One of the most notable innovations is digital printing, which allows for high-quality, on-demand packaging with minimal waste.
Flexographic printing has also evolved, enabling faster production speeds and the use of a wider range of materials without compromising quality.
Another game changer is 3D printing, which opens up new possibilities for custom packaging designs tailored to specific products.
Innovative inks, such as eco-friendly and edible inks, are paving the way for sustainable practices in the packaging industry.
Lastly, augmented reality (AR) printing techniques are enhancing consumer engagement by bringing packaging to life through interactive experiences.
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printing for Product Coding
One of the most practical printing innovations for small and mid-size manufacturers is thermal inkjet (TIJ) printing for direct-to-substrate product coding. TIJ printers use replaceable ink cartridges — the same thermal mechanism as desktop inkjet — to print date codes, lot numbers, expiration dates, and batch codes directly onto cartons, cases, and pouches at production-line speeds.
The ink matters as much as the hardware. For non-porous surfaces like coated cases or plastics, fast-drying pigment inks such as Kao Collins Super Fast Black (TWK1961H) are the standard choice — formulated to adhere without smearing under production conditions. For general cardboard and paper substrates, dye-based inks like the Kao Collins Max 3 (TWK-1396) offer clean, consistent marks at a lower cost per print.
Unlike continuous inkjet (CIJ) systems, TIJ printers require no solvent replenishment or daily purge cycles. A cartridge swap takes under a minute, making TIJ the practical choice for operations that print in short runs or need to switch substrates frequently.