Reifenhäuser Cast Sheet Coating - specialists for cast film, sheet extrusion and extrusion coating lines - will showcase a completely new production process for cost-effective film/nonwoven composites with an exceptionally low grammage at ICE (International Converting Exhibition) Europe (Hall A5, Booth 1300). The leading international trade show for paper, film, and foil conversion and processing will be held at Messe München (Munich trade fair center) from March 15-17, 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic and current supply shortages have exposed the dependence of companies on global supply chains. This situation is both a warning signal and an opportunity to boost and reorganize the local production of semi-finished products from the ground up. Reifenhäuser Cast Sheet Coating has now developed a trend-setting production process termed Ultrathin Coating, in particular for the sector of medical protective clothing. The process will permit customers to produce particularly lightweight film/nonwoven composites with greater cost efficiency and, as a result, more competitively. The patent-pending process has several advantages: It cuts film grammage by 66%; material consumption in the overall composite is reduced by 28%; and it slashes costs by up to 34% compared to conventional semi-finished products. Significant cost savings are achieved in various ways, for example, by replacing hotmelt adhesives, which reduces line maintenance to a great extent at the same time.

Mark Borutta, Sales & Marketing specialist at Reifenhäuser Cast Sheet Coating, explains: "We are currently experiencing a sustained increase in demand for medical protective clothing combined with a return strategy for local production capacity. Against this backdrop, producers achieve a fast return on investment and high profitability with Ultrathin Coating - even when production is based in Europe." What is so special about Reifenhäuser Cast Sheet Coating’s solution is that its sister company, Reifenhäuser Reicofil, an experienced and global leading manufacturer of nonwoven lines, provided their invaluable support to the development

Even if manufacturers already produce medical protective clothing and prefer to handle the coating process internally in the future instead of importing the necessary composites, it is worthwhile to set up an in-house production facility. In either case, the investment in Ultrathin Coating usually pays for itself in less than 12 months. The lower material input also reduces the consumption of fossil raw materials and this in turn responds to the increased demand for more sustainable products

About the Reifenhäuser Group

The Reifenhäuser Group together with its highly specialized business units is the leading provider of innovative technologies and components for plastics extrusion. Founded in 1911, the company is a global supplier of high-tech solutions. With its technologies and the know-how of its 1,750 employees, Reifenhäuser has the world's largest network of expertise in plastics extrusion technologies. The CEO of the Group is Bernd Reifenhäuser

According to Swiss Recycling, the signatories of the ‘Closing cycles for plastic packaging and beverage cartons’ Pact

Wolfertschwenden, 11 March 2022 - With its compact and fully automatic T 305, MULTIVAC is launching a new traysealer, which is characterised by its high level of performance, pack quality and flexibility. The versatile all-rounder builds on the success of the proven T 300 traysealer, and it is designed for packing small and medium-sized batches in the food sector, as well as for quick product changes. The new model is suitable for use not only in the food industry, but also in supermarkets and large kitchens, such as for example at caterers, hospitals or educational facilities, and it will be shown to the public for the first time at Anuga FoodTec 2022 (Hall 8.1, Stand C010) and IFFA 2022 (Hall 11.1, Stand B11).

Wide range of possible uses

The new traysealer has been developed to produce attractive MAP and vacuum skin packs in small to medium-sized batches, and it can be used for the widest range of applications, whether ready meals, convenience foods and snacks, meat, sausage products, cheese, fish and seafood, fruit or vegetables. In terms of pack shape and materials, there are practically no limits to the T 305. Using a maximum format width of 420 x 300 mm, it can run a wide variety of trays made of paper fibre or board, plastic, aluminium or foamed materials, and a large range of upper webs can also be run. Sustainable packaging materials, such as mono films or MULTIVAC PaperBoard, can also be used on the traysealer.

Reliability, cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency

Thanks to the latest technology, this robust machine enables a high level of output to be achieved, while also providing the highest pack quality with gentle handling of the trays. The traysealer can be designed with up to four tracks for maximum output of small trays.

Thanks to its energy-efficient drive systems and a machine construction designed for durability, the new traysealer is built around sustainability. When the machine was being developed, special emphasis was also placed on ease of cleaning, user-friendliness, and above all safety: the T 305 is particularly simple to operate via its IPC03 machine control with touchscreen, and its entire loading area can be completely flushed through thanks to cleaning flaps. Necessary recipe and format changes can be performed in a very short time and with maximum process reliability.

In addition to this, operators do not come into contact with hot die sets during their hectic everyday work. And thanks to the DT 305 die changing trolley, format changes can be performed quickly, conveniently and safely. And last but not least, the new T 305 is already ideally prepared for use with the various MULTIVAC Smart Services - and this means for a digital future.

Trade fair exhibit: compact and highly flexible portioning line

At the trade fairs the T 305 can be viewed as part of a highly flexible portioning line for retail packs. A GMS 400 portioning machine cuts steaks and lays them in a shingled pattern on a transport conveyor. The trays are denested in parallel with this conveyor and placed onto a second transport conveyor. Both conveyors converge just before the T 305 traysealer, and the portions slide into the trays. This single-track product flow of filled trays is then diverged into two tracks by a diverger, since the traysealer is designed as two-track. The trays are packed under modified atmosphere in the packaging machine.

About MULTIVAC

MULTIVAC is one of the leading providers worldwide of packaging solutions for food products of all types, life science, and healthcare products, as well as industrial items. The MULTIVAC portfolio covers virtually all requirements of processors and producers in terms of pack design, output, and resource efficiency. It comprises a wide range of packaging technologies, as well as automation solutions, labellers, and quality control systems. The product range is rounded off with solutions upstream of the packaging process in the areas of portioning and processing, as well as bakery technology. Thanks to our extensive expertise in packaging lines, all modules can be integrated into complete solutions. This means that MULTIVAC solutions guarantee a high level of operational and process reliability, as well as efficiency. The MULTIVAC Group has approximately 6,900 employees worldwide, with some 2,300 based at its headquarters in Wolfertschwenden. With over 80 subsidiaries, the Group is represented on all continents. More than 1,000 sales advisors and service technicians throughout the world use their know-how and experience to the benefit of customers, and they ensure all installed MULTIVAC machines are utilised to their maximum. Further information can be found at: www.multivac.com.

