Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Diamond Named Best Workplace in America

Shania by StetsonDiamond Packaging of Rochester, NY has again been recognized as “Best of the Best” in the 2005 Best Workplace in the Americas awards competition, sponsored by the Printing Industries of America (PIA) and Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF). The program is designed to recognize graphic arts companies for their outstanding human relations efforts in recruiting and retaining qualified staff, which contributes to a successful workplace. This year marks the fifth year in a row that the honor was bestowed on Diamond Packaging. more

Dennis Bacchetta

Thursday, March 02, 2006

The Allure of Plastic: A Look at APET

In a previous post we examined the characteristics and applications of polyvinylchloride or PVC.

This month we highlight another popular plastic substrate, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate, otherwise known as APET.

APET’s amorphous composition uniquely combines structural strength with glass-like clarity for a substrate that looks good and performs well for a wide range of applications.

APET resists cracking and does not whiten when flexed or bent. It is easily thermoformed (more quickly and economically than PVC), and its crystal-clarity makes it an ideal selection for attractive packaging with maximum product visibility.

In addition to its visual appeal, APET also offers superior barrier protection, keeping products safe from external liquids and gases, and promoting retention of product flavor and aroma. APET is clearly durable, tolerating temperatures from -40C to +70C. Because it is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and can be sterilized by ETO and Gamma radiation, APET is well-suited for disposable food and medication packaging.

Advances in printing techniques have elevated APET to the arena of premium products. The application of custom colors and foil stamping greatly expand your options for creative packaging that simultaneously protects and reveals the beauty of what’s inside.

The Gillette Company chose APET versatility for several of its high profile product launches, including Gillette for Women Venus™ and MACH3 Turbo.

The Venus plastic banner card was converted from .012 APET and features six different inks printed on one side of the substrate while the logo and other design elements were stamped with specially formulated foils on the other. The translucent nature of the plastic substrate evokes an elegant look and feel, allowing the beauty of the razor handle to show through.

APET uniquely retains product integrity while promoting customer interaction, making it a clear choice for applications as diverse as:

  • Consumer goods

  • Health and beauty items

  • Pharmaceutical and medical products

  • Food and confectionery

  • Point-of-purchase (POP) displays

  • Electronics packaging

  • Apparel

  • Toys

  • Single-use products

  • Gifts and novelty items


  • Plastic has added a whole new dimension to packaging, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. As you can see, however, choosing a substrate is more complex than simply asking “paper or plastic?” Choosing a folding carton supplier with experience and expertise in converting plastic is just as important to the decision making process.

    In a future issue we’ll explore polypropylene, another popular plastic substrate. In the meantime, consider the advantages of plastic for your next package design.

    Dennis Bacchetta