Watch the 2024 highlights
The 2025 Finalists are announced!
Labels – printed on paper substrates
Sponsored by: Dantex Group
Coveris Spalding
Entry name: Meat World Irish Ribeye
Printing press: MPS EFS
Number of colours: Four Sleeves: MPS
Anilox: Apex GTT
Inks: INX UV flexo
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Antalis Fingloss 250gsm
Plate: MacDermid ITP 60
Platemaking equipment: Esko XPS
Backing tape: Lohmann 4.2
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: None given
Multi-Color Corporation North America Wine & Spirits
Entry name: Menage a Trois Lavish Merlot
Printing press: Nilpeter FA4
Number of colours: Seven Sleeves: Flint
Anilox: Harper/Misc line screens
Inks: Siegwerk UV flexo
Decoration: Kurz hot foil
Substrate: 60# Estate 8
Plate: DuPont EFX
Platemaking equipment: DuPont Cyrel Fast
Backing tape: 3M 115E
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Inline
Reflex Labels Newcastle
Entry name: Aldi 2 Chunky Breaded Haddock Fillets
Printing press: Nilpeter
Number of colours: Nine
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT 3.5, 4 & 5 volume
Inks: Pulse
Decoration: None given
Substrate: None given
Plate: DuPont ESX v2
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The GreenHouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
Labels – printed on film substrates
Sponsored by: tesa
Reflex Labels Boston
Entry name: AirWick Sweet Berry Spritz
Printing press: Mark Andy
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT 3.5, 4 and 5 volume
Inks: Pulse
Decoration: None given
Substrate: None given
Plate: DuPont ESX v2
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The GreenHouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
Bristol Labels
Entry name: Vault City Brewery – Fruits of the Forest White Chocolate Banana Crumble
Printing press: Edale FL1 Prime
Number of colours: Four
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: ALT
Inks: Pulse Puretone
Decoration: Paragon textured varnish
Substrate: Avery White Gloss PP
Plate: Fujifilm
Platemaking equipment: Creation Repro
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Creation Repro
Finishing equipment: Bar Graphic
The Label Makers
Entry name: Sainsbury’s Peach & Apple Cider
Printing press: MPS EF
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: Trelleborg
Anilox: ALT
Inks: Sun Chemical
Decoration: Gold hot foil/spot gloss varnish/low level rough matt varnish
Substrate: White PP
Plate: DuPont
Platemaking equipment: Esko
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: Cerm
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Omega SRI
Flexible packaging (narrow/medium web) on film
Sponsored by: Bar Graphic Machinery
Walki Westpak
Entry name: Segafredo Profezzionale Filter 1kg
Printing press: Bielloni
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Sandon
Inks: Flint
Decoration: None given
Substrate: PET
Plate: 1.14mm MCO14 Full HD
Platemaking equipment: None given
Backing tape: None given
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Marvaco
Finishing equipment: None given
Coveris Burnley
Entry name: Hill Custard Creams 170 Years Baking Excellence
Printing press: W&H Miraflex
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Sandon 474 to 400 screen ruling
Inks: Flint
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Manucor
Plate: Kodak
Platemaking equipment: Flexcel NX Wide 5080
Backing tape: 3M
MIS/Workflow: Esko, GMG
Pre-press: Pulse Media
Finishing equipment: None given
Flexure Print & Pack
Entry name: Village – Shallots + Family Porotta Frozen Foods
Printing press: Echaar Equipment Flexosmart HR300
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Apex
Inks: DIC solvent-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Vacmet chemical coated polyester 12 micron
Plate: Miraclon Flexcel NX
Platemaking equipment: Miraclon Flexcel NX
Backing tape: tesa 72222 and 72224
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine / Hybrid Packz
Pre-press: Pin Mark Block
Finishing equipment: DuPont DLF
Flexible packaging (wide web) on film
Sponsored by: Flint Group
ProAmpac Lincoln
Entry name: Aldi Four Seasons Sweet Potato Fries
Printing press: W&H Miraflex
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Sandon and ALT
Inks: Sun Chemical
Decoration: None given
Substrate: ProAmpac Elsham
Plate: MacDermid ITP60
Platemaking equipment: None given
Backing tape: tesa Softprint
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: None given
Finishing equipment: None given
