Day: February 3, 2025

In a significant advancement toward sustainable packaging solutions, AeroFlexx, a frontrunner in innovative packaging technology, has forged a strategic partnership with Chemipack, a well-established Polish blending and filling company. This collaboration aims to address the burgeoning demand for environmentally responsible packaging formats within the liquid goods sector across Europe.

AeroFlexx is recognized for its scalable and cutting-edge packaging solutions, and the recent installation of its proprietary filling machine at Chemipack’s production facility in Łowicz marks a pivotal step in this initiative. This joint effort promises to enhance accessibility for brands throughout Europe to AeroFlexx’s state-of-the-art technology, which is designed to minimize waste and improve operational efficiency in liquid product packaging.

Leveraging Chemipack’s robust production infrastructure—boasting an annual capacity exceeding 100 million liters of liquid products—AeroFlexx seeks to expand its footprint in the European market while supporting the transition toward sustainable packaging practices. Chemipack, a family-owned enterprise renowned for its expertise in blending and filling liquid concentrates and recently awarded BRC certification, stands as a reliable partner in this endeavor.

The collaboration is specifically positioned to drive transformative changes within the liquid packaging sector. Together, Chemipack’s capabilities and AeroFlexx’s innovative technology will facilitate the increasing demand for eco-conscious solutions across various liquid product categories, including beverages, personal care items, and detergents.

Both companies recognize the urgent need for sustainable practices, particularly as consumer and corporate interest in environmentally friendly packaging continues to grow. AeroFlexx’s flexible packaging solutions offer a promising alternative to traditional plastic formats, positioning them as frontrunners in the movement toward sustainability.

Robert Serafiński, Chair and CEO of Chemipack, encapsulated the essence of this partnership, stating that AeroFlexx’s technology is well-aligned with industry demands for innovation. He added, “This collaboration will drive the growing momentum for more eco-friendly packaging and accelerate the transition to more sustainable practices globally.”

Andrew Meyer, CEO of AeroFlexx, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the partnership’s potential to significantly impact the liquid packaging landscape. “This initiative highlights the promise of sustainable packaging solutions in Europe and sets the stage for continued global growth.”

In conclusion, the partnership between AeroFlexx and Chemipack not only embodies a commitment to advancing sustainable practices but also reinforces their positions as leaders in the eco-friendly packaging movement in Europe. This collaboration has the potential to pave the way for a more sustainable future in the liquid packaging industry.

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AeroFlexx partners with Chemipack to revolutionize eco-friendly liquid packaging in Europe

In the quest for more sustainable and efficient production methods in the beverage industry, Sidel has unveiled its latest innovation: the StarLITE-R STILL bottle base. This cutting-edge design incorporates patented technology aimed at enhancing material stretching, distribution, and venting, facilitating easier shaping of bottles. A significant advancement in this design is its efficient cooling circuit, specifically tailored for recycled PET (rPET), which ensures optimal performance during production.

One of the standout features of the StarLITE-R STILL base is its ability to reduce blowing pressure by up to 20%. This remarkable reduction not only leads to substantial energy savings but also lowers production costs while preserving the highest standards of product quality. The environmental benefits are equally impressive, with projections indicating a decrease of approximately 51 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions. This reduction significantly contributes to a smaller environmental footprint for manufacturers.

Importantly, the design of the StarLITE-R STILL base is compatible with existing production lines, allowing for easy retrofitting. This adaptability means manufacturers can enhance their operations without the need for complete overhauls of their production systems. Further reinforcing its reliability, the base maintains its shape throughout production, storage, and transportation, ensuring product integrity is never compromised.

The efficient cooling process of the StarLITE-R STILL base is particularly beneficial for high-speed production. Since rPET materials typically necessitate higher processing temperatures, this innovation optimizes the production environment, accommodating various bottle shapes—round, square-round, and rectangular—in single or multi-serve sizes ranging from 250ml to 2.5 litres. The production rates are impressive, with capabilities of up to 2,700 bottles per hour for single-serve formats and up to 2,400 bottles per hour for multi-serve options.

As Mikael Derrien, Sidel’s Packaging Innovations Manager, noted, food and beverage manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing designs that strike a balance between lightweighting, aesthetic appeal, and compatibility with high-speed production. In response to regulatory pressures and growing consumer demand for sustainable options, manufacturers are keen to reduce costs through increased energy efficiency, diminished blowing pressures, and a lower carbon footprint.

