Innovia Films, a global leader in materials science and a key manufacturer of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) films, has officially launched a new, state-of-the-art coating line dedicated to sustainable graphics film applications at its production site in Wigton, United Kingdom. This significant investment marks a major milestone in the company’s ongoing mission to offer innovative, environmentally responsible solutions for the graphics industry.

The new coating line is specifically engineered for the production of Innovia’s Rayoart™ film—a recyclable, PVC-free film designed to replace traditional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) graphics films, which are widely used but less environmentally friendly. By utilizing BOPP as the base material and employing an advanced extrusion and coating process, the environmental footprint of the final product is significantly reduced. Key sustainability advantages include reduced energy consumption during manufacturing, the elimination of hazardous chemicals such as chlorine, and enhanced recyclability, contributing to a more circular product lifecycle.

“This newly commissioned, tailor-made coating line will be solely dedicated to producing our eco-friendly, PVC-free Rayoart™ film,” said Simon Huber, managing director of Innovia Europe. “We’ve added cutting-edge capabilities to enable the transition from PVC to more sustainable options, offering the graphics industry a recyclable alternative that doesn’t compromise on performance.”

Spanning 40 meters, the new coating line offers a wide range of water-based coating techniques, with the capacity to apply up to 50 grams per square meter of coating weight. It also features advanced web handling and drying systems to ensure optimal product quality. With a web width of up to 1,650 mm, the line meets the demanding technical requirements of today’s graphic arts applications.

“For our sustainable, PVC-free Rayoart™ range made from recyclable polypropylene, it was essential to invest in the right industrial-scale equipment,” said Darren Jackson, general manager of Innovia UK. “This new line allows us to scale up from pilot production to full-scale manufacturing, ensuring consistent quality and high-speed output.”

Bron Hekkema, head of the Graphic Films Division at Innovia, emphasized the broader impact of this development. “Many retailers and brand owners are still using PVC graphics films at the point of sale or in retail spaces—often unknowingly. Rayoart™ offers a premium, polyolefin-based alternative that performs exceptionally across various printing technologies while aligning with sustainability objectives,” she said. “It’s a significant step toward reducing environmental impact in both indoor and outdoor graphic applications.”

This initiative supports Innovia Films’ broader sustainability roadmap and aligns with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. As part of the CCL Industries family, Innovia is committed to ensuring that, by 2025, all its products will support recyclability and promote a more circular economy.