Packaging Summit 2024 dives into the flexo ecosystem

Brand expectations and market dynamics continue to influence the shift of print packaging to flexography as the process of choice. In the flexible packaging space - Windmöller & Hölscher, a leading supplier of machinery and systems for the manufacturing and converting; Apex International, an expert in flexographic anilox sleeves and metering rollers; Miraclon, home of Flexcel NX technology; and Tesa, a leading manufacturer of adhesive tape solutions - envision to provide printers and trade shops a complete ecosystem of flexographic printing.

Anuj Sahni of Windmöller & Hölscher set the tone for the show. He said, “Two strategies to look out for are digitisation and sustainability.” For print shops, digitisation can bring major efficiency gains. Done right, it can counteract the increasingly tilted ratio of preparation versus production in print jobs.

On the other hand, sustainability follows print efficiency and optimisation. “Sustainable printing is achievable with digitisation,” said Windmöller & Hölscher’s Sunil Kumar. He shed light on the concept of circular economy and role of W&H's Ruby Check in optimising process parameters.

Mahesh Mense of Apex International highlighted the trends and challenges in flexography. Also, he emphasised why one needs to build a strong fundamental of the flexographic process, which aids to overcome challenges the technology presents including multiple process variables and efficient colour management.

Hersh Lulla of Miraclon focused on how converters can achieve cost-effective flexible packaging, with the right mix of technologies. This further aids with "visual parity on the shelf" and partner with brands toward achieving sustainability targets.

Also, Lulla spoke about the crucial role of colour consistency and repeatability to enable ECG printing. He shared that the goal for 2025 will be to avail sustainable print practices with modern flexo.

In conclusion, Tesa's Lee Stephanie shed light on print workflow optimisation, which involved analysis of the customer process. Stephaine shared that, at Drupa, Tesa looks forward to introducing a new product to its bandwagon: Softprint NeXt, which enables easy demounting.