In a Word / News in Brief from the Graphic Arts Industry

The packaging and graphic arts sectors are seeing significant shifts through strategic product launches and industrial updates, including a landmark collaboration between Tetra Pak and Jealsa for carton-based seafood packaging. Key developments also include Hubergroup’s expansion of its UV offset ink range to address substrate sensitivity and Saica’s recent European convention focusing on regulatory compliance and circular economy innovations. These updates highlight a broader industry trend toward sustainability, material efficiency, and technical refinement in response to evolving consumer and regulatory demands.

Tetra Pak has partnered with Spanish seafood producer Jealsa to introduce the first carton package specifically designed for canned tuna, utilizing the Tetra Recart system. This 200-ml solution, recently launched in Sweden via Axfood, serves as a lower-carbon alternative to traditional metal cans and glass jars, featuring up to 71% FSC-certified paper and a rectangular shape optimized for logistics. Simultaneously, the Saica Group hosted its 14th European customer convention in Málaga, where over 650 attendees discussed the implications of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Saica showcased new innovations such as Saica Skin Origami, which integrates flexible packaging with corrugated cardboard, alongside new solutions for direct contact with fatty foods.

In the realm of printing consumables, Hubergroup has expanded its NewV line of UV offset inks with low-tack versions for the NewV Pack Premium, Set LED, and MGA series. These formulations are designed to prevent fiber pull-out and delamination on sensitive substrates like uncoated cardstock, addressing challenges posed by fluctuating paper quality and high-speed production environments. Complementing these technical advances, Torraspapel Malmenayde has added the Dolce Vita line by Favini to its catalog. This uncoated paper provides a matte-coated finish for high-end marketing materials and is available in weights ranging from 120 to 320 g/m², supported by a 13,000 m² stock facility ensuring 24-hour delivery.

The industry also saw notable infrastructure and operational changes, including the Belgian group Daddy Kate putting its 3,630 m² industrial site in Froyennes up for sale following the consolidation of its printing operations. The facility is notable for its existing photovoltaic system and high-voltage electrical connection. Additionally, the Bourray paper mill in Saint-Mars-la-Brière, which specializes in recycled cellulose wadding, experienced a brief production halt following a transformer fire on June 22. Although the fire was controlled within minutes, the incident required a formal restart procedure for the mill's operations.