Evolution in action: Simplify recycling for narrow web label printing

As the packaging industry evolves, one thing stays the same – brands and consumers alike expect Narrow Web printers to do more to address sustainability.

With growing demands to prioritise recyclability, Flint Group’s Evolution range is already demonstrating how coating technology can help printers evolve their labels, their packaging, and their business. This revolutionary technology is key to simplifying recycling of shrink sleeves and pressure-sensitive labels, and is helping contribute to a more circular packaging economy.

Why Evolution matters

The ongoing focus on sustainability means that in packaging, reduce, reuse, recycle remains top of the agenda. However, when it comes to certain materials, this can be easier said than done. For example, shrink sleeves and pressure sensitive labels typically need to be removed from PET bottles because of the risk of inks contaminating the reclaimed material and rendering it unusable. As well as increasing costs, this can mean that as much as 10% of potential recyclate goes to waste.

Flint Group’s Evolution simplifies recycling to maximise how much plastic can be reprocessed and reused. Comprised of both a deinking primer and a caustic resistant overprint varnish (OPV), Evolution boosts the amount of usable reclaimed material. These products tackle the complexities of recycling shrink sleeves and pressure-sensitive labels, streamlining the process and supporting a more sustainable Narrow Web sector.

How it works

Evolution Deinking Primer: Applied between the substrate and the ink, this product ensures strong adhesion during a label’s lifecycle while facilitating ink removal during recycling. This means ink can be removed from the sleeve material without contaminating valuable bottle flake.

Key benefits include:

• Supporting circularity by enabling PET bottles and their labels to be recycled together without compromising material recovery.
• By preventing ink contamination in recycling streams, Evolution Deinking Primer can boost the yield of reclaimed materials by up to 10%.

Caustic-resistant OPV: Applied to filmic label materials (PP, PE, etc.), this coating keeps ink securely held throughout its consumer lifespan and ensures it remains on the label during the caustic wash used during recycling. This varnish avoids contaminating the washing solution without affecting the label’s floatability, meaning the quality of the reclaimed material is significantly improved.

This means:

• The quality of reclaimed materials improves significantly as ink as ink bleed cannot contaminate the recyclate.
• Recycling processes become more efficient.

This dual approach – deinking where necessary and protecting inks where required – offers unparalleled flexibility for printers and converters seeking more sustainable label solutions.

Why Evolution matters for printers

Evolution is more than just a product – it’s a commitment to innovation aligned with the industry’s needs. Recognised by organisations like the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and celebrated at events such as the Global Label Awards, Evolution is setting new benchmarks for more sustainable printing solutions.

By adopting Evolution products, label and narrow web printers can better work towards their sustainability targets. With increasing regulatory and consumer focus on eco-conscious practices in printing, Evolution helps converters to stay ahead by actively contributing to circular economies.

Proven success with Optimum Group

Optimum Group, a leader supplier of self-adhesive labels and flexible packaging in Europe exemplified Evolution’s effectiveness via a published product success story and video. By incorporating the Evolution Deinking Primer into its operations, Optimum Group has enhanced the recyclability of shrink sleeves used with PET bottles. This transition not only improved sustainability but also demonstrated how printers can achieve environmental goals without sacrificing performance or efficiency.

See the video here:

How to get started with Flint Group’s Evolution range

Evolution is designed as a plug-and-play solution, compatible with existing ink systems and curing processes, requiring no additional investment or workflow adjustments. Both the OPV and the primer - based on materials suitable for indirect food contact - can be used in food packaging applications without impacting label quality. As a result, adopting Evolution is hassle-free.

For label and narrow web printers looking to overcome operational challenges while contributing to a greener future, Flint Group’s Evolution products are an indispensable choice. With Evolution already making a difference for printers and converters worldwide, why not make 2026 the year you make the switch to more sustainable label and narrow web printing?

Ready to transform your printing? Contact Flint Group today at narrow.web@flintgrp.com to discover how the Evolution range can elevate your business and support your sustainability goals. Visit Evolution | FlintGroup to learn more.