Roberts Mart
Entry name: Ginsters Festive Chicken & Stuffing Slice
Printing press: Allstein Hydro
Number of colours: Eight
Sleeves: XSYS Rotec
Anilox: Sandon – Project Blue 6.0/550 and 18.0/180
Inks: Flint MV
Decoration: Vortex 175lpi
Substrate: Taghleef White Cavitated OPP 30-micron
Plate: Kodak NX
Platemaking equipment: Kodak
Backing tape: tesa Medium
MIS/Workflow: Radius
Pre-press: Reproflex 3
Finishing equipment: None given
Reflex Flexibles Telford
Entry name: Cookstown 10 Thin Pork Sausages
Printing press: Soma
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT c3.5, c10
Inks: InkTech
Decoration: None given
Substrate: None given
Plate: DuPont ESX
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The Greenhouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
Flexible packaging (narrow/medium web) on paper
Sponsored by: Cheshire Anilox Technology
The Encore Group
Entry name: Next Luxury Skincare and Fashion
Printing press: W + D
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: Dantex
Anilox: Cheshire
Inks: Flint
Decoration: None given
Substrate:UPM 130gsm
Plate: Miraclon
Platemaking equipment: Interflex
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: W + D
Coveris Wisbech
Entry name: Tesco Beef Roast Dinner
Printing press: Arpeco Impressionist
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: Arpeco
Anilox: Apex GTT
Inks: INX UV flexo
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Antalis Incarda Exel 225gsm
Plate: MacDermid ITP60
Platemaking equipment: Esko XPS
Backing tape: Lohmann 4.2
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: None given
UV flexo on paper or board
Emirates Printing Press
Entry name: Ejaazi
Printing press: Omet VF 530
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: Rotec
Anilox: Apex 100 to 500 LCM / Apex GTT C7 to L
Inks: UFlex Waterbase glue / Zeller UV inks
Decoration: Actega UV varnish
Substrate: Ningbo – App / 350gsm/490 micron
Plate: Photopolymer
Platemaking equipment: Nama Digitec – Flint
Backing tape: Lohmann Medium Soft
MIS/Workflow: Technique
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Pantec emboss
Reflex Label Plus Keighley
Entry name: Coastal Reserve
Printing press: Nilpeter
Number of colours: Seven
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Apex GTT
Inks: Pulse
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Avery Dennison
Plate: DuPont ESX v2
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The GreenHouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
Bizerba Labels
Entry name: Simon Howie Black Label Gastro Burgers
Printing press: MPS EFA 530
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT range 3.5 to M
Inks: Siegwerk Nutriflex LED Tec
Decoration: None given
Substrate: UPM Finesse Gloss 170gsm
Plate: Kodak NX
Platemaking equipment: Kodak Flexcel NX
Backing tape: Lohmann Duploflex 4.2
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine Pilot
Pre-press: Print Quest
Finishing equipment: None given
Corrugated post print A – D Flute
Sponsored by: XSYS
Saica Packaging Livingston
Entry name: Glen Turner Label 5
Printing press: Bobst 924 NT FFG
Number of colours: Five + varnish
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: ALT 650 LPI x 6.5 volume
Inks: Antonine
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Saica B Flute coated 165 gsm
Plate: Flint 125thou
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal XPS
Backing tape: ProShim low density
MIS/Workflow: Esko Webcentre
Pre-press: Contact Originators
Finishing equipment: None given
SmurfitWestrock Stalybridge
Entry name: Trivento Shiraz
Printing press: Göpfert Ovation
Number of colours: Three + OPV
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT 2 M and L
Inks: Flint water-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Billerud S 120KCL
Plate: XSYS
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal XPS
Backing tape: Proshim Airflow
MIS/Workflow: Aramis / Automation Engine
Pre-press: Contact Originators
Finishing equipment: None given
DS Smith Livingston
Entry name: Johnnie Walker Red Label
Printing press: Bobst HD Master Print
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Sandon ceramic 850
Inks: Flint
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Metsa Coated Paper 160gsm
Plate: XSYS FTC 112thou + 40thou foam
Platemaking equipment: Esko Advance
Backing tape: Biesse 10thou
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: SGK Manchester
Finishing equipment: Vianord Evo 5 BP-1