The latest addition to the range is the new Cartaseal^® VWAF, which has been developed in line with the pri

Amelco Industries has optimised the packaging of its mattress innersprings with Mondi’s Advantage MF SpringPack Plus

With a distinctive craft aesthetic, allowing to expand and customise the collection in a more sustainable and cost-ef

– IMS TECHNOLOGIES will be among the exhibitors of ICE EUROPE 2022 at Hall A6 Booth 244

The Group will be present with its brands GOEBEL IMS, well-known for its wide range of slitter rewinders, un- and rewinders, LAEM IMS, specialized in slitting and winding machinery for the converting and flexible packaging industries, and ROTOMAC, the global leader in the production of rewinding as well as packaging and accessory machinery for food wrapping.

At the Munich trade fair centre LAEM IMS will showcase RIBOSLIT machine, its compact slitter rewinder for the flexible packaging industry. With its innovative and ergonomic layout, the re-designed operatorfriendly software and HMI, the RIBOSLIT can process at high speed mono and bi-oriented films, laminates and paper

Among the other highlights, IMS TECHNOLOGIES is pleased to present the new eXTRASLIT, the fully electric slitter rewinder for all film substrates. The machine works fully electrical, without any hydraulic functions, thus allowing the highest efficiency and top quality of the finished reels. Thanks to the modular machine concept customers can configure the slitter rewinder according to their specific needs and requirements
The Group will also promote its unparalleled and comprehensive portfolio, including the best-selling machine for paper RAPID D1, the dual-turret slitter rewinder with automatic end-of-line TR 4 in the flexible packaging field, the innovative automatic rewinding machines of the ICEBREAKER series and much more

Furthermore, visitors will have the possibility to try IMS TECHNOLOGIES’ digital services, such as MAIA - Machine Artificial Intelligence Application - the innovative industrial IoT platform developed to meet the customers' needs in the Industry 4.0 era. The cloud-based system enables users to collect data from machines, visualize them through easy dashboards, make analysis to detect long-term trends, facilitate maintenance and provide several suggestions to optimize operations, enhance efficiency and product quality.

Furthermore, visitors will have the possibility to try IMS TECHNOLOGIES’ digital services, such as MAIA - Machine Artificial Intelligence Application - the innovative industrial IoT platform developed to meet the customers' needs in the Industry 4.0 era. The cloud-based system enables users to collect data from machines, visualize them through easy dashboards, make analysis to detect long-term trends, facilitate maintenance and provide several suggestions to optimize operations, enhance efficiency and product quality.

comprehensive post-sales services include spare parts, field service, inspections, a real-time helpdesk, training, retrofit and upgrade as well as relocation and preventive maintenance

Finally, as an exclusive preview for ICE EUROPE, the brand new Customer Area will be launched: an environment where customers can monitor orders’ status and delivery times, track repairs or go directly to the e-commerce platform for quick spare-parts purchase.

About IMS TECHNOLOGIES

Born from the union of specialized, diversified companies, IMS TECHNOLOGIES is an international standard-setter in the engineering and manufacturing of high-tech customized machinery in multiple sectors such as Converting, Packaging, Automotive, and other industries. Thanks to its extensive knowhow and expertise and its long history, stretching back to 1851, IMS TECHNOLOGIES is able to develop solutions complying with the highest standards in terms of productivity, quality and precision and to offer them to the market through its world-renowned brands

Plant upgrade reflects increasing demand for company’s Thermo Shield™ fire-resistant shipping wrap and J-Crate corrugated crating container, among other packing solutions.

PACT, LLC, an innovator of packaging and crating technologies, is moving to a spacious new facility in Watertown, CT, just a few miles from its current headquarters in Waterbury. The 71,000-square-foot space is necessary to accommodate the company’s rapid growth in its specialized shipping niches. In addition to added production infrastructure and warehousing space, the move is expected to result in 15-20 new personnel.

PACT will be moving into the larger facility incrementally over the next year or so. Once the transition is complete, the company expects to double its current product output.

Key to PACT’s upward growth trend is a marked uptick in demand for one of its signature products. Last year, the company was granted a US patent for Thermo Shield™, a paper-based, fire-resistant shipping wrap designed to prevent catastrophes caused by battery explosions during transport. Utilizing a revolutionary technology that actively and automatically cools the internal environment of a corrugated container, the paper-based, 100% recyclable protective logistics product prevents damage to the outside shipping container, suppresses fumes or gasses from escaping, and limits external oxygen supply.

Thermo Shield™ comprises a lightweight pleated material with a non-toxic moisture vapor application that ensures the safety of lithium-ion products in transport. The solution can suppress thermal runaway and propagation at temperatures up to 800°C, and restrict the temperature outside the wrap itself to 60°C.

Another sustainable shipping solution seeing sizable growth is PACT’s patented J-Crate, a customized corrugated crating container offering reduced shipping costs, maximization of warehousing space, and increased sustainability. An attractive alternative to the conventional wood shipping crates used to transport large items, the solution comprises a wooden base surrounded by sturdy yet pliable corrugated material. The lightweight shipper saves on transport costs and, since it can collapse to be barely wider than the base wood component, takes up exponentially less space than standard crates.

Crucially, J-Crates do not sacrifice product protection. The corrugated containers have been proven to keep even the most fragile items secure during transport, as the structure can withstand 4,000 lbs. of pressure – the same amount as a standard wooden pallet. In addition to the J-Crate’s inherent sturdiness, its corrugated material is a better shock absorber than wood, meaning J-Crates diminish the sort of vibration-related damage that can result from the jostles and jolts packages frequently endure throughout the supply chain. 

Notably, the move’s negligible geographic distance means that PACT can retain all of its current employees.

