The Automotive Division of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), Troy (Detroit), Michigan, announced a “Call for Nominations” for its 55th annual Automotive Innovation Awards Gala, the oldest and largest recognition event (established in 1970) in the automotive and plastics industries. This year’s Awards Gala will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at the Laurel Manor in Livonia, Michigan. Winning part nominations (due by September 12, 2026) in 10 different categories, and the teams that developed them, will be honored with a “Most Innovative Use of Plastics” award. Categories include: Aftermarket & Limited Edition/Specialty Vehicles, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Chassis/Hardware, Electric and Autonomous Vehicle Systems, Sustainability, Materials, Powertrain, Process/Assembly/Enabling Technologies, and Safety. A “Grand Award” will be presented to the winning team from all category award winners.

An application that has been in continuous use for 15 years or more, and has made a significant and lasting contribution to the application of plastics in automotive vehicles (nominations due by May 31, 2026) will be honored with a “Hall of Fame” award. Additional criteria for a HOF award is that the nomination be: game changing; very successful worldwide; innovative in materials, process and application; and still being used. The HOF committee consists of engineers, managers, executives, technical experts, SPE Fellows, SPE Honored Service Members, and automotive industry technical experts having served at least 30 years in the industry.

Nominations must be submitted online via: https://speautomotive.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-SPE-Innovation-Awards-Program-Part-Nomination-Form-V1.pdf.

“Plastics continue to fuel innovation across the automotive industry, enabling advancements in electric, autonomous and next-generation mobility solutions,” said Jeffrey Helms, global automotive director at Celanese Corporation and returning 2026 SPE Automotive Innovation Awards chair. “With this year’s theme, ‘Plastics: The Road to Innovation!’, we highlight the critical role plastics play in driving progress—from design and performance to sustainability and advanced manufacturing. We look forward to celebrating another year of breakthrough achievements and honoring the technologies shaping the future of automotive plastics.”

Since 1970, the SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Competition has highlighted the positive changes that polymeric materials have brought to automotive and ground-transportation industries, such as weight and cost reduction, parts consolidation, increased safety, and enhanced aesthetics and design freedom. At the time the competition started, in 1970, many OEM designers and engineers thought of plastics as inexpensive replacements for more “traditional” materials. To help communicate that plastics were capable of far more functionality than their typical use as decorative knobs and ashtrays indicated, members of the board of directors of SPE’s Automotive Division created the competition to recognize successful and innovative plastics applications and to communicate their benefits to OEMs, media, and the public.

Over the years, the competition drew attention to plastics as an underutilized design tool and made industry aware of more progressive ways of designing, engineering, and manufacturing automotive components. From its humble beginnings, the competition has grown to be one of the most fiercely contested recognition events in the automotive and plastics industries. Today, polymeric materials are no longer substitutes for more expensive materials, but rather are the materials of choice in hundreds of different applications throughout the vehicle. Without plastics, many of the auto industry’s most common comfort, control and safety applications would not be possible.

During the competition phase of the event, dozens of teams comprising OEMs and suppliers work for months to hone submission forms and presentations describing their part, system or complete vehicle module to support claims that it is the year’s “Most Innovative Use of Plastics.” To win, teams must survive a pre-competition review and two rounds of presentations before industry and media judges.

There is no cost to nominate parts; however, nominations that are accepted into the competition need to be presented (in person or via webinar) by their nominating teams to the SPE Automotive Division Board of Directors during the first round of Automotive Innovation Awards Competition judging, September 24 – 25, 2026, at Celanese Corporation in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Finalists from that round advance to a second presentation before a panel of Blue Ribbon judges made up of media, retired chief engineers and other industry experts on October 2, 2026, (also at Celanese Corporation in Auburn Hills, Michigan). Winners of each category, the Grand Award, Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement winner will all be honored during the Automotive Innovation Awards Gala on November 4, 2026. This annual event typically draws over 500 OEM engineers, automotive and plastics industry executives, and media. Funds raised from the event are used to support SPE educational programs, including technical seminars and conferences, which help educate and secure the role of plastics in the advancement of the automobile.

The mission of SPE is to promote scientific and engineering knowledge relating to plastics worldwide and to educate industry, academia and the public about these advances. SPE’s Automotive Division is active in educating, promoting, recognizing and communicating technical accomplishments in all phases of plastics and plastic-based composite developments in the global transportation industry. Topic areas include applications, materials, processing, equipment, tooling, design and development.

For more information, visit https://speautomotive.com/spe-automotive-div-innovation-awards/.