Corrugated post-print E and F flute
Scatolificio
Entry name: Flamigni I Magnifici Sette
Printing press: Bobst Flexo 160 Vision
Number of colours: Five plus varnish
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Simec 4×440 DC + 1×280 DC + 1×120 DC
Inks: Sun Chemical WBLux HQ
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Coated corrugated cardboard 442E
Plate: Kodak Flexcel NXC
Platemaking equipment: Kodak
Backing tape: Biesse
MIS/Workflow: Hybrid
Pre-press: Z Due
Finishing equipment: Gloss varnish
SmurfitWestrock Markham Vale
Entry name: Langham’s Variety Pack
Printing press: Göpfert Ovation
Number of colours: Six + varnish
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex
Inks: Flint
Decoration: None given
Substrate: 160 Coated EB Flute
Plate: DuPont
Platemaking equipment: Esko
Backing tape: Biesse
MIS/Workflow: Esko
Pre-press: Contact Originators
Finishing equipment: None given
Adara Pakkaus
Entry name: Marco Boulangerie beer pack
Printing press: Göpfert Ovation
Number of colours: Six plus varnish
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex
Inks: Siegwerk water-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Metsä Group Coated 160 gsm
Plate: MCO20 Full HD
Platemaking equipment: Esko, Cyrel, Vianord EVO
Backing tape: Biesse
MIS/Workflow: Hamillroad Bellissima
Pre-press: Marvaco
Finishing equipment: None given
Best use of hybrid printing
Sponsored by: Fujifilm
Reflex Label Plus Keighley
Entry name: The Glenlivet
Printing press: Nilpeter
Number of colours: Six + varnishes
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Apex GTT
Inks: Pulse
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Avery Dennison Sable
Plate: DuPont ESX v2
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The GreenHouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
The Label Makers
Entry name: Kraken Salted Caramel Rum
Printing press: MPS EF
Number of colours: Seven
Sleeves: Trelleborg
Anilox: ALT
Inks: Sun Chemical
Decoration: Gold hot foil /Silkscreen gloss varnish / Emboss / Spot matt varnish
Substrate: Sorolla Uncoated
Plate: DuPont
Platemaking equipment: Esko
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: Cerm
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Omega SRI
Process colours only
Sponsored by: hubergroup
Interflex Group Sunderland
Entry name: Aldi Giant Pretzels
Printing press: W&H Miraflex
Number of colours: Four + white
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Sandon
Inks: hubergroup
Decoration: None given
Substrate: 20/20micron natural OPP
Plate: Kodak
Platemaking equipment: Reproflex3
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Reproflex3
Finishing equipment: Nordmeccanica / Comexi
Bristol Labels
Entry name: Joy of Sesh
Printing press: Edale FL1 Prime
Number of colours: Four
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: ALT
Inks: Pulse Puretone
Decoration: Paragon V363 screen varnish
Substrate: Avery White Gloss PP
Plate: Fujifilm
Platemaking equipment: Creation Repro
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Creation Repro
Finishing equipment: Bar Graphic
Cepac Rawcliffe
Entry name: Claude’s Bistro
Printing press: Koenig & Bauer ChromaCut X Pro inline RDC
Number of colours: Four
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Pamarco 800x6cm3
Inks: Flint water-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: E-Flute 160gsm
Plate: Kodak NXC
Platemaking equipment: Kodak
Backing tape: 10thou vinyl tape
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Reproflex3
Finishing equipment: None given
Digitally printed labels and packaging
Sponsored by: Xeikon
The Label Makers
Entry name: Hampton Furniture
Printing press: Durst Tau RSC
Number of colours: Seven
Inks: Durst
Decoration: None given
Substrate: White PP
MIS/Workflow: Cerm
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: ABG Digilite
Bristol Labels
Entry name: Tubby Tom’s – Deya the Dead
Printing press: HP 6900
Number of colours: Four
Inks: HP Electro Ink
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Avery White Gloss PP
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: None given
Finishing equipment: GM Miniflex
Amberley Labels
Entry name: Aureus Vita Dry Gin
Printing press: HP Indigo 6000
Number of colours: Five
Inks: HP Indigo Electroink / Luminesence UV Fluro
Decoration: Ultra Matt Gold Foil – PPF
Substrate: Avery Cotton White Extra Paper 115gsm
MIS/Workflow: Labeltraxx / Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: ABG Digicon Series 3
