beer industry that really started to push packaging concepts into new directions, continuing to do so today.

Though the craft beer fridges in your local bottle shop might look less then cohesive with a mix of branding styles, imagery, colour schemes and descriptors, craft beer packaging has evolved relatively uniformly over the years, with both brewers and packaging producers working hand-in-hand to stay one step ahead of consumer trends and the growing necessity for greener initiatives.

48 ProPack.pro February 2024

“More disciplined packaging requirements have become more important as the breadth of beer styles and shelf-life expectations by retailers has increased within the craft beer scene,” Mitch Lowe, Gypsy Hub

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PACKAGING TRENDS

Get a handle on When you think of independent Queensland craft beer, Brisbane’s Newstead Brewing really is front of mind after a decade of celebrating their city’s history and fuelling the local’s thirst for something a touch more flavoursome than some of the other options the state can be better known for.

For a little over half their existence they’ve employed a PakTech can handle applicator because, as founder Mark Howes said, of its “combination of speed and application…. and it was recommended by Cask – the can line manufacturers we originally had”.

“Having the applicator has made pack

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runs significantly easier,” Mark added.

“Canning is a challenging part of brewing and it’s nice to have a piece of equipment that you can rely on.

“I really couldn’t recommend it enough.

This year at BrewCon we reconnected with PakTech and (their sales and service engineer) Dan Sanders, and for no other reason than being a legend, he came to the brewery and serviced the applicator.”

PakTech recently launched a new can handle applicator machine – the CCA MicroPak. It’s designed to be a PakTech can handle application solution for the likes of microbreweries and mobile

canning operators. Measuring approximately 60cm by 45cm and run by a standard 120 volt power supply and less than 1 CFM of air, the new machine is capable of applying up to 60 cans per minute and can accommodate various can sizes.

PakTech’s Elizabeth Kouns said: “As a standard across all of our applicator models, we build our machines to last.

Our applicators have a strong and timetested life cycle. Some of our machines have been in use for over 15 years. The CCA MicroPak is no different – when you invest in a CCA MicroPak, you’re investing in tried and true durability.”

February 2024 ProPack.pro 49

PACK DIARY

UPCOMING INDUSTRY EVENTS Sino-Pack

Pack Expo International

Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo

2024 ProPrint Awards

March 4-6, 2024 | Guangzhou, China chinasinopack.com/ March 12-15, 2024 | Melbourne, Australia appex.com.au/

November 3-6, 2024 | Chicago, USA packexpointernational.com/ October 25, 2024 proprintawards.com.au

drupa

May 28-June 7, 2024 | Dusseldorf, Germany drupa.com ProPak Asia 2024

June 12-15, 2024 | Bangkok, Thailand propakasia.com/ Labelexpo Americas

September 10-12, 2024 | Chicago, US labelexpo-americas.com/

Got an event? Send an email to CHibbit@intermedia.com.au with all the details and we will put your event on the page.

Print awards recognise excellence in print media and are an important way to showcase outstanding work in the field.

They represent a celebration of creativity, innovation, and technical skill, as well as a way to distinguish oneself in a crowded marketplace.

This year we are collaborating with LIA, working together to unify our approach within the industry.

PROUD MEDIA PARTNERS

50 ProPack.pro February 2024

Winning a print award can be a significant achievement that helps to build credibility and reputation, attract new clients or customers, and increase exposure and visibility. Whether you are an individual or a company, participating in print award competitions can be a valuable experience that drives you to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Our entry categories range from Flexible Packaging, Gravure, Offset and Digital.

Start to collect and put the print samples aside in time to submit them by Tuesday 30 April 2024.

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Ignite the power of packaging with ProPack.pro Are you looking to spark your brand’s identity in the competitive market?

LOOK NO FURTHER! Our publication can put your message in front of label and packaging decision makers published in print six times a year, accompanied by our weekly eNewsletter.

To secure your advertising today, contact

Carmen Ciappara | 0410 582 450 | carmen@proprint.com.au

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Assist your potential We continue to undertake new challenges in response to the tremendous changes facing the printing market.

In 2024, to assist printing and packaging companies in dealing with digitizing information, rising cost of materials, and the shortage of skill workforce. At Drupa 2024, RMGT will be exhibiting solutions for greater automation by introducing various automated systems, improving efficiency through visualisation utilizing cloud, and reducing labour requirements.

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Sydney - Rob Crough 0423 337 788 Melbourne - Greg Knight 0411 338 855 Brisbane - Peter Erskine 0432 663 322 Perth - Alan Strugnell 0418 955 512 New Zealand - Paul Hilleard (64) 21 191 6548 Malaysia - Tel: (60) 3 7955 1668 (Kuala Lumpur) Indonesia - Tel: (62) 21 2555 8924 Tel: (60) 7 598 0771/2 (Senai, Johor) Vietnam - Tel: (84) 9 0938 9468

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