FLEXOGRAPHIC printing and converting equipment manufacturer Edale recently welcomed packaging professionals from across the UK to its Rethinking Carton Production Open Day.
The event was designed to encourage discussion around the future of carton manufacturing and included expert insights from guest speakers Steve Lister, global sustainability strategist, and Jo Stephenson, MD of Think B2B Marketing, who shared perspectives on industry change, innovation, and the evolving role of packaging. Jo also moderated an Open Forum which produced insights into the future of carton production and the issues it faces.
Louise Bailey, head of new business at Edale, said, “The aim of this event was never just to showcase technology, it was to start a conversation. We know the carton market is evolving quickly, and this was a chance to bring people together, share honest insights, and explore the realities of what the next phase of production might look like. The level of engagement and openness in the room was fantastic.”
The Open Forum included discussions on the misconceptions of single pass flexo carton production and its possibilities. One attendee that ‘it will be the cornerstone of disruption in the carton market’, despite a relative hesitancy from traditionalists.
This hesitancy was explored further as several attendees acknowledged that flexo is still, in some circles, seen as inferior to traditional offset or litho processes, despite technological progress in recent years. Some even shared that they are aware of those who avoid using the term ‘flexo’ in marketing materials for fear of deterring brand owners.
The discussion highlighted a need for better industry education around today’s flexo capabilities, particularly where single-pass systems can now deliver high-end, embellished cartons with print quality equal to, or exceeding, conventional processes.
The discussion also touched on the impact of upcoming sustainability legislation, including the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme and the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Attendees noted these policies are driving renewed interest in fibre-based packaging.
Louise added, “We were delighted to welcome such a knowledgeable and engaged group to the event. The conversations were open, insightful and reaffirmed that many in the industry are actively seeking smarter, more efficient production models. We’re proud to play a part in supporting that shift.”
Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the complete single-pass carton production process through a live demonstration of Edale’s FL5 and insight into the firm’s Carton Cost Calculator tool.
