Spear, Constantia Flexibles’ labels division, has developed SpearRC, a recyclable, pressure-sensitive label for PET bottles.
With new SpearRC technology, PET bottles will benefit from pressure-sensitive labels without the recycling contamination of traditional materials.
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The company, along with the Association of Post-Consumer Plastics Recyclers, has been working on a recyclable pressure-sensitive label alternative since 2002.
APR has recognised SpearRC as PET recycling compatible, following Plastics Forming Enterprise’s testing using commercially processed labelled bottles.
Spear R&D vice-president Rick Fearn said: "The market has been seeking such a solution for numerous years.
"Building off our unique relationships with industry leaders and our ever-evolving knowledge of pressure-sensitive materials, with SpearRC we are able to formally announce a near cost parity solution that will change the PET bottling landscape."
Carlsberg’s subsidiary Ringnes launched its bottled water brand Farris with SpearRC labelling last year.
Ringnes group manager Christine Nygaard-Andersen said: "Paper labels were replaced with metallic PSL labels for the core range and have helped premiumise the brand and give it a more modern look.
"Choosing recyclable material was an obvious choice for us and a prerequisite when looking for a suitable material.
"Spear has offered great help and expertise in identifying suitable materials, optimising the design and achieving a great end result."
Image: SpearRC first entered the market in Norway with Carlsberg Group’s bottled mineral water Farris in 2014. Photo: courtesy of Spear Incorporated.
