Lintec UK marks "positive" post-acquisition year with new adhesive

Labelling and wide-format films supplier Lintec Europe (UK) has marked the end of its first full year as a subsidiary of Lintec Corporation with the release of a new adhesive range.

Having been acquired by its Japanese parent company in November 2016, the High Wycombe-based firm is part of Lintec’s wider European operation which is headquartered in the Netherlands.

It changed its name from Lintec Graphic Films in September this year as it approached the one-year anniversary of the acquisition. Managing director Andy Voss indicated that the firm was looking forward to new product releases in 2018.

“Starting in the first quarter of the new year, we have a lot of exciting developments coming through,” he said. “We have films that will be very unique in the UK and European markets.

“A key focus for us next year will be further improvement of our environmental impact, such as by using recycled materials in production.

“So far the acquisition has led to a very positive year for us. We are closer with the larger group and able to have discussions about how developments in the Asian markets might benefit customers in the UK and Europe.”

Released at the start of December as the firm’s final debut in 2017, the Repeel range is marketed at mid- and high-end markets as a high-quality adhesive for retail labels.

It incorporates microsphere adhesive technology that limits the adhesive contact with the application surface. The material is typically used for the production of cardboard box logistics labels, point-of-sale labels and book cover labels.

Repeel is designed for reliable long-term removability, featuring ultra-low adhesion. It can be removed and reapplied to surfaces such as paper, wood, glass or metal. According to Voss, the product – which is “an evolution” of previous Lintec adhesives – is already being taken on by a number of UK customers.

Currently running a 29-strong team of staff, Voss said the firm is “constantly recruiting” as demand and production continues to grow for the UK subsidiary.

“Sales have been growing this year and we, as only a small part of the massive international group, will continue to grow with them in the new year,” he said.