In alignment with these objectives, Sidel has also been proactive in expanding beverage production capabilities, recently enhancing CR Beverage’s operations in China. The deployment of three high-speed aseptic packaging lines is a testament to Sidel’s commitment to meeting the burgeoning demand for high-quality, health-conscious, and environmentally friendly packaged beverages.

As the beverage industry continues to navigate the challenges of sustainability and efficiency, innovations like the StarLITE-R STILL bottle base represent a significant step forward in fostering environmentally responsible production practices.

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Sidel unveils 100% rPET bottle base for still beverages

In a significant advancement for sustainable packaging, ZEROOO has collaborated with the packaging and recycling specialist ALPLA, along with SEA ME GmbH, to introduce a standardized solution for reusable PET packaging tailored for cosmetics and care products. Starting in September, consumers can expect to find a range of products—including shampoo, shower gel, detergent, body lotion, and dental care items—packaged in innovative 300-millilitre PET bottles.

These bottles are not only reusable but also fully recyclable, available in three distinct colors: clear, milky white, and brown. Designed to accommodate all types of caps, each bottle features a laser-engraved 2D data matrix code that provides essential information regarding the contents and circulation of the product.

ZEROOO embodies a commitment to fostering a circular economy within the cosmetics industry. The initiative offers brand manufacturers a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging, presenting safe and affordable PET bottles alongside glass options for the first time. In collaboration with ten brand partners and ALPLA, SEA ME GmbH has successfully developed a fully recyclable packaging solution.

The 300-millilitre reusable PET bottle serves as a shatterproof alternative for toiletries in the shower, ensuring safety and convenience for consumers. Future expansions of the product line are anticipated, with additional formats on the horizon.

ALPLA, a global leader in packaging manufacturing and recycling, plays a crucial role in promoting closed ‘bottle-to-bottle’ cycles through its own facilities. The company leverages its extensive expertise as a system supplier to assist customers in optimizing their packaging designs.

The development of the zerooo reusable PET bottle was realized at ALPLA’s in-house STUDIOa design center, where the collaborative efforts of the SEA ME GmbH team and ALPLA’s designers focused on creating a product that not only meets market needs but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals.

Alexander Tränkle, an industrial designer at ALPLA, emphasizes the importance of “Design for Recycling,” stating, “We are setting the course early on for optimum recycling and the longest possible service life. Every detail counts when it comes to shape, colour, and material. The reusable system extends the life cycle of the plastic bottle, saves material, and reduces its carbon footprint.”

As ZEROOO embarks on this innovative journey, it stands as a testament to the potential of sustainable packaging solutions in transforming the cosmetics industry for a more environmentally conscious future.

Source:

https://www.cbn.co.za/industry-news/packaging-industry-news/alpla-and-zerooo-create-reusable-pet-bottle-for-cosmetic-products/

In the ever-evolving agricultural sector, packaging is not merely an afterthought; it is a fundamental component that ensures products are transported securely, stored efficiently, and delivered in optimal condition. At Cape Bag Group, we have cultivated a strong reputation over nearly 90 years for delivering high-quality packaging solutions tailored specifically to the needs of the agricultural industry. Our three divisions—Cape Bag, Cape Bulk Bags, and Cape Twines & Packaging—operate from distinct factory locations, each providing specialized products that support the growth of agriculture.

As global food demand rises and agricultural practices advance, the pressure on businesses to enhance operations, including packaging, has intensified. Packaging serves not only to protect products but also to optimize handling, storage, and logistics. This is where Cape Bag Group excels, offering customized packaging solutions designed to address the unique challenges faced by agricultural businesses.

The Critical Role of Bulk Bags

Bulk bags, also known as Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs), are indispensable to the agricultural industry. Frequently utilized for transporting substantial quantities of agricultural products such as grains, fertilizers, seeds, and animal feed, these bags are celebrated for their strength, reusability, and compact storage capacity. At Cape Bag Group, we specialize in producing high-quality bulk bags that meet the rigorous demands of agriculture, ensuring reliability and safety throughout the supply chain.

Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness

Beyond providing quality protection, packaging is vital for enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of agricultural operations. Our diverse range of products, including polypropylene bags, hessian bags, and bulk bags, is designed to streamline operations and reduce overall costs. As Robin Uys, Group Managing Director, notes, “Efficiency is essential in agriculture, and packaging plays a major role in achieving this.” Our woven polypropylene bags, for instance, have significantly improved logistics, reduced waste, and lowered costs for our clients.

Meeting the Changing Needs of Agriculture

As farming practices evolve, so too must packaging solutions. Farmers are increasingly focused on reducing waste, improving shelf life, and enhancing product presentation. At Cape Bag Group, we are committed to continuous innovation, adapting our product offerings to meet these changing demands and ensuring we provide solutions that address both current and future challenges.

