Züger, Switzerland’s number one supplier of mozzarella and other cream cheese specialities, is using an end-to-end software solution from industry IT expert CSB- System to keep processes at the factory as lean as possible. This has enabled the company to efficiently plan and optimise workflows and information throughout all operations and has led to a fifty percent time saving in order picking.

Züger processes milk from 400 vendors for about 700 different products. There are 2,500 packaging components, seven production departments and three high-bay storages. CSB’s EPR software is able to optimally control all processes in administration and resource management. All data from milk acceptance, production and inventory management to picking and shipping is entered directly in the ERP system for further processing.

“Today, we have CSB as a turnkey solution,” explains Züger CEO Christof Züger. “This means we have only one system for financial accounting, human resources, procurement, inventory, sales and quality management.”

For its internal logistics, Züger uses a combination of high-bay storage and mobile picking. Items are stored in a first-in first out sequence to ensure goods can be delivered as fresh as possible. The system links every pallet with the sell-by date and lot number, and also controls the automatic stock removal of pallets as replenishment for picking.

Customer orders are transmitted directly to the touch panels of the electric forklifts via a wireless connection. The screen shows in which area of the picking zone thepallet with the ordered product is located. The picker scans the pallet label, removes the item and confirms the picked quantity at the scanner. When a pallet is empty, the system automatically requisitions a new pallet from the high-bay storage.

“This ensures permanent replenishment of the picking zone so that customer orders can be processed in a quick and efficient manner,” says Christof Züger. “Compared to the past, we have been able to save around 50 percent of the time here. At the same time, our paperless packing methods have minimised error rates.”

In terms of planning, the introduction of CSB Coverage Planning is able to provide availability of materials and capacities, and efficiently drive internal processes so that all orders can be delivered on the requested date and at minimal cost. Important data from procurement, production, inventory and sales is available in real time, and the availability of materials and capacity is monitored permanently, meaning inventory capital commitment is also reduced.

Equally important, in the event of any returns, CSB-Document Steering provides a standardised procedure that enables the company to quickly identify the reason for the return and respond accordingly.

Züger is continuing to drive its digitalization even further both at its plant in Oberbüren and with the upgrading of its German operations to CSB. Further CSB solutions to be introduced at Oberbüren include a maintenance module that facilitates early maintenance and repair of machinery, and hands-free terminals in goods receiving so that data is transferred to the EPR system even faster.

“We believe we have already installed a lot here in Oberbüren so we can efficiently live a kind of Industry 4.0,” concludes Christof Züger. “This has many benefits for us, but also for our customers.”

Nivea, one of the world’s most popular deodorants, has a new look for its female range in a taller sleek shaped aluminium aerosol can designed by Beiersdorf and manufactured by Ardagh Group.

The 3-year re-packaging process, one of the most important marketing projects in the brand’s history, has been carefully managed at all stages to meet advanced technical requirements and customer specifications.

A key aspect of the programme were the two state of the art multiple stage necking systems at Ardagh’s specialist aerosol plant in Veenendaal, the Netherlands, to produce the uniquely shaped long sleek can in the most efficient and precise way.

The design was extensively market tested for consumer reaction and comment. The favourable response, together with an improved shelf stand-out – the can is 9mm taller than its predecessor – contributed to its recent successful launch in Europe.

Bernhard Meier, Commercial Director at Ardagh’s metal division explained: “With our long-standing customer, Beiersdorf, we investigated various technologies at the cutting edge of aerosol can production. As a result, we believe we have set new standards for high quality metal packaging for today’s consumer.”

Klaus-Peter Stange, Global Packaging Research & Development at Beiersdorf added, ““Finding an optimum production solution for this sleek new design was crucial and we are very pleased with the outcome of what has been a very complex but rewarding project. Ardagh’s commitment to excellence throughout this project was much appreciated.”

On Tuesday 26 June 2018, the graduation ceremony for NVC Packaging Professionals took place in Gouda, hometown of the NVC Netherlands Packaging Centre. Twenty-two (22) business students passed the exam and can now be referred to as NVC Packaging Professional. NVC Packaging Professionals provide an essential contribution to the development of packaging worldwide, both in the business sector and in government bodies and research institutes. The new graduates are included in the Register NVC Packaging Professionals, which now holds 650 names.

The examination is managed by the independent Stichting NVC Examens under the supervision of the Netherlands Business Exam Authority (Stichting Examenkamer). The Diplomas are internationally characterised in terms of the European Qualifications Framework for Life Long Learning EQF with EQF5 and EQF6 levels. The EQF is a common European reference framework used to compare professional qualifications within Europe. The eight European reference levels (EQF1-8) are defined on the basis of learning outcomes: knowledge, skills and competences. The desired learning results are derived from the various (packaging) job descriptions.

On the basis of the EQF characteristics, internationally operating companies (retailers, manufacturers, suppliers of packaging, etc.) know better which packaging professionals have the desired level. This helps to attract and retain qualified personnel. Packaging professionals increase their employability in the internationalising and flexibilising labor market as they can refer to the independent examination and the EQF level of their resulting diploma.

