It is said that nothing in this world is new. Everything is inspired and ultimate source of ideation is “Nature”. From architecture to astrophysics, everyone is seems to be inspired by nature. In Packaging industry, both flexible and rigid packaging projects sometimes get influenced by this source. This is also known as biomimicry.

It is often noticed that the ideas of recycling is complementary in all natural process. Emulation of such natural concept gives us the key to take a leap in the packaging strategy. I am talking about the packaging adaptation in different structure, finish, and processes.

After spending 17+ years rigorously in flexible packaging industry, I have encountered various projects where source seems to be influenced. On observing it closely, it is often confused with the concept of “semantics”, however, it is completely different from this ideology. My article on “Semantics” received quite a readership and I will explain in this article how we have successfully integrated these concepts. I wish to speak on this topic in coming year since this concept is revolutionising yet to be assimilated in normal packaging practices.

• Ideas that create distinction in packaging can be adopted in different ways. First, It can be implemented in the physical design (Forms and Function) of the rigid packaged product. You may have seen the bottom half of beverage bottle which you may easily guess is inspired by capsicum shape. There is a special reference in the capsicum design. It withholds the air pressure inside and give stability. The design can hence give major stability goals to beverage bottles.
• Second best example is adopted in honey comb board. As we have already know that honey comb is hexagon in shape. The unique quality of honeycomb is that each hexagon block is covered by neighbouring block and provide security and protection. Honey comb board is easily seen used in courier to provide cushioning to objects. Snake skin is another example of buffer used in transportation.
• Third, which is my area of interest, printing effects inspired by nature. Pearl finish on the shrink sleeve surface is a emulated from real pearls, wet finish printing is conceptualised from water on lotus leaves. Sand touch is easily relatable with pricky leaves and velvety petals, and finally gloss is usually signifies with shiny leaves.

Apart from above three concepts, Closing the loop is one thing which is unavoidably sourced from nature. From creation of a sapling out of seed to a fully grown fruit, loop is continued and we are trying to implement the same in sustainability, emphasising the circularity in packaging. Isn’t it exciting to know how our minutest of the packaging application is coming out of nature. Semantics, however focussed on relating the product’s packaging with accessories. We must explore other scope of packaging from nature and trust me, sky would be the limit for this.

With this, I am closing the article. I hope you would relate with every example I have mentioned. Share me your feedback on info@tauruspackaging.com or you can also asked your query on +91 96674 00924.

• Is PCR packaging getting confusing and complicated?
• Will you require complete different set up and procedures?
• What does PCR has to offer for Indian Packaging Industry?

If you are grappling with these questions, then read on…

Recently this term has been in news in India. Government of India has done an amendment on Plastic Waste Management (PWM) regulations and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) rules for using plastic by adding 10% PCR in flexible packaging material from 2025. Brands have no choice but to accept this change and modify their priorities around it. Let’s think this action in detail to understand government’s thought behind it.

For years I have been working on Sustainability, yet it remains questionable. My second book – “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeves” clear doubts on sustainability. This year, I had discussed the similar aspect on RESPack 2024 conference’s stage. And I was thrilled to receive the phenomenal response. At Taurus, we are also working on various new sustainable and recyclable substrates that may work as a change movement for shrink sleeves industry today.

PCR packaging is manufactured with films made up of recycled plastic resins. Material which was previously used and then recycled. Now here’s a catch, instead of using fully recycled material, government has asked us to keep 10% of recycled material in films to start with in from year 2025. This is a wonderful step to consider during plastic manufacturing and the need of the hour – “the sustainability drive”. This is undoubtedly a win-win situation for both aspects.

There are various benefits of using 10% PCR in packaging. Let’s take quality first. It almost matches the regular flexible packaging quality which you expect in any virgin film. You can also get similar level of protection, barrier performance and strength. PCR films can even get you similar result in light, oxygen, and other gases blockage from entering your product. With all of these you will get benefits of lower carbon print. You may be able to contribute to a less plastic being dumped in our landfills and oceans. And with these overall benefits, you are also supporting new recycling industry in the sustainable ecosystem. Now the best part, with PCR film packaging, you are offering sustainable solution to all consumers, and they don’t have to do any action for this unlike separating or dumping them differently.

Now, do you think it is unclear or ambiguous? I don’t think so. Addition of PCR content in flexible packaging is strategic move. This changed process does not require any special setup or procedures. It can be implemented with existing machinery for perfect shrink. This change will definitely going to be a big boost for sustainability program in India. And of course, future targets by the government are to increase the PCR percentages in the plastic packaging, but I am sure that gradually our industry will become mature and start manufacturing and accepting more PCR in our plastics.

