Michelman unveils shrink sleeve primer

Michelman will introduce DigiPrime Vision 9200, a new primer designed for HP Indigo digital presses that will eliminate dry edge requirements for shrink sleeve applications, at Dscoop Edge Rockies. 

The primer will allow operators to seam through the primer while maintaining high seaming bond strength, removing the need for lane priming and application-specific rollers. This reduces setup time, downtime and consumable costs for print service providers.

DigiPrime Vision 9200 features improved water and chemical resistance for shrink sleeves and high-performance labels used in beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications. The water-based, PFAS-free formulation supports food contact compliance requirements.

The seamability benefits are based on positive results from ongoing customer trials, Michelman says.

'We're pleased to see Michelman continuing to build on our 20-year partnership,' commented Regina Guslitzer-Okner, head of supplies, applications and compliance at HP Indigo. 'This new primer will allow our customers to approach new opportunities with confidence while improving overall productivity and ease of use.'

The primer's non-yellowing formulation will provide substrate compatibility from smooth, transparent PETG shrink films to textured wine label stocks. Operators can move between label and shrink sleeve jobs without changing primers.

Expanded trials are underway at customer sites in Europe and the Americas, with broad availability expected later this year. The shrink sleeve market printed with LEP is expected to grow 19.5 percent annually through 2029.

'We're excited to help press owners expand into shrink sleeve applications with an innovative approach that simplifies press setup, improves water and chemical resistance, and continues to deliver the outstanding print quality and ink adhesion associated with the DigiPrime brand,' noted Andy Rae, strategic account manager at Michelman.

Michelman will showcase the primer at Dscoop Edge Rockies, March 8-11, 2026 in Denver, Colorado, booth 708.