As brands seek more sustainable and efficient ways to secure packaging, ABSTO is positioning itself as a full-solution provider. Craig Viljoen, ABSTO’s managing director, explains: ‘The landscape for carton sealing is changing rapidly. We’ve always been centred around OPP-based (oriented polypropylene) packaging tapes, but we’re seeing a massive shift towards paper-based options, including self-adhesive and water-activated tapes. These products are in line with the global push for sustainability.’
In addition to its sustainability efforts, ABSTO has expanded into other materials, including non-adhesive paper packaging. The company recently invested in converting machinery that processes non-adhesive products, widening its product range. ‘It works similarly to how tape is rewound, but instead of adhesive materials, it handles paper packaging, which is in high demand,’ Craig enthuses. This allows ABSTO to tap into various sectors, including full packaging and water-activated tape distribution, offering a broader set of solutions to its customers.
While ABSTO’s primary focus has been adhesive tapes, Craig and his team have also ventured into the sublimation paper market, catering to industries like signage and printing. ‘We’ve started converting sublimation paper, which is a huge growth area for us. We’re also involved in label lamination – what we call ‘dry lamination’ – which offers quieter application and better control over the final quality,’ he notes.
Dry lamination, unlike traditional wet lamination, allows printers to apply their own varnish inline, making it a cost-effective and flexible option for companies looking to enhance their labels.
Along with embracing eco-friendly tapes, ABSTO is rigorously testing its products for performance on various packaging materials. ‘We’ve partnered with an American lab to evaluate how different carton sealing tapes – both plastic and paper – perform on different types of boxes. This research allows us to propose tailored solutions to our customers, ensuring they get the most efficient and reliable tape for their specific packaging needs,’ Craig shares.
Sustainable security
ABSTO’s foresight into future market demands has also led to significant advances in security packaging. ‘Tamper-evident tapes are another area where we’re seeing substantial growth,’ says Craig. Partnering with Taiwanese agent Seal King, ABSTO now offers tamper-evident tapes that are critical for secure packaging, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cash-in-transit sectors. These tapes leave a visible void message when removed, signalling that the package has been tampered with. ‘There’s an increasing need for tamper-evident security, especially in industries like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals where product integrity is crucial,’ he adds. ABSTO has also seen success with tamper-evident labels, which are commonly used for sealing medical and hygiene products.
As ABSTO continues to innovate, its ability to adapt to market needs and focus on high-quality, sustainable products sets it apart from competitors. ‘We’ve kept our finger on the pulse of where the market is heading,’ Craig remarks. ‘Whether it’s foil converting for food and pharmaceutical packaging or offering customised security solutions, our goal is to stay ahead of the curve and continue delivering top-tier solutions.’
ABSTO’s diversification goes beyond tapes. The company has invested in machinery that supports broader packaging solutions, including non-adhesive paper packaging and even tamper-evident security tapes. ‘Our goal is to be a one-stop solution for all carton sealing needs, offering products that are both cost-effective and sustainable,’ he concludes.
With a keen eye on market trends and a commitment to sustainability, ABSTO is positioned to lead in the ever-changing carton sealing industry.