Overall, this change movement by Indian government for reducing the plastic menace is highly commendable. It is a well-crafted move that will benefit the Indian market highly. And in near future, I can foresee an increase in PCR content in film packaging is an imminent step.

It is also high time to consider shifting completely from PVC to PET/PETG or 30% PCR based shrink sleeves. If you need any guidance, we are here. You may contact us for a smooth progression to sustainable packaging.

You can visit our dedicated web page for the future of shrink sleeve industry
➡️ http://futureofshrinksleeve.com

Have you ever found your operations too complicated to implement any new innovation? Getting a new technology in existing well established system seems like a next to impossible task. Here’s an article that clears all your doubts regarding the blockage in packaging innovation.

In the sphere of technology and information we would hardly find anyone who would not acknowledge the importance of innovation, however many still turn a blind eye towards it and do not implement the innovative practices in their fields.

What is the main reason?

We have been discussing the innovations that have stirred the market. However, before every new innovation that saw the light of day, there have been few factors that have hindered its widespread/popularity. Here I’ll be discussing about “Barriers to Packaging Innovation”.

With 17 years of flexible packaging experience, I have observed that implementing innovation was not easy. It was tough to understand the situations and diverse market with reference to new technologies. I am an author and had been speaker at many packaging conferences like AWA, RESPack where I got opportunity to speak about innovations.

I have been fortunate to comprehend different market and technologies with diverse experience. It was always one thought of implementing new advancement in existing practices that has helped me going beyond the normal procedures. Let’s take them one by one and understand the points closely.

• Risk & uncertainty:Before taking any major decision in an organization, risk calculation is the first step. The risk engaged in, may affect their brand position, growth, industry status, consumers’ reaction and more.However, for most organizations, risk or uncertainty is an important criteria for the future growth of the organization. Hence choosing the state of the art innovation in the area of packaging, can make this risk worthwhile, contrary to the belief that it cannot. Not trying out new recycle friendly substrates which are supporting sustainability and can be used with existing machines and bottles. Like NEXT PET, TruCycl, Floatabel.
• Lack of resources / time, money & human capital:Startups, small, medium, and large organizations have their own ways of approaching innovation depending on their status. A new organization may not be as excited to adopt new innovations as the larger ones with more funds. Time, manpower, and resources are the other factors that decide how innovation will take shape.E.g. HIP Framework has revolutionized the printing packaging industry and specially helped startups by giving fast, customised packaging within budget.
• Focus on short-term results:Like most of the shortcuts one takes, opting for short-term goals sometimes deviates firms from bigger objectives. This proves why finding temporary solutions to major constraints will hamper innovation in a big way. For instance, various brands are scared to implement new features as they think that market is accepting their packaging as it is. Anything new might trigger the consumer rejection. This fear lead the delay and competitors take advantage by implementing new things.
• Lack of knowledge & understanding of details:In any tough situation, when we think of a solution which is innovative, a key factor that hinders practical application is the lack of knowledge about the subject and the use of technology. Clarity on the situation and possessing knowledge on the topic can push you halfway to embracing/adopt innovation effortlessly. Without these, one cannot move ahead in innovation. I have seen various upcoming brands do not opt for special features on their packaging as they think it is expensive and require more time to develop. Today now we can explore various features like soft, matt, sand, gloss, wet, UV, Gold or Silver foiled texture.

To conclude, the above points finally make innovations in packaging an expensive affair. When it comes to packaging, allocating funds for quality results may mean increasing your margins, however at the end of the day it’s worth it.

For above mentioned technologies, you can clear your doubts by asking us directly. Feel free to send us your query at info@tauruspackaging.com or give us call at +91 96674 00924.

Every time, I am asked about the futuristic innovations and technologies in packaging industry, I give answer differently. There is a reason for this. Innovation can be revolting but it depends on how easy can you adapt it? Hence, answer varies with context and adaptability. How dynamic is your market and your organisation is the key.

Do you remember the term “Chain Reaction”? We used to study that process in our academic years. A Dynamic industry is a perfect example of the chain reaction. One thing leads to another and creates a different situation which can propel new growth in other dimensions. Any change in such market will lead to a situation that trigger the use of next best option.

With 4 books and 17+ years of experience, my tryst with packaging industry is now going ahead in experimental mode. I was never convinced with unexplained technical concepts and hence, writing triggered as my understanding grew.

Let me give you examples of the most crucial aspects of packaging, focusing on the innovations that have revolutionised the situation afterwards.

Shrink sleeves have created a demand that has benefited various industries and ultimately become a basic requirement within a decade.