“The new Watertown facility is an ideal combination of talent continuity and accommodating current and future growth,” said Rodger Mort, President of PACT, LLC. “Being able to not only expand our team but keep all of our loyal, skilled personnel with us were both crucial factors in our decision. The expanded space, new infrastructure and dedicated team members will be instrumental as Thermo Shield, J-Crates and our other shipping solutions continue their forward momentum.”

About PACT

PACT, LLC is a world leader in manufacturing industrial packaging and crating solutions. With over 25 years of experience, PACT has designed such popular industry solutions as J Crates and Pleatwrap, as well as custom packaging products for the furniture and automotive industries. PACT was founded on the idea of sustainability and continues to embrace a green future in the packing and crating industry. For more information, visit www.pactww.com. 

SÜDPACK and Clean Cycle Investments invest in CARBOLIQ, provider of an innovative technology for chemical recycling

SÜDPACK and Clean Cycle have signed an agreement for a long-term investment in the unique CARBOLIQ technology developed by Recenso. The decision is the logical consequence of the cooperation between SÜDPACK and CARBOLIQ that started about a year ago. Now the three companies Clean Cycle, SÜDPACK, and CARBOLIQ pool their expertise in the area of material management with chemical recycling. Their aim is to further expand available capacities for the innovative and highly efficient chemical recycling of a wide range of plastics. They plan to make currently non-reusable packaging materials suitable for recycling and for the circular economy that will be necessary in the future.

With the operation of the pilot plant at the disposal center in Ennigerloh, SÜDPACK and CARBOLIQ have proved that numerous material fractions as well as mixed and contaminated plastic wastes can be converted into a valuable resource. Apart from the large diversity of input materials, the CARBOLIQ process offers competitive advantages in terms of energy efficiency and low emissions. The oil recovered is virgin-grade quality and can be used by the plastics industry in the same way as fossil fuels to produce a wide spectrum of plastic granulates. These granulates can in turn be processed to produce high-performance films for sophisticated packaging applications which are required above all in the food industry.

So far, the cooperation partners have successfully applied the technology both for resource recovery from their own recyclable material flows as well as for recycling packaging materials from processing and from end customers. The Recenso plants for direct oiling work according to the catalytic tribochemical conversion (CTC) process and are unique in the world.

The investment in CARBOLIQ creates a powerful company that will in the medium term continually expand its capacities for highly efficient recycling of a wide variety of plastics. “Fundamentally, our joint vision is tackling the problem of high-performance flexible packaging materials that can’t be mechanically recycled with current technology. We aim to make them recyclable and therefore compatible with future needs. Thanks to the investment by SÜDPACK and Clean Cycle, we’ll be able to create a closed-loop, high-performance and industrial-standard system that also handles these products. It will allow us to exploit the extremely promising potential of our technology,” explains Christian Haupts, the CEO of CARBOLIQ.

“In a wide range of applications, for example in the food industry, high-performance multilayer films with effective protective functions are the most efficient solutions for keeping all kinds of food fresh. And they’ll remain the best choice in the future,” says Dirk Hardow, Business Unit Manager at SÜDPACK. “That’s because they provide maximum product protection at minimum added weight. However, the drawback is that they can’t be mechanically recycled. Now CARBOLIQ offers a key system component for creating a circular economy in the food packaging industry which can’t be achieved solely with mechanical recycling, also due to existing legislation. So we see our investment in CARBOLIQ as an opportunity for SÜDPACK to expand the definition of plastic waste recycling beyond just mechanical recycling.”

Similarly, Clean Cycle Investments, owned by the Last family, is committed to supporting innovations in the packaging industry that can ensure a positive future for the industry. Laurens Last explains: “We very deliberately incorporated the word ‘Cycle’ into our company’s name because we see the circular system as our top priority. We’re fully confident that chemical recycling will play a crucial role in achieving a sustainable circular economy that even includes high-performance plastic packaging. Therefore, our involvement in CARBOLIQ is not just an investment in a greener future, but also a matter close to our hearts.”

For SÜDPACK, the investment in CARBOLIQ is additionally a significant move towards the goal of a zero-waste company. The aim is zero waste not only in its own material management, but also in that of customers and stakeholders along the entire value creation chain. In addition to solutions for flexible films for the food packaging industry, CARBOLIQ also has a number of promising ideas in the fields of medical product packaging and technical applications: “So not only customers of our Business Unit Food benefit, but also customers of our Business Unit Medica and Business Unit Functional Films & Compounds. That’s because in the long term we believe it will be essential also on these markets to close cycles and permanently reduce the input of fossil raw materials,” says Johannes Remmele, entrepreneur und owner of the SÜDPACK Group.

About CARBOLIQ

CARBOLIQ GmbH is based in Remscheid and is the technology platform of RECENSO. It is responsible for the business area regeneration of hydrocarbons in waste streams. The company manufactures and operates plants for oil recovery from mixed and contaminated plastic wastes. CARBOLIQ supplies the CLR (circular liquid resource) it produces to the petrochemical industry which uses it as a substitute for fossil raw materials in the manufacture of new, high-end polymers.

About RECENSO

RECENSO GmbH is a specialist in the design and implementation of systems for resource recovery with its headquarters in Remscheid. The company provides advanced recycling solutions, thus creating the conditions for an efficient circular economy and the intelligent use of secondary raw materials. Their portfolio includes machinery and systems for both physical (mechanical) and chemical recycling based on the CARBOLIQ process. Further information: www.recenso.eu

About SÜDPACK

SÜDPACK is a leading manufacturer of high-tech films and packaging materials for the food, non-food, and medical product industries. Our solutions ensure maximum product protection as well as additional pioneering features with minimum material input.

The family business, which was founded by Alfred Remmele in 1964, is headquartered in Ochsenhausen. Production sites in Germany, France, Poland, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the USA are equipped with the latest plant technology and manufacture to the highest standards, including the capacity to operate under clean room conditions. The worldwide sales and service network ensures a high degree of proximity to the customer and comprehensive application technology support in more than 70 countries.

