Sustainability Update 2026 | What do you need to know?

EmpCo marks a shift in the way environmental claims must be communicated in the EU. The Directive legally prohibits vague, unsubstantiated claims around being ‘eco-friendly’ or using ‘sustainable materials’ unless they are backed up with clear scientific evidence or verified through recognised third party certification schemes. EmpCo aims to raise the bar for transparency and accountability, demanding that environmental messaging is specific and genuinely meaningful

The goal of EmpCo is simple – to protect consumers from misleading claims and ensure sustainability statements reflect real, verifiable impact.

What is the EMPCO directive?

EMPCO  is shorthand for the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive.  It is the EU’s new anti-greenwashing directive which first came into force during 2024 and will be fully enforced by 27 September 2026.  There is no sell-through period or ‘grandfathering’ that allows products with non-compliant environmental claims to remain in circulation once the directive is applied.

Sustainability Update 2026 | How will publishing and print be affected?

EmpCo will affect any business that sells products to European consumers including businesses involved in publishing, print and packaging.  Communication about sustainability will require design, editorial, production and marketing teams to all work together to  ensure claims are accurate and compliant.  What used to sit mainly with compliance and sustainability teams now touches marketing, procurement, production, and management too.

This will affect areas such as:

• Procurement and sourcing decisions
• Claims made on product packaging
• Claims made in brochures, catalogues, and other printed marketing materials
• On product labelling on books, games, stationery, and retail products
• Website copy and campaign messaging

What’s changing in Europe?

The EU Toy Safety Regulation 2025/2509 entered into force on January 1^st 2026 bringing in some really sweeping changes.  It’s worth noting that there is a 4-5 year transition period before some of the rules fully apply, allowing industry time to adjust.

In brief changes include:

• Wider chemical bans and restrictions including PFAS, endocrine disrupters and Bisphenols
• New age-grading / warning label requirements
• New rules increasing the responsibility of online marketplaces
• New rules to address mental health risks of ‘smart’ or digitally connected products
• Introduction of a Digital Product Passport to provide consumers with more information and simplify checks for customs authorities

What’s changing in the US?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is making changes that will require importers of regulated products to electronically submit data to US Customs prior to import. The product safety requirements themselves remain unchanged; only the method of supplying data has shifted to electronic submission.  The aim is to reduce customs examinations at ports, minimize delays, and prevent non-compliant products from entering the US.

E-filing becomes mandatory on July 8, 2026.  There are seven mandatory data elements needed for E-Filing.

• Product ID / description / ISBN / Print Number
• Citation codes of applicable requirements
• Manufacturing date
• Manufacturing place – company name / address / contact info
• Testing date
• Testing lab – company name / address / contact info
• Responsible party (importer of record) – company name / address / contact info

The importer of record is responsible for ensuring E-Filing is completed and it will be the forwarder or customs broker that typically makes the submission.

Why Toy Safety Training makes life easier

Get up to speed on these requirements and more by attending an Imago Safety Training course.

Rigid Telescopic Box (Lift-Off Lid)

Main characteristics of box types:

• Rigid greyboard (typically 1.5–3mm depending on size & load)
• Lid depth: half-lid or full-lid designs
• Greyboard typically 1.5–3mm
• Wrapped in printed paper or specialty cover material
• Interior fitments in foam, board, or moulded pulp
• Perfect for: Collector’s editions, board game premium editions, luxury gifts

Tuck-Flap Box

This format, very popular for card decks is a folding carton box with flaps that tuck in to close. Supplied flat, the assembly is quick and very efficient for volume production.

• Board: 250–400gsm C1S or C2S
• Closure options: front or rear tuck, locking tabs, thumb-cuts
• Additional features: hanger tab / euro slot, carry handle, viewing window

Hinged Rigid Box

This favourite for deluxe books and premium game sets is composed of a rigid box with the lid permanently attached along one edge. Satisfying, it feels like opening a treasure chest.

• Greyboard wrapped in printed or speciality paper
• Lid attached via paper or fabric hinge
• Optional magnetic closure or ribbon pull
• Secure closure without fully separating components
• Works well with EVA foam or moulded pulp fitments

Wrap-Around Lid Box

A box with a lid that sweeps around the edges for a seamless look.

