Flint Group has expanded its resin production site in Caronno, Italy, to strengthen supply security for nitrocellulose-free inks used in flexible packaging. The investment responds to rising demand for sustainable and recyclable solutions in line with the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.

Flint Group, a supplier to the global print and packaging industry, has completed a significant expansion of its resin production facility in Caronno, Italy. The site, which has operated for more than 30 years and already produces over 20,000 tonnes of resins annually, will now supply an additional 30？% in production capacity for resin intermediates needed for polyurethane (PU) and acrylic-based inks.

This strategic investment strengthens the company’s vertically integrated supply chain, securing access to critical raw materials as the market shifts away from nitrocellulose (NC). Global NC supply is increasingly tight, as production is redirected to military-grade uses, causing price hikes and supply uncertainty.

Recyclable solutions for flexible packaging

By expanding its NC-free resin output, Flint Group can ensure stable availability of its PU-based VertixCode (flexographic) and MatrixCode (gravure) ink ranges. These inks support improved packaging recyclability through high chemical stability and compatibility with recycling processes — factors that help converters comply with the forthcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

In addition to increasing capacity, the upgrade improves molecular weight distribution via more precise raw material and reagent dosing. This step ensures consistent performance of the final products and reinforces Flint Group’s position in the growing PU inks market.

Securing supply and sustainability

According to Gonzalo Alas Pumarino, Executive Vice President – Operations and Supply Chain, Europe, the investment demonstrates Flint Group’s commitment to providing reliable, forward-looking alternatives. The company aims to mitigate dependence on nitrocellulose while supporting the packaging industry’s shift towards more sustainable solutions.

Flint Group sees the expansion as a contribution to greater long-term stability for customers, ensuring that converters can adapt to both supply chain challenges and evolving environmental regulations.