Sustainability Claims Questioned

A new independent life-cycle study commissioned by the Athena Institute refutes some claims made regarding sustainable packaging. The study examined the environmental affects of packaging derived from petroleum- and bio-based plastics.

The report emphasizes that we must consider all factors when debating the merits of any given material, including fossil fuel depletion, irrigation requirements, diversion of land from growing crops, and end-of-life alternatives (e.g. landfill capacity, biodegradability, composting, incineration, recycling etc.).

In the summary, Wayne Trusty, President of Athena Institute, states, “In general, then, the world of plastics is no less complex than any of the other environmental issues that we face. There are no simple, black and white answers. While this report doesn’t cover all of the issues to the same extent, or to the degree that may be warranted, it does provide hard data on the environmental flows associated with comparable plastic products made from bio-based and petroleum-based resins. We trust that it will help shift the discussion from a fairly simplistic focus on attributes toward a more scientific and objective analysis of true environmental performance. As readers will see from the results presented here, there is no clear winner in this comparison; there is an identification of trade-offs, which is as it should be.”

Bob Lilienfeld, editor of The ULS Report, said, “This study illustrates that one of the keys to increased sustainability revolves around minimizing packaging weight and not worrying about whether the plastic involved is made from renewable or non-renewable resources. In the end, the package that weighs less is usually the best choice for the wallet and the environment.”

Click here to ready the complete study.

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Packaging Diva Tells All in New Book

JoAnn Hines, the Packaging Diva, tells all in her newest release, Do It Yourself Packaging Workbook.

This easy-to-use packaging workbook is a resource for guiding packaging buyers through the step by step process of developing packaging solutions. Topics include:

The "Nuts and Bolts" of how product packaging works

The "How To" of packaging your product to sell

The "Inside Scoop" on finding a packaging supplier

How to have premium packaging on a startup budget

How to avoid packaging disasters

How to get started packaging your product if you know nothing at all about packaging

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Wal-Mart Releases Initial Results of Packaging Scorecard

During the second annual Sustainable Packaging Exposition, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. released the initial results of its Packaging Scorecard. The scorecard, which was launched on Feb. 1, evaluates Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club suppliers on the sustainability of their packaging and offers suggestions for improvement. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Designing With Foil - part 2

This segment is the second in a three-part series that will discuss areas of production where the design of a piece directly impacts cost, quality, and the overall success of the job.

Avoid Knock Outs
When stamping a piece that has been printed, it is best to stamp over the ink instead of knocking out the image to be foil stamped. Metallic foils are completely opaque, so it is unnecessary to knock the image out. Trying to hit the exact mark
every time in perfect registration is an impossible task.

Because every press has a slight amount of movement, creating a piece with the images knocked out is creating a registration nightmare. The answer? Simply print the entire piece and overstamp the images, making sure that the correct inks and coatings are used.

Build in Trap
Situations do exist when an image needs to be knocked out. For example, when stamping a piece with foil that is not completely opaque, such as with a pearl or pigment foil. If knock out is necessary to maintain color integrity, then it is imperative that appropriate trap be built into the design, just as with printing. Trap, as far as foil stamping is concerned, is defined as fattening up the foiled image so as to allow for a small amount of overlap onto the printed area, thereby accounting for slight variances in registration. The amount of trap that should be built into the design can depend on several variables, including size of the image, type of the font (i.e., serif vs. sans serif), and even the type of die used – as some will expand more than others. However, as a general rule of thumb, the amount of trap should equal at least .020” or approximately 1/64.

Reprinted with permission from the Foil Stamping and Embossing Association (FSEA).

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Designing With Foil - part 1

Understanding various production techniques and how the design can affect the final outcome of a project is very important to ensure the highest quality work at the most efficient cost. This segment is the first of a three-part series that will discuss areas of production where the design of a piece directly impacts cost, quality, and the overall success of the job.

Image Placement
When dealing with multiple passes of hot stamping foil, where the images are placed within the design is extremely important in determining the number of passes it will take to foil stamp the piece on press. This is one area in the design process where communication with the foil stamper could possibly save production time and money. A slight change in the placement of an image may save an entire pass on press.
Many variables come into play when deciding whether or not to run a job with multiple foil pulls:

• Press type
• Direction of feed
• Placement of images to be stamped and/or embossed
• Types of foils specified
• Type of substrate
  

However, as a general rule, to run multiple webs of foil, you will need at least one inch between images to allow for foil waste and die lock-up. The key here is to discuss your options with your foil stamper while still in the design process.

