Forty years ago, Kenner Products released Stretch Armstrong, an action figure that could stretch from its original 15-inch frame to four or five feet. Although not in the toy-making business, packaging materials manufacturers have had to literally stretch their capabilities to keep pace with beverage-makers seeking clean, sustainable labels that feature vivid colors, images, specialty inks and soft-touch finishes to connect with consumers.
“Beverage-makers want packaging that is aesthetically pleasing to consumers, with different-shaped bottles, various colors, coating and tactile varnishes being used to engage them through touch and feel,” says Overnight Labels Inc. President Don Earl. “Matte and spot-matte varnishes are the rage right now.”