• Digital print: It is one such innovation that seemed almost impossible a few years ago. Request for mock-ups previously pushed multiple important factors like production of cylinders/plates/test proofs, budgets, and print limits beyond permissible boundaries, posing a huge challenge. The whole procedure used to delay the deadlines by weeks. But now, with digital print, such mock-ups are available within minutes.
• Counterfeit protection: This packaging innovation secures your product from “Me-Too” brands. The market was previously flooded with duplicate and substandard replacement products that defamed the original brand. With counterfeit packaging technology, brands can now secure their products from being replaced by cheap imitations, thereby building consumer trust.
• Decoration: As the market develops, the concepts of design, aesthetics, and semiotics have evolved a lot. Branding plays a pivotal role in packaging design. Decorative elements within these frameworks connect with consumer’s psychology. Special effects like – Gold Finish, Silver finish, Sand, and Soft touch are textures used to highlight specific features of the product through packaging.
• Sustainability: This is an unavoidable topic with a major impact on the world. Discarded plastic has become a nightmare for nature and all living beings. I don’t need to explain the problem, but we can definitely talk about the solution. Sustainability and Recycling are two methods by which the situation can be contained. Using substrates or films that are sustainable or support recycling is the solution that can create a valid change.
• Cost reduction: This is one such criteria which is omnipresent in all industries. Budgeting or Cost-cutting happen in packaging too. Usually, Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is the one that contributes to the cost. Apart from this aesthetics, substrates, printing quality, and complex shapes add to the cost. Yet, most of these can be managed within the budget through technology. Taurus’ HIP framework is known to provide the fastest and best results within budget.
• Consumer use application: Portable and convenient packaging that is easy to use, interactive packaging like QR codes and RFID tags, sustainable packaging for health and environmental impacts, and smart packaging for food safety are exceptional application-based packaging innovations that reduce consumer inconvenience at certain levels.Above mentioned highlights are the triggered points for more innovation in the packaging industry.

I will start this blog with an analogy. A catalyst in a chemical reaction triggers the elements that speed-up the desired output. A right packaging design does the same thing to the complete packaging development on time. Let me give you the relatable instance. Maximum designers work on the principles of commercial printing or paper-based printing concepts. Hence, flexible packaging design on gravure printing encounter challenges.

For me, Packaging design is an essential part which is often underrated in technical process. I was able to realize its importance a little late and want to share it with you.

I have been fortunate to work along with major FMCG / CPG brands in India. However, as a Shrink Sleeve Expert, it is difficult to comment on packaging designing concept which is essentially the part of brand’s perspective. Yet, to give a practical outlook on the same, I want to highlight a few points that seem critical from a printing perspective.

My work experiences have given me chance to explore technical and non-technical part of printing packaging execution. All this knowledge has led me to write 3 well received packaging books and be at the international platform like AWA Conference in Amsterdam that happened last year. While covering vivid aspects, I started to understand the nitty-gritties of perfect packaging.

In this blog, we will cover the essential of packaging design. Before I start, here’s a small reminder that these points are from printing perspective. You may differ from my views as a brand owner despite that they are critical to efficacies of packaging.

• Label details (Container Shape + KLD)
  Holding basic idea on product’s container shape is first step. It is one such aspect that make or break your packaging. I have seen changes in the design happening on printing stage because of this. Bottle shape, curves and contours adds a lot to the brand’s appeal and to the meticulous work on design. Other point is Keyline drawing which is essential part that clear the air about successful packaging development. It is one of the most technical part or can also be termed as the trickiest step before final print. It receives maximum correction for perfect output. Brands must consider them as the basic grid line that decide finish.

• Material & Finish (Special effect + Substrate)
  Understanding of substrate and finishes of the shrink sleeve to ensure compatibility with printing techniques is important. Different substrate has different properties which offer compatibility with container and printing machines. Special effects and Embellishments need specific details during printing which cannot be overlooked. It is important to understand the special effects with printing compatibility.

• Printing Considerations (Printing Type +Pantone)
  Type of printing is another factor to consider. Decision to opt for specific type of printing not only covers the financial aspect but also include the execution part. Gravure printing is opted where product have high quantity. Digital & Flexo has its own preferences according to the printing requirement. Having a clear understanding of number of pantones used in design will give clarity. Common pantone shades can be preferred to avoid wastage of inks. Providing the specific pantone number to the printer will resolve a lot of issues later.

• Legal Requirement
  Adhering to mandatory government norms and legal regulation on the product packaging design is vital. Because of stringent laws and requirements, designing concept can be tweaked. It is imperative to be in compliance with these legal matters like warnings, product ingredients and information etc.

