Printing inks for packaging hold their own in a weak market environment
The VdL expects the total sales volume of printing inks to fall again in 2026.
Read more " 
In packaging finishing using screen printing, there is a shift from classic UV to UV LED curing. The Swabian company Marabu offers inks that can be used in both processes.
UV LED technology is on the rise in screen printing. Numerous machine manufacturers and printing ink manufacturers are increasingly relying on this technology for their machine series and the ink systems adapted to this technology. However, in order to take advantage of the benefits of UV LED curing, colour formulations tailored to the technology are requiredas offered by the Swabian printing ink manufacturer Marabu. The portfolio includes colour systems primarily for glass applications.
In the cosmetics industry, the glass sector has very high requirements in terms of product resistance. In the case of hollow body decoration, as used by manufacturers of drinking glasses, for example, the main requirement is dishwasher resistance. UV LED screen printing fulfils both of these requirements and also offers further advantages. Glass packaging, such as drinks bottles, is enhanced in terms of colour fastness and brilliance by direct printing using the UV LED screen printing process and stand out clearly from conventional labels.
Product range is being expanded
Marabu offers its customers the largest selection of highly opaque colours on the market. In addition, the printing technology enables so-called "pinning". This is an intermediate drying process that allows round objects such as hollow glass to be decorated in a 360 degree process. Ultra Glass LEDGL is a two-component system to which an adhesion promoter must be added for proper application. The ink system also proves its worth with regard to a flexible printing process, as LEDGL is a dual-cure screen printing ink.
Due to the successful use by customers and the increasing demand, Marabu is further expanding the LEDGL range for special colours: Firstly, a special bronze binder for metallic special colours will be introduced shortly. On the other hand, Marabu has successfully tested a primer for UV LED curing with partner companies from the mechanical engineering sector. This means that the glass to be printed can be decorated or finished with hot stamping foil in a further production step. The first machines for this process are already established on the market.
Source: Marabou
More news on the topic of packaging printing and finishing
ePac invests 50 million dollars
HP Indigo and the US digital print converter are further expanding their collaboration in flexible packaging printing.
Read more " 
EyeC introduces new software for print image control
EyeC will be showcasing the new Graphic Connect proofing system for automated print image control and AI-supported inspection at Interpack 2026.
Read more " 
Stratus Packaging integrates Freppel
In terms of content, the integration complements the activities in the wine, spirits and luxury goods segments in particular.
Read more " 
Sparxell scales plant-based textured colours
For the packaging industry, the approach could be particularly relevant in the area of printing inks.
Read more " 
SVI publishes guideline
The document is intended to support companies along the packaging value chain.
Read more "