Some of the best examples of state-of-the-art flexible packaging took center stage at the Flexible Packaging Association Annual Achievement Awards held in February. Brand owners and manufacturers are considering easy-open and single-portion sizes as well as larger flexible pouches containing a "refillable product," such as hair conditioners or shampoos that are easy to reclose. Also apparent were improved adhesives and webbing materials for stronger packages, such as a large woven polybag for dog food that featured a flat bottom and reclosures. Then there's shelf appeal. New inks and innovative printing applications are increasingly vital in providing shelf appeal for flexible packages. Leading the pack is high definition flexographic printing technology (see "POP Goes the Package" on page 24) along with unconventional rotation of printing decks to create depth and give color vibrancy to packages. Additionally, the use of special coatings, graphics and color combinations featuring gloss and matte produce "eye catching" pouches and packages.
展开▼