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The Plastics Show®, produced by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), Washington, D.C., demonstrated strong early momentum, with 906,194 total square feet of committed space. The figure represents one of the largest early sales totals in show history, reflecting continued demand for participation in the industry’s largest plastics trade show in the Americas.

More than 1,105 companies participated in the Space Selection event, selecting space across 1,128 booths during the gathering held March 2–5 in Orlando, Florida, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).

Exhibitors secured space across the entire Orange County Convention Center, spanning all 1.1 million square feet of opportunity, including NPE2027’s five dedicated Technology Zones: Bottling, Recycling & Sustainability, Materials, Manufacturing Services and Moldmaking.

They also claimed their place inside Sustainability Park—NPE’s newest immersive destination where learning meets hands-on discovery, spotlighting leaders and real-world solutions shaping a more sustainable plastics future.

Altogether, 82% of the showcase floor was sold during Space Selection, with the West Recycling & Sustainability Technology Zone selling out completely.

“After last week’s Space Selection, there is no doubt that we are headed towards another successful NPE in 2027,” said Matt Seaholm, CEO of the Plastics Industry Association. “The excitement for getting the booth you want or taking a little more space to one-up a competitor made for a fantastic atmosphere last week in Orlando. Companies are making strategic investments in recognizing NPE as a global marketplace for plastics innovation, technology and business growth.”

Hosting Space Selection onsite allows companies to evaluate locations, plan their exhibit strategy and take advantage of exclusive exhibitor incentives offered by event partners, delivering added value and cost savings for their 2027 participation.

NPE2027 will return to the OCCC May 3–7, 2027, and is expected to welcome more than 51,000 attendees and 2,200 exhibitors from over 130 countries. Exhibitors will showcase technologies and services across key end markets, including automotive, medical, building and construction, consumer products, and packaging.

Organizers report continued participation from returning exhibitors, along with commitments from over 170 new companies. Additional details regarding programming, special features and new initiatives will be announced in the coming months.

“The momentum we’re seeing reflects strong confidence in the future of our industry,” said Angela Mealy, Executive Director of NPE. “Space Selection is the kickoff to ‘what’s next’ for NPE2027. ‘Next is Now’ is our theme for the 2027 event, and it captures the pace of innovation shaping plastics today. With these exhibitors in place, NPE2027 is set to deliver what companies need most, including practical solutions, opportunities to do business and the latest insights and technologies to help them stay a step ahead.”

About NPE: The Plastics Show®
NPE: The Plastics Show® is the largest plastics trade show in the Americas and a global marketplace for plastics innovation, technology, and business growth. Produced by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS), the event brings together thousands of professionals and exhibitors from around the world to explore the latest advancements in materials, machinery, recycling, and manufacturing. NPE2024 was recognized as the 7th largest trade show of the year and received the Grand Award for “Most Commendable Green Initiatives” at the TSE Gold 100 Awards. NPE2027 will take place May 3–7, 2027, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

For more information, visit www.npe.org.

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LogoJET, Lafayette, Louisiana, a leading manufacturer of industrial UV direct-to-substrate printing solutions, announced a strategic partnership with MakerFlo, expanding LogoJET’s blank media ecosystem and strengthening its turnkey Print-to-Profit solutions for high-demand drinkware and tumbler applications.

This collaboration provides LogoJET customers with direct access to MakerFlo’s premium tumbler and drinkware blanks, validated for use with LogoJET UV printers and rotary attachments. Together, the solution enables vibrant, durable 360-degree UV printing with repeatable workflows designed for efficient production and scalable growth.

“Customers don’t just want printers. They want a clear path to profitability,” said Michele Choate, VP of marketing at LogoJET. “Our partnership with MakerFlo brings together trusted blank media, proven rotary printing capability and real-world application support, making it easier for customers to launch and grow profitable tumbler programs with confidence.”

Drinkware continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most profitable segments in personalization, serving markets such as promotional products, corporate gifting, events, ecommerce and branded merchandise. LogoJET’s UV rotary technology allows businesses to produce full-color, wrapped designs directly on tumblers—eliminating outsourcing, reducing setup complexity and improving turnaround time.

“This partnership removes barriers between setup and success,” said Sumita Patel, customer engagement manager at LogoJET. “By connecting customers to proven blank suppliers like MakerFlo, and backing it with ongoing support, we’re reinforcing our commitment to delivering complete, scalable solutions.”

