UPM Raflatac invests in new hotmelt technology and strengthens R&D resources in China

(UPM Raflatac, Tampere, 8 November 2012) – UPM Raflatac is investing in new hotmelt adhesive mixing and coating technology at its self-adhesive labelstock factory in Changshu, China. With this in-house hotmelt manufacturing capability, UPM Raflatac will be offering label converters cutting-edge technology and expertise they require to develop cost-effective and high-quality label products. The new technology will be in use during the first quarter of 2013.

The latest hotmelt coating technology allows UPM Raflatac to expand its standard paper and film product ranges particularly in the food, retail and tyre industries as well as in variable information printing (VIP), where hotmelts provide advantages such as high initial tack and reliable adhesion on chilled, moist or rough surfaces. The new technology also enables the development of special products designed for niche markets as well as shorter runs, meeting the individual needs of brand owners.

In addition to a wider product range, UPM Raflatac’s customers will benefit from a hotmelt pilot-coating facility and strengthened local R&D capabilities. An accelerated development process will bring regionally adapted new products faster to market.

“This investment in the latest technology and local R&D development show that UPM Raflatac is committed to developing solutions that help labelstock converters in the region build their businesses and grow,” says Arto Tuomi, General Manager, UPM Raflatac China. “It also opens new opportunities for us to continually serve the market better.”

The investment is one of the biggest investments at the Changshu factory since its inauguration in 2007 and it further strengthens UPM Raflatac’s position in the competitive Asian labelstock market.

For further information please contact:
Mr Arto Tuomi, General Manager, UPM Raflatac China, tel. +86 138 1281 2218

This press release will be available in other languages under ‘News & Publications’ on our website: www.upmraflatac.com.

UPM Raflatac, part of UPM’s Engineered Materials business group, is one of the world’s leading suppliers of self-adhesive label materials. UPM Raflatac has a global service network consisting of 14 factories on six continents and a broad network of sales offices and slitting and distribution terminals worldwide. UPM Raflatac employs 2,400 people and made sales of over EUR 1.1 billion (USD 1.6 billion) in 2011. Further information is available at www.upmraflatac.com.

UPM Raflatac Communications | Tel. +358 204 16 143 | Fax +358 204 16 8136 | communications@upmraflatac.com
UPM Raflatac | PO Box 53, Tesomankatu 31 | 33101 Tampere, FINLAND | www.upmraflatac.com