Best use of embellishments
Sponsored by: Kocher + Beck
Reflex Label Plus Barwell
Entry name: Surf Magnifi-Scent Wash
Printing press: MPS
Number of colours: Six
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Apex GTT 3.5, 4, 5 and 16
Inks: Pulse
Decoration: Cold foil, cast&cure, gloss varnish, high
build varnish
Substrate: PP TC Trans S692N
Plate: DuPont ESX v2
Platemaking equipment: Esko Crystal
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine
Pre-press: In-house (The GreenHouse)
Finishing equipment: None given
Emirates Printing Press
Entry name: Mashair – Khalelh Unit Box
Printing press: HP Indigo 35K
Number of colours: 5
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Inometa 374 LCM
Inks: HP Indigo Electroink
Decoration: Full UV, spot matt, texture varnish
Substrate: Ningbo-App 350gsm
Plate: Printing Imaging Plate (PIP)
Platemaking equipment: HP Indigo Press
Backing tape: Lohmann
MIS/Workflow: Technique
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Kama DC76 emboss
The Label Makers
Entry name: Copeland Gin
Printing press: MPS EF
Number of colours: Three
Sleeves: Trelleborg
Anilox: ALT
Inks: Sun Chemical
Decoration: Copper hot foil, silver hot foil, high build tactile
Substrate: Matt Wine
Plate: DuPont
Platemaking equipment: Esko
Backing tape: tesa
MIS/Workflow: Cerm
Pre-press: In-house
Finishing equipment: Omega SRI
Promotional print
Cepac Rawcliffe
Entry name: Promotional Print
Printing press: Koenig & Bauer ChromaCut X Pro inline RDC
Number of colours: Four
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Pamarco 800x6cm3
Inks: Flint water-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: E-Flute 160 gsm
Plate: Kodak NXC
Platemaking equipment: Kodak
Backing tape: 10thou vinyl tape
MIS/Workflow: None given
Pre-press: Reproflex3
Finishing equipment: None given
Flexure Print N Pack
Entry name: Demonstration of flexo printing with AM/FM screening
Printing press: Echaar Equipment Flexosmart HR300
Number of colours: Five
Sleeves: Rossini
Anilox: Apex GTT C3.5 and C9
Inks: DIC solvent-based
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Vacmet chemical coated polyester 12 micron
Plate: Miraclon Flexcel NX
Platemaking equipment: Miraclon Flexcel NX
Backing tape: tesa 72220, 72222 and 72224
MIS/Workflow: Esko Automation Engine / Hybrid Packz
Pre-press: Pin Mark Block
Finishing equipment: DuPont DLF
Scatolificio
Entry name: Guzzini
Printing press: Bobst Flexo 160 Vision
Number of colours: Four + two varnish
Sleeves: None given
Anilox: Simec 3×440 DC, 1×280 DC and 2×120 DC
Inks: Sun Chemical WBLux HQ
Decoration: None given
Substrate: Coated corrugated cardboard 442/E
Plate: Kodak Flexcel NXC
Platemaking equipment: Kodak
Backing tape: Biesse
MIS/Workflow: Hybrid Software
Pre-press: Z Due
Finishing equipment: Gloss and matt varnish
Environmentally sustainable company – Business
Sponsored by: Nilpeter
Midland Regional Printers
The company says it is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and fighting climate change. In pursuit of this, and working with CarbonQuota, it reports a 10.27% reduction in its CO2 from 2023/24 to 2024/25. Every quote and every job now includes carbon data, with sustainable alternatives and savings outlined.
Midland says it has fully offset its Scope 1 and 2 emissions through investment in nature-based carbon avoidance projects. It has also invested in renewable wind energy projects in Brazil – a project that prevents 430,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. Further activities include tree planting (offsetting more than 345,000 kg of carbon so far), and habitat restoration in the UK, supporting wildflowers, wetlands and wildlife.
A long list of additional environmental efforts includes the installation of solar panels, gaining ISO 14001 certification for the sixth consecutive year, using 100% carbon neutral gas, and sending self-adhesive label waste to cement kilns to replace fossil fuels.
Coveris
Coveris says sustainability drives everything it does, incorporating a “No Waste” strategy that shapes its operations, supply chain, product innovation and internal culture. In support of this, the business created ReCover, a dedicated division for waste sourcing, processing and recycling. Coveris released its first sustainability report under European Sustainability Reporting Standards and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive in November 2024, with 31 targets aligned to its ESG framework and responsible business goals.