With its state-of-the-art Development and Application Center at its headquarters in Ochsenhausen, the innovation-oriented company offers its customers an optimal platform for carrying out application tests and for developing individual and tailor-made solutions.

SÜDPACK is committed to sustainable development and fulfills its responsibility as an employer and towards society, the environment, and its customers by developing packaging solutions that are unparalleled in their efficiency and sustainability.

Further information: www.suedpack.com

About Clean Cycle Investments

Clean Cycle Investments B.V. (Cycle) has been founded by the Family Last, an entrepreneurial family active in the fields of flexible packaging and the sole owner of the Scholle IPN Group. The Scholle IPN Group is the leader in the liquid flexible packaging industry and its business activities include the extrusion of film, injection moulding of fitments and related filling equipment. 

The family Last has decided to invest an initial euro 100-150 million into highly technological companies active in the recycling industry. In that respect Cycle closed its first acquisition in 2021 by acquiring an investment in Obbotec, a Netherlands (in Rotterdam) based technology provider specialised in the chemical recycling of residual plastic waste (Scholle IPN Announces Strategic Partnership With Chemical Plastic Recycler OBBOTEC | Scholle IPN).

With the acquisition of CARBOLIQ; Cycle closes its second investment in a short period of time and adds another chemical recycling technology to its investment portfolio. Cycle is very proud to be able to join the adventure of CARBOLIQ together with SÜDPACK, to further upscale the technology and in such way working towards a more sustainable and circular world.

Background

As a global leader in packaging and paper, Mondi operates across more than 30 countries, generating revenues of €7.7 billion and underlying EBITDA of €1.5 billion in 2021.

As previously announced, Mondi’s operations in Russia represented c. 12% of the Group’s revenue by location of production in 2021 and, over the last three years, generated c. 20% of the Group’s underlying EBITDA. Mondi has operated in Russia for over 22 years.

The most significant facility is a wholly owned integrated pulp, packaging paper and uncoated fine paper mill located in Syktyvkar (Komi Republic). The Group also has three converting plants in Russia. All these facilities primarily serve the domestic market and have continued to operate through this time of heightened geopolitical tension. Mondi employs c. 5,300 people in these operations.

In Ukraine, Mondi has one paper bag plant located in Lviv, west of the country, employing c. 100 people. Production is currently suspended.

Situation update

The Syktyvkar mill, which does not receive any direct funding from Mondi, operates an integrated power plant providing a portion of the Komi Republic’s energy demand, and is the primary source of heat and warm water for the Ezhva district of Syktyvkar, which has a population of c. 60,000 people. It also provides other local community services such as waste water treatment. The mill is legally required by the Russian authorities to provide the energy supply.

Syktyvkar is currently operating, but the mill is starting to see a number of operational constraints, including in the importing of process chemicals, spare parts and other critical supplies. While difficult to assess the ramifications in what remains a fast-moving situation, this may significantly impact the operation of the mill.

Assessing options for Russian operations

Mondi is profoundly concerned about the crisis unfolding in Ukraine and is shocked by the humanitarian impact. We express our deepest sympathy to all those impacted by the ongoing hostilities, adding our voice to those calling for an urgent cessation.

Recognising its corporate values and broader stakeholder responsibilities, the Board is assessing all options for the Group’s interests in Russia, including any form of legal separation. This does not mean, or imply, that Mondi is planning, or initiating, any liquidation or bankruptcy proceedings in relation to any of its Russian subsidiaries or assets.

Support to humanitarian relief effort

In addition to the direct support the Group is providing to colleagues in Ukraine, Mondi has recently pledged €1 million to support the United Nations World Food Programme’s emergency operation to provide food assistance for people impacted by the conflict.

Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, today announced the launch of Cartaseal^® VWAF, a new industry-leading perfluorinated compound (PFC)-free* and ammonia-free* barrier coating for odor-free packaging applications.

Archroma is well known for its innovations and sustainable solution systems aimed at helping packaging & paper manufacturers to optimize productivity and/or create value in their markets.

The multifunctional Cartaseal^® range offers barrier solutions that can be used to protect from grease, oils, water and water vapor in both packaging and food packaging applications such as pizza boxes, sandwich wedges, fresh vegetables, fast food service and general supermarket packaging.

The latest addition to the range is the new Cartaseal^® VWAF, which has been developed in line with the principles of “The Archroma Way to a sustainable world: safe, efficient, enhanced, it’s our nature”.

The innovative Cartaseal^® VWAF is designed to form a continuous and defect-free film-like coating on the paper surface. The resulting barrier offers class-leading performance against the penetration of oils, fats, water and vapor.

The odor-free product is also ideally suited to food packaging applications, where the taste and smell of the packed food can be very sensitive to the environment and must be carefully preserved for the full enjoyment of the consumer.

Thanks to its superior performance, Cartaseal^® VWAF can be used as a more sustainable alternative to replace not only PFC-based coatings but also plastic in applications where resistance to water, oil and fats and water vapor condensation is required.

Developed with food packaging in mind, Cartaseal^® VWAF is compliant with FDA and BfR requirements for food contact applications. It is also compliant with, eco-labels such as EU Flower, Nordic Swan and several annexes of Blue Angel, and is of course REACH registered.

Importantly, Cartaseal^® VWAF offers increased potential for compostability, repulpability and recycling compared to PFC and plastics, since the coating will break down with the paper during the recycling process.

Cartaseal^® VWAF is at the core of the new PACK IT CLEAN system just launched by Archroma where it is combined with a primer solution for cases where a binder or pre-coat can also be used to further boost performance. The PACK IT CLEAN system can be found in the online Archroma System Selector: https://www.archroma.com/systems.

"Consumers and regulators are increasingly attentive to how products are made, and rightfully so”, explains Andy Bell, Head of the Competence Center Chemicals at Archroma. “It is our responsibility as an industry to develop and convert to technologies that reduce our impact on the environment and on people's health. That is exactly what we at Archroma do, with innovations like Cartaseal^® VWAF. Because it’s our nature."

