Sihl: The Future is FACESTOCK
FuturePrint spoke to Patrick Gazut, Product Manager at Sihl, to discuss his innovative FACESTOCK solutions.
What is FACESTOCK?
Sihl FACESTOCK is a leader for the supply of aqueous inkjet and laser films for Print On Demand digital printing.
Sihl’s coated films and specialities in the pressure-sensitive labels industry are suited to a wide range of applications. FACESTOCK is ideal for food labelling, cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications.
What are the advantages?
Sustainability is of huge importance to Sihl, and FACESTOCK’s reduction in environmental impact is a significant advantage as businesses contend with this issue. Patrick explains: “We are taking a proactive approach, instead of using virgin resin we are using a base film with a 90% PCR recycled resin so this product is helping to contribute all together to a more sustainable future.”
When products come into contact with food, quality is key and there are legal health requirements which must be met to market the products. Patrick explains: “The product that we offer for water-based inkjet is approved for use in the labelling of food products.”
Which print method and inks are FACESTOCK compatible with?
Patrick comments: “The materials that we are currently using are for water-based Inkjet and are compatible with pigment, as well as with dye-based ink, and are compatible with all current printers available on the market.”
We also offer films for laser print on demand printing.
What is the future of FACESTOCK Labels?
The labels are soon to expand outside of transparent grade, with white grade (30% PCR content) and silver gloss grade (90% PCR content) set to launch in the near future, Patrick mentions: “While there is currently one product, the family of FACESTOCK products is going to come.”
There are many exciting advancements in the works, as Patrick details: “The white grades are going to be presented in the summertime and starting in 2023 we will also introduce BOPP recycled resins.”
Where is FACESTOCK’s competition in the market?
Patrick explains: “We are not alone on the market. We have competitors trying to reach our level. We recently had one of the biggest OEMs on the market tell us, ‘your products are still top of the league’. This is because we are offering strong printability, water resistance, and speed. We've got a product that is very much respected on the market.”
Find out more about FACESTOCK here.