In the UK, 87% of Coveris’s sites are rated as Platinum by EcoVadis, while the remainder are rated as Gold. The business is developing a full Scope 1-3 GHG inventory as a foundation for its 2025 SBTi submission. Coveris also has a life cycle assessment tool designed to improve recyclability, circularity, shelf-life and efficiency in both paper and plastic packaging.
Overall, Coveris says its sustainability programme “goes beyond compliance” and is an “embedded philosophy with packaging at its heart”.
Best environmentally improved job
Cartimballo
Entry name: Bottega Petalo
This project was printed at 95 lpi on coated corrugated board using 9 g/m² anilox rollers. From a sustainability perspective, two key aspects stand out. First, the colour reduction: although originally designed for CMYK, the job was completed using only three colours. Eliminating one colour resulted in significant savings in energy, ink, wash water, plate production, and processing time, ultimately reducing CO₂ emissions. Second, anilox rollers typically used for uncoated board were successfully employed for this coated substrate. Avoiding cylinder changes further reduced CO₂ emissions by minimising energy use, cleaning processes, and material waste.
Tampere University of Applied Sciences
Entry name: Biocolor
Biocolor is a bio-based flexo ink for paper substrates, developed at Tampere Univserity. It is a natural, water-based ink derived from an industrial side-stream of roasted coffee waste, with synthetic pigments replaced by safe, renewable and fully biodegradable colorants. According to Tampere, it demonstrates excellent printability and visual performance, and “redefines what’s possible in eco-conscious flexographic printing”.
A finalist in the Packaging Europe Sustainability Awards, Biocolor demonstrates successful academic-industry collaboration, the university claims, and provides a scalable proof-of-concept that merges ecological responsibility with technological viability.
Parkside Flexibles
Entry name: Riverford Root Vegetable Recyclable Paper Flow Wrap
Organic veg box company Riverford wanted to move its root vegetable packs from pre-made paper sacks to a lighter and more aesthetically pleasing pack that was also compatible with its investment in automated vertical form, fill and seal machinery. Parkside worked with it to develop a new bag design, based on a recyclable paper-based material with a 98% pulpability rate. The flexo printed pack also incorporates advanced water-based coatings that provide robust moisture and grease resistance.
The shift from pre-made 100gsm paper sacks to a 90gsm VFFS-compatible paper represents a material saving, while also improving packing line speeds from 25 to around 35 packs per minute, also supporting reduced energy consumption. The printed design imitates the look of kraft paper, and is produced as a continuous print, which means it can be adapted for different produce types and pack sizes, with just an overprint required detailing the product type and weight. Riverford says the new packs “perfectly meet our sustainability goals”.
Innovation
Sponsored by: Screen
Korozo Group
Entry name: Ben & Jerry’s “Peaces” Salted Caramel Brownie
Korozo used its proprietary KoroRCY laminating film to introduce recyclable packaging for ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s. KoroRCY is a polyolefin-based laminating film that gives packs a high water-vapour barrier and heat resistance. The Ben & Jerry’s pouch is made from 25-micron KoroRCY MDO-PE laminated to a 100-micron white LDPE film.
Korozo said achieving this level of performance with mono-materials is a major development due to the challenging environment of frozen supply chains and domestic freezers. Packs made with KoroRCY align with recyclability guidelines issued by organisations such as Cyclos-HTP, Interseroh and Association of Plastic Recyclers.
Hibiscus
Entry name: National Pathology Imaging Co-operative, Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust
Chemical labelling expert Hibiscus is assisting with the improvement of quality assurance in digital pathology at Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust. It has developed a label, resistant to the impact of a staining agent, that enables cancer samples to be analysed more quickly and with a more accurate diagnosis. These labels also have a QR code, pre-printed in specialist conditions, to allow additional data to be easily and securely transmitted with the biopsy slide imagery.
The development and adoption of this labelling solution means that the possibility of accurately diagnosing cancerous cells has risen dramatically, according to Hibiscus, meaning patients can receive more tailored and effective treatments.
Hamilton-Shades Labels
Entry name: Infina
Infina sees the development of a “whole new level of flexo”, according to Hamilton-Shades Labels. Fujifilm plates are exposed at a resolution of 10,160dpi using low energy laser diodes, allowing specialist screens that give high impact colour and control to be added (over 300lpi equivalent). A water wash processor is used, with household detergent; water is recycled through a filtration system.