• Mock-Up & Prototype
  Prototype or Mock-up are the test runs that defines your packaging design. It is crucial to visualize the design than to presume in mind, prior to final execution. Therefore, Mock-ups provide a practical solution to flawless execution. Our R&D team with latest Digital printing machine will provide you the quick Mock-up and prototype for clarity on execution.

Above are the points that are crucial for packaging development. I could extend and might add a few points more. But value comes with preciseness. Let’s us catch up again for more insightful lesson

3X your Product Visibility with Packaging Partner that

• Complete shrink sleeve development in less time.
• Enables PVC to PET G transition in one go.
• Has trusted R&D enabled facility.

Does your packaging partner suffice to all above points? Or have proper technical knowledge and expertise in handling alternate shrink sleeves substrates? To continue the series of the blogs for overcoming counterproductive PVC being used in Packaging, here is another article focusing on the implementation of eco-friendly substrates.

For years, I was focusing on the technological advancements in flexible packaging. My 17 years of elaborate experience has specific focus to evolve in flexible packaging process. I wrote 3 books to concise this information into actionable items. My second book – “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeves” declutter the misconception of sustainable substrate. Recently, I was at the global platform discussing similar issue. Sustainability in flexible packaging has capability to grow in leaps and bound. We just need to be open about this change.

We are discussing the much newer substrates – NEXT PETG and PETG this time. There is no short way to know the substrates but to try and test them out; one by one. I have delved into the subject of sustainable packaging for more than 6 -7 years and in that short period, hardly a day passes without noticing an article on the sustainable or recycled packaging opportunity. In country like India, PVC is still dominating the shrink sleeve packaging market, however many countries have switched its packaging from harmful PVC to sustainable or recyclable ones. These changes in India are under progress and a complete switchover is imminent. This is the perfect time to learn challenging market of new substrates.

Let’s take PETG substrate first, and analyse how technical proficiency is required to handle it. PETG give best result in steam tunnel. It is usually opted by beverage brands. It shows good compatibility with various bottles type like PET, PP or HDPE particularly with PET containers. PETG has more shrinkage ratio, at higher temperature (more than recommended) rigidity appears, hence it is not a preferred choice for hot-air tunnel. Wrinkle effect is obvious with PETG if slightest variation in temperature is ignored. This is just a start, there are numerous challenges that defines perfect shrink in PETG. Air entrapment, distortion, Hot Melt issue, Shrink Force, SIT, etc. are a few of them which is impossible to discuss here at once.

Another such complex substrate is NEXT PETG. This is less known substrate in the market. This substrate has an advantage over PETG. It is opted in both hot-air tunnel and steam tunnel. It is more flexible than most grades of PETG. With its carefully designed shrinkage, loosening of the sleeves is rarely seen with NEXT PETG. It offers better value for money than other non-harmful substrates. Needless to say, other factors too play a crucial role in perfect shrinkage.

Both these substrates are non-toxic to humans and environment and not much hard on budgets unlike other renewable or sustainable ones. Picking right combination of technologies as per requirements and understanding the technical nuances of substrates is the key. It’s not the cup of tea for every packaging supplier who do not go beyond PVC. And of course, the sustainability in the shrink sleeve world is not stopping at PETG. There is more to go beyond PETG. It is important to explore options and choose right partner who can guide you for future in packaging excellence.

One needs to follow the right sequence in getting the PETG sleeve development done else they risk failure or delay in getting it right.

To know the background of this topic, please refer to my previous articles.

Out Of PVC Into The Beneficial World

Replace PVC

Want to know more about NEXT PETG or discover the steps to get sustainable packaging right?

You can email us at info@tauruspackaging.com or call us at +91 96674 00924.

Sustainable packaging is a topic that has various points to consider, especially when we are moving away from PVC. After collating my thoughts on the blog “Out of PVC” (https://tauruspackaging.com/out-of-pvc-into-the-beneficial-world/), I realised that I have just covered the foundation. Hence, this article is next step in Sustainable packaging. Options that can be considered for non-PVC sustainable packaging solution.

A strategy is considered effective only when it provides solutions that not only curtail the shortcomings but also focuses on growth. Banning PVC doesn’t necessarily fulfil criteria for sustainable packaging. We need to see the best possible options that come close to PVC rather than emphasizing on its drawbacks. This blog throws light on the next best step in Sustainable packaging.

There has been no other subject in my life than Packaging that has intrigued me the most. 17 years of my extensive research were spent on understanding the various aspects of flexible packaging. Being an ardent researcher on this subject, helped me understand the different trends and innovations around the world after which I went on to become an International Resource Person on this topic. And before recommending it to any of our clients, I make sure that I fathom it fully. As a Packaging Expert, I ensure that any technique or substrate recommendation by me is backed by practical application.

