Introducing pressure sensitive labels compatible with PET bottle recycling

Constantia Flexibles Labels Division is pleased to introduce SpearRC®, a proprietary, industry first technology developed to allow the 400 billion global PET bottles to take advantage of the benefits of pressure-sensitive labels without the recycling contamination of traditional materials.

Spear has worked in conjunction with North America’s APR (Association of Post-Consumer Plastics Recyclers) to create a recyclable pressure-sensitive label alternative since 2002 and, although a solution had been discovered, the material was cost prohibitive to most customers. Spear continued development and, with the release of SpearRC, has introduced a cost-effective recycling solution including clear, white and metalized film material options.

Independent testing was completed by PFE (Plastics Forming Enterprise) utilizing commercially processed labeled bottles. Successful results led SpearRC to be recognized by the APR as being PET recycling compatible.

SpearRC first hit the market in Norway with Carlsberg Group’s oldest and best selling bottled mineral water Farris in early 2014. Group Manager, Christine Nygaard-Andersen, further explains the new package: “The introduction of a one-way PET bottle (superseding the returnable plastic bottles) was the perfect opportunity to reinvigorate the brand. New designs build on the incredibly strong and recognizable Farris diamond equity and are carried across all brand extensions. Paper labels were replaced with metallic PSL labels for the core range and have helped premiumize the brand and give it a more modern look. For Bris, the clear PSL labels have helped better communicate the lightness of the product with a more transparent and playful look than the precious paper labels could offer.

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, optimizing the design and achieving a great end result.”

Spear hopes to revolutionize the PET bottle market with further expansion in months to come. VP of R&D, Rick Fearn of Spear adds: “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.”