QR code-driven plate mounting is used to optimise the process, with plates mounted on special E-Sleeve cylinders featuring no compressible inner core, further improving dot fidelity. High resolution anilox rolls and LED inks printed on an MPS press complete the end-to-end flow. Benefits include improved quality, extended gamut, faster make-ready, and reduced ink inventory and energy costs. Hamilton-Shades says the Infina process competes with digital “on every footing”.
Future flexo star
Sponsored by: BPIF Labels
Archie Flatt
Company name: Edale
Archie joined Edale in June 2024 on a Level 3 Print Technician apprenticeship, with no prior experience in print. The company says he has approached his role with “an open mind, a positive attitude and a real eagerness to learn”. He has quickly developed an understanding of flexo printing, and can independently run live demonstrations with confidence, clarity and professionalism. Way ahead of targets on his apprenticeship course, Archie has shown a genuine passion for his work, using his initiative and “going the extra mile” to improve his knowledge and skills.
Matt Stevenson
Company name: Amberley Labels, Blandford Forum
Matt joined Amberley three years ago, bringing management experience from the retail industry with him, as well as fresh ideas and an ambitious attitude. Having started in Technical Estimating, he moved into the role of Commercial and Technical Manager, leading a team of three. A winner of the Printing Charity’s Rising Star Award in 2024, Matt has become a key member of the team at Amberley Labels, recognising the importance of flexo to delivering the added value that the business seeks to provide. A colleague pays tribute to his “refreshing energy and a sharp focus on engineering practical, forward-thinking solutions”.
Lewis Minnis
Company name: Mark Andy Print Products
Since joining Mark Andy, Lewis has shown “exceptional promise, dedication and a forward-thinking approach”. He has a passion for learning, a strong work ethic and a strong ability to embrace new technologies. The business says his attention to detail, commitment to excellence and collaborative approach have made a meaningful impact on both customers and colleagues. Beyond his technical skills and unwavering customer focus, Lewis also brings a positive attitude and a willingness to support others, making him a valued team member and a role model for future talent in the industry.
Ben Granat
Company name: Edale
A Level 3 Engineering Technician apprentice, Ben has been with Edale for two years and has shown an “unwavering commitment” to developing himself, the company’s equipment and its processes. Hearing of the challenges faced by Edale’s field engineering team, he gathered them together and asked a simple but effective question: “what can I do now to save you time and stress later?”. This is backed up by a thirst to learn, being the first to learn everything he can about any new piece of technology on the factory floor. Way ahead on his studies, Ben has also “injected energy, commitment and passion” into Edale’s commissioning team.
Best reprographics
Sponsored by: ESKO
Reproflex3
Entry name: Claude’s Bistro
Victory Graphics
Entry name: Bristol & Bath Distillery – Dead Man’s Fingers
Contact Originators
Entry name: Hozelock
Here’s what our 2024 winners have to say!
“Being recognised for an award in such a competitive category is always a huge honour. It’s a great testament to the many members of the Interflex Group team and our suppliers who help to drive the outcome.”
Jonathan Watson, supervisor, Interflex Group – 2024 winner of Flexible packaging wide-web (on paper)
“Winning at the FlexoTech Awards is always a great achievement for us and to win the Flexible packaging (wide web) on film category was a welcome recognition for one of our more complex designs.”
Tony Rymer, Roberts Mart & Co – 2024 winner of Flexible packaging wide-web (on film)
“The FlexoTech Awards are a prestigious awards and I am proud to represent a company that is successful because
of its strong expertise. Winning this award warms my heart as it is an external testament to the outstanding competence
that DS Smith´s staff really shows.”
Ari Viinikkala, DS Smith – Finland – 2024 winner of Corrugated post-print E and F Flute
“As a winner of Digitally printed labels and packaging, it was a great feeling. You enter and tell yourself that a nomination
is a result. It’s not until your name is called out and you get that rush of winning. It’s a great feeling, you only have to see
the video and my celebration to see how much it meant.”
Andrew Mansfield, Harkwell – 2024 winner of Digitally printed labels and packaging
Gold sponsors
Silver sponsors
Bronze sponsors