• Rigid greyboard, fully wrapped
• Lid can wrap three or four sides
• Compatible with ribbon pulls or internal tray.
• Smooth exterior surface, minimal seam visibility

Slipcases (Rigid & Soft)

A go-to for special edition book sets as it protects the spine and corners of the books and allow branding to display on the shelves.

• Rigid version: Greyboard wrapped in a cover material

• Limp version: Made from C1S cardboard or heavy coated paper (e.g. gloss art paper)

• Optional thumb-cut or ribbon

• Protects book spines and corners
• Good stackability
• Outer panel offers large branding area

Pizza-Style / Mailer Box

A single-piece corrugated box with a front tuck flap: similar to an ordinary pizza box, but engineered for product presentation.

• Single-piece die-cut structure

• Often coated white before printing

• Can be gloss laminated for enhanced presentation

• Can include bumpers (2 or 4) for extra product protection in special editions

• Typically printed in 1 colour (often black) or white underlayer + CMYK

• Easy assembly and repeatable closing

Gift Boxes with a Window

A carton or rigid box with a transparent window to showcase the contents.

• Enhances visibility at retail
• Can ship flat (carton format) or pre-formed (rigid)
• Often used for stationery sets, special bundles, puzzles and gift lines.

• Folding carton or rigid board
• Window material: PET or recycled PET (RPET); plastic-free options available
• Optional inner fitments for presentation

Clamshell Box

A rigid box with a spine, opening like a book, often with internal compartments for components or books.

• Greyboard, wrapped
• Base and lid mechanically linked via spine panel
• Optional magnet closure or ribbon lift system

Matchbox-Style Box

A sliding box composed of a sleeve and an inner tray.

• Tray and sleeve work together as a unit

• Smooth sliding opening motion

A box is the first moment of your product experience. The texture, the reveal, that little suspense when it opens… it all matters. The right box types protect what’s inside, tells your story, and sets the tone before your customer even sees the product.

The perfect box all depends on how you want people to feel, how the product will be used or stored, and the values behind your brand, including sustainable choices.

As you plan your next project, think about the opening moment, the materials, and how you want your audience to experience what’s inside.

Not sure where to start? We’re here to help you choose the right box for your next project.

Let’s create packaging that truly reflects your brand!

New EUDR Timelines:

The application dates for EUDR have officially been pushed back:

• Large and medium operators: compliance now starts on 30 December 2026

• Small operators: compliance starts on 30 June 2027

This extra time allows businesses to properly prepare their supply chains, work with suppliers, and put sensible processes in place, without rushing or disrupting production schedules.

Simplified Procedures:

One of the most positive developments is the simplification of due diligence requirements.

Here’s what’s changed:

• Small operators can now submit a one-off Due Diligence Statement (DDS) instead of one per shipment.

• The obligation to submit a DDS sits only with the first operator placing a product on the EU market or exporting it from the EU.

• Downstream operators and traders simply need to collect and pass on the DDS reference number.

In short: fewer duplicate checks, clearer responsibilities, and less paperwork across the supply chain.

A further review is planned for April 2026, which could bring additional simplifications or clearer guidance.

Set Clear Goals

Kickstarter can be a way to:

• Test whether your idea resonates with a wider audience
• Build an early community of passionate fans
• Secure the funding you need for manufacturing. Your goal shapes your whole campaign. Are you aiming to launch a one-off collector’s edition? Or is this the first step toward a long-term brand? Being clear about your purpose makes every decision — from rewards to marketing — easier.

Tell Your Story

People don’t only back a product, they back creators. Share the story of how your game came to life during late-night playtests, or what inspired the illustrations in your book.

Equally important is the physical product itself. Backers want to know:

• What will it feel like to hold this book?
• How sturdy are the playing pieces?
• What’s the quality of the box they’ll proudly keep on their shelf? Mock-ups, prototypes, and sample finishes can make your story believable and build trust.

Budget Realistically

This is where many first-time creators stumble. It’s easy to calculate individual production cost— but manufacturing at scale is very different.