The MakerFlo partnership further advances LogoJET’s blank media strategy, which focuses on tested materials, validated workflows and production-ready solutions. Rather than leaving customers to experiment, LogoJET delivers an integrated ecosystem that includes hardware, software, rotary accessories, compatible blanks and education. LogoJET’s turnkey solutions are designed to reduce trial-and-error and accelerate return on investment.

The LogoJET + MakerFlo tumbler offerings will be featured in upcoming trade shows, live demonstrations and educational content, showcasing how LogoJET’s UV rotary printing can drive real production efficiency and profitability.

For more information, visit www.logojet.com.

The post LogoJET® Announces Partnership with MakerFlo® to Expand Blank Media Offering and Deliver Turnkey Tumbler Solutions appeared first on Plastics Decorating.

CCL Label, Toronto, Canada, a global leader in specialty label and packaging solutions, announces the expansion of its operations in Tibi, Spain, enhancing local production of high-performance Shrink Sleeves and In-Mold Labels (IML) to serve brand-driven food & beverage markets with best-in-class printing, compliance and sustainability.

Locally produced in Spain and globally backed by CCL’s innovation network, the Tibi facility now offers offset and gravure printing technologies that deliver vibrant graphics, precise detail and outstanding consistency for demanding food & beverage packaging.

“We have significantly strengthened our production platform in Tibi with the addition of new high-performance printing presses and expanded die-cutting capabilities,” said Reinhard Streit, group vice president of Food & Beverage global at CCL Label. “In parallel, we are consolidating our entire In-Mold Label (IML) operation into the new facility, bringing it together with our shrink sleeve manufacturing. This integration enhances efficiency, accelerates lead times and creates a powerful center of excellence for decorative solutions serving the food and beverage market.”

The expanded operations are fully aligned with emerging European and Spanish packaging regulatory landscapes, particularly the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which becomes binding across member states and introduces harmonized design, recyclability and labeling requirements throughout the EU packaging life cycle.

CCL’s Tibi production lines support these regulatory frameworks by offering shrink sleeves and in-mold labels designed to be PPWR-compliant and aligned with Design for Recycling guidelines, enabling brands to achieve strong shelf impact without compromising end-of-life performance.

“Expanding our footprint in Tibi reinforces our commitment to both market excellence and responsible design,” said Streit. “We combine local agility with global expertise to help brands thrive in an evolving regulatory landscape — from labeling compliance to sustainable packaging outcomes.”

For more information, visit www.mailchi.mp/cclind/cclspain.

About CCL Label
CCL Label offers customized, high-performance and sustainable labeling solutions for various industries, including healthcare, food & beverage and automotive, with a global production network.

The post CCL Label Expands Operations in Tibi, Spain, Strengthening Sustainable High-Performance Shrink Sleeves and In-Mold Labels appeared first on Plastics Decorating.

Most of us make resolutions at work, too – often as part of setting annual goals and reviewing budgets. You’ll be pleased to hear that IMDA can help you keep those resolutions!

• Need to connect with existing customers and find new prospects? IMDA can help position your company as an expert, referring business your way and sharing leads from the tradeshows where we exhibit.
• Need to learn about new markets, opportunities for growth and trends in the plastics industry that could affect your company? IMDA hosts monthly In-Mold Meet-Ups to bring our members together and share information about where the industry is going.
• Need to watch the bottom line? IMDA has cost-saving programs with partners like Grainger, FedEx, Staples and CDW.

If you aren’t a member of IMDA yet, fill out the membership application at www.imdassociation.com. While I can’t force you to go to the gym, I can help move your business in the right direction. Let IMDA connect you with everyone along the in-mold production chain so your business can keep on growing in 2026.

Sugar Land, Texas to Host 2026 Plastic Product Decorating Summit
IMDA’s Annual Conference Event to be Held September 1-3
The In-Mold Decorating Association and Plastics Decorating Magazine have announced the dates and location for the 2026 Plastic Product Decorating Summit: September 1-3 at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land hotel in Sugar Land (Houston), Texas. The conference event brings the plastics industry together to learn, listen and discuss all types of direct-to-object plastic decorating and in-mold decorating (IMD), labeling (IML) and electronics (IME) applications.

Featuring a day and a half of industry-focused content, the Plastic Product Decorating Summit will announce keynote speakers, technical presenters and panelists later in 2026. The line-up typically includes market and economic data applicable to the plastics manufacturing segment, developments in technology and decorating processes, application case studies and conversations with brand owners and OEMs.