• Let us start with the best known option for PVC substitution which is PET G. PET G provides fantastic results in shrinking and overall coverage. It is non-toxic, provides good compatibility with various plastic bottles. PET G gives an exceptional output in steam shrink tunnel. There is scope for improvement in heat shrink tunnel of PET G due to its high density. Next PET G is another substrate opted for after PVC. Like PET G, Next PET G is also non-hazardous and provides excellent results with HDPE, PET or PP containers. And here’s the best part, the price of Next PET G is quite competitive than PVC. Hence, it is considered as the most opted replacement of PVC.
• The next in line is OPS, i.e. “Oriented Polystyrene”. It is most prevalent in Japan for the purpose of refrigeration. It is usually opted for the PET G shrink sleeves performance is not adequate and PVC is not an option. It is also environment friendly but is more costly as compare to PET G. LDPET is another choice over PVC. Low Density Polyethylene Terephthalate (LDPET) is more dimensionally stable than OPS. Its density is 1.1 which decreases the overall plastic usage making it more yield oriented than PVC and PET G. Though it is more expensive, however not as much as OPS.
• Finally let’s move on to the Sustainable and Recyclable shrink sleeves substrates. Firstly let’s discuss “TruCycl” – the first recyclable shrink sleeves in India. It is the only substrate that can be recycled and reused in the industry repeatedly. Labels or shrink sleeves can be recycled with bottle containers. The various inks can be washed off easily. It’s relatively recent in the market but has already created a stir.
• The next option for shrink sleeves that is created from organic sources like sugarcane and corn starch etc, PLA (Polylactic Acid) is completely biodegradable but highly priced.

From all of the above options, I recommend readers to choose according to their manufacturing requirements. The substrate that fits your bill in terms of design, container, shrink tunnel, sustainability criteria and budget will be the correct choice. Running from pillar to post in quest for sustainability but not consulting an expert technical packaging partner will sabotage your entire development project. It’s time for you to ask a proficient packaging partner the best-fit solution for you. You can send your query to us too. Email us at info@tauruspackaging.com or call us @ 91 9667400924.

We all know that moving towards sustainable actions is the need of the hour. Yet, we have been so comfortable using PVC for packaging that we have forgotten or neglected its harmful effects. There is so much information available on internet about plastic that difference between PVC or other sustainable options seem like almost similar. Here, this blog, will share the technical points through which you can easily consider moving out of PVC.

For 17 years, I have worked in this packaging industry and have witnessed it evolving continuously. I have always appreciated the use of Sustainable plastic. Topics of my Blogs, videos, and presentations have been quite frequent on Recycling and Sustainability. As an International Speaker and Shrink Sleeve Expert, I have always pushed the Recycled & sustainable plastic use in packaging. Today, the global shift has been towards

sustainability for holistic growth. It is a change that is widely appreciated. Still, coming out of PVC seems like a big task for brands that are using it inside and out. Let us go through all the points that makes PVC a DANGER for everyone. I hope this will help you in taking decision quickly for moving OUT OF PVC.

Health Implications

PVC – Poly Vinyl Chloride, the most common plastic source used in shrink sleeve packaging. In packaging industry, PVC comes as an easy option. Although, this easy option comes at disposal of harmful effects. Chlorine in PVC on decomposition and incineration produce chemicals and toxins in the environment. These toxins are then enter organism through soil, water or air creating disastrous threats like – cancer, pulmonary diseases or genetic mutations. PVC are mixed with various plasticisers to increase the flexibility and durability. “Pthalates” are one of the known to create mental disorder in human beings. Marine life, plants, animals or birds, nothing is spared from PVC.

Low Printing Quality

When it comes to the quality input, innovations has gone beyond expectation. Today, we have various option in substrate that gives us better results. In technical language, PVC has low shrinkage, only upto 50-60% TD shrinkage value. Shrink Initiation Temperature and the Peak Shrinkage Temperatures of PVC shrink sleeve is the reason. This can result in numerous shrinking limitations. Flowering effect is commonly seen because of this. Other factors like, shrink force, steam or hot air tunnel, Hot Melt or HAL and ambient temperature are few factors on which new substrates are showing PVC-like results and in many cases better results.

Global Movement

Considering the PVC harmful effects, countries have come up with other alternatives which are conducive to environment. Packaging industry has appreciated the substrates like PETG, PLA, OPS, LD-PET, TruCycl, Floatabel etc. Many countries have banned or discourage the use of PVC in any industry. They have even offered the subsidies and benefits for environment friendly packaging techniques. Carbon credits are strengthening the use of sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions. In India too, this shift has already started but it has to get the momentum for concrete results.

