Last month, Printpack, a packaging converter for various markets including dairy, cheese, snacks, and beverages based in Atlanta, debuted its new photochromic ink technology at Pack Expo 2015 in Las Vegas. Essentially, the ink is visible only when exposed to sunlight, and “hidden” within standard graphics on flexible film packaging.
The technology is a first in the flexible packaging industry, according to Printpack marketing manager, Alisha Howard, who said, “Nothing on the market today is capable of producing this type of customer interaction for brands in a flexible package.” This new technology makes it possible for brand owners to differentiate their products and encourages consumers to engage with the brand, setting it apart from competitors. While the photochromic ink technology can be applied in any flexible packaging application by food and beverage manufacturers, its use has been a challenge for years, especially in environments where production is high speed.
The new technology not only encourages consumers to interact with brands, but is also fun as consumers only need to expose the package to sunlight to reveal a message that is completely invisible while on store shelves. These messages may have to do with sustainability, quality, or any message the brand wants to send. Printpack director of technology, Mark Brogan, says that this new type of packaging application can make all the difference in regards to consumers’ purchasing decisions.
In today’s highly competitive packaging world, brands have to find innovative, unique ways to set their products apart. It will be interesting to see what products use this new photochromic ink technology in the coming months!
At REA JET, we understand the challenges manufacturers face when it comes to durable, clear coding and marking of ingredients, nutrition information, best-by dates, and more on many substrates. Whether you print on flexible packaging, plastic, foil, cardboard, glass bottles, wood, rubber, paperboard, or any type of substrate, we have the solution. Contact us today to learn more about our industrial printing equipment for all of your marking and coding needs.