Evertis expands flexible film production in Mexico

Evertis is expanding its flexible packaging capabilities in Mexico with the installation of a new coextruded cast film production line. The investment strengthens the company's ability to manufacture advanced film structures while responding to growing demand for packaging materials that combine performance, material efficiency and improved sustainability characteristics.

The new production capability represents an important step in the development of Evertis' Mexican operations. By increasing local manufacturing capacity, the company can offer customers a broader range of film structures while improving its ability to respond to changing packaging requirements in the North American and Latin American markets.

Coextrusion enables more advanced film structures

Coextrusion allows multiple polymer layers to be produced simultaneously within a single film structure. Each layer can be engineered to provide a specific function, such as mechanical strength, sealability, barrier performance or compatibility with printing and converting processes.

This approach gives packaging manufacturers greater flexibility when developing films for demanding applications. Instead of relying on a single material to provide every required property, different polymer layers can be combined to create a structure optimised for the final packaging application.

Cast film technology supports packaging performance

The new line is based on cast film technology, a process widely used to manufacture high-quality films for flexible packaging. Cast extrusion can provide precise control over film thickness and material distribution, supporting consistent performance throughout production.

Uniformity is particularly important for packaging converters because variations in film thickness can affect sealing, mechanical properties, converting efficiency and the final appearance of the package. Improved process control can therefore contribute to both product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

Local production strengthens supply flexibility

Expanding film production in Mexico also provides potential supply-chain benefits. Flexible packaging manufacturers increasingly need reliable access to specialised films as disruptions in international logistics and raw-material markets make sourcing more complex.

Local production can shorten supply routes and improve responsiveness to customer requirements. It can also allow packaging manufacturers to work more closely with film producers when developing structures for specific applications, supporting faster technical adjustments and product development.

Performance remains central to flexible packaging

Flexible packaging continues to evolve as brands seek lighter structures without compromising product protection. Films must provide the mechanical strength required for filling, transport and handling while maintaining reliable seals and, where necessary, protection against moisture, oxygen and other external factors.

Advanced coextruded structures can help manufacturers balance these requirements by assigning different functions to individual layers. This can support material optimisation while maintaining the performance expected from modern flexible packaging.

Sustainability is influencing film development

The expansion also comes as packaging manufacturers face increasing pressure to reduce material consumption and improve the environmental performance of flexible packaging. Downgauging, improved material efficiency and the development of structures designed for better end-of-life outcomes are becoming increasingly important across the sector.

Coextrusion can contribute to these objectives by allowing manufacturers to optimise the amount and function of each material layer. However, the environmental benefits ultimately depend on the composition of the finished structure and its compatibility with available collection and recycling systems.

Mexico strengthens its role in flexible packaging

The investment reflects the continued development of Mexico as an important manufacturing hub for flexible packaging. Strong demand from food, consumer goods and other industries is encouraging suppliers to expand local capabilities and provide more sophisticated materials to converters and brand owners.

For Evertis, the new coextrusion line expands the range of solutions that can be produced locally while supporting closer collaboration with customers. As flexible packaging continues to evolve towards higher performance, greater material efficiency and more demanding sustainability requirements, investments in advanced film production are likely to remain an important part of the industry's development.