UPM Raflatac: Pioneering Sustainable Labeling Solutions
January 18, 2025, 12:17 pm
Location: United States, Kansas, Winfield
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 2011
Total raised: $820K
In a world increasingly aware of environmental footprints, UPM Raflatac stands as a beacon of innovation. The company is not just a player in the self-adhesive paper and film market; it is a trailblazer in sustainability. Recent announcements reveal a dual focus: eliminating harmful chemicals and enhancing product aesthetics. These moves are not just strategic; they are essential in a landscape where consumers demand more from brands.
UPM Raflatac has taken a bold step by eliminating Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS) from its Direct Thermal laminate products. These chemicals, often linked to health risks, have no place in modern manufacturing. By 2025, all North American production will be free from these substances. This decision reflects a commitment to product stewardship. It’s a promise to customers and the planet.
The company’s collaboration with raw material suppliers ensures that these harmful compounds are absent from their products. This proactive approach is a breath of fresh air in an industry often criticized for its environmental impact. UPM Raflatac’s actions align with California's Proposition 65 and Washington State's Safer Products Act, which aim to reduce harmful chemicals in consumer goods. They are not just meeting regulations; they are setting a standard.
But UPM Raflatac’s vision extends beyond compliance. The company is dedicated to innovation. Their new swatchbooks for wine, spirits, and premium labeling showcase this commitment. These swatchbooks are more than just a collection of materials; they are a tactile experience. Printers and designers can feel the textures and see the colors, making informed choices easier. This user-friendly approach inspires creativity while promoting sustainability.
Among the featured materials are SmartChoice™ solutions. These products are designed for brands that want to lessen their environmental impact. For instance, Carbon Action PP UCO is a bio-circular face film made with 30% renewable content. It allows brands to quantify their carbon footprint reduction. Forest Film, the world’s first wood-based plastic label material, and Ocean Action, which combats ocean-bound plastic pollution, further illustrate UPM Raflatac’s innovative spirit. These materials are not just labels; they are part of a larger narrative about sustainability.
The design of the swatchbooks reflects UPM Raflatac’s Finnish heritage. Inspired by Nordic nature, the aesthetics resonate with the brand’s commitment to the environment. Shapes reminiscent of Finnish lakes create a visual connection to the natural world. This thoughtful design enhances the user experience, making the swatchbooks not only functional but also beautiful.
Collaboration has been key in this endeavor. UPM Raflatac partnered with the award-winning design agency Maba and industry-leading printer Grafical. This teamwork ensures that the swatchbooks meet the needs of actual users. Insights from these partners have shaped a product that is both practical and inspiring.
The swatchbooks will debut at Packaging Première during Paris Packaging Week 2025. This event is a platform for UPM Raflatac to showcase its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The display will attract attention, highlighting the company’s role in shaping the future of labeling.
UPM Raflatac is not just about products; it’s about responsibility. The company employs around 3,100 people and operates 12 factories. In 2023, their sales reached nearly EUR 1.5 billion (USD 1.6 billion). This growth is fueled by a dedication to renewable and responsible solutions. UPM Raflatac is part of UPM, a larger entity committed to a future beyond fossil fuels. Together, they are working towards the UN Business Ambition for 1.5°C, aiming to mitigate climate change.
The landscape of labeling is changing. UPM Raflatac is at the forefront of this transformation. By eliminating harmful chemicals and introducing innovative materials, they are redefining what it means to be a responsible manufacturer. Their efforts resonate with consumers who are increasingly making choices based on sustainability.
In conclusion, UPM Raflatac is not just a company; it is a movement. A movement towards safer, more sustainable labeling solutions. Their commitment to innovation and responsibility sets a benchmark for the industry. As they continue to lead the way, one thing is clear: the future of labeling is bright, and it is green. UPM Raflatac is paving the path, and the world is watching.
UPM Raflatac has taken a bold step by eliminating Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS) from its Direct Thermal laminate products. These chemicals, often linked to health risks, have no place in modern manufacturing. By 2025, all North American production will be free from these substances. This decision reflects a commitment to product stewardship. It’s a promise to customers and the planet.
The company’s collaboration with raw material suppliers ensures that these harmful compounds are absent from their products. This proactive approach is a breath of fresh air in an industry often criticized for its environmental impact. UPM Raflatac’s actions align with California's Proposition 65 and Washington State's Safer Products Act, which aim to reduce harmful chemicals in consumer goods. They are not just meeting regulations; they are setting a standard.
But UPM Raflatac’s vision extends beyond compliance. The company is dedicated to innovation. Their new swatchbooks for wine, spirits, and premium labeling showcase this commitment. These swatchbooks are more than just a collection of materials; they are a tactile experience. Printers and designers can feel the textures and see the colors, making informed choices easier. This user-friendly approach inspires creativity while promoting sustainability.
Among the featured materials are SmartChoice™ solutions. These products are designed for brands that want to lessen their environmental impact. For instance, Carbon Action PP UCO is a bio-circular face film made with 30% renewable content. It allows brands to quantify their carbon footprint reduction. Forest Film, the world’s first wood-based plastic label material, and Ocean Action, which combats ocean-bound plastic pollution, further illustrate UPM Raflatac’s innovative spirit. These materials are not just labels; they are part of a larger narrative about sustainability.
The design of the swatchbooks reflects UPM Raflatac’s Finnish heritage. Inspired by Nordic nature, the aesthetics resonate with the brand’s commitment to the environment. Shapes reminiscent of Finnish lakes create a visual connection to the natural world. This thoughtful design enhances the user experience, making the swatchbooks not only functional but also beautiful.
Collaboration has been key in this endeavor. UPM Raflatac partnered with the award-winning design agency Maba and industry-leading printer Grafical. This teamwork ensures that the swatchbooks meet the needs of actual users. Insights from these partners have shaped a product that is both practical and inspiring.
The swatchbooks will debut at Packaging Première during Paris Packaging Week 2025. This event is a platform for UPM Raflatac to showcase its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The display will attract attention, highlighting the company’s role in shaping the future of labeling.
UPM Raflatac is not just about products; it’s about responsibility. The company employs around 3,100 people and operates 12 factories. In 2023, their sales reached nearly EUR 1.5 billion (USD 1.6 billion). This growth is fueled by a dedication to renewable and responsible solutions. UPM Raflatac is part of UPM, a larger entity committed to a future beyond fossil fuels. Together, they are working towards the UN Business Ambition for 1.5°C, aiming to mitigate climate change.
The landscape of labeling is changing. UPM Raflatac is at the forefront of this transformation. By eliminating harmful chemicals and introducing innovative materials, they are redefining what it means to be a responsible manufacturer. Their efforts resonate with consumers who are increasingly making choices based on sustainability.
In conclusion, UPM Raflatac is not just a company; it is a movement. A movement towards safer, more sustainable labeling solutions. Their commitment to innovation and responsibility sets a benchmark for the industry. As they continue to lead the way, one thing is clear: the future of labeling is bright, and it is green. UPM Raflatac is paving the path, and the world is watching.