Also keep in mind that stamping fine-line, intricate images at the same time as ones requiring large, solid coverage can be a challenge, depending on the variables listed above. These types of designs may also require additional passes through the press – even if ample space is allotted between images. Again, communication with your foil stamper is key.

Reprinted with permission from the Foil Stamping and Embossing Association (FSEA).

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Diamond Introduces Diamondsessence™ Packaging

Diamond Packaging recently announced the introduction of Diamondessence™ combination packaging, new folding carton designs to leverage brand equity and deliver maximum impact on store shelves.

Packaging is branding. Innovations in structures and substrates offer marketers a number of competitive advantages, including perceived value, brand differentiation, and shelf prominence.

Plastic has added a whole new dimension to packaging, creating a visible link between the packaging and the product itself. It is this connection that helps builds brand loyalty over time.

Diamond has embraced this trend by investing in new state-of-the-art windowing equipment to deliver paperboard, plastic or combination packaging that reveals the product inside. Packaging that inspires. Packaging that sells. more


Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Structural Design Considerations

Packaging is a complex and important part in the sale of thousands of products every day. The role packaging plays in our lives begins long before it lands on the shelf of your favorite supermarket or department store but carries throughout the sale of the product. An important element of any package is its structure. Structural design performs many functions including containment, protection, and shelf appeal that all contribute to the success of a product. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Foil vs. Foilboard

In the competition for consumer attention, which is better: foil or foilboard?

Foil and foilboard are both powerful tools for refreshing consumer interest and increasing product differentiation in the retail environment. Both provide a distinct visual snap that reinforces brand identity and elevates perceptions of value, quality and brand authenticity; and both are available in a variety of colors, patterns and sizes.

But for all of their similarities, there are significant technical differences between foil and foilboard, and the choice between the two is best made after careful consideration of the primary project requirements of quality, cost and time. capable of applying a non-tarnishing metallic foil print to paper, plastic or paperboard. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Diamondessence™
Packaging

Decorating with Foil

The appearance of shiny, foil stamped packaging on retail shelves is a sure sign of the holiday season. Consumer research shows that foil is more likely to catch the eyes of busy holiday shoppers and increase their perceptions of product quality and appeal

However, the retail environment remains crowded long after the holiday season has passed, and manufacturers are turning to more upscale packaging to enhance brand identity and shelf appeal all year around. In this competition for consumer attention, the advantages of foil stamping shine brightly. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

Weyerhaeuser Retail Symposium

The Seventh Annual Weyerhaeuser Retail Symposium will be held September 14, 2006 in Aurora, IL. This year's event will focus on sustainability, market drivers, shopper trends, RFID technology, and private labeling.

Visit the website for more information.

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

The Allure of Plastic: A Look at Polypropylene

In previous articles we highlighted the characteristics and applications of polyvinylchloride (PVC) and amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET). This month we take a closer look at another versatile plastic, polypropylene.

One of polypropylene’s greatest strengths is its strength. It has traditionally been a substrate of choice in the textile and automotive industries, because it provides excellent impact cushioning and withstands exposure to most chemicals, heat and extreme weather.

More recently, the consumer goods industry has taken notice of this plastic workhorse and its particular applications for confectionery, stationery, food, and cosmetics packaging.

Polypropylene is recyclable, food-safe, and relatively inexpensive compared to other plastic substrates. Although it lacks the glass-like clarity of APET, the advantages of this durable material are clear.

Polypropylene offers a unique combination of usability and aesthetic appeal. It is exceptionally resistant to fatigue, making it ideal for “living hinges” on hair care products, lotion, cosmetics, and other flip-top bottles. Its ability to be cut, creased, and heat scored greatly expands creative design potential for folding cartons.

Polypropylene can be produced clear, clear with colored tints or in solid colors, and can be surface printed, coated, foil stamped or embossed to fulfill almost any custom requirements.

Enhanced consumer-product interaction is made possible by embedding a fragrance directly into the polypropylene compound. This technique is more permanent than using specialty coatings, which tend to dissipate over time. By choosing a customized formula that compliments the product inside, branding is secured and “scents”-ible.

