Flexographic printing for transit and retail packs
Flexographic printing transfers ink using printing plates. In corrugated post-print, the image is printed onto the corrugated board. The artwork, liner surface, ink and production process all affect the result.
Our Bulldog Skincare example uses one-colour flexographic print on a regular slotted case, while Marmite and Baby Chevs use four-colour flexographic printing for retail presentation. These examples show why the choice should start with the actual artwork and packaging requirement rather than an assumption that flexo is only for simple graphics.
Litho-lamination: a printed sheet combined with corrugated board
In litho-laminated packaging, a lithographically printed sheet is bonded to corrugated board. Our Brothers Cider Festival Survival Kit uses a four-colour printed sheet laminated to B-flute board and converted into a hand-erect 0427 box.
Discuss the required finish, image detail, order quantity and structure with us. The right process depends on the pack. Agree the production route and finish for your project.
Choose the liner as part of the visual design
Brown kraft, white-top and clay-coated surfaces give a different starting point for the artwork. A screen mock-up does not reproduce the appearance of ink on the selected material.
Love & Grace uses white ink on brown kraft. Wyke Farms combines black and metallic gold on brown kraft, while Baby Chevs uses a clay-coated liner. Use these examples to discuss the finish you want, then agree the appropriate proof or sample for your own design.
Prepare artwork around the agreed cutter guide
- Confirm the structural drawing and revision before placing artwork on it.
- Identify print faces, the opening direction, glue areas and any artwork visible inside the pack.
- Supply editable artwork, linked images, fonts or outlined text, and brand colour references as requested by the design team.
- Keep important text and codes clear of folds, joins and perforations; agree clearances for the selected process.
- Provide the correct barcode data and retailer requirements, and agree how the finished code will be checked.
- Approve the artwork revision and the agreed colour reference before production.
Compare the complete pack, not just the print description
For a useful quotation, send the pack dimensions, artwork or visual reference, quantity per design, repeat-order expectations and required delivery date. Tell us whether the box will be a shipping outer, a shelf-ready display or a presentation pack.
Ask how tooling, print preparation and repeat orders are included in the quotation. A change to the board, artwork or structure can change both the cost and the approval work needed.