About Archroma Archroma is a global, diversified provider of specialty chemicals serving the branded and performance textiles, packaging and paper, and coatings, adhesives and sealants markets. Headquartered in Pratteln, Switzerland, Archroma operates in over 100 countries, with 2,800 employees located in 31 countries and with 25 production sites. Archroma is passionate about delivering leading and innovative solutions, enhancing people’s lives and respecting the planet. The company is committed to the principles of "The Archroma Way to a Sustainable World: Safe, Efficient, Enhanced. It's our nature!"; an approach reflected in its innovations, world-class quality standards, high service levels and cost-efficiency. www.archroma.com.

The German tinplate manufacturer thyssenkrupp Rasselstein launches the world’s first food can made of CO2-reduced bluemint® Steel together with the Swiss companies Hoffmann Neopac and Ricola in March. The three companies, where sustainability and conservation of resources are part of the corporate strategy, have joined forces to launch the first food can made of CO2-reduced packaging steel, thus making packaging even more sustainable. Up to now, the food can made of packaging steel has already stood out with a recyclability of almost 100 percent and closed recycling cycles; now a novel manufacturing process saves a considerable amount of CO2.

In the joint project, thyssenkrupp Rasselstein supplies the CO2-reduced packaging steel, Hoffmann Neopac produces and prints the cans using solar power, and Ricola relies on energy from renewable sources for the production and filling of their herbal drops.

Use of new bluemint® Steel

“By using our new bluemint® Steel, CO2 emissions from can production can be significantly reduced,” explains Dr. Peter Biele, CEO of thyssenkrupp Rasselstein, “making our product even more sustainable.” The German tinplate manufacturer produced tinplate from bluemint® Steel for the first time. In the process of steel production, so-called HBI was used, i.e. already reduced sponge iron. This reduces the use of coal for the reduction process in the blast furnace. The result is a real and globally effective reduction in CO2 emissions. “This project is an important step towards achieving our climate targets,” says Biele. thyssenkrupp Steel Europe has pledged to be completely climate neutral by 2045.

“We are pleased to have found partners in these two companies working with us on climate-friendly products,” emphasizes Biele.

Can production with 100 percent electricity from renewable source

“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do.  We produce our cans in Switzerland with 100 percent electricity from renewable sources while working on our own decarbonization program,” adds Mark Aegler, CEO of Hoffmann Neopac. This also saves CO2 in the can production.

CO2-reduced packaging as a further step towards sustainability

For us, it was important to make the packaging of our herbal drops more sustainable. That is why we are the first company in our market to use CO2-reduced food cans,” says Dr. Martin Messerli, Chief Operating Officer of Ricola.

For decades, sustainable thinking and action have formed an important decision-making basis for Ricola’s corporate management. Since 2016, the Swiss herbal drops manufacturer has been producing with electricity from hydropower. From the Ricola Group’s point of view, the next logical step was to optimize the supply chain and the packaging of the herbal drops.

“By switching to a CO2-reduced can for our herbal drops specialties, Ricola is also responding to increased demand from consumers, who are paying more attention to the carbon footprint of their purchases,” says Messerli.

The first herbal drops in the CO2-reduced can leave the factory in Laufen at the beginning of March and will be available in stores from April/May.

About thyssenkrupp Rasselstein:

thyssenkrupp Rasselstein GmbH is a leading global supplier of high-quality, precision-made packaging steel. The site in Andernach – the world’s biggest production site of its kind – produces 1.5 million tons of packaging steel each year. The plant’s 2,400 employees serve around 400 customers from numerous markets in 80 countries – from producers of food and pet food cans to manufacturers of beverage and aerosol cans, containers for chemical products, and bottle caps. Expert service, sales, and aftersales teams round out the product portfolio. They work closely with customers to maintain consistently high standards of quality and reliability worldwide.

About Hoffmann Neopac

Hoffmann Neopac is a privately owned company headquartered in Thun, Switzerland. The group produces high-quality metal and plastic packaging at six locations: HOFFMANN cans in Thun and in Holland; Polyfoil® and plastic tubes at NEOPAC in Switzerland, Hungary and the USA, and 3D Neopac in India. Long-standing customers include pharmaceutical, cosmetics and consumer goods manufacturers in the markets of Europe, North America and Asia. HOFFMANN employs about 150 people with a capacity of 400 million cans. The company attaches great importance to the sustainability of its manufacturing processes and organizational culture and includes a particularly environmentally conscious packaging portfolio in its range. For more information, visit www.hoffmann.ch.

About Ricola

Ricola is one of the most modern and innovative candy manufacturers in the world. The company exports herbal specialties to more than 45 countries and is known worldwide for the best Swiss quality. Founded in 1930, with headquarters in Laufen near Basel and subsidiaries in Europe, Asia and the USA, Ricola now produces around 60 varieties of herbal candies and tea specialties. The family-owned company is regarded in Switzerland as a pioneer in the cultivation of herbs and attaches great importance to selected locations and controlled environmentally friendly cultivation. Ricola has concluded fixed supply contracts with nearly 100 farmers from the Swiss mountain region. Ricola is committed to economically, socially and ecologically sustainable corporate management and is a responsible employer. The combination of the traditional values of a family-owned company with quality awareness and innovative spirit is what makes the Swiss top brand so successful.

Oberschleissheim, March 8, 2022 – Climate-neutral production from 2023 on and achievement of full climate neutrality by 2030—this is the strategic sustainability goal of Schreiner Group based in the district of Munich. As a result, the internationally oriented family-owned company for innovative high-tech labels and functional parts assumes a pioneering role in German industry. 

Photovoltaic systems are installed on the parking garage roofs, insect-friendly wildflower verges benefit the company’s own bee colonies, charging stations for electric vehicles are available on the plant premises, and the most recently erected facility is a completely climate-neutral “green building”—even from the outside it is clear that Schreiner Group does a lot for the environment. “But in recent years, we have even clearly achieved a lot more,” says Dr. Thomas Gulden, who is in charge of the family-owned company’s environmental management. “We succeeded in reducing CO2 emissions by 70 percent and our share of renewable energies amounts to more than 55 percent. Furthermore, we purchase only green electricity at our German locations.” 