Don’t forget to account for:

• Design and prototyping
• Printing and packaging
• Shipping and logistics
• Safety testing (for toys and games)
• Taxes and platform fees
• Contingency for unexpected eventual costs

It is easy as a new Kickstarter creators to underestimate your budget. Getting flexible quotes for multiple reward options is tricky, especially without knowing exact backer choices, so working with a production partner early helps keep everything financially viable.

Show your Product

Think about what would convince you to back a project. Chances are, it’s not the idea but it’s seeing the product in action.
Photos, videos, and prototypes build confidence. Show your book on a coffee table, your puzzle in progress, or your toy in someone’s hand for scale. Simple but clear visuals help backers picture themselves owning the product.

Build Anticipation

Launching without an audience is like throwing a party and hoping people will show up. The most successful campaigns build anticipation in advance.
Here’s a simple pre-launch action plan:

• Share sneak peeks of illustrations, packaging ideas, or behind-the-scenes development
• Create a countdown to launch day across your social media platforms
• Build an email list of early fans and give them priority access when you go live
• Engage communities on social media groups related to your project
• Backers who are already excited before day one will give your campaign importance.

Keep Rewards Simple

It’s tempting to offer endless editions and extras, but every tier adds complexity to production and fulfilment. A successful formula is three or four tiers, such as:

• A standard edition
• A premium edition with special finishes
• A bundle option

This keeps things easy for backers to understand, and for you to deliver.

Don’t Forget Production

This is the step many creators underestimate. Once funded, you’ll have hundreds (or thousands) of backers waiting for delivery. That’s a huge responsibility.

At Imago, we manage the entire production process for books, stationery, packaging, toys, and games. From print runs that look exactly as you envisioned to puzzles with perfectly fitting pieces, we handle the details so you can focus on your backers.

Keep the Communication with your Backers

Delays happen. Production takes time. What matters most is how you communicate. Backers love being part of the journey, so show them proofs, share behind-the-scenes updates, or let them know when the first pallets leave the factory. In our experience, a transparent creator with a delayed timeline keeps their community happy. A silent creator with a delayed timeline doesn’t.

👉 Kickstarter can seem a bit intimidating, and it comes with its own set of terms that might feel confusing at first. To make things easier, here’s a quick glossary of the ones you’ll run into most often.

Final Thoughts

Kickstarter is an exciting project — there’s nothing quite like seeing people believe in your idea and rally behind it. But it can also come with a lot of stress if you’re not prepared. The truth is, getting your project from “funded” to “delivered” can feel overwhelming.

That’s why having the right people alongside you matters. At Imago, we love helping creators bridge that gap — turning a sketch, a prototype, or even just an idea into something tangible and beautifully made. So if you’re planning a Kickstarter, remember you don’t have to figure out the making part alone. We’re here to help make it real.

What are the main types of book binding techniques?

The most common book binding types are:

• Perfect binding
• Case binding (hardback)
• Flexibound binding
• Wire-O binding
• Spiral binding
• Saddle stitching
• Lay-flat binding

Each method is suited to different types of books and budgets.

Case Bound (Hardback)

The king of book binding. Case bound books are sturdy, long-lasting, and always look premium. The folded sections are sewn, endpapers affixed and glued into a rigid grey board case which is then covered with a paper, cloth or leather / imitation leather cover.

Think coffee table books, luxury publications, or anything you want people to treasure (and proudly display). It’s not just a binding—it’s a statement

Wire-o Bound

If you want something practical and easy to use, wire-o (or spiral binding) is perfect. The pages turn all the way around, so your book lays flat on a desk—ideal for calendars, recipe books, and notebooks. Plus, you can choose the wire-o or spiral colour to match your design.

Small detail, big impact . Covers can be cased or limp, spines exposed or concealed.  So versatile!

Singer Sewn Binding

This one’s a little different. Instead of glue or staples, Singer Sewn Binding uses a continuous line of sewing along the spine. It looks creative and a bit crafty—in a good way.

It’s often used for design-led projects like lookbooks or special brand brochures where the finish really matters. Use contrasting colour threads for an eye catching result.

Screw Post Binding

Strong, simple, and very handy. With screw post binding, the pages are drilled and held in place with metal posts. The clever bit? You can easily add or swap pages later. That makes it brilliant for portfolios, swatch books, or anything you need to update over time.