By opting the Sustainable and Recyclable packaging shrink sleeves we can contribute, not only to our work but also to our environment. It is a win-win situation. Quality packaging with environment benefits. The points listed above are useful for taking the first step. We are available to help you for cost-effective sustainable shrink-sleeve packaging incorporation.

You can write to us at info@tauruspackaging.com or give us a call at +91 9667400924. Your faith will make us more technical in our approach.

The flexible packaging industry is quite in congruence with its name. The requirements in industry are as vibrant as consumers’ thoughts. For a decade, the industry focused on fast development, and then the industry was led by fast output with no MOQ technology. This technology was still reigning in the world when sustainability took priority.

And now this global requirement is topped with innovation to boost Exclusivity in Sustainability.

Such a fast-changing industry… Hello Friends! I am Chetan Jain, shrink sleeve guide, international speaker, and executive director of Taurus Packaging. I have been writing articles and blogs on different topics based on flexible packaging, specifically shrink sleeves. As an author, my motive is to mitigate the difference between current practices and innovative technologies. With 16 years of experience, the shrink-sleeve industry never fails to provide me with subjects I can’t refer to. So let me throw my perspective on Exclusivity in Sustainability.

Sustainability is not just a formality that we need to consider for government norms and subsidies. It is futile unless we practice in every process. Opting for sustainable and recyclable substrates is the start. There are plenty of options available these days that provide a healthy packaging choice. This single step can change the whole industry. Collection, segregation, and processing will operate on different levels. Providing much clarity and ease. Mono-material is another significant approach. Opting for a single sustainable packaging substrate in bottles as well as shrink sleeves is a game-changing movement. As I told you, sustainability provides a bouquet of opportunities to explore. Water-based inks and adhesives are another area to explore.

Coming to another point, how do you provide exclusivity to your packaging? It can be done in various aspects. You may provide fast TAT for your developments; you could use different packaging in small quantities; and you may also think of going sustainable. Yet, the most promising point is to offer embellishments and tactile effects. This technology can be driven by 2.5D printing. In taurus packaging, our 2.5D printing technology provides a soft, wet, sand texture on the printing surface. You can also opt for gold or silver foil to highlight the packaging. Holographic printing can also be added to packaging to avoid counterfeiting.

Today, brands want to be ahead of the curve with innovations and technology. To be the top-pick brand in the supermarket aisle, a brand must convince customers about its premium and exclusive approach to sustainability. And this starts with packaging. Combinations are deadly. Sustainability for the world’s benefit and premium customisation for exclusivity.

All you need to do is connect with your packaging partner to implement it in your product. If you face any issues, what are we here for? You can resolve your queries with us. We can guide you to suitable measures without any cost. It is a simple step, and it is in my own interest to help everyone who is seeking technical guidance in shrink-sleeve printing packaging.

Connect with us. You may write to info@tauruspackaging.com or give us a call on +919667400924

How are you doing?

Today, I am going to mention a topic to which you would relate. I have been in the packaging industry for over a decade and a half, but this section never fails to amaze me.

A couple of days ago, I was reading an article and came across an example of how information given in the packaging was misleading to customers. So I thought to bring the topic to light once again from the converter’s point of view.

My 16 years of experience and travelling to various nations have a lot to contribute to having keen eyes that pick unique projects. As a global shrink sleeve expert and author of two books, “Sleeve it Right” and “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeves,” my obsession with exploring packaging dimensions has lead me to learn the ins and outs of shrink sleeve.

Packaging is a very large branch that is a mix of industrial engineering, marketing, material science, and important industry-specific aspects.

Hence, what you communicate on the packaging is not restricted to mere information, it is a great deal and makes a lot of difference. Semiotics is the part of packaging that is leading this concept. Now a days, effective packaging concepts have been overruled by packaging that gives a wow factor. It is not new to see a few products fail to connect with target customers. They are eye-catching, but getting the correct meaning from the pack is a challenge. Semiotic packaging simplifies such objections. In simple terms, semiotics is the way to communicate with your client through human experience, i.e., through written linguistics, visual, audio, sensorial, gestural, and spatial patterns.

A customer has very limited time while scanning the supermarket aisle. If it’s too short to read even a brand name, then how are they supposed to make the correct decision? Yet they pick the best-suited product for themselves. This is where semiotics plays its part. Let’s take a few examples of brands where semiotics played it very smoothly and won the client’s trust.

Remember when our atta used to come in a brown woven sac? “Aashirvaad atta” did the same with its brand in the atta pack. It may not have been the most attractive packaging, but it was definitely nostalgic and close enough to be picked up by consumers who would recall it.