In addition to a wide selection of presentations and panel discussions, a Supplier Trade Fair will feature tabletop exhibits from leading suppliers to the industry, including injection molders, label printers, equipment manufacturers, and ink and substrate providers. Additional information on the Supplier Trade Fair is available for companies interested in exhibiting while spots remain.

And, as in previous years, the event will open with an optional baseball game outing to watch the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (the Houston Astros’ Triple-A affiliate). Event attendees will gather in a semi-private, reserved space for ballpark fare and a relaxed night of fun before the Plastic Product Decorating Summit sessions begin the next morning.

Mark your calendars now and watch www.productdecoratingevent.com for online registration, hotel information and the full schedule in late Spring 2026.

Member Benefits Expand with Staples and CDW
IMDA is pleased to provide two new discount programs for IMDA members with national partners Staples and CDW. Find more information on these programs in the Members Only section of the IMDA website or email [email protected].

Staples is recognized as one of the most trusted office supply chains in the US. From promotional signage and receipt paper to floor care, first aid, seating, shipping and more, Staples supports businesses in maintaining smooth and efficient operations. Through this partnership, IMDA members gain access to significant discounts on over 1,000 of Staples Business Advantage’s top-selling products, along with next-day delivery, live customer support and
volume pricing.

CDW is a trusted, multi-brand provider of technology solutions that keep businesses connected, secure and efficient. From networking and power equipment to end-user devices and print accessories, CDW delivers the tools organizations need to modernize operations and strengthen performance. Through IMDA’s partnership with CDW, members gain immediate access to exclusive pricing and dedicated IT support. Beyond everyday savings, members also can take advantage of project-based discounts and personalized guidance to help bring IT initiatives to life.

IMDA Welcomes New Members
InMold Solutions
InMold Solutions (IMS), Phoenix, Arizona, is an engineering-based company with the technical knowledge base and resources to develop, install and maintain vertically integrated production cells for in-mold decorating (IMD) and in-mold electronics (IME). Its mission is to add value, efficiency and quality to the injection molding process, allowing OEMs to get their new products to market quickly. 

INX International Ink Co.
INX International Ink Co., with US corporate offices in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a global manufacturer of high-performance printing inks and coatings for commercial, packaging and digital print applications. INX is a leader in chemical formulation; best manufacturing practices; functional, innovative and sustainable solutions; and field service and support.

WayPoint Marketing Communications
WayPoint, Fort Mill, South Carolina, partners with small- to medium-sized business to help them reach their goals through marketing and communication activities. The company takes a strategic approach to understanding its client’s key challenges, working as a partner to plot the best course of action to achieve business goals. WayPoint helps to implement marketing communications, talent acquisition and retention strategies that drive results.

The post IMDA Association News: January/February 2026 appeared first on Plastics Decorating.

Plastics Technology Expo (PTXPO) is a three-day showcase encompassing cutting-edge technologies and innovations set to take place on March 17-19, 2026, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. The expo will offer attendees an exhibit hall, educational sessions, a first look at the newest plastics machinery and a variety of networking opportunities.

PTXPO 2026 is billed as the only North American molding industry event in 2026, delivering a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations for molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers.

Education
In addition, there will be educational opportunities with industry experts on topics such as next-gen technologies, sustainability, workforce development, supply chain management and sourcing. New for 2026, the Materials Symposium features 12 presentations from 11 speakers over the three days of the show. From choosing a material for a wholly new project to shepherding the switch to a different plastic, the symposium will help plastics professionals move beyond the vagaries of resin suppliers’ datasheets to concrete material strategies and a better fundamental understanding of polymers.​

Four in-depth technical sessions will focus on the integration of additive manufacturing to improve tooling performance, speed production and expand design possibilities – from printed cavity inserts to surface treatments that extend tool life. And, Tech Talks on the show floor will feature presentations designed to introduce and showcase new products and technologies.

Exhibitors
With 200 exhibiting companies over 42,000 square feet of floor space, PTXPO has something for the entire molding supply chain – from designers to engineers to the C-suite. Exhibitors will represent 3D printing, auxiliary equipment, extrusion and thermoforming, injection and blow molding, materials, moldmaking, recycling, robotics and automation, and more.

Of particular interest to Plastics Decorating readers are:

• CCL Label – Booth #738
• Diversified Printing Techniques – Booth #1420
• Engel – Booth #309
• Forward Technologies – Booth #1526
• In-Mold Decorating Association – Booth #734
• StackTeck Systems Ltd – Booth #122
• Yushin America, Inc. – Booth #527

For more information on PTXPO 2026, visit  www.plasticstechnologyexpo.com.