Perfect Bound (PUR binding)

Chances are you’ve picked up hundreds of perfect bound books without even realising it. It’s the method most paperback novels, magazines, and catalogues use: pages glued into a wrap-around cover for a sleek, professional finish.

It looks good, feels good, and is cost effective.  PUR binding is a superior form of perfect binding, PUR refers to the flexible polyurethane glue that is used.

Saddle Stitch Binding (Wire stitched)

Quick, cost-effective, and reliable. Saddle stitching staples the pages together in a single section through the fold—perfect for slimmer projects like brochures, programmes, and booklets under about 64 pages. It’s straightforward and does the job beautifully.

Flexibinding or Flexibound

One of the most popular choices for stationery and gift books. Flexibound books combine the good looks of a hardback with the supple feel of a paperback, giving you the best of both worlds at a cost somewhere in between.

Read more about Flexibound Books & Flexibinding here.

 Lay Flat Binding (OTA Binding)

Lay-flat binding means your book stays open and flat on the table when opened. It’s brilliant for cookbooks, manuals, notebooks and other projects where hands-free reading is a must.

There are other ways of creating a paperback book which lies reasonably flat, but Ota binding is the real deal.

How to choose the best binding techniques for your project

Ask yourself:

• What is your budget?
• How many pages?
• Does it need to lie flat?
• Is it a premium product?

Example:

• Novel → Perfect binding
• Luxury book → Case binding
• Workbook → Wire-O

If you’re producing books, games, packaging, or calendars for the US market, you will have heard the news: big tariff changes were announced recently, and there’s been a lot of uncertainty.

The good news is that books, as “informational materials,” remain exempt worldwide. But other categories such as calendars, stationery, packaging, and games are directly affected and facing steep increases.

With freight traffic already surging, most importers are acting quickly to secure shipments while this window remains open.

What’s been happening with US Trade Tariffs on Print Production?

• On April 9th, 2025, the US introduced new US trade tariffs that target various goods, including products related to print production.
• On May 12th 2025, a 90-day suspension on the most extreme recent tariffs has been announced. A new 30% base tariff is now in place during this pause period.
• As of May 28^th, there has been a major change regarding US tariffs following a decision by the US Court of International Trade, which ruled that President Trump lacked the legal authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 to enact a sweeping series of trade penalties. The ruling voids many of the tariffs except for those that weren’t done under the Act, for example, cars and steel which were Section 232.
• The late afternoon May 29^th update to this is that the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has today issued a temporary stay of the decision pending further proceedings. So, for now, there is no change to the current tariffs being collected and the tariff rates remain as set out in our blog below. We don’t know how long the appeal process will be and if it works its way up to the Supreme Court for a final decision, but for now there is no change
• June 11, 2025: A deal was announced between the US and China following talks in London. While no formal written statement has been released, officials confirmed a total 55% tariff on certain Chinese imports:
  • 20% fentanyl-linked tariff
  • 10% reciprocal tariff
  • 25% Section 301 tariffs from 2018 (unchanged)

The Trump administration says that it plans to appeal the decision. We will update this page with the specific rates, as well as how tariffs will be handled pending appeal, as soon as we know more.

The new tariffs are imposed under the IEEPA*, granting the US President emergency trade powers, but books are protected as “informational materials” and mostly exempt from these additional charges.

Here’s what we believe to be the current breakdown based on product type and tariff chapter:

Hot Foil Stamping

• A heated metal die (brass or aluminium) presses foil from a roll onto the substrate.   Brasses can be flat or engraved deeply for an emboss, deboss or multi-level effect
• The heat activates the adhesive on the foil, bonding it to the surface.

Materials: Paper, leather, PU, and imitation cloth and real cloth.

Cold Foil

Process:

• Cold foiling is typically done inline during the same pass as the printing process
• A UV-curable adhesive is printed onto the substrate using a printing plate.
• Foil (generally silver, sometimes gold) is pressed onto the adhesive and cured with UV light.
• The foil sticks only where the adhesive was applied.
• CMYK inks are then printed on top of the foil which can create a wide range of metallic colours

Materials: Mostly paper and board.

Digital Foiling

Process:

• Uses digital printing technology to apply foil without dies.
• Typically involves printing a toner or varnish layer that the foil adheres to.

