Think Outside the Box

PP: How important is it for packaging to be made from recycled materials? Does your company use eco-friendly materials?

DZ: We are very aware and have systems in place for recycle and using eco-friendly materials. We recycle all excess vinyl and board and ring metals. We have products and binders that are made of raw chipboard. For packaging solutions that include ring binders such as slipcases and marketing kits, we have recently purchased a piece of equipment that allows us to manufacture eco-friendly polypropylene clear overlay looseleaf binders that are in high demand.

DY: Like many of our customers, Information Packaging continues to look to ways to go green. In addition to our environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and environmental compliances, all of our paper-based envelopes and sleeves can be manufactured utilizing a recycled paper stock. We are also the only manufacturer of a 100 percent Forest Stewardship Council™ certified (FSC®) recycled post consumer fiber paper window envelope for CDs and 99 percent of the paper we use in manufacturing is FSC®-certified.

PP: What are some common challenges associated with packaging in regard to production or design? Are there certain printing techniques to avoid depending on the request/goal of project?

DZ: In our custom packaging and binder products, film laminated wrapped segment, lamination can be a challenge on certain types of background colors. On a solid black or dark background, a matte lamination easily can be scratched or scuffed. We have found a type of lamination that works well in reducing scuffing substantially. The other challenge can be a packaging product that contains several pieces that must fit together, but CAD design software helps ensure a good fit.

DY: Marketing design departments sometimes will work independent of the manufacturer. We encourage all our customers to work directly with us so we can work together to provide the best packaging solution. Cost, function ability and the package's appearance are some of the things we will have the customer consider before it goes to production.