Germanmark has become the first company in the sector in Spain to install a unit of metallization printing for sustainable labels.
The installation carried out in the plant Cornella de Llobregat (Barcelona) has supposed an investment of 200.000 euros and will allow this graphic arts company to be at the forefront of the sector in southern Europe in the production of labels with metallic effects, intended for sectors such as beverages or cosmetics, with a significant reduction in waste and CO emissions2.
The new printing unit is based on the latest technology EcoLeaf. Developed in Germany by ACTEGA Metal Print, EcoLeaf significantly reduces the amount of materials, waste, costs and production time required to print metallic effects compared to current technologies, based on the use of hot or cold stamping foils.
Unlike these technologies, EcoLeaf uses only the precise amount of metal necessary to create the metallic image. This makes it possible to improve the sustainability of the labels, by reducing CO emissions by up to five times.2 during the production process, as well as the large volumes of waste generated by traditional printing using stamping foils.
In Germark's case, the new technology will generate an estimated saving of more than 12.000 kg of CO2 per year, reinforcing its environmental commitment.
In addition, EcoLeaf makes it possible to produce labels with decorative effects in a wide range of metallic colors, which enhance the attractiveness of packaging and are highly demanded in sectors such as beverages or cosmetics.
“In terms of innovation, EcoLeaf enables us to print high-quality, sustainable metallic decorative effect labels, something that all brands look to to support their environmental goals. We strive to ensure that our customers' labels represent them as well as possible and increase sales, which in turn drives loyalty and long-lasting relationships. ” says Iban Cid, CEO of Germark.
Germark foresees that this new technology will enable its Barcelona plant to increase its sales by up to 5%, especially in foreign markets, by incorporating more manufacturers of consumer products with environmental concern.
The project began in the first quarter of 2020 and, despite the limitations of the pandemic, the planned implementation deadlines were met. The new line is already operational and serving the first orders.
