2026 Trends (CONT’D FROM PAGE 37)
The Perfect Combo Get Peak Performance From Your Equipment with Matched Component Sets
These materials, once limited to niche applications, began to scale in secondary packaging, food service and selected e-commerce uses. In 2026, this shift is expected to deepen. Rising EPR costs, tighter rules on environmental claims and growing scrutiny of plastic waste are pushing brands to redesign packaging for genuine recyclability and lower material intensity. Oversized and complex packaging for- mats are increasingly viewed as a financial and reputation- al risk, especially as consumers become more vocal about unnecessary waste. Smart packaging gained momentum in 2025 as brands looked for better traceability, compliance and consumer communication. QR codes, digital watermarks, sensors and near-field communication (NFC) tags were increasingly added to packs to provide product information, usage guidance and sustainability data. Being Smart This trend is closely linked to regulatory developments such as the planned introduction of digital product pass- ports in the European Union, which will require detailed information on product origin, materials and environmen- tal impact. Smart packaging is also being used to support sup- ply-chain visibility, cold-chain monitoring and anti-counter- feiting measures, particularly in food, pharmaceuticals and premium goods. In 2026, digital packaging is expected to expand fur- ther as brands seek to meet regulatory requirements and respond to consumer demand for transparency. For packaging suppliers, this creates new requirements around data integration, print capability and system com- patibility, while raising questions about cost control and standardization across markets. Circular economy models moved closer to large-scale adoption in 2025, with more brands testing refill and reuse systems, including returnable packaging, refill pouches and in-store refill stations. While still limited in many regions, these models gained traction as companies looked to reduce single-use pack- aging volumes and long-term material costs. At the same time, efficiency became a central concern. Rising transport costs and continued growth in e-com- merce accelerated investment in right-size packaging technology, which creates boxes tailored to individual products. These systems reduce void fill, lower material use and cut emissions linked to shipping. Packaging design also began to reflect a broader defi- nition of usability. Accessibility features such as easy-open mechanisms, clearer labeling, tactile elements and Braille embossing received greater attention, driven by aging populations and expectations of inclusive design.
Nothing’s more rewarding than a couple made for each other.
That’s why the engineers at ARC International have focused their skills and talents on crafting perfect matches between the components that must work in tandem on your flexo folder gluers and die-cutters: • Anilox Rollers and Ink Chambers • Anilox and Wiper Rollers • Feed and Pull Rollers • Glue and Meter Rollers You can achieve the press speeds and print quality you need to fill your most demanding orders by pairing your team with The ARChitects of Flexo . Contact ARC today to learn how these engineered matches of flexo folder gluer and die-cutter components (new or reconditioned) can help you achieve a more perfect union of production and profits.
The ARChitects of Flexo
SINCE 1984
ARCInternational.com 800-526-4569
January 19, 2026 39
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