Global demand for peel and read varnish increases

Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) regulations will become mandatory on June 1 2015 for all mixtures, seemingly fuelling the growth in demand for peel and read labels. This format is becoming the preferred choice for many end users. It provides additional space on pack for consumer product and safety information and user instructions without sacrificing visual appeal and shelf impact. Peel and read labels are suitable for application on a wide variety of packaging, containers and bottles.

Gary Seward, managing director, Pulse Roll Label Products, said: ‘Following the development and launch of our UV flexo free radical release varnish in 2011, we have seen considerable growth in peel and read applications in both the UK and export markets. This dramatic increase in demand reflects growing end user requirements to provide enhanced product and more detailed consumer information on pack. Now a market-leading product, which has set an industry standard after being in commercial use for over three years, our release varnish is now one of our best sellers worldwide. The forthcoming changes in CLP regulation present many opportunities for end users to take advantage of peel and read label technology and our free radical release varnish provides a great solution for both end-users and label printers alike.’

The company claims the product provides excellent release properties and adhesion with smooth, even and consistent repeatable release characteristics on a variety of substrates. The free radical UV formulation is said to be optimized for smooth running on press and can be used on any printing machine at any time, significantly reducing waste and press clean-up times, improving production efficiencies and overcoming issues often associated with the use of cationic systems on press.

Seward added: ‘Changes in label and packaging regulations often brings many challenges. The new CLP legislation does however, also bring new market opportunities and this is driving demand. As well as being a proven and consistently high quality product, our formulation offers a potential lower cost alternative to the conventional cationic chemistry used for peel and read labels. We would be very happy to help UV flexo printers enter or expand their share of this growing market sector through product trials involving both customers and end users.’