Now Schreiner Group has set itself an ambitious goal. “By manufacturing sustainable products, we intend to achieve climate-neutral production from 2023 on and full climate neutrality by 2030.”  This is the strategic sustainability goal that the manufacturer of smart labels and functional parts has adopted. For this purpose, the company has concentrated and optimized all actions for CO2 reduction and energy efficiency, for resource conservation and avoidance of waste, as well as for compliance with corporate governance and protection of human rights.

Numerous actions are being taken to further enhance energy efficiency and to further increase the use of renewable energies—from optimizing air conditioning systems to switching to LED lighting to expansion of electric mobility. Obviously, the company is paying particular attention to its products: CO2 emissions can already be significantly reduced today by using sustainable materials such as recycled ones instead of petroleum-based plastics. All sustainable products can be identified by the “Integrated Sustainability” logo. In addition, Schreiner Group reduces its amount of annual waste by nearly 300 metric tons as a result of recycling activities. Compliance with social standards is regulated in the company’s code of conduct and subject to regular reviews—including supplier compliance.

“Our strategic sustainability goal does not pay lip service to sustainability,” says CEO Roland Schreiner. “For us, climate protection, social sustainability, and environmental fairness are a matter of social responsibility that we, as a company, want to and have to live up to. As a family-owned business we have always understood our responsibility for our employees, our partners, and for our region. This is a responsibility we have for future generations as well.”

Dr. Gulden explains the process of developing Schreiner Group’s strategic sustainability goal: “We started by defining our key action fields.” For Schreiner Group, these are climate protection, our own products, and our sustainability system. “We then matched the demands of our stakeholders with these action fields, created a roadmap, and defined actions to be taken. All individual goals and all actions are found in our strategic sustainability goal.” Climate neutrality by 2030 is an ambitious goal—but one with a clear plan.

About Schreiner Group

Schreiner Group GmbH & Co. KG is an internationally active German family-owned company and regarded as a preferred partner in the Healthcare and Mobility markets. Its core business is focused on top-quality functional labels enhanced by complementary system solutions and services. Schreiner Group’s innovative high-tech labels and functional parts create new dimensions for smart solutions and help make life healthier and safer, and enhance human mobility.

More than 1,200 employees generate total annual sales of about 200 million euros. The high-tech company has four locations: In addition to the headquarters in Oberschleissheim and another production site in the Munich metropolitan region (Dorfen), they include the two international manufacturing facilities in the United States (Blauvelt, New York) and in China (Fengpu, Shanghai).

Collaboration and exchange are shaped by the core values of Innovation, Quality, Performance and Enthusiasm. Schreiner Group defines itself as a company committed to acting sustainably and therefore deliberately assumes responsibility for people, the environment and society.

Xaar is launching its new Versatex ‘out-of-the-box’ print engine and the latest Nitrox Elite GS3 printhead at this year’s InPrint exhibition in Munich on 15-17th MarchXaar is launching its new Versatex ‘out-of-the-box’ print engine and the latest Nitrox Elite GS3 printhead at this year’s InPrint exhibition in Munich on 15-17th March

Both exciting new developments will be on show in Hall A4, stand 2710, further establishing Xaar as industry leaders in unlocking the versatility and capability of digital inkjet in today’s manufacturing processes.

The Xaar Versatex provides users who have limited inkjet experience with the ability to fast track the digital inkjet development and integration process, allowing a speedy, cost effective and agile way for manufacturers to explore new potential applications.

Comprising a fully integrated datapath, ink supply system and supporting a large array of printheads from the ImagineX platform, the Xaar Versatex is a versatile, user-friendly and ready-to-go solution. It is available as both an evaluation kit, and a larger print engine and can be configured with multiple printheads up to 420mm in width.

Alongside the Xaar Versatex, the Nitrox Elite GS3 printhead will be shown for the first time. The small drop variant printhead is the newest member of the Xaar Nitrox family and delivers improved print uniformity and drop placement, creating high-definition image resolutions for smoother skin tones, gradients and colours. This makes the Nitrox Elite GS3 ideal for label and graphic applications as well as enabling fine details and features for functional fluid applications, such as PCB printing. 

Graham Tweedale, Chief Operating Officer at Xaar said, “We are delighted to be demonstrating our latest developments at InPrint, the leading show for emerging printing and industrial manufacturing.

“By providing our customers with the latest inkjet printheads, technologies and infrastructure – available all under one roof – Xaar is helping customers address their latest application requirements and seize their inkjet opportunity.”

About Xaar

Xaar is an inkjet innovator, providing printheads and technologies for OEM and UDI customers worldwide.

By helping customers lay down precise volumes of inks and fluids with absolute pin-point accuracy, time after time, Xaar’s inkjet printheads and technologies meet the needs of numerous markets. Covering graphics, labelling, direct-to-shape, packaging, product decoration, ceramic tile and glass decoration, décor, and outer case coding applications – as well as printing with specialist functional fluids for advanced manufacturing techniques.

Collaboration is at the very core of its business. Xaar works as a trusted partner from sites in Europe, China and North America, providing expert insights and technical support every step of the way.

With over 30 years’ experience, 280 patents registered or pending, and major ongoing R&D investment, Xaar’s digital printhead and precision jetting technologies create infinite opportunities for today’s sustainable manufacturing innovation.

Whether used for coffee, tea, or baby food, capsules made from aluminum or plastic are now a must-have in many households. To improve their ecological footprint, Greiner Packaging is currently working on a solution made from compostable polymer, so that customers can easily recycle used capsules on their own backyard compost heaps. The process of having the sustainable packaging certified by TÜV AUSTRIA BELGIUM nv started in February, with completion expected in the fall.

