There is a huge amount of uncertainty in the world at the moment. It can make it incredibly challenging for businesses in various industries, especially when you consider changes in regulations. However, while there are hurdles and things to think about, you can find opportunities too. Most importantly, there are different ways to improve the sustainability of labels, packaging, and various other products. We want to have a closer look at that here. Then, if you want to arrange foiling services, you can rely on us.
A time for innovation
Labels are more important today than ever before. Markets are more competitive and customer demands have changed. Generally, consumers now want to see labels with more details and interactive elements like QR codes. At the same time, they want products to be recyclable and sustainable to protect the environment.
Businesses can be successful with labelling if they look at innovative new solutions. There are plenty of fantastic options, including renewable inks, recyclable laminates, and sustainable foils. The goal should be to choose the right combination of products, focusing on waste reduction, energy efficiency, and recyclability.
One of the most interesting newer innovations is LED UV curing. It is a more sustainable and energy efficient way to cure inks, adhesives, and coatings. If you compare to traditional UV curing techniques, LED UV is faster, more flexible, and more reliable. The equipment itself lasts longer too, so that is another huge bonus for businesses.
It’s also important to think about innovations like automation and digitisation. You can improve the sustainability of labels by reducing waste, energy consumption, and material use. Automating different things, including foiling services, can have a huge impact. Even more, it can reduce downtime and improve workflows.
Quality
The most important thing with labels though is to balance innovation and quality. Newer techniques, processes, and products should all work to produce better end results.
One key thing is to improve quality to boost recyclability and/or reuse. There are some really interesting developments here, including new inks that wash off labels to allow easier recycling. On the other hand, there are also inks that don’t wash off to make the labels renewable.
Another vital thing to focus on is the aesthetics. Labels today need to look and feel fantastic. Attractiveness is still a must for most consumers. Some businesses worry the move to sustainable and recyclable materials will have a negative impact. However, there are products that can outperform conventional materials while offering better green credentials.
What next?
Ultimately, the best way to achieve sustainability goals and protect the environment is to align every stakeholder. This includes manufacturers (whether they create ink, foil, adhesive, machinery, or recycling equipment), businesses, consumers, and recyclers. Every single product, from a simple label to a carton or pouch, should be part of a circular system, with a clear plan of how to reuse or recycle it.
Do you want to arrange foiling services?
If you want to create stunning labels or other products that are still recyclable, it’s a good idea to consider foil decorations. They can be more sustainable than other processes, especially certain coatings and inks. The key thing is the foils aren’t permanently applied to the substrate; they can wash off or dissipate during recycling. This helps to improve the quality of the recycled materials.
As you can guess from our name, we focus on giving clients the best foiling services. The key here is we have access to quality foils, including some of the most innovative products on the market. They look fantastic, and you can use them for a massive selection of applications. So, get in touch if you want to learn more. You can also discuss your sustainability goals with us, and we’ll suggest which foils and printing techniques to use.