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Is there a Negative Nancy (NN) and Toxic Tim (TT) in the company who are being kept longer than should be? Would the company let them go if it weren’t so short-staffed? One Negative Nancy or Toxic Tim infiltrates the whole company, and it spreads throughout affecting everyone.

Think of it like this: An employee attends a meeting that NN is in. Upon leaving, the employee approaches Positive Polly and shares, “It’s so frustrating dealing with NN. Why is she still here? All we do constantly is listen to her babble about her unhappiness.”

Before people know it, they become Negative Nancys, and the Positive Pollys see the impact the original NNs have made on those people and the team. It only takes one person thinking negatively to bring the whole environment, culture and team down. In order to help, Positive Polly shares the following.

A person has 60,000 thoughts a day and 80% of them are negative. These come in the form of doubt, worry and
stress; and are linked to poor attitudes, declining engagement and poor performance.

Most people think they are positive and optimistic, yet negativity shows and they don’t recognize it. In fact, 95% of people’s thoughts are repetitive. So, all of the negative thoughts keep getting repeated, impacting how people show up, speak out, lead and live.

People’s thoughts are the fundamental foundation of everything they do and everything they don’t do, yet oftentimes people don’t think about them.

If like most, people think the same way they always have thought, resulting in the same behaviors, actions and results. If people want to change relationships, communication, interactions and personal confidence, they must first change how they think. Once people change that, then everything else will change as well.

Here is a five-step process to help people change their thoughts to invoke different actions, behaviors and results, and develop a positive work environment.

1. Identify – Recognize one’s thoughts. There’s an exercise to help people specifically identify negative thoughts. It’s called the stand-up/sit-down exercise. This is a great exercise to do as a team. Have someone read a set of statements. For every statement people agree with, they will move their bodies. Everyone starts in a stand-up position. For example, if the first statement is “If you’ve ever thought you’re not smart enough,” and people agree, they sit-down. If people disagree with the statement, they remain as is. If the next statement is, “If you’ve ever thought you don’t have enough time,” and people agree, they move (either stand-up or sit-down depending on what was done for the first statement). This repeats for every statement read (there should be about 15 statements). During this activity, people can expect to hear laughter evoked by the group, as they are moving for most of them, which shows that negative thinking arises without consciously knowing it. And there are a lot more of them than believed.
2. Write it – Once people have identified negative thoughts, it’s important to write them down. Something happens in the brain when writing things down. The thoughts tend to become real, and people remember them more. So, when writing down negative thoughts, people become more mindful when they arise. Follow the rest of the process with just one negative thought. Once one has been mastered, work on another.
3. Triggers – What are the triggers for negative thinking? Triggers can be a place, situation, mood, experience or thing. If people have ever had a conversation with others and walked away saying, “Why do I even bother,” then it is known that people can be a trigger too. And many times, it is people. It is important to write down all of the triggers. When people are aware of their triggers, they can be on the lookout for them. When they come up, as they will, people are armed to not allow negative thoughts to follow.
4. Reframe – List all the ways to reframe the negative thoughts. There are two ways to do this reframing. First, say the opposite of the negative statement. Instead of saying, “I’m not a good enough leader,” say, “I’m an awesome leader.” The second way is to ask questions. For example, “What courses do I need to take to become a better leader?” “What leadership book should I read to improve my leadership skills?” “Who can mentor me into being a better leader?” People’s brains constantly are in motion. If people say they are not good enough leaders, their brains will validate it in all the ways that it’s true. If people say they are awesome leaders, their brains will validate it with all the ways that it’s true. So, listening to the positive part of the brain will make all the difference in work and life.
5. Action – Once people have reframing options, they should pick one to take action on. Nothing changes until action is taken on it. Small action makes a huge difference. If people want to know the best leadership book to read, they initially may think of none or not know any, however, the brain can solve that dilemma. It’ll reply with ideas to look up leadership books on Google, put a post on Facebook asking friends for recommendations or look up Amazon book reviews. Then it’s time to decide which action to take (which book to order and then order it). Small consistent actions are key to eradicating negative thinking.

The more people work through this process the more positive thoughts they have. They will soon recognize negative thoughts in others which can help them master their mindset. People will become the Positive Pollys and help develop positive work environments that employees don’t want to leave.

