Plain flexible films vs printed flexible films: when and why to use each
The packaging industry is constantly changing. With product lines and production requirements always in flux, brands and manufacturers now have more options for flexible film solutions than ever before. Plain film and printed film are two of the most common, each with its own specific advantages that may or may not be a good fit for the product, the production process, and the brand’s goals.
When is a plain flexible packaging film the right choice for your application? When is a printed flexible film a better solution? Let’s break down the differences and benefits of each flexible film types and explore the ideal use cases for them.
What are plain flexible packaging films?
Plain films are films that are supplied unprinted and unbranded. Plain films are made from the most commonly available materials such as OPP, PET, PE, or CPP. Plain films can be single layer or laminated (multi-layer) for enhanced strength and barrier properties.
Plain flexible films are an ideal option for a wide variety of applications including split paper laminates, lidding films, flow-wrap, sachets, bags and more. Specialist finishes can also be added to plain films where needed, such as anti-fog coatings, barrier layers or micro perforations for specific functional requirements.
Terinex Flexibles plain films are manufactured to run on high-speed packing lines and can be customised to suit various sealing methods, products and shelf-life requirements.
What are printed flexible packaging films?
Printed films feature brand artwork, product information and regulatory information printed directly on the film used for packaging. This is usually printed with flexographic or gravure printing to ensure high-quality graphics with accurate registration and full colour ranges.
The most common application for printed films is when the brand needs their packaging to stand out on the shelf, communicate important information or the package is needed to add a perceived value to the product. Snack foods, pet foods, confectionary, and personal care applications are the most common areas that printed films are applied.
Key differences between plain and printed films
Feature | Plain Films | Printed Films |
Appearance | Transparent or opaque with no graphics | Branded with full-colour artwork |
Lead Time | Shorter – ready to convert or laminate | Longer – includes design, plate making, and proofing |
Minimum Order Quantities | Lower | Higher, due to printing setup costs |
Flexibility | Easy to use across multiple products | Customised for a single SKU |
Cost and value | Typically, lower cost per metre | More added value and expertise from supplier plus additional processes reflected in the cost |
Sustainability | Easier to recycle (no inks or coatings) | May require separation or specialist recycling streams |
When to use plain flexible films
Plain films are great when functionality, flexibility or simplicity are your main criteria.
- Food service sector
Caterers, QSRs and industrial kitchens rely on plain flexible films to meet their needs for lidding, portion packaging solutions and flow-wrap as well as freezer applications where branding is not needed or is non-existent. Applications require numerous SKUs for high-speed lines that require continuous operations without stopping service. Anti-fog and barrier options also provide extended shelf life.
- Private label and generic products
If you manufacture the same product for more than one retailer using different labels, plain films can keep the packaging generic so that branded sleeves or labels can be added later. This not only reduces waste and inventory but makes stock control a whole lot easier too.
- Variable or short production runs
For small batches or seasonal products, lead times for printed films may not be viable. Use plain films to be more agile and adapt to market shifts without committing to large, printed quantities.
- Secondary packaging
Liners, inner wraps or overwraps are often used when branding is not necessary. Plain films are an economical and efficient solution.
- Recyclability and sustainability
Plain films tend to be mono material and are free from inks or adhesives, therefore often easier to recycle and better for your business to be more sustainable.
When to use printed flexible films
Printed films should be used when branding, communication, or shelf appeal are your priorities.
- Retail shelf products
Graphics that grab attention can attract buyers, create brand identity and set your product apart from the crowd. This is important for competitive products that compete directly on retail shelves. Printed films are a must.
- Regulatory or nutritional information
When your package has legal requirements like ingredients, nutrition information or bar codes, integrated printed film is the easiest way to go.
- High-volume, long-term lines
If your products are spec-stable and you have a steady, consistent demand, the initial investment in printed films is well-justified with economies of scale and the power of a more targeted, effective brand presentation.
Selecting the right film for you
The decision between plain and printed flexible packaging films is based on your product objectives, production line and market strategy. Key factors include:
- Branding and visual needs
- Packaging format and whether primary or secondary packaging
- Required barrier and sealing properties
- Order volumes and changeover frequency
- Sustainability targets
- Packaging line compatibility
At Terinex Flexibles we offer plain films and printed films designed for top performance in today’s packing lines. Need a high clarity plain film for use in fresh produce applications, or a brightly coloured printed laminate to capture retail attention? Our team can assist in helping you understand the best combination of performance, price and environmental responsibility. Let our experts recommend the best film for your application, plain, printed or both.
