Is digital printing onto corrugated the future?!?

I had a GREAT conversation with Anthony Memme from Atlantic Packaging Products Ltd. on the People of Packaging Podcast today!

Want to read what we talked about?

Don't worry, deciphr.ai has you covered with this article:

The Future of Packaging: Unleashing the Power of Digital Printing in the Corrugated Industry

Key Takeaways

• Advanced Digital Printing Drives Efficiency and Quality: Digital printing, especially direct-to-corrugate, offers unparalleled flexibility, superior quality, and faster turnaround times.
• Sustainability at the Forefront: Companies like Atlantic Packaging demonstrate commitment to sustainability through innovative printing techniques that reduce waste and environmental impact.
• Technological Advancements Open New Opportunities: Emerging technologies, such as improved digital primers and the introduction of laser die-cutting, promise to revolutionize the packaging industry.

Revolutionizing Corrugated Packaging with Digital Printing

In recent years, the digital printing industry has undergone a significant transformation. With innovations such as direct-to-corrugated printing, manufacturers can now achieve incredible quality and efficiency. Adam Peek, host of the People of Packaging podcast, recently sat down with Anthony Memme, Digital Print Manager at Atlantic Packaging, to explore the future of digital printing in the corrugated industry.

"The industry's changed so much," states Anthony. "Just when you think you've reached the pinnacle of quality and speed, something else comes out and keeps the industry moving forward." This continuous innovation is driving the corrugated packaging industry to new heights, offering more flexible and sustainable solutions for businesses.

Digital Printing Quality and Efficiency

One of the most significant advancements in digital printing is the ability to produce high-quality images directly on corrugated board. This process, formerly limited by technology and cost, now allows for exceptional precision and vibrant colors. According to Anthony, the application of digital primers on uncoated and craft boards enhances the final product's appearance without sacrificing quality.

"The quality that we're getting off of our SPC Durst is unbelievable," explains Anthony. Previously, printing on Kraft substrates would result in muted colors, but new digital primers and small droplet sizes now produce sharp, vibrant images. "We've had customers in who can't tell the difference between coated and uncoated samples," he adds, highlighting the strides made in digital printing technology.

Moreover, the flexibility and speed of digital printing mean that companies can quickly adapt to market demands. Whether it's changing graphics on-the-fly or responding to fluctuating product cycles, digital printing offers an agile solution that traditional methods cannot match.

Leveraging Sustainability in Packaging

Sustainability is a core value at Atlantic Packaging, with a history of using recycled materials since 1945 without cutting down a single tree. Digital printing aligns perfectly with this ethos by reducing waste and eliminating the need for chemical-intensive processes.

"To me, digital is one of the most sustainable ways of printing," says Anthony. Digital printing minimizes waste by using only the necessary amount of ink and avoiding the production of metal plates or photopolymer materials. Additionally, the ability to print high-quality graphics on uncoated and Kraft boards emphasizes the company's commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.

Digital's contribution to the circular economy cannot be overstated. By encouraging consumers to reuse packaging and communicate sustainability messages effectively, digital printing supports broader environmental goals. "We can put graphics on a box that entice the user to use the box for storage or other purposes," explains Anthony.

The Future of Digital Printing Technologies

Looking ahead, the digital printing industry shows no signs of slowing down. Innovations such as white ink on Kraft and advancements in finishing techniques are set to push the boundaries even further. These developments promise to enhance both the visual appeal and efficiency of packaging solutions.

"Right now, we're seeing amazing developments with water-based white inkjet," reveals Anthony. This breakthrough opens new possibilities for printing on Kraft materials without the limitations of traditional white ink applications. As these technologies mature, they will likely become standard practice, further elevating the quality and versatility of direct-to-corrugated printing.

Another critical area of growth lies in the finishing processes. The industry is currently focused on advancing digital die-cutting techniques to match the speed and precision of digital printing. "The biggest thing for digital now is the finishing side catching up," Anthony notes, highlighting the potential for innovations like laser die-cutting to transform the landscape. These advancements ensure that the entire printing and finishing pipeline is efficient, sustainable, and capable of meeting high production standards.

Innovations Driving the Packaging Revolution

Anthony Memme's insights underscore a pivotal moment in the packaging industry. Digital printing is not merely an alternative to traditional methods but a powerful tool that offers flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency. By leveraging advanced technologies and aligning with sustainable practices, companies like Atlantic Packaging are poised to lead the next wave of innovation in the corrugated packaging sector.

The implications are vast, stretching from improved speed to market, better brand agility, and more environmentally friendly practices. As businesses and consumers alike become increasingly conscious of environmental impact and demand for high-quality, customizable packaging grows, the role of digital printing will become even more critical.

For those looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of packaging, embracing these technological advancements is not just advisable—it's indispensable. The future is indeed bright and colorful, with digital printing at the forefront of this exciting revolution.