As the founder of Vitalize Unlimited, the first comprehensive SaaS platform to prevent and end burnout, Jessica Rector helps organizations, leaders and teams Say Yes to eradicate burnout and enhance mental health. As a burnout trailblazer and author of 12 books, her research is used in her consulting and speaking, and often shared on her podcast, “Burnoutable.”

More information: www.JessicaRector.com, www.VitalizeUnlimited.com

The post Change the Mindset and Create a Culture That People Don’t Want to Leave appeared first on Plastics Decorating.

Editor’s note: The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) has been proactive in providing clear, supported evidence that transfer metallic decoration (hot stamp, cold transfer and digital transfer processes) is recyclable. The association’s latest study is of interest to those with decorated plastic products, providing broad direction and pointing consumers, Consumer Products Groups (CPGs), Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs) and marketers toward resource-efficient recycling data for plastic packaging. This study demonstrated how metallic transfer decorated plastic materials can be collected, separated and recovered from the waste stream to be efficiently recycled.

Through extensive testing at the Van Dyk Technology Center, located at the Van Dyk Recycling Solutions headquarters in Norwalk, Connecticut, a study commissioned by the FSEA demonstrated that transfer foil decorated plastic materials currently are being sorted by the Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs) to be included in the recycling stream.

Details of study
The Van Dyk Technology Center was commissioned to assess two plastic materials with metallic transfer finishes based on the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) sorting protocol. The goal was to mimic various functions found in Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs) sorting plants in a laboratory setting. The Van Dyk testing center is designed to provide a setting for those involved in the recycling and solid waste industry to implement tests that mimic real sorting challenges.

The equipment used for testing was a TOMRA Autosort 5. The TOMRA Autosport is a multifunctional sorting system used to recover a wide range of valuable materials from different waste streams. The advanced near infrared (NIR) spectrometer-based detector recognizes materials based on their specific and unique spectral properties of reflected light. In combination with NIR, a metal detection sensor allows the Autosort to determine the difference between paper and aluminum/ferrous metals.

Figure 1 outlines the working principle behind the TOMRA Autosort. Input material (1) is evenly fed onto the conveyor belt, where it is detected by the NIR and/or VIS spectrometer-based detector (2). If the sensors detect material to be sorted out, it commands the control unit to blow the appropriate valves of the ejection module at the end of the conveyor belt. The detected materials are separated from the material flow by jets of compressed air. The sorted material is divided into two fractions in the separation chamber (3).

Procedures
Van Dyk received four samples of plastic containers with varying degrees of transfer metallic coverage. The APR SORT-B-01 protocol was followed to determine the recyclability of the transfer metallic decorated samples. This evaluation is a multistep process that involves two main components. The first consisted of a compression test. All articles were compressed with a compression device made as per APR’s compression documentation. Each article was assigned a variable number (1 through 4) for identification purposes.

After the articles were compressed, trials were staged to measure the recovery rate of the sample articles when mixed with a base-mix of materials (see Table 1)..

Before testing the articles, the base-mix was run through the system to determine the baseline performance of the optical sorter so that the results could be compared to this baseline. For PET, it was determined that the recovery rate was 97.4%. For HDPE, it was determined that the recovery rate was 97.8%.

In accordance with APR’s protocol, the base-mix combined with the test articles was passed under the optical unit five times. For each pass, the number of successfully sorted articles was recorded and summarized.

The results shown in Table 2 were obtained by following the procedures outlined in APR’s NIR sortation protocol (Sort-B-01). Each repetition of the test, also referred to as a run or pass, was combined to arrive at a final capture rate for the article. Using the article capture rate and its variance from the baseline, each article was categorized into one of APR’s recyclability categories (APR Result in Table 2).

Conclusion

• The four plastic samples were evaluated at the Van Dyk Testing Center to mimic various functions found in the Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs) sorting plants in a laboratory setting.
• The four samples had an estimated range of coverage from 25% up to 75% of transfer metallic foil decoration.
• The summary of the test results for each of the four plastic transfer metallic decorated samples demonstrated that the samples were sorted to be included in the recycling stream with a variance of less than 1.6% from the base recovery rate.
• Brand owners and product decorators have testing conclusions that show transfer metallic decoration most likely is being recycled by Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs).
• The test results of the Van Dyk sorting study with the preferred design recommendation from the APR indicates that plastic containers decorated with metallic transfer are recyclable and most likely are sorted by the Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs) to be included in the recycling stream.

Notes:

1. See the APR Design® Guide for specifics on metallic coverage and materials.
2. For a copy of the study, Recyclability of Plastic Containers with Metallic Transfer Decoration, please email Jeff Peterson at [email protected].

