UK-based flexible-packaging printer and converter Eco Flexibles says it has doubled turnover in just 18 months following its investment in two Fujifilm Jet Press FP790 presses, as demand for sustainable flexible packaging has soared. Known for its strong focus on sustainable-packaging solutions across the food and wellness sectors, the introduction of two Jet Press FP790 presses, has allowed the company to capitalize on market trends and grow the business rapidly.
The first Jet Press FP790 press was installed in June 2023 and the results were immediate. Following the success of the first machine, Eco Flexibles installed a second press later that year to keep up with soaring demand.
Eco Flexibles made headlines back in 2023 as the first customer outside of Japan to invest in the Jet Press FP790. Simon Buswell, dir.-Eco Flexibles, comments: “That was a huge moment for us. We knew we were taking a leap into something that hadn’t been widely proven outside of Japan, but we had complete confidence in Fujifilm and the technology. We were willing to lead the way, and it’s paid off.”
Sustainability is central to everything the company does. Buswell continues: “We’ve always focused heavily on sustainability – whether it’s through using mono-materials, recyclable pouches, compostable solutions, or solvent-free water-wash plates. Our business is built around environmentally conscious packaging. Prior to investing in the Jet Press FP790, we had already been working closely with Fujifilm through our use of the company’s Flenex FW water-wash flexo plates, and the move to digital was the next logical step in our sustainability journey.
“The FP790 fit right into our business model – no solvents, minimal waste, low energy consumption, and high print quality. It has allowed us to meet all of our environmental targets. We did a lot of testing and trials, and it became clear that this press represented the future of flexible packaging.
“We originally expected to compete against other digital platforms, but we’ve actually been eating into the flexo market instead. The speed, quality, and commercial viability of the press means we’re now able to take on more work and handle smaller order volumes for our customers, which has been a game-changer.
“We invested in a second machine, due to a mix of necessity and planning. We were using up most of the capacity of the first machine within months. The second gave us the ability to scale while also providing valuable contingency. We’ve doubled our turnover over the last 18 months, and the bulk of that growth is thanks to digital.”
The business currently operates a 50/50 mix of digital and flexo, but Buswell anticipates that digital will continue to grow as they convert more traditional work over to their newer systems.
Eco Flexibles is also now seeing increasing interest from outside their traditional food packaging markets, particularly in the growing wellness and supplements sector. “We’ve picked up brand new work in new markets – such as health and wellness packaging – things like collagen powders and mushroom blends. It’s a growing market, and like food, it comes with strict regulatory and quality demands, which the Jet Press FP790 helps us meet effortlessly. We are also looking at expanding into new substrates and applications.
“There’s a lot of opportunity to introduce more paper-based packaging into our portfolio. That’s a big focus going forward. We’re also planning to grow internationally, with North America a likely next step.”
Commenting on whether they would consider adding a third Jet Press FP790, Buswell remains open: “Never say never. The demand is there, and we know Fujifilm offers the right technology to meet it.”