Another example where semiotics has a clean sweep is “Dove Beauty Bar” Dove packaging has nothing but the key element that depicts its source and Purity concept. Except for the milk and the icon, it has nothing on the cover. Where above were the examples of a design for packaging, let’s understand the part where the product gives a confusing message. For instance when you are not able to get the form of product you want, like tea that is loose or in tea bags? Jellies you pick came out to be bath toys.

The above are instances that show us how the use of spatial and sensorial patterns like strong colors, connotations, and implicit meaning is necessary for the consumer’s buying interest. If you closely look, every step helps you get the semiotic design in packaging. From the substrate and shape of the bottle to the color, symbols, and content, every small or big part has knowingly or unknowingly contributed to aesthetics and is an underlying part of brand identity. And semiotics is very much leading it.

It would be very prejudiced to consider semiotics to have a limited scope. It helps you define the product variation in different geographies. The same brand in the US, UK, and India has different packaging. And its relevance is easily communicated through this. It also confirms the user—the brand, culture, and specific information.

Like any other industry, “the devil lies in the details.”, Packaging seems so simple and easy, yet its “behind the scenes” part is quite illustrative. One must have passion to go in depth and to take out the pearls of packaging.

You can connect with us to share your views on semiotics and also to implement the semiotics design on your product through mails at info@tauruspackaging-com.in9.cdn-alpha.com or calls on 9667400924.

I was often asked by my clients, what it takes to do the perfect packaging in single go? My answer to this question will always remain same. Getting hold on the basics requirement and eyes for innovative solutions. Having said this, no packaging job is same. Every container offer different level of challenge depending on your experience.

As a manufacturer I could understand the dilemma of brand owners who often juggle between manufacturing and packaging work. Packaging intricacies does require a lot of valuable time and immediate actions.

Being an Global Shrink Sleeve Advisor for years has resulted in me crafting technical books, “Sleeve It Right” and “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeves,” which were appreciated by leaders around the world. Having over 15 years of experience in the industry enriches me with various case studies. Thankfully, now, Chetan Jain is regarded as the technical expert on the matter of shrink sleeve packaging.

So here I am, writing an article on 6 pivotal points; all professionals handling packaging development need to consider before starting work on it.

•Product container shape

This is the first step in the packaging process. Knowing your product’s container shape. A symmetric container can provide even shrinkage. If your container has contours and troughs that are unevenly placed, then getting the right shrinkage could be difficult. In such cases, distortions are more likely to appear. You have carefully selected the container shape and shrink tunnel.

•Innovation

Shrink sleeves can vary depending on the level of innovation desired for your product. It is dependent on your converter partner and how he will deliver it. It is predominantly determined by your customers’ basic requirements and expectations, but a lot depends on the manufacturer’s ideation and conceptual execution. For example, a QR code or barcode is a safety and assurance indicator. UV or metallic inks are an indicator of the quality of the packaged food. Any special effect on the shrink sleeves helps create a distinctive feature and protects it from counterfeiting. These unique characteristics can include wet, sand, soft, silver, or gold foiling.

•Shrink Sleeve Material

The right shrink sleeve substrate is a tremendous game changer for your product packaging. Brands always carefully select the right shrink sleeve substrate before designing the packaging. It is one of the basic questions about your packaging type. There are a lot of packaging materials on the market, but selecting the appropriate one according to your product is the key.

You need to discuss this with your converter partner to determine the right sleeve material. I have jotted down the basic substrate list for your knowledge.

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
  It is the most versatile shrink sleeve substrate, widely used. Easy to print and handle efficiently for effortless work. Low-cost substrates provide a good range of shrinkage. Despite all these benefits, PVC is not environmentally friendly, and its incineration has negative effects on health.
• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
  A sustainable option in today’s world, predominantly used by all brands. Substrate clarity, stability, and availability are its benefits. It has a high shrinkage ratio, which is an added advantage in controlling the factors for shrink tunnels. It means less distortion.
• Other Alternates
  There are some more options, like LDPET, NEXT PETG, OPS, TruCycl that are relevant depending on application.

•Design

Designing the packaging creatively is another landmark. It is like deciding the layout of your product. Design reflects the brand’s appeal. Shape, color, design elements, layout, and contents all contribute to the complete design. Always be mindful that high-shrinkage areas should not have fine design or text loaded content. Bar codes are to be aligned vertically. Seams are also very critical areas for the design. Avoid using continuous graphic text. There, use small amounts of content and elements.

•Shrinkage and Distortion

Shrinkage and distortion are relatively technical concepts to understand. Perfect shrinkage is the result of various determinants like container type, shape, and material, yet it is considered the factor of perfect shrink sleeve packaging because it also depends on the shrink tunnel you prefer. Every tunnel has its own prerequisite conditions and benefits. Steam shrink tunnels are known to provide the best shrinkage since they evenly distribute the heat. As the shrink sleeve is exposed to direct heat, it is more prone to distortion.

