Design

More reliable and consistent file exchange across the whole packaging production process will be possible following the introduction of the Ghent PDF Workgroup (GWG) packaging specifications.

The specifications were developed over two years by GWG’s packaging sub-committee, which represents more than 30 European and US firms.

The collaboration has resulted in a set of specifications that include settings, guidelines and workflows for the entire packaging process, using PDF as the exchangeable file format.

The specifications were tested in North America by Kraft Foods and in Europe by French graphic production company Square.

The firms said portable and reliable file exchange were the main benefits. Clients could count on improved exchange of graphic files, a high level of security through traceability, and reduced time to market.

Although based on PDF-X/Plus standards, GWG said the packaging specifications did not always conform to PDF/X.

However, PDF/X-4 is being released in June and will allow transparency and layers.