Why Solvent-Based Inks Still Dominate Flexible Packaging

Despite continued innovation in water-based and UV-curable ink technologies, solvent-based inks remain the dominant choice within flexible packaging. Their ongoing relevance is not driven by legacy practices, but by performance. In high-speed, high-volume packaging environments, solvent-based systems continue to deliver a combination of reliability, efficiency, and quality that alternative technologies often struggle to match at scale.

A key advantage of solvent-based inks is their fast drying capability, enabling converters to run presses at high speeds without compromising print quality or productivity. In addition, solvent-based inks provide strong adhesion to non-porous substrates such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and laminated films—materials widely used across food, beverage, and consumer goods packaging.

For brand owners and converters, this performance translates into consistent colour strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion, moisture, and chemicals. These attributes are critical in flexible packaging applications where shelf appeal, product protection, and regulatory compliance must align.

The continued dominance of solvent-based inks has significant implications for talent and leadership. Manufacturers and converters require skilled professionals across press operations, quality assurance, ink formulation, and process optimisation. More importantly, they need senior leaders who understand solvent chemistry while also driving operational efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement in increasingly complex production environments.

As the sector evolves, organisations face a dual challenge: optimising solvent-based operations today while preparing for future transitions toward alternative ink technologies. Navigating this complexity requires leadership with both deep technical expertise and strategic foresight.

Athena Executive Search specialises exclusively in executive recruitment for the packaging and print sector. We partner with organisations across flexible packaging, inks, and print to identify senior talent capable of strengthening solvent-based workflows while leading innovation and change.

If your organisation is looking to secure experienced leadership in flexible packaging or solvent-based ink operations, we invite you to connect with Athena Executive Search. Contact us to discuss how our sector-focused executive search approach can support your growth, transformation, and long-term success.

Email: enquiries@athena-executive.com