Looking to the Future

With nearly 90 years of experience, Cape Bag Group remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships within the agricultural sector. Through ongoing product innovation and a customer-centric approach, we aim to provide packaging solutions that facilitate. our clients’ success. Our legacy is built on trust, quality, and excellence in customer service, and we are committed to helping the agricultural sector thrive by delivering packaging solutions that support efficiency and growth.

In conclusion, as we look to the future, Cape Bag Group will continue to be a pivotal player in the agricultural industry, ensuring that our packaging solutions meet the evolving needs of farmers, suppliers, and distributors alike.

Source:

https://www.cbn.co.za/industry-news/packaging-industry-news

In just a few weeks, South Africa’s premier trade showcase, Propak Africa, is set to open its doors at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, from March 11-14, 2025. This triennial event stands as a vital meeting point for industry professionals engaged in packaging, printing, plastics, food processing, and labelling, providing insights into the latest advancements in an ever-evolving market landscape.

The South African packaging industry is shaped by a myriad of factors, including competitive dynamics, urbanisation, shifting consumer preferences, and the pressing need for sustainability. With rising costs of energy and raw materials, there is an increasing impetus for adopting energy-efficient and automated production processes, aimed at enhancing quality control, reducing waste, and minimising human error.

Plastic packaging continues to be a cornerstone of the industry, particularly in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors, prized for its durability and economic viability. However, the growing demand for recyclable and sustainable materials is compelling local suppliers to innovate, fostering a balance between meeting market needs and addressing environmental concerns.

Participants at Propak Africa can anticipate an exceptional opportunity to explore pioneering technologies and materials that encompass sustainable packaging, recyclability, smart labelling, and advanced processing techniques. The event will feature over 500 exhibitors, presenting thousands of novel products and services, making it an unparalleled platform for networking and collaboration among South Africa’s foremost innovators and thought leaders.

“Automation and digitisation will take centre stage at Propak Africa, spanning packaging, plastics, printing, and processing,” states Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions, which organises the event. The showcase aims to foster efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness in production through advanced machinery and materials.

Over the course of the four-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to deepen their industry knowledge through complimentary seminars led by experts, covering vital topics such as industry innovations, sustainability, and local excellence. Moreover, the Institute of Packaging South Africa (IPSA) will host half-day conferences, further enriching the knowledge-sharing experience.

The introduction of the OneMatch Business Networking Tool allows participants to schedule one-on-one meetings with preferred suppliers, enhancing the potential for productive connections. Additionally, the new WhatsApp Concierge Service will ensure visitors have access to on-demand event information, fostering a smoother experience overall.

As Propak Africa 2025 approaches, excitement is palpable. With the support of key industry associations, including The Institute of Packaging SA and Packaging SA, this event is poised to deliver an engaging and invaluable experience for all participants. For more information and to register, please visit www.propakafrica.co.za.

Source:

https://supplynetwork-africa.co.za/explore-the-future-of-packaging-at-propak-africa/

INEOS Styrolution has recently achieved a significant milestone in the sustainability landscape with the successful completion of a project that mechanically recycles polystyrene into yoghurt cups. These innovative products are poised to reach Lidl supermarket shelves in early 2024, marking a critical step in addressing the growing concerns around packaging waste and material recycling.

The company’s advanced purification technology, registered as a novel process in accordance with EU directive 2022/1616, is a game changer in the recycling of food-grade materials. Traditionally, such high-quality recyclates were primarily restricted to PET bottle recycling. INEOS Styrolution’s method incorporates extensive steps, including deep near-infrared (NIR) sorting, object recognition, hot washing, flake sorting, melt filtration, and pelletizing, ensuring that the resulting material meets stringent safety standards for food contact.

Remarkably, the recycled polystyrene exhibits physical properties on par with those of conventionally produced polystyrene, a testament to the rigor of the quality controls and detailed analyses conducted, including an assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The environmental benefits of these recycled yoghurt cups are significant, with estimates suggesting a markedly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional polystyrene products.

In spring 2024, the dairy manufacturer Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller collaborated with INEOS Styrolution to conduct a consumer test, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. An impressive 90% of testers expressed willingness to purchase yoghurt cups made from recycled polystyrene, even acknowledging that these cups might be available in various colours beyond the conventional white.

Dr. Frank Eisenträger, ECO & Market Development Manager at INEOS Styrolution, articulated the importance of this development, stating, “Polystyrene has arrived in the champions league of recycled food contact materials.” This innovation enables producers to comply with the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), a crucial step towards sustainable packaging practices.