Kremsmünster, Austria (March 2022). Greiner Packaging has been successfully producing packaging solutions for the booming capsule market for many years. Coffee capsules are already commonplace in many offices and homes, but tea, cocoa, and even baby food and various soft drinks are increasingly being packaged this way, too.

Precise production process

Greiner Packaging has an ultra-precise production process in place and uses barrier technology to guarantee the perfect taste. This protects the packaged product from external influences such as oxygen penetration, extending its shelf life and ensuring that optimum flavor is retained. Multibarrier technology (MBT) can be used in combination with thermoforming, injection molding, and in-mold labeling.

Disposal in home composters

When it comes to sustainability, many people are critical of capsules – but this form of packaging is more environmentally friendly than its image might suggest. After all, it provides the product with the best possible protection, preventing it from spoiling and going to waste. The coffee inside the capsule is precisely measured, with one capsule per cup meaning that the consumer never uses too much – making that cold coffee left over in the pot, which no-one actually drinks, a thing of the past. If Greiner Packaging has its way, the packaging will become even more sustainable in the future. The company is currently producing the first capsules made from a compostable polymer, which can be easily recycled in a home composter. “It was important to us to find a solution that would meet our high-quality standards for product protection and would also be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly,” explains Taner Ertan, international business development manager at Greiner Packaging. “After extensive research, we decided on a polymer which is compostable and has good barrier properties. We have already put this material through an initial series of successful product tests.”

TÜV certification

The process of having the new home compostable capsule certified by TÜV AUSTRIA BELGIUM nv has also been underway since the beginning of February. The goal is for it to receive the OK Home Compost certificate, which is only awarded to products that can be composted at low temperatures – for example, in the composter in a consumer’s backyard.

Biodegradable products on the rise

“Organic material accounts for around 50% of all household waste. That figure will loom even larger in the future due to the increasing popularity of biodegradable products, such as packaging materials and disposable cutlery. We want to make a contribution here, too,” Ertan adds. The TÜV certification process for the final home compostable capsule should be completed by the fourth quarter of this year, with the capsule available in the colors black and white, additional colors will follow.

About Greiner Packaging

Greiner Packaging is a leading European manufacturer of plastic packaging in the food and nonfood sectors. The company has enjoyed a reputation for outstanding solutions expertise in the fields of development, design, production, and decoration for more than 60 years. Greiner Packaging responds to the challenges of the market with two business units: Packaging and Assistec. While the Packaging unit focuses on innovative packaging solutions, the Assistec unit is dedicated to producing custom-made technical parts. Greiner Packaging employs a workforce of nearly 4,900 at more than 30 locations in 19 countries around the world. In 2020, the company generated annual sales revenues of EUR 692 million (including joint ventures), which represents approximately 35 percent of Greiner’s total sales.

XSYS will bring the latest iteration of its innovative nyloflex® Xpress Thermal Processor to Fort Worth, TX, for the INFOFLEX exhibition on March 14–15. Known for enabling better print quality, faster plate production, and easier handling, this industry-leading technology is now in its new generation.

“We are very excited to bring this best-in-class thermal processor to the show as a highlight that demonstrates our commitment to the flexo industry,” said Dan Rosen, Sales Director National Accounts. “We are all facing demands for higher sustainability, so it is more important than ever to maximize technologies, such as the nyloflex® Xpress Thermal Processor System, to deliver greener production methods whilst retaining top quality.”

As part of a continued innovation programme, XSYS has further developed the nyloflex® Xpress Thermal Processor by streamlining the intuitive user interface, enhancing the overall material handling and improving the ease of access. With low energy usage, and up to 30% less fabric in the developer rolls, the system will substantially contribute to customers’ sustainability efforts.  

“The nyloflex® Xpress Processor really sets the bar in thermal platemaking with high print quality that easily rivals solvent plates and a reduced TCO,” said James van Buskirk, Technical Director Plates NA. “Right from the first introduction, it has been a game-changer in platemaking. The new generation builds on that success with incremental improvements throughout to give our customers a competitive edge.”

In addition, the advanced remote access functionality of the Xpress Processor proved its worth during the pandemic by offering near-immediate remote support from XSYS technicians. This type of feature is now expected by customers who look to their equipment suppliers for strong support and service to ensure they can keep their machines running even during the most challenging times.

“Although this is our first outing at INFOFLEX as XSYS, we have a long history of technology innovation that has benefitted flexo platemakers and printer for many years,” said Dan Rosen. “Just as the FTA team promises with their slogan, XSYS will be building ‘relationships and forging connections’ at this year’s INFOFLEX. We will do this by demonstrating how the latest XSYS solutions can accelerate productivity, lower costs and deliver sustainability benefits for our customers.” 

Visitors to the XSYS booth (#415) at the Fort Worth Convention Centre will also be able to learn about the nyloflex® portfolio of flexo plates, ThermoFlexX TFxX imagers and Catena platemaking equipment, and rotec® sleeves & adapters.

ABOUT XSYS

XSYS has been designed to bring more brilliance into the packaging industry – into the lives of its customers and colleagues – using brilliant products and services for brilliant print results and business success. It combines under one umbrella such well-known flexographic and letterpress brands as nyloflex®, Xpress, nyloprint®, nylosolv®, rotec®, FlexoExpert, ThermoFlexX, Catena, TFxX and Woodpecker, to provide a complete flexographic and letterpress prepress solution.

XSYS operates from more than 37 locations around the world and remains one of the largest global suppliers offering both flexographic and letterpress prepress solutions, including plates, sleeves, processors, workflow solutions and expert professional services designed to help these industries move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and profitability and a reduced environmental footprint.

To work in the Loyalty and Gift Card sector is to understand that the card and its packaging are the first physical touchpoints of a company. It is the first insight into the brand. With this in mind, the design for the online banking service ‘Knab’ is comprised of a combination of design tools to create an unforgettable unboxing experience. Promoting a different way to bank, Knab is a young online bank in The Netherlands. Their company focuses on digital innovation, human service, and transparent service provision.