Polypropylene is especially well-suited for:

Food and Confectionery

Microwave-ready meals

Pudding and dairy products

Soup and other liquids

Reuseable packaging

Health and Beauty Products

Flip-top bottles

Folding cartons

Durable displays

Although polypropylene is manufactured on conventional equipment, its molecular structure requires special care to cut, score and print properly. Choosing a supplier with experience and expertise in converting polypropylene can help turn your plastic packaging ideas into a reality.

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Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

Key Questions To Ask Your Packaging Supplier

The Independent Carton Group (ICG) recently published a study titled Pressing The Issue. It details how packaging buyers can create opportunities by asking a few questions about press technology.

Click here to read the study.

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

GPA Holds Annual Meeting in Japan

The Global Packaging Alliance (GPA) held its annual meeting in Nagoya, Japan during the week of January 23, 2006. With members convening from all over the world, the yearly event was a much-anticipated chance to discuss strategies and goals, and provided an opportunity for alliance members to evaluate potential partnerships to supply the world’s second-largest economy. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

RFID To Change The World

An new article titled "Changing the World" appears in the April 2006 issue of Pharmaceutical & Medical Packaging News. It discusses how the FDA and others at RFID World are convinced that RFID can thwart counterfeiters and ease inventory tracking.

Randall Lutter, FDA’s associate commissioner for policy and planning, who was the event’s keynote speaker, said “RFID is feasible by 2007.” more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

Diamond Named Best Workplace in America

Diamond 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
Packaging

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
Packaging

Box Clever: Lifting the Lid on Today's Packaging Innovators

With more people working longer hours and the decline of the traditional family unit, manufacturers fast caught on to the fact that consumers wanted quick, easy-to-use products that could slot conveniently into their hectic lifestyles.

However, despite these products making life easier for consumers, consumers aren’t making life any easier for the suppliers. Brand competition, price wars, health concerns and diet fads are just some of the drivers in convenience products. And the packaging industry is being squeezed from both sides. Consumers want smaller and more disposable packaging but the marketers want more packaging for less money. They also want instantly eye- and wallet-catching designs that can incorporate free buying incentives such as toys, coupons and collectibles. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

IoPP to Tour Diamond Packaging

The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) will be taking a tour of the Diamond Packaging carton plant and Diamond Contract Manufacturing (DCM) contract packaging plant on Tuesday, January 10, 2005. Diamond designs and manufactures innovative paperboard and plastic packaging, counter-top displays, physician sample packaging, blister cards, stretch cards, and dispenser cartons.

The tour will be followed by dinner at Rick's Prime Rib and a presentation by Harry Voss, Chairman of Diamond Packaging, regarding "How Diamond is dealing with Global Customers and working in the Global Market Place".

Visit the IoPP website for more information or to register online.

Reaching Consumers on an Emotional Level

Coty Inc., one of the world’s largest and most successful beauty companies, recently introduced Shania by Stetson, an irresistible fragrance that captures the beauty, spirit, and independence of the renowned star. Diamond Packaging was chosen to design and manufacture the cartons and gift sets for this exciting product launch.

Coty’s expertise in developing products that resonate with consumers is enhanced by aligning themselves with celebrities who are involved with the entire creative process. Diamond worked closely with the Coty design team from the beginning, ensuring that the packaging reflected the celebrity’s personality and style.

The design is an excellent example of how packaging can connect with consumers on an emotional level. It is this emotional connection that helps build brand loyalty over time. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging

The Allure of Plastic: A Look at PVC Folding Cartons

Plastic has traditionally been recognized for its functional capabilities. It is strong, resilient and at least semi-impermeable, making it a sensible choice for packaging perishable or environmentally sensitive liquids like milk, detergent and other cleaning agents.

However, over the last five years plastic has steadily gained favor for its aesthetic properties, and is now recognized as a clear winner in the competition for shelf appeal. Plastic packaging is available in a variety of elegant finishes and effects that allow the beauty of your product to show through. Clear, lined and frosted versions can be matched to almost any color for maximum brand exposure and custom product design.

Additionally, plastic converters have mastered techniques once reserved for paperboard, such as printing on plastic, spot coating, foil stamping and embossing, making plastic as attractive as it is functional.

It is this unique combination of beauty and durability that makes plastic ideal for versatile product packaging and point-of-purchase (POP) displays. more

Dennis Bacchetta
Packaging