Furthermore, Lena Lembach, Senior Packaging Development Manager at Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller, emphasized the collaborative approach to achieving circularity within the polystyrene market and reaching CO2 footprint reduction goals.

This latest advancement follows the establishment of an advanced mechanical recycling facility in collaboration with TOMRA and EGN Entsorgungsgesellschaft Niederrhein, aimed at converting 40,000 tons of post-consumer polystyrene into recycled material annually. Additionally, previous initiatives have included the development of a form-fill-seal yoghurt pot comprising 98.5% polystyrene, which not only streamlines the recycling process but has also garnered accolades in the sustainability sector.

As INEOS Styrolution leads the way in turning challenges into opportunities, the introduction of recycled polystyrene yoghurt cups represents a significant advancement in sustainable packaging solutions, paving the way for broader adoption and innovation in the food packaging industry.

Source:

https://packagingeurope.com/news/polystyrene-mechanically-recycled-into-yoghurt-cups-in-supermarket-first

In a significant move towards enhancing sustainability in the luxury goods sector, Dow has announced a collaboration with Brivaplast and TecnoGi to reprocess imperfect perfume caps into high-end components for luxury footwear and leather goods. This initiative aims to promote circularity by extending the lifecycle of high-quality materials, thereby reducing waste and enhancing value across multiple industries.

Dow, a key supplier of SURLYN resin to Brivaplast, specializes in the production of exquisite, gem-like perfume caps for renowned fragrance brands. However, the stringent quality standards required in the production process occasionally result in substandard pieces. To address this issue, TecnoGi will reprocess these imperfect caps, providing them with a new lease on life and enabling their integration into luxury products.

Imran Munshi, Global Consumer Market Segment Leader at Dow, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable solutions. He noted, “Our collaboration with Brivaplast and TecnoGi comes at a time when demand for sustainable materials and packaging solutions continues to grow. We’re proud to show what can be achieved by working together across the value chain, and the benefits for all of keeping valuable materials in the loop for longer.”

This partnership reflects a broader trend in the industry, where companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainable practices. For instance, last December, LOG Pharma Primary Packaging launched a barrier line utilizing Dow’s pharma-grade resins, which reportedly reduce the weight of pharmaceutical bottles by up to 30% while maintaining optimal protection against moisture and oxygen.

Additionally, innovative collaborations are emerging in other sectors, such as the recent partnership between James Cropper and Maison Perrier-Jouët, which produced lightweight cases for champagne made from paper pulp and vine shoot flour.

As the demand for sustainable materials continues to rise, Dow’s collaboration with Brivaplast and TecnoGi serves as a compelling example of how industries can work together to foster circularity, reduce waste, and create high-value products.

Source:

https://packagingeurope.com/news/dow-brivaplast-and-tecnogi-collaborate-on-circular-materials-solution-for-luxury-goods

In a significant step towards sustainability, Biedronka, a leading Polish retailer, has partnered with Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, to implement a closed-loop programme designed to supply, collect, and recycle corrugated packaging. This initiative aligns with Biedronka’s strategic goals of reducing plastic consumption and lowering CO2 emissions.

As articulated in a recent joint webinar, the programme initiates with the processing of waste paper at a facility in Świecie, Poland. The produced paper is subsequently transformed into corrugated cardboard packaging at one of Mondi’s six Polish factories. This packaging is crucial for Biedronka’s suppliers, who utilize it for packing and transporting goods to logistics centres and ultimately to retail stores. Upon consumption, the empty cardboard is retrieved and returned to Biedronka’s distribution centres, where Mondi reclaims it to restart the recycling cycle.

The partners are optimistic that this initiative will bolster zero-waste practices while ensuring adherence to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and other EU directives. Biedronka is also committed to ambitious sustainability targets, including a 10% reduction in plastic consumption by 2025, based on a 2018 benchmark, and a corresponding decrease in CO2 emissions by 10% by 2026 from a 2021 baseline.

“Creating a truly circular economy for corrugated packaging in the retail industry is a collective effort,” remarked Mateusz Buchowiecki, key account manager in Mondi’s Corrugated Solutions team in Poland. He emphasized the partnership’s aim to establish a paradigm of sustainability that not only meets regulatory requirements but also serves as a model for scalable solutions across Europe.

Agnieszka Koc, sustainability and ESC director at Biedronka, noted that this collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the company’s environmental initiatives, facilitating a strategic shift towards decreased virgin material use and enhanced recycling efforts.

