OPM Group announces joint venture with US companies

Leading label and flexible packaging manufacturer, OPM Group, has extended its reach into the US market through a joint venture with New York-based companies Macaran Printed Products and Syracuse Label & Surround Printing.

Collectively known as SKYLARK™, the partnership will introduce OPM’s patented TLC® (Thicker Label Closure) technology for wet wipe products to the US market. It marks the next significant step in OPM’s ambitious growth strategy and is supported with significant investment in new presses both in the UK and the US.

TLC – a European and US patented re-seal label solution* – gives brand owners an opportunity to replace rigid plastic flip-top closure systems with semi-rigid pressure sensitive label technology. The solution optimises product sustainability, maximises pack functionality, allows for better brand continuity and lowers cost. In addition, it enhances ease of use and delivers a better overall user experience to the consumer.

TLC is ideal for a wide range of markets including healthcare, cosmetics, mother and baby, household, pets, veterinary, automotive and industrial.

Chris Ellison, joint managing director of OPM, said: “This is an exciting time for OPM and we are delighted to join forces with the newly merged Macaran and Syracuse teams to extend our business in the US for TLC; a ground breaking closure technology for the wet wipe market. We have a great relationship with the Macaran and Syracuse management team and are excited about what the future holds for SKYLARK as we invest for the future.

“The creation of SKYLARK leverages OPM’s patented and proven innovations in semi-rigid pressure sensitive closure technologies for the wet wipes market, along with Macaran’s reclosure sales and marketing knowledge to introduce the TLC solution to North America.”

He added: “Our expertise, creativity and innovation ensure our customers have the competitive edge. We are thrilled to be able to take TLC technology to the US through SKYLARK and for customers and consumers to soon see the benefits for themselves.”

To support the SKYLARK venture, a new 10-colour Nilpeter FA22UV flexo press will be installed at the Syracuse site, in New York. With capabilities such as line and process colour printing, outer surface and sub surface printing and specialty foil embellishments, the press will be operational in Q4 2022. In addition, the installation of a 12-colour 22-inch FA line Nilpeter machine will be completed at OPM’s Leeds facility in July.

Tom Sargent, president of Macaran Printed Products, said: “SKYLARK represents a significant milestone in the growth of both of our organisations. OPM is an industry-leader with a proven track record of delivering cutting edge products. We are excited to partner with them to expand our product portfolio and bring TLC to the North American marketplace.”

OPM attended the World of Wipes International Conference (WOW), June 27-30, 2022 at the Marriott Marquis, Chicago IL, as SKYLARK.