At the CPHI-PMEC 2025 exhibition, UFlex’s tubes business showcased how it is rethinking laminate tube packaging by leveraging the company’s deep integration across films, inks, printing technologies and holography. Speaking to The Packman, Subrata Bose, senior vice president and business head, tubes, UFlex, explained that FlexiTubes is fundamentally different from traditional laminate tubes.

“Conventional tubes are surface-printed and then formed,” Bose said. “But the way we do it is through reverse printing on rotogravure or flexo and then converting that laminate into a tube. This gives us superior print quality, protection and a long-lasting visual appeal.” He added that this reverse-print structure also allows UFlex to embed multiple functionalities directly into the tube – something conventional structures cannot offer.

A major highlight of UFlex’s showcase was anti-counterfeiting solutions, a growing concern in the pharma sector. “In markets like India, counterfeiting not only affects product safety but also the brand’s image and revenue,” Bose said. UFlex integrates holographic security at four levels – from basic elements and custom holographic strips to advanced Fresnel lenses and even covert features invisible to the naked eye. These solutions are already being used by well-known brands to curb pilferage and strengthen brand protection.

Apart from security, FlexiTubes is helping brands enhance shelf appeal, especially as more pharma brands move from prescription products to OTC. Bose said, “In OTC, the customer picks what appeals to them. Our tubes offer unmatched decoration – metallization, holography and full 360-degree printing without a parting line. It gives brands a premium look instantly.” This has made FlexiTubes especially attractive for personal care and skincare products where visual appeal strongly influences buyers.

Sustainability is another pillar where UFlex is driving major transitions. The company is facilitating movement from aluminum tubes to laminate structures, and from aluminum-barrier ABL tubes to aluminum-free high-barrier tubes. “We can match aluminium barrier properties almost up to the third decimal in OTR and MVTR,” Bose said, highlighting the progress UFlex has made using its in-house film capabilities.

Bose also spoke about the growing importance of PCR (post-consumer recycled) materials and how UFlex is gearing up for future regulatory requirements. “PCR is no longer optional. The government has mandated the use of 30% recycled material in rigid packaging and 10% in flexible packaging from 1st April 2025 onwards, with the percentages set to increase in the following years,” Bose explained. To support this transition, UFlex has developed PCR films and is establishing a new greenfield PCR production facility in Noida to ensure a reliable supply of locally produced, FDA-approved PCR material at competitive prices. “We already offer rPET films for sleeves with up to 90% PCR content, and we are also developing PCR-based caps and shoulders in phases,” he added.

Customization is another strength for the company. With capabilities across films, inks, holography and injection moulding, UFlex is able to tailor tube structures, barrier levels, decoration and even applicator heads based on specific customer needs. “Each formulation requires something unique. Our backward integration allows us to deliver that,” Bose said.

On the topic of inks and chemistry, Bose explained that UFlex is moving the tube category toward water-based inks. “Tube printing traditionally uses UV inks and varnishes, which are costly and have environmental impact. Water-based inks reduce chemical usage, cut cost, and make future de-inking easier.” Because the printing on FlexiTubes is reverse-printed and protected by a polymer layer, the print remains intact for a longer duration compared to surface-printed tubes.

As the packaging needs of pharma, beauty and personal care sectors evolve, UFlex FlexiTubes is positioning itself at the forefront with strong focus on brand protection, premium appeal and sustainability. “Our aim is to make a meaningful difference to customers, whether it’s security, decoration or environmental responsibility,” Bose concluded.