•Converter Partner

For every exceptional execution, you need expert support that can guide you through the process according to your needs. It is a challenging task, and not everyone could deliver your desired result. Most of the time, we understood it clearly after the final shrink sleving went wrong. In order to save time and money, you should go with a converter partner who has the required technologies, knowledge, and experience.

I could write another 10 points on this subject, and this ending would guide me to start a fresh article on the other vital aspect of shrink sleeve packaging. But will write more in future.

So, keeping the sanctity of the space, I would end here. Although keeping your queries at bay is not right. Hence, you could ask your question related to this topic to me at Chetan.jain@tauruspackaging-com.in9.cdn-alpha.com

Usually, when a product is delivered to the customer or user, the manufacturer’s accountability is over. However, this is not in the case in the packaging industry. Until the packaging is applied to the product or on the container, It is not considered fully closed. Especially in Shrink Sleeves, this process is even more technical. In fact, the most crucial part is when shrink sleeves are applied over and formed into the final product container.

Being a Global Shrink Sleeve advisor, and Director of Taurus Packaging, I have experienced a lot of these application issues. I have mentioned this in my both books – “Sleeve it Right” & “5 Myths about Sustainable Shrink Sleeve.” Surprisingly one thing is common – The Application and handholding hiccups of Shrink Sleeves.

Let’s begin with the step in which the shrink sleeves are printed and delivered to you by us -the converter. Now the ball is in your court. The application process plays a critical role. The best-fit application technologies are determined by factors such as container type, shrink sleeve material processing condition, and selecting the right combination based on the need. The application process is divided into three categories:

1. Rotational / Carousel Applicator
2. Auto Applicator / Bullet Style/ Mandrel
3. Manual Application / Direct Apply
Let’s take them one by one.

Rotational Applicator

This applicator system is easy to handle and provides better placement of the shrink sleeve on the container, even with non-cylindrical shapes. It allows sleeves to be “squared” for rotational accuracy in a variety of container shapes. This applicator works well in full-body shrink-sleeving. Shrink sleeves are used in roll form.

Auto / Mandrel Applicator

As the name suggests, it is an Automatic applicator that uses a mandrel or metallic tube-like structure on which the sleeves are opened and applied to the containers below it. It is primarily used in beverage containers on high-speed lines.

Manual / Direct Apply 

It employs shrink sleeves in the cut form. Sleeves are passed through a tool kit that opens and applies over the container moving on the conveyer belt.

The shrink tunnel is another important aspect of applicator technology. Here too, we have three different tunnel types:

1. Hot Air (Convection)
2. Radiant Heat (Infra-Red)
3. Steam (Conduction)

Hot Air (Convection) Shrink Tunnel

Cost Shrink sleeving that is both effective and simple. Hot air is applied by directional heat to the container’s specific area where maximum shrinkage is required. best for areas like necks, grooves, or recesses. Because hot air is directly blown on the surface of the container, the temperature of the tunnel tends to be on the higher side. And this excessive heat leads to distortion in the shrink sleeve on the surface, especially on the leading edge of the sleeve. These distortions are frequently observed in cold-filled plastic or glass containers. Conveyor belts that spin for containers can help reduce such distortions.

Infrared Shrink Tunnel

The source of the heat is Infrared and since it is restricted to the chamber, this tunnel works like an oven. It is initially designed for preheating the container to ensure proper shrinkage and reduce the heat-sink effect on glass. But usually, it resulted in higher shrinkage at one end of the sleeve than the other. Shrinking PETG sleeves is highly challenging on thin-layer plastic containers.

Steam (Conduction) Shrink Tunnel

The best and most versatile shrink tunnel available for shrink sleeves. The source of the heat shrink is steam. Steam distributes the heat to the entire surface of the container, giving it the best shrinkage. Transfer of heat is very effective with steam; Steam is 20 times more efficient than air, so it is easier to control the heat and manage the temperature. Despite having the advantage of a nearly perfect shrink, Steam Tunnel has a comparatively complex machine for generating the steam (boiler, pipes, drainage, etc.), which determines the volume of steam you require for shrink-sleeving the container. It also requires maintenance from time to time for perfect functioning.

Shrink sleeving is similar to custom tailoring for your product container.
All you need to know are your important points, and the solution will be easy. Before making this investment, consult with a shrink-sleeve guide.

Taurus Packaging is at your service for any doubt regarding shrink sleeving. We are available at info@tauruspackaging-com.in9.cdn-alpha.com or 96674 00924.