CCL Label, a global leader in label and packaging solutions, has expanded its European footprint with the inauguration of a cutting-edge shrink sleeve production facility in Tibi, Spain. Strategically located near Alicante, the new plant is poised to enhance CCL Label's capacity to serve both domestic and multinational brands in the region.

Shrink sleeves, applied through a heat process, conform seamlessly to a variety of container shapes, effectively acting as a second skin. Made from floatable low-density polyolefin material, these sleeves represent cutting-edge sustainable technology in the shrink sleeve sector. Their innovative design facilitates straightforward separation from the primary container during recycling, supporting efficient material sorting. This feature significantly enhances recycling processes by improving material separation, thereby contributing to overall recycling efficiency and sustainability. The use of low-density polyolefin not only ensures optimal performance but also aligns with environmental goals by promoting more effective waste management and resource recovery.

While all shrink sleeve materials will be available, the emphasis will be on the award-winning EcoFloat shrink sleeves. These sleeves are crafted from polyolefin and are approved for use with PET, HDPE, and PP bottles and containers. EcoFloat has significant recognition for its innovative approach.

Reinhard Streit, VP and Managing Director Food & Beverage at CCL Label, highlighted the strategic importance of their investment in the new greenfield facility, emphasizing its role in supporting the vibrant Spanish consumer products market. Spain, known for its exceptional food and drink brands, including beer, wine, and spirits, provides a strong foundation for this venture. Streit noted that the facility features cutting-edge technology, enabling CCL Label to offer unique and high-quality printing solutions that cater specifically to these premium brands, setting a new standard in the Spanish market.

Marika Knorr, Head of Sustainability and Communication at CCL Label, emphasized the importance of compliance with the new European packaging and packaging waste regulation (PPWR). This regulation mandates Design for Recycling and CCL Label's EcoFloat polyolefin sleeves align with these requirements. Endorsed by recycling organizations like RecyClass and the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP), EcoFloat sleeves ensure that PET bottles remain fully recyclable. This enhances the yield of food-grade PET resins, which can be reused to produce new bottles, thereby supporting a circular economy. Knorr also noted that the regulation's recycled content targets are crucial for driving sustainability in packaging.

The production of shrink sleeves will ultimately be co-located with the In-Mould Label (IML) production facility, formerly known as Creaprint, which was acquired about a year ago. The IML business is planned to transition to the new site in Tibi by 2026. This strategic move aims to streamline operations and enhance efficiency by consolidating production capabilities at a single location. By bringing both shrink sleeve and IML production under one roof, the company anticipates improved synergies, reduced operational costs, and a more cohesive production process, further aligning with its growth and efficiency objectives.

The installed assets provide customers with top-tier printing technology, combining the best of both offset and gravure printing techniques. This integrated approach delivers exceptional flexibility, allowing for frequent design changes without compromising quality. The offset printing method ensures high-quality, consistent results for a wide range of applications, while gravure printing offers superior detail and precision for intricate designs. Together, these technologies enable customers to achieve premium results, adapt swiftly to market demands, and maintain a competitive edge by accommodating evolving design requirements with ease and efficiency.