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The in-mold supply chain is complex, involving brand owners, printers and molders. The industry values versatility and interchangeability, often focusing discussions on how finishes appear on the final package. That creates challenges for oriented polypropylene (OPP) film manufacturers, as films must look and feel nearly identical across different finishes and regions.

Design and material compatibility
With increased focus on recyclability and material compatibility, in-mold labeling continues to grow as a preferred packaging solution. When inquiries come in for OPP films, my standard response is that the options are nearly limitless – white, clear or metallized.

Clear films deliver a transparent “no label look” so consumers can admire the product’s freshness. Voided white films can provide a variety of textures, depending on their density. Product designers can choose a grainy orange-peel look for a paper-like effect, a matte satin finish, a smooth finish for a more even surface or a glossy look delivered by specially designed solid white substrates. Metallic films offer a shiny, reflective look designed to maximize product appeal and deliver brand-building power.

Sustainability increasingly is important to product designers, and material compatibility is critical for recycling success. For example, pairing PET shrink sleeves with PP containers is not ideal. Most inquiries come from printers and brand owners, and the first step always is understanding the desired look of the finished container and the performance requirements. Achieving the right balance of aesthetics and functionality requires close collaboration among brand owners, printers, molders and film suppliers.

Substrate choice also affects design when assessing product functionality. The push toward thinner materials supports source reduction but can introduce challenges in label dispensing and mold design. In-mold labels for non-durable applications are significantly thicker than many other flexible or roll-to-roll label films, mainly because they must meet specific requirements for diecutting, dispensing and molding. Gauge reduction is possible but could come at a cost to efficiency.

Ensuring all functional requirements are met for both printers and molders is essential when designing new films. It’s also important to ensure products can be manufactured consistently, with the same appearance and performance, across multiple sites. This capability is critical when supporting global brands.

More sustainability considerations
One example of a film development with an eye toward sustainability has been biobased film substrates, made from renewable resources. These bioPP films (see Figure 1) are ISCC Plus certified and supplied on a mass balance approach. They can be used in the same labels and flexible packaging applications as the traditional grades made of fossil-based raw material, thus guaranteeing the same excellent technical performance and machinability. At their end of life, these films are designed to be recycled in existing polyolefin recycling streams.

Also available are PLA films for use with PLA containers for injection IML. Derived from renewable resources and certified for industrial compostability, the films are clear, with a receptive layer optimized for printing and a back side engineered for injection molding.

Future development
North America still has a long way to go in terms of regulations and infrastructure to fully support sustainable packaging. Brand owner engagement is essential for success. Too often, film suppliers are brought into projects late in the process. An ask of the industry is to involve film suppliers earlier so that suppliers can help develop materials that deliver the best performance and sustainability outcomes.

Looking ahead, continued R&D into polymer options – such as producing thicker films with less material – offers opportunities for further source reduction. The industry also is replacing less environmentally favorable polymers and increasing the use of ISCC-certified materials. The in-mold industry is well positioned to compete and succeed in this evolving landscape.

Cynthia Palmer is the Labels Sales Manager – North America for Taghleef Industries, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of PP-based, biobased and biodegradable films for flexible packaging, labels, graphic arts, decorative surfaces and industrial applications. Headquartered in Dubai, Taghleef has US offices in Newark, Delaware and a production plant in Rosedale, Indiana. Taghleef has been involved in the in-mold market globally for many years and continues to innovate by offering new solutions. Operating as a global company brings challenges, particularly ensuring that products purchased in one region perform and appear the same in another. This consistency is critical for global brands. For more information, visit www.ti-films.com.

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What started as a demo at K 2025 turned into a mainstream hit when iPB Printing introduced its durable cold foil IML reusable cup.

Roots in the food industry
iPB Printing was founded as a family-owned business in 1938 in the Netherlands. Originally active in the food industry, the growing importance of packaging led to the company starting to print its own packaging in 1991 and, soon after, the labels of its suppliers. Eventually, the import and export business in biscuits and confectionery was sold, printing activities were expanded and the company’s core business focus permanently shifted.

Eighty-eight years later, the printing company for in-mold labels and flexible packaging has grown into an international player, serving major brand names such as Coca-Cola, Disney, Budweiser and McDonald’s. Still, the company maintains its roots as a family business, with brothers Bart and Ton Lavrijsen serving as owners and directors.

