Constantia Flexibles, Europe’s second-largest flexible packaging producer, is presenting a comprehensive portfolio of packaging solutions at CFIA 2026 in Rennes. This year’s showcase highlights major advances in industrial digital printing, independently validated data for Low-Carbon Aluminum, and continued expansion of the EcoPaper portfolio. Across all exhibits, the company emphasizes high-performance materials, dependable machinability, and seamless integration into existing industrial processes.
“Our customers require validated product carbon footprint (PCF) data, reliable machinability, and solutions that integrate smoothly into current production environments,” said Jean-François Autret, Regional Sales Manager West Region at Constantia Flexibles. “At CFIA 2026, we are presenting technologies that address these needs—from externally validated PCF data on Low-Carbon Aluminum to expanded paper-based solutions and new digital printing capabilities.”
At CFIA, Constantia Flexibles is also showcasing its designed-for-recycling Ecolutions portfolio, including mono-PE laminates (EcoLam), mono-PP structures (EcoVer), as well as aluminum and paper-based solutions—demonstrating the company’s comprehensive 360-degree materials approach.
Digital printing for aluminum and PET substrates
Constantia Flexibles is presenting an industry-first development in digital printing with its new state-of-the-art line, now fully operational at the company’s Copenhagen plant. The system enables water-based, full-surface digital printing on aluminum and PET substrates, eliminating the need for clichés or plates and enabling extremely fast design-to-print turnaround.
With coverage of 93% of the Pantone color spectrum and the ability to produce short runs or mass-customized designs, the technology supports brand owners and converters seeking maximum flexibility while maintaining consistent print quality.
Decarbonization with Low-Carbon Aluminum
Aluminum remains critical in flexible packaging due to its superior barrier properties and recyclability; however, primary aluminum production is energy-intensive. To address this, Constantia Flexibles is expanding its Low-Carbon Aluminum portfolio, delivering identical technical performance with a significantly reduced product carbon footprint (PCF).
PCF calculations for plain aluminum foil have been externally validated by TÜV Süd Landesgesellschaft Österreich in accordance with ISO 14067:2018 and ISO 22095:2020. Two Low-Carbon Aluminum variants are available:
- Renewable-energy-based primary aluminum: 6.1 t CO₂e per ton of rolled plain foil
- Renewable primary aluminum with recycled content: <4.5 t CO₂e per ton
These independently verified figures provide brand owners with transparent, credible data to support sustainability reporting and material selection decisions.
Paper packaging: the EcoPaper family
At CFIA, Constantia Flexibles is presenting its EcoPaper portfolio—a comprehensive range of PFAS-free, paper-based packaging solutions designed to support the objectives of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Developed in line with 4evergreen guidelines and certified by CEPI for recycling in standard paper streams, the portfolio comprises three grades: EcoPaper, EcoPaperPlus, and EcoPaperHighPlus, delivering progressively higher barrier performance.
All variants are approved for direct food contact and run efficiently on both HFFS and VFFS lines, combining recyclability with strong operational performance. The portfolio is commercially available and already used across multiple applications, providing customers with proven paper-based alternatives as they navigate evolving regulatory and recyclability requirements.
- EcoPaper: Designed for low-barrier applications
- EcoPaperPlus: Enhanced aroma and grease barriers with optional MOSH/MOAH protection
- EcoPaperHighPlus: High oxygen and water-vapor barriers for sensitive products
Together, these grades form a versatile platform of paper-based packaging solutions. Constantia Flexibles experts collaborate closely with customers to evaluate product requirements, line performance, and material characteristics, ensuring optimal substrate and barrier selection. Environmental considerations are also integrated into this process, helping customers balance performance, print quality, and processing efficiency with sustainability goals.