‘Sustainability remains a growing trend both locally and globally, with the focus on recyclability and contribution to the circular economy, which influences paper, ink and value-added components on a label,’ she points out.
Synchron agency Kurz, in its production of hot and cold transfer foils, has invested significantly in technology, and research and development to ensure its products are fully compliant with global sustainability standards, including REACH EU chemical and harmful substance regulations.
‘Hot and cold transfer foils lend themselves to sustainable decoration and metallisation, which are fully recyclable once transferred to the product,’ Phumzile continues. ‘The foil layer is only 0.02µm thick and has no plastic component, as it is separated from the PET carrier film, which, in turn, is the thinnest possible, at 6µm thick. Should the PET carrier end up on landfill, it contains no harmful substances to contaminate groundwater.’
One such product, new to the South African market, is KPS-SX+ from Synchron agency Kurz. It’s a new foil grade for the sheet-fed cold foil industry that offers full metallisation of sheets sustainably, compared to metallised board, where the aluminium layer is plastic coated.
Also now available, Phumzile notes, is Luxor and Alufin MSU, an improved version of the stamping foils, MP, whose colour and design range imparts on packaging and labels high-gloss, matte, real metal and relief effects.
‘MSU is suitable for laminated and UV-lacquered surfaces, and low migration inks. The product has a high gloss finish and can be processed at faster running speeds. It is also a good solution for gassing and air entrapment.’
In addition, Kurz Germany recently acquired the print finishing division of Steinemann Technology, whose digital machine DM Maxliner combines metallisation and coating in one pass to produce a haptic relief experience, giving sheets a tangible 3D look.
Phumzile has noted a switch on labels from wine regions, grapes and products to a more personal consumer experience conveying a story. ‘Uncoated papers, embossed features with foil transfer and micro-embossing, add look and feel to a label, which are appreciated particularly by younger wine consumers looking for something exciting,’ she stresses.
‘Brand protection and traceability are label features increasingly in demand. With the popularity of uncoated and recycled papers posing an embellishment challenge, Kurz has MTH and MTC gloss stamping foils for this application.’
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