Whether or not you’re aware of it, flexible packaging is the future. Not-rigid structures (think like pouches and bags) whose shape can be readily altered or changed. There are many reasons for this shift, but consider the following big hits: sustainability, efficiency, and the impact ecommerce has on the prevalence of the global shipping capacity.
These are more and more influencing flexible packaging markets in the U. S. and abroad. And thanks to the hardworking printer dynamos here at Lofton, flexible packaging solutions are completely printable, brand-ready, and here to take your products forward into the future.
Sustainability
The consumer of the modern era is all too aware of wasteful packaging paradigms. Why is this cereal in a plastic bag AND a cardboard box?
Sometimes it’s even worse, with layers and layers of waste we simply do not have room for as consumers in addition to our concern for the impact it will have on the environment. The push for recyclable or compostable packaging is at an all-time high. And flexible packaging has a lot of opportunity in terms of design, branding, and eco-friendly materials and processes.
Single-use plastics are on their way out.
Efficiency
When you look specifically at the generational shift, the younger crowd are living much faster, busier lives. They’re looking for both convenience and value, while also coming closer to the healthier options as far as food product goes. It’s a matter of delivering quality and delivering it quickly, easy to eat, and with a quick, responsible, and efficient disposal option.
In addition to cutting down on environmentally irresponsible plastics, the movement towards flexible packaging is also limiting potential food waste: the flexible package has been seen to increase shelf life.
Ecommerce
Due to shipping as a frequent outcome of online shopping, we are seeing an increase in some new forms of waste: shipping boxes. When you factor that into the previously mentioned traditional rigid packing, you see the waste exponentially expanding.
Flexible packaging when coupled with ecommerce and shipping costs actually reduces weight and therefore overhead. We’re even seeing instances of certain products made with shipments in mind, and incorporating those design elements into their package. Anything to reduce waste and increase efficiency.
How We Can Help
Here at Lofton, we have made flexible packaging printing one of the cornerstones of our industry foothold. We exclusively use Universal Labeling Systems for pristine and precise copy transfer every time.
We’re not only a valued customer of the Universal Labeling Systems machinery, but we’re also a licensed distributor! We make our own inks in-house and are currently operating our main production floor and offices on 100% green and renewable wind energy.
Contact a Lofton representative today to see how we combine the finest-quality package printing operations with the highest-quality customer service. We’d love to hear from you and talk about your next flexible package printing project! Contact Us Today!