This partnership emerges at a time when other European retailers, including Albert Heijn, Aldi, and Carrefour, are also exploring innovative sustainable packaging solutions. Notably, Citeo plans to trial a reusable packaging system across French retailers this summer, with a vision for broader implementation by 2026.

As both Biedronka and Mondi advance their sustainability objectives, they underscore the importance of collaboration in fostering an environmentally responsible retail landscape.

Source:

https://packagingeurope.com/news/biedronka-and-mondi-close-the-cardboard-loop-in-new-packaging-programme

In recent years, the introduction of tethered bottle caps, particularly on Coca-Cola products, has sparked significant consumer backlash. While these caps serve a critical purpose in enhancing recyclability and reducing plastic waste, many individuals perceive them as uncomfortable and inconvenient. This post delves into the reasons behind this sentiment and explores potential solutions for improving their reception.

Tethered caps are designed to remain attached to beverage bottles, preventing caps from becoming litter and contributing to environmental pollution. Research indicates that plastic bottle caps rank among the most common items found in litter, particularly along coastlines. The European Commission has recognized this issue, leading to the implementation of the Single-Use Plastics Directive, which mandates that plastic caps remain attached during use.

Despite these regulatory efforts, many consumers express dissatisfaction with tethered caps. A recent survey revealed that over 70% of respondents dislike the design, citing discomfort while drinking and difficulties when opening bottles. Critics argue that these caps can lead to injuries, such as cuts or blisters, and can cause leaks when resealing beverages. Furthermore, some individuals with disabilities have raised concerns about the sharpness of current tether designs, which may pose additional risks.

While proponents of tethered caps argue that they offer hygiene benefits and prevent cap loss, they often overlook the significant user experience issues. The frustration expressed by consumers on social media platforms, including TikTok, reflects a broader sentiment of discontent with corporate sustainability initiatives that prioritize recyclability over user comfort.

To address these concerns, brands must prioritize consumer feedback in the design process. Innovative solutions, such as the flip-top design, could provide a more user-friendly alternative to traditional tethered caps. By focusing on comfort and convenience, companies can foster a more positive perception of their sustainability efforts.

In conclusion, while the environmental benefits of tethered bottle caps are undeniable, consumer discomfort and frustration cannot be ignored. Brands must engage in meaningful dialogue with their customers and seek to enhance the user experience to rebuild trust and acceptance of these necessary changes in packaging design.

Source:

https://packagingeurope.com/features/whats-the-problem-with-tethered-bottle-caps

In a significant advancement for sustainable packaging, Nissha Metallizing Solutions (NMS) has partnered with Tetra Pak to develop an innovative aseptic beverage carton featuring a paper-based barrier. This solution incorporates paper sourced from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified forests, underscoring a commitment to environmental responsibility.

NMS’s paper-based portfolio is designed to be recyclable, renewable, and composed of mono-materials that utilize FSC-certified paper. The company asserts that these products provide essential protection against oxygen and light through various coatings, thereby maintaining the integrity of the beverage. Importantly, this new barrier technology reduces reliance on non-renewable resources compared to traditional aseptic cartons, presenting a more sustainable alternative.

The transition to a paper-based barrier is anticipated to enhance recycling infrastructures by simplifying the carton’s material composition from three components to two—paper and polymers. This shift not only promotes recycling efficiency but also increases the appeal of cartons with higher fiber yields to paper mills, further supporting a circular economy.

Marco Marchetti, Vice President of Packaging Materials and Sales Distribution Systems at Tetra Pak, highlighted the benefits of this collaboration, stating that the new paper-based barrier elevates the paper content in their cartons to approximately 80%. When combined with plant-based polymers, the total renewable content reaches an impressive 90%, leading to a significant reduction in the carbon footprint by one-third (33%).

In a related development, the Indian dairy company MilkyMist introduced the world’s first long-life probiotic buttermilk in aseptic carton packs, which remains stable at room temperature, thereby minimizing food waste and energy consumption during storage and transport.

Moreover, the recent launch of The Food and Beverage Carton Alliance (FBCA) marks a unified effort to promote beverage cartons as renewable and circular packaging solutions. This alliance, formed from the merger of The Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment (ACE) and EXTR:ACT, aims to enhance food security, reduce waste, and foster low-carbon circular economies on a global scale.

As industry leaders like NMS and Tetra Pak drive innovation in sustainable packaging, the future of beverage cartons appears increasingly aligned with environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.

Source:

https://packagingeurope.com/news/nissha-and-tetra-pak-develop-aseptic-milk-carton-with-paper-based-barrier