Flexible Packaging: How Does It Work?
Very popular in the packaging world, flexible packaging refers to packaging that is made from materials that can be changed or altered. This kind of packaging can take the form of any pouch, bag or liner.
In the packaging industry, flexible packaging materials have an important role in product production. According to The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), “flexible packages are used for consumer and institutional products and in industrial applications, to protect, market, and distribute a vast array of products.”
With flexible packaging, we get the best of plastic, film, paper and aluminum foil. The great benefit of flexible packaging is that it delivers a range of protective properties while not using a large amount of material. Let’s discuss other great benefits of flexible packaging, courtesy of The Flexible Packaging Association.
- Flexible packaging is lightweight and easy to open, carry, store, and reseal.
- Flexible packaging extends the shelf life of many products, especially food, and has a positive sustainability profile.
- Flexible packaging requires less energy to manufacture and to transport and generates smaller quantities of greenhouse gases on its way to market
- Flexible packaging ultimately results in less consumer waste being sent to landfills
- Maintains and indicates freshness
- Offers consumer conveniences
- Provides efficient product to package ratios
- Doesn’t use as much energy as other packaging materials
- Doesn’t create as many emissions as other packaging materials
- Provides reclosure and dispensing options
Of these benefits, providing consumer convenience is highly discussed and researched. A recent study on brand value from the FPA showed that around 60% of “consumers are willing to pay more for certain product attributes enhanced by flexible packaging.” The study also says that these consumers were willing to pay up to 14% more for packaging that has the ability to reseal.
Flexible Packaging Materials
As we’ve discussed, flexible packaging is a more much sustainable alternative to rigid, unprotected containers. A truckload of flexible packaging materials is equal to 35 truckloads of rigid. If the consumer benefits weren’t enough, the fact that it can reduce so much transport, real-estate, and logistic waste should be eye-opening.
For companies that are already using flexible packaging materials, Karlville has machines that can be of great use. We offer a vertical approach to the supply of machinery for those companies that want to expand their offerings into pouch.
Pouch is a complex business as multiple material structures and unique converting challenges add barrier to entrance.
Flexible Food Packaging
One important side note about flexible packaging is that it has direct contact with food, whereas labels do not. This requires necessary converters in order to comply with all of the important safety regulations and compliance.
Flexible Packaging Machine
As we discuss converting, Karlville has a complete line of machines (from primary slitting to extrusion coating and lamination). We also have post print lamination, inspection, slitting and pouch making machines available.
For packaging, Karlville continues the vertical machinery integration with spout applicators as well as fillers for food and non-food products alike. In terms of pouch machinery, Karlville also offers both Thermal and Ultrasonic spout inserting and pouch making solutions. In addition to these machines, we have an industry enabling Spouted Pouch Pilot Facility in Miami, Florida in order to support and develop the business.
At Karlville, our mission is to reduce waste and increase efficiency from the flexible packaging business by providing turnkey solutions for pouches, which are all based from pre-made technology.
Learn more about Karlville’s line of flexible packaging products, including lamination, slitting inspection, pouch making, and filling pouch packaging.