First Application of Photochromic Ink on a Flexible Package

Printpack awarded for its technical innovation by the leading flexible packaging industry association.

 

Last year, one of the leading manufacturers of flexible and specialty rigid packaging unveiled its proprietary process that allows for photochromic ink to be hidden within standard graphics and remain invisible until exposed to sunlight. This month, Atlanta-based Printpack was awarded by the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) with the Silver Achievement Award for Technical Innovations. This in recognition of the company’s work to solve a challenge that has tested the industry for years—applying photochromic ink to a flexible film.

 

The first-of-its-kind application, showcased late last year at Pack Expo in Las Vegas (read more here), has generated a new packaging category, providing brand owners with a unique way to genuinely interact and engage with their customer base.  Printpack has noted that interactive packaging is proven to capture consumer attention and encourage engagement with the brand in a meaningful way. As director of technology Mark Brogan put it, “This type of packaging application can truly set a brand apart by adding depth to the consumer experience. It can make all the difference when it comes to purchasing decisions.”

 

For years, the application of photochromic ink for the flexible packaging industry has been a challenge, particularly in high-speed production environments. The R&D team at Printpack came up with a novel process to apply the ink while still upholding the integrity of the packaging design and graphics to the highest standard.

 

The FPA has awarded companies that foster innovation and drive the advancement of the flexible packaging industry since 1956, the same year Printpack was founded. Winners of the 60^th Annual FPA Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards were announced March 1^st at an awards ceremony in Naples, Fla.