The Rockstar Cup was developed by iPB Printing as a demonstrator application to showcase the possibilities of durable cold foil in-mold labeling (IML) for reusable plastic drinkware. The primary production goal was to combine high-impact visual decoration with long-term durability, advanced functionality and sustainability. During its introduction at K 2025 in Düsseldorf, it generated strong interest from brand owners, molders and packaging professionals and quickly became a conversation starter around premium decoration, reuse and smart packaging concepts.

The cups were produced by Churchill Container (Lenexa, Kansas), a partner of iPB Printing, using recycled polypropylene supplied by PureCycle (Orlando, Florida). While the Rockstar Cup itself was produced as a limited demo series, the underlying durable cold foil IML concept has since been adopted in commercial production projects for multiple customers worldwide.

Producing a hit
The Rockstar Cup features an in-mold label with cold foil elements that create a high-gloss metallic effect suitable for the rock music characters who come to life in the design. A protective laminate coating adds scratch resistance and long-term durability. IML was chosen because it allows decoration, protection and functionality to be integrated directly into the injection molding process. The label becomes an integral part of the product surface, resulting in a durable, scratch-resistant finish suitable for repeated washing and intensive use.

IML also enables a mono-material construction, with both the cup and label made from polypropylene, allowing full recyclability without adhesives or secondary components. From a functional perspective, IML makes it possible to integrate invisible codes and double-sided printing without affecting the exterior design. This combination of aesthetics, durability and smart functionality cannot be achieved with post-mold decorating techniques.

Design and effects
The design process started with defining a bold, collectible visual identity inspired by rock music and stage aesthetics. The goal was to transform a functional reusable cup into a desirable object that people want to keep and reuse. Graphic design, foil placement and data integration were developed in parallel.

The illustrated rockstar characters featured on the label are inspired by members of iPB Printing’s own team. This personal and playful approach proved highly effective when the cups were handed directly to prospects during trade fairs.

In addition, the label incorporates an invisible code with variable data so that each cup can be uniquely identified and linked to promotional campaigns, return and deposit systems, reuse tracking or logistics processes, making it especially relevant for the event and hospitality sectors. Special attention was given to ensuring that functional elements, such as codes and informational layers, would not interfere with the visual impact of the artwork.

The label also includes printing on the inner side of the IML, acting as an additional information carrier. This inner print can be used for technical data, instructions, traceability or lifecycle information, while keeping the outside of the cup visually clean.

The label was produced with transparent polypropylene-based IML films, selected for their dimensional stability, heat resistance and compatibility with cold foil application, lamination and injection molding. Printing was carried out using 10-color UV HD flexographic presses, enabling high-resolution graphics, dense ink coverage and precise registration of cold foil elements.

Cold foil and invisible codes are both sensitive to process conditions, so extensive testing and optimization were required to ensure that foil integrity, code readability and print quality were maintained throughout injection molding. This involved fine-tuning material selection, adhesive systems, laminate structures, press settings and molding parameters.

Sustainable influence
iPB Printing is actively committed to sustainability, with its efforts focused on reducing waste, optimizing production processes and creating a positive work environment for its employees. It only makes sense that the company would pay close attention to the development of sustainable packaging solutions. iPB’s laminated labels, for example, are ideal for reusable products, such as drink cups. Additionally, the company always is looking for ‘mono-materials’ so that the final product, including its packaging, can be recycled together.

These priorities were center stage in the development of the Rockstar Cup, which was molded from recycled polypropylene supplied by PureCycle. The use of PureCycle PureFive rPP was a key element in achieving the sustainability objectives of the project.

Designed for long-term reuse, the Rockstar Cup aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of “single-use” drinkware by creating a product that avoids the trashcan. Laminated IML ensures the decoration remains intact after dozens of wash cycles and, thanks to the mono-material PP construction, the cup and label can be recycled together without separation when use is complete. By combining strong visual appeal with smart, invisible functionality, the design encourages reuse while enabling efficient return, tracking and reuse systems.

Artistic achievement, commercial success
Although the Rockstar Cup was developed as a demonstrator, it has been showcased extensively at international trade fairs, including K 2025 in Düsseldorf, customer presentations and industry events. Its combination of premium aesthetics, durability, recyclability, invisible coding and inner-label information layers also earned the cup recognition in the 2025 IMDA Awards Competition, where it won Best Use of IML in a Small Container.

The concept has since been translated into commercial production projects for multiple customers worldwide, especially within the event, hospitality and reusable packaging sectors, and ensuring its status as a powerhouse on the global stage.

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