The Growing Popularity Of Flexible Packaging

The packaging industry is one that is constantly evolving.  One of the biggest areas of growth is within flexible packaging.   Everyday major developments are happening with the materials, the manufacturing techniques and applications of flexible packages.  Check around the next time you are at the grocery store.  Can you spot the many uses of flexible packaging materials?  From frozen food to the deli counter, flexible packaging is becoming the most efficient, cost effective way to package. 

When it comes to advances in packaging consider the last time you have seen a development in glass, aluminum or hard plastics.  The last time I remember a change in aluminum cans is with the development of pull tabs to avoid having to use a can opener.  With hard plastics the industry is always trying to create new ways to use more recyclable products and thinner shells.  The evolution of flexible packaging is seeing changes every day.  It isn't just about the materials used to create the package but the functionality and cost effectiveness of using flexible packaging no matter what industry your product line falls into. 

Flexible packaging is the result of using one or more layers of plastic film as the main material to package your product.  Simple flexible packaging is the result of using one layer of flexible film where as more advanced products may need several layers may be laminated together resulting in a co-extruded film. The number of layers needed for your products package will depend on a number of factors.  Consider the structural strength, resistant to tearing and air tight qualities the package needs to be to keep the air out and the flavors in when looking at the number of layers your package will need to be.

Flexible packaging is a preferred method by graphic designers as well.  When creating a product label on a flexible package the benefits are endless.  Label designers have a three hundred and sixty degree space to design and add additional product information.  This leaves them with endless design possibilities.  Print layers can be added directly to the flexible package when it is created.  This helps to save money. The package and label are created as one. In other traditional forms of packaging, such as glass and aluminum, the label is created separately and therefore needs an entire separate process to be added to the package.  

The applications in which flexible packages are being designed are changing greatly every day.  It used to be that flexible packaging was used in combination with twist ties and zip lock fasteners.  Look around at different applications of flexible packaging the next time you are out and about.  You can find flexible pouches that have spouts to eat directly from, laundry detergent with on and off spouts and even easy to pour paint that is able to be resealed air tight.  Flexible packaging is taking over the product packaging industry.  It won’t be long until we see all of our favorite products in easy to use, less expensive flexible packages.  

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.