Crane NXT’s recent acquisition of OpSec Security, and its entry into a definitive agreement to buy De La Rue’s Authentication division, points to an interesting shift in the authentication and brand protection space.
Both OpSec and De La Rue are leading providers of holographic solutions (among other technologies) for brand protection, tax stamps, ID documents, and other high-security applications. There is no doubt that Crane’s acquisition of these two companies complements its growing brand and document protection business.
Perhaps one exciting aspect of this development pertains to the role microoptic technologies will play as Level 1 features in brand protection. Crane has already announced its new PROFOUND™ series, which addresses specific issues for its clients, such as the need for more environment-friendly solutions, and the need to comply with regulations such as the EU digital product passport.
Optical-based technologies, such as micro-mirrors, micro-lenses, and nanostructures, now provide more dynamic visual elements that enhance security and offer greater flexibility by integrating with digital authentication solutions. As these technologies evolve, they could challenge the long-standing dominance of other Level 1 features (particularly holograms) in the brand protection market.
Crane is not alone in developing microoptic products. Giesecke+Devrient (G+D), best known for its banknote and payment solutions, also provides SIGN®, which uses micro-optics for product authentication. SIGN can also be combined with another G+D feature, MOVE™ (Micro Oriented Variable Effect), to create additional dynamic effects, bold colours, and relief-style embossing.
PROFOUND™ Micro-Optics (© Crane Authentication).
SURYS (now part of IN Groupe) also offers micro-optic technology, and its optical effects rely on a matrix of microoptic devices called Optical Micro Cells.
So does Authentix (which recently acquired NanoTech), Oberthur (which has a stake in Rolling Optics), Nanopixel, WaveFront, and others.
WaveFront, best known in the optical features sector for developing hologram and replication technology and Fresnel lenses, has a portfolio of nano- and micro-structured security features based on liquid silver technology.
In 2023, Paul Dunn, former Chairman of the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA), presented ‘The future for optical security and IHMA’. In it, he provided an overview of optical variable device (OVD) technologies and a patent analysis of advances in material security (especially foils) in the last few years.
He summarised how holograms/OVDs have become a source from which new technologies such as micro-mirrors, micro-lenses, and nanostructures have naturally evolved. He foresaw a future with opportunities for R&D teams and manufacturers to develop next-generation solutions from these emerging technologies.
The IHMA, itself, is expanding its focus, as it continues to evolve alongside the holography and optical security industries. This expansion reflects the changing dynamics of the global security printing industry, where holograms are increasingly integrated with other OVDs, offering colour change, movement, animation, and 3D effects.
As the brand protection and authentication landscape transforms, Crane’s acquisition of De La Rue’s Authentication division and its investments in micro-optic technologies signal a transformative shift. The potential of these dynamic optical solutions to redefine security features cannot be understated.
As we look ahead, the competition between holograms and emerging optical technologies may foster further innovation in safeguarding brands and products.
What role will micro-optics ultimately play, and how will traditional solutions adapt in this evolving market? Only time will tell, but the future promises to be dynamic and secure