A close collaboration between packaging designers and client, the pack is an inviting on-brand experience. Burgopak’s optimised cabrio pack features a patented solution designed for a powerful and exciting unboxing. A tab is pulled which moves the cover upwards, becoming hidden in the pack, whilst simultaneously pushing out an inner tray to reveal Knab’s card for an inspired ‘tadaaa!’ effect. Produced on sustainably sourced 300gsm Invercote Creato board in double sided CMYK/CMY colour and offset printing, the Spot UV and Matt AQ textured finish give a fresh and subtle tactile feel. The design is simple and intuitive whilst giving the sense of something ‘more’ than the traditional bank. With the bonus of extra branding space, this design is an excellent marketing tool.

A move to sustainable and circular design has always been on the cards for this product. So how has this been achieved?

Holmen Iggesund’s Invercote paperboard offers a planet-friendly solution. Receiving the EcoVadis platinum sustainability rating (only awarded to just 1% of over 65,000 companies worldwide), Iggesund’s passion for sustainability is contagious. With the use of Invercote along with up to 70% less glue used in production, there is a significant reduction in water and energy consumption during manufacturing. Post-production, the paperboard is also biodegradable, compostable and 100% recyclable.

 Consumer response for this product has been incredibly positive. Through communication with the client, the memorable mechanism and design of the pack brings opportunity for free organic reach and word of mouth marketing. In other words, the pack is an easy solution with maximum impact. Receiving the ‘Award of Distinction’ at the PAC awards showcases all aspects of Burgopak’s patented solution to packaging, including the flare of design and an impressive unboxing experience like no other.

About the Company 

Burgopak is a world leader in design and manufacture of innovative packaging for products of all shapes and sizes. With a highly creative and experienced collaborative team, we design to brief. We focus on ‘wow factor’, providing an engaging opening experience, creating a higher perceived value of your product with clever cardboard engineering, and making your life easier by managing the process right from conception to completion. We also bake sustainability into our process and offer guidance on the best materials, finishes and processes. 

Be sure to sign up to the official mailing list here, for all the latest news, innovations and up-coming limited designs from Burgopak and Duallok.

Berlin Packaging, the world's largest hybrid packaging supplier ® , announced today the acquisition of United Bottles & Packaging, a Canadian-based distributor of high-quality glass bottles and closures for the food and beverage end markets.

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Quebec, United Bottles & Packaging supplies bottles and closures for alcoholic beverages such as wine, spirits, beer, and cider, in addition to a wide selection of bottles and closures for food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Known for its fast-from-stock inventory, United Bottles & Packaging also offers customers a suite of value-added services such as custom shapes and molds, warehousing and logistics, case-packed pallets, and customized boxes and caps. In addition, the company hosts a recycling program that safely collects and disposes of expired beverages and facilitates recycling of the empty containers

"United Bottles & Packaging is an excellent fit for Berlin Packaging. We share the same core values: high-quality products, prompt delivery, tailored solutions, and a dedication to sustainability. I look forward to a bright future together," said Rick Brandt, CEO of Berlin Packaging Americas.

"We are excited for the opportunities this partnership will bring to our organization. Access to Berlin Packaging's vast global resources and custom products will allow us to better serve our customers, grow our business with our existing suppliers, and provide opportunities for our employees," said Jacques Dalpé, President of United Bottles & Packaging.

"Targeted acquisitions such as United Bottles & Packaging are a key component of our growth strategy. This addition strengthens our position in Canada's food and beverage markets as well as expands our glass offerings across all of North America," said Bill Hayes, Global CEO and President of Berlin Packaging

United Bottles & Packaging is the 3rd acquisition that Berlin Packaging has completed in Canada since 2020.

All employees and locations for this acquisition will be retained.

About Berlin Packaging

Berlin Packaging is the world's largest Hybrid Packaging Supplier® of glass, plastic, and metal containers and closures. The company supplies billions of items annually along with package design, financing, consulting, warehousing, and logistics services for customers across all industries. Berlin Packaging brings together the best of manufacturing, distribution, and incomeadding service providers. Its mission is to increase the net income of its customers through packaging products and services.

The Aluminum Beverage Can manufacturers had written to FSSAI to make necessary regulatory changes in the Food Safety

Cosmo Films Ltd., a global leader in specialty films for flexible packaging, labeling, and lamination applications as well as synthetic paper, has launched a white Cast Polypropylene (CPP) Film with high Coefficient of Friction (COF).

A film specially innovated to address the issue of slippage of layers over each other, it has a seal strength of more than 1,800 gf/inch with a seal initiation temperature of 950oC. It helps in achieving uniform sealing area of the final pouches as it helps in preventing the issue of inter-layer slippage. Film-to-film coefficient of friction range is more than 0.4 while film-to-metal coefficient of friction range lies in the range of 0.3 to 0.4.

With a thickness range of 25 to 40 micron, the film eliminates the need of white ink and is suitable for flexible packaging for lamination of noodles, biscuits, snacks and other bakery products. The structure of the film consists of three layers i.e., a) Corona treated layer; b) White PP core layer & c) Sealable untreated layer.

Talking about the product launch, Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo Films Ltd. said, “Packaging slippage is one of the major issues of the FMCG industry. To address this issue and avoid wastage of food material, we have designed this film. The issue of slippage of layers over each other arises due to the lower value of coefficient of friction that results in non-uniform sealing area of the final pouch. Our new CPP film is designed with a higher coefficient of friction, which helps in achieving a uniform sealing area for the final pouch.”

About Cosmo Films Limited
Established in 1981 and founded by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo Films today is a global leader in specialty films for packaging, lamination, labeling and synthetic paper. With engineering of innovative products and sustainability solutions, Cosmo Films over the years has been partnering with worlds’ leading F&B and personal care brands and packaging & printing converters to enhance the end consumer experience. Its customer base is spread in more than 100 countries with sales & manufacturing units in India and Korea and additionally sales & distribution base in Japan, USA, Canada and Europe. The Company is strategically expanding beyond Films into Specialty Chemicals & Polymers as well as Pet care business.