Al Nakheel boosts IML capacity with 8-color FlexiCon press from Hontec

UAE – Al Nakheel Printing Press in the United Arab Emirates has installed an 8-color FlexiCon series flexographic printing press from Hontec, equipped with an advanced in-mold label (IML) conveyor system.

The new servo-driven flexo line offers precision color control, seamless in-line IML printing, and high substrate adaptability, allowing Al Nakheel to produce durable, visually striking labels suited for the region’s fast-evolving packaging market.

According to the company, the FlexiCon press combines automation with accuracy, enabling shorter setup times and consistent quality across large production runs, an essential factor for serving Gulf-based FMCG and food packaging brands increasingly adopting IML technology for product differentiation and sustainability.

“The investment reflects our commitment to expanding capacity and enhancing print quality to meet the rising demand for innovative label solutions,” an Al Nakheel spokesperson noted.

“With this installation, we are well-positioned to deliver superior IML labels that combine design flexibility, durability, and shelf impact.”

The Gulf region has seen rapid growth in in-mold labeling, driven by the shift toward premium, recyclable, and lightweight packaging.

IML technology allows labels to be fused directly into plastic containers during molding, eliminating the need for adhesives and secondary processes, an advantage for brand owners seeking environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Hontec, the manufacturer behind the FlexiCon line, has been steadily expanding its presence in the Middle East by offering high-performance flexo presses and label-finishing systems supported by localized service and technical expertise.

“Our partnership with Al Nakheel Printing Press represents another milestone in bringing Hontec’s innovative printing technology to leading converters in the UAE,” said a Hontec representative.

“This installation underscores our commitment to supporting customers with cutting-edge automation and superior print performance.”

Industry analysts note that Al Nakheel’s investment reflects a broader regional trend: converters are upgrading to multi-color, high-speed flexographic systems to meet growing customer demands for premium, sustainable labeling.

With its latest addition, Al Nakheel Printing Press strengthens its competitive edge and reinforces the UAE’s position as a key hub for advanced packaging and label production in the Middle East.

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