Materials: Paper and card stock.

What Foil Blocking Techniques for Your Job

Still not sure which direction to go? Here are a few things to consider when speccing your next project:

Book Edging Guide: Three Ways to Print  

1. Manual Process 

First, the edges are sanded to ensure the paint or ink adheres properly.

Two main techniques are used:

• Spray painting – Best for solid, single-color edges.
• Silkscreen printing – Allows for single or multi-color patterns.

• Since this method takes time and skill, it’s usually outsourced to specialist printers.
• Works well for custom book edges and card decks.

2. Automatic Process 

• Like the manual process, edges are sanded before applying paint.
• Uses an automated spray system to apply a single solid color.
• Great for book edges and card decks when you need a quicker turnaround.

3. Digital Process  

If you want detailed, multi-color designs, digital book edging is the best choice.

• Unlike the other methods, sanding isn’t always necessary as long as the edges are neatly trimmed.
• Uses inkjet printing to apply full-color, highly detailed designs.
• Ideal for premium book edging projects.

Book Edging Guide: How does it work

No matter which method you choose, the process generally follows these steps:

1. Securing the Book Block – The pages are tightly clamped together to prevent movement.
2. Prepping the Surface – If needed, the edges are sanded for a smooth, even application.
3. Masking – Any areas that shouldn’t be painted are carefully covered.
4. Applying Paint or Ink – This can be done using brushes, rollers, spray systems, or inkjet printing.
5. Drying – Paint or ink is dried quickly using air blowers or heat guns to prevent smudging.
6. Final Check & Clean-Up – The edges are inspected for quality, and any excess paint is cleaned up before the book is assembled.

Size and Format

If you’re planning on book edging, here are some important technical details to keep in mind:

• Spine width: Between 6.5mm (0.25 inches) and 76mm (3 inches).
• Book dimensions: Works best for books sized 102mm x 152mm (4×6″) to 228mm x 305mm (9×12″).
• File specifications:
  • Submit high-resolution PDFs.
  • Use CMYK color mode.
  • Include 3mm bleeds.
  • Each edge requires a separate file.

Things to Consider 

If your book design has bleeds (where ink or color extends to the edges), keep these factors in mind:

• Color Consistency: There may be slight variations in large solid color areas.
• Banding Issues: Sometimes, color banding can appear in the bleed areas.
• Best Practice: Book edging works best on designs without bleeds to ensure even color coverage.

Want to explore book edging for your next project? Get in touch with us today, our team of expert will guide through all the process!

London Book Fair 2025 – Key Details

• Dates: 11th – 13th March 2025
• Location: Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX
• Opening Hours:
  • Tuesday 11th March: 9am – 6:30pm
  • Wednesday 12th March: 9am – 6:30pm
  • Thursday 13th March: 9am – 5pm

Where is The London Book Fair 2025 Taking Place?

The London Book Fair 2025 is taking place at Olympia London. The full address is Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX and you can get directions using the map provided below.

How To Find Imago at The London Book Fair

Imago are located on Stand 6A105 on the Ground Floor of the Grand Hall at The London Book Fair. We have three dedicated meeting tables (and yes, with comfortable chairs) to ensure we have enough space and time to discuss your project!

The London Book Fair Floor Plan

Take a look at the 2D and 3D animated London Book Fair 2025 floor plan below so you can find us!

The show is quite large, so we recommend you pick up a floor plan at the entrance to the show. But we’re always on hand to help. If you can’t find us on the day, please email enquiries@imagogroup.com and a member of the team will be in touch to help guide you to our stand.

Find Inspiration on Our Stand!

We’ll be showcasing an exciting range of samples from our recent projects, Collector books, Stationnery, Jigsaw Puzzles, and more. If you’ve worked with us before, you’ll be pleased to see fresh, innovative products.

Looking for inspiration? Our diverse selection of materials and formats will spark new ideas. No matter what stage your project is in, we’re here to help.

Book a Meeting with Us

Want to discuss your next print or production project? Schedule a meeting with us at The London Book Fair 2025! Simply fill out the form below, providing details about your business and project requirements, and we’ll be in touch to arrange a time.

We’re looking forward to catching up and exploring newideas. See you at Stand 6A105!