Flint Group and All4Labels have collaborated to fast-track innovation in flexo printing through eco-conscious inks and processes.  Hamburg, Germany-headquartered All4Labels is already reaping the benefits of more energy-efficient curing after switching to Flint Group’s EkoCure Dual Cure ink technology.

Flint Group is supporting the label manufacturer to improve its production processes during the transition to UV LED printing, with ongoing technical assistance and specialised training enabling All4Labels to fully leverage the advantages of LED ink systems. The collaboration has already seen All4Labels successfully reduce the energy needed to run its curing stations, as well as reduce emissions and waste.

All4Labels is also trialing Flint Group’s Evolution product range, which includes a deinking primer and caustic-resistant overprint varnish to see how these solutions can improve the recyclability of PET bottles, shrink sleeves, and pressure-sensitive labels.

Gabriela Neves, All4Labels VP global R&D and sustainability, says, “At All4Labels, we have driven a transformation towards eco-conscious printing in our products and production processes. With Flint Group’s support, this has included the introduction of UV LED curing systems using EkoCure Dual Cure, helping to reduce our power consumption as well as reducing emissions. Through this collaboration, we have optimised our production processes to be more efficient, use less material, and reduce waste.”

Mirko Müller, global key account director at Flint Group, adds, “Our strategic collaboration with All4Labels is a fantastic showcase of what can be achieved when two forward-thinking companies come together. Our cooperation is not just based on products; it is about building a collaborative environment that encourages new ideas. We have adapted our services to fit the specific needs of All4Labels. This has increased efficiency and a lower environmental footprint for both companies.”

Flint Group’s EkoCure Dual Cure ink technology can be cured under both UV and UV LED light, enabling printers to use one ink across all their presses while transitioning to full UV LED printing.

The technology – introduced to the global market at Labelexpo 2023, is designed to help converters adopt more energy-efficient processes at a pace that suits their business, as UV LED lamps require significantly less power to run than traditional Mercury UV lamps.

All4Labels’ use of EkoCure Dual Cure and the Evolution series is part of a broader strategy to reduce its CO2 output by 2,000 tons per year by switching to LED curing. The business aims to be entirely carbon neutral for scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2025.

Müller adds, “The printing supply chain has embraced innovation to reduce its environmental impact, from waste reduction to energy and resource efficiency. At the same time, narrow web printers cannot afford to compromise on speed, volume and quality. That is why the narrow web printing industry has begun the full-scale transition towards low-energy UV LED curing lamps. Supported by technology like EkoCure® Dual Cure, LED curing is helping converters worldwide reduce power consumption, boost print quality consistency and improve their throughput times.”

Müller concludes, “We are incredibly proud of our role in contributing to All4Label’s vision to lead in the sector. To provide this level of support, we consistently update our range of products, from advanced inks to more sustainable ink and coating solutions. This ensures that we are constantly driving forward and setting higher standards for the industry. We are more than just a supplier; we are a partner committed to fostering innovation, driving optimisation, and enabling success for both parties. This cooperative relationship is a model for excellence in our industry.”