UPM Raflatac develops linerless OptiCut technology

OptiCut is the latest example in UPM Raflatac’s portfolio of labeling innovations and product development. It prevents paper jamming and provides excellent adhesion with the minimal adhesive build-up in a wide variety of applications: from rough surfaces to sub-zero temperatures. It minimizes service time and offers customers a linerless product with maximum uptime of printer applicators, fewer reel changes, and a crisp barcode on the package.

‘We have developed OptiCut in collaboration with our partners across the value chain. Our innovative and sustainable solution is the optimal choice when you are looking for clean cutting performance on the printer combined with excellent adhesion on the package,’ said Mauri Suomela, senior vice president, paper laminates, UPM Raflatac.

According to UPM Raflatac, direct thermal (DT) linerless labeling is an efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional label stock as it brings up to a 40 percent reduction in material usage. Driven by sustainability trends and the need for increased efficiency, linerless has quickly gained ground alongside traditional technologies. Boosted by growing demand in end-uses such as grocery labeling, logistics, and quick-service restaurants, the DT linerless market has seen approximately 15 percent year-on-year growth in recent years.

To strengthen its position in the fast-growing linerless labelstock market, UPM Raflatac has recently announced scaling up its production capacity and building a new production line in Nowa Wies, Poland. The EUR 13 million investment is expected to be operational at the end of 2021.