The following company students obtained the diploma NVC Packaging Professional I: Pieter-Jan Bogerd, Royal Bel Leerdammer B.V.; Maarten van der Borght, Bangma Verpakking B.V.; Elwin Brouwers, Koninklijke ERU; Riny Bruijs, Graphic Packaging International; Arjan Deij, Budelpack Poortvliet B.V.; Toine Engelen, Vrijdag Premium Printing BV; Rutger Fransen, Clondalkin Flexible Packaging, LPF Grootegast; Sofie van der Geest, Koninklijke Peijnenburg BV; Gerrit van Gils, VMI Holland BV; Petra Hartman, FrieslandCampina Kievit B.V.; Ton Kleiweg, Menken Orlando BV; Ruud Koens, Izico Nederland BV; Jochem Kuipers, Koninklijke Fruitmastersgroep; Sanne van Leeuwen, Van der Windt Verpakking BV; Jan-Joris Mertens, Neways Cable & Wire Solutions; Stefan Rutschmann, Ecolab Deutschland GMBH; Karmen Tsui, The Candy Store - Chocolate Factory; Jaap Verheus, WILD Juice B.V.; Paul Verstappen, Verstappen Verpakkingen B.V.; Ron Visser, Hordijk Verpakkingsindustrie BV; Henko van Voorthuizen, B.V., Vurense Snackindustrie and Orhan de Wilde, Abbott Biologicals B.V.

Who doesn’t like the combination of fresh Greek yogurt with a dry, crunchy mix? Brand owner Chobani was interested in getting this product on store shelves as a single product, but with both ingredients clearly separated. This was a highly complex challenge technically, but thanks to the possibilities of IML, an attractive and flexible solution was created.

Packaging with two compartments

Chobani yogurt was created in 2005 when the founder, Hamdi Ulukaya, who lived in the United States, was unable to find the high-quality Greek yogurt he grew up eating. He decided to produce it himself and the product was an immediate hit in the U.S. and then in Australia. In 2017, Chobani Australia launched the Flip product range, featuring products that combine Greek yogurt with a dry, crunchy mix-in. “We needed smart packaging with two compartments, so that the consumer could combine the ingredients for consumption by ‘flipping’ the container,” explains John Williams, New Product Development Manager, at Chobani. “Chobani Flip is perfect for people who want a better afternoon snack that satisfies their sweet and crunchy cravings, but isn’t as naughty as chips or a chocolate bar.”

Flip design is one of a kind

In developing the IML packaging, Chobani decided to team up with Australian injection molder

PakPot, which specializes in turnkey IML solutions for FMCG brand owners. Their goal? To develop IML packaging that makes the difference on store shelves and offers brand owners a unique point of difference.

Joe Matto, CEO of PakPot, explains, “This flip design is one of a kind. Why? Because it's a twin injected polypropylene tub with a live hinge that is decorated with a Y-shaped IML label, with the injection gated through the label by means of a hole. It took approximately 12 months between the initial idea and the finished product. We needed that time to conduct extensive testing. There are comparable IML products with two compartments and wraparound IML labels on the market. But, for this product, we designed a Y-shaped IML label: the legally required information is stated on the bottom of the packaging, while the sides and top are used for marketing and branding purposes. The challenge was to properly analyze the polymer flow, since double injection automatically causes a stress line where the two materials meet together (a “cold Weld stress joint is formed”). It was critical that this stress line would not end up along the live hinge of the packaging.

Unique y-shaped IML label with drill hole

Bart Schatteman, Regional Sales Manager for Asia and Australia at Verstraete IML, explains, “Verstraete IML’s greatest accomplishment in this project? The development of a Y-shaped IML with a central drill hole that allows the injection molder to inject in the center section without obstructing a substrate, so that the end result is of excellent quality and with minimum waste production.” “In this project, Verstraete IML helped us push the envelope of possibilities offered by IML packaging,” clarifies Matto from PakPot. “They also helped us from the very start with the development and testing of the right labels.” John Williams from Chobani adds, “During the in-mold labeling process, packaging is produced and decorated in a single step. So, there is no need to store blank packaging, thereby eliminating both storage and transport costs.”

IOM3 Training Academy offers a range of industry-recognised packaging courses and qualifications. Courses are open for immediate booking.

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Level 5 Diploma in Packaging Technology

Internationally recognised as the premier degree level qualification for packaging professionals, acknowledging the high standards of knowledge and skills required in this extremely specialised industry.

Level 3 Certificate in Packaging Technology

Designed to meet the needs of everyone concerned with the packaging industry, the Certificate in Packaging covers all the major packaging functions to provide students with a sound knowledge-base upon which to build successful career development.

EQIPT Online Course

Designed to provide auditors, who do not hold a recognised primary packaging qualification, with sufficient knowledge of packaging and related processes, to enable them to apply the appropriate rigour to the packaging-manufacturing environment whilst performing an audit.

Print for Packaging

This is a technical and practical one day course with plenty of learning and methodologies to help you understand the technical terminology, quality and choice.

Packaging Specifications

This one-day course provides an insight into the right way to establish, enforce and develop packaging specifications to supply or receive the packaging you need, on time and on budget.

Packaging Testing

This one-day course helps delegates to select packaging fit for purpose - getting products to the customer safely, securely and cost-effectively. Making sure that your packaging will survive the distribution channel and deliver your product intact and in perfect condition to the consumer is a fundamental part of the job.

Alternatively we can tailor courses to suit your specific packaging requirement.

The company presents all its new developments for the sector, with the focus on productive excellence and plant integration. A complete offer that provides greater opportunities for producers, with all the assurance of Sacmi product and service quality.

In 2018, Iran Agrofood celebrates its 25 th edition. Forty thousand visitors are expected at the Tehran International Fairgrounds (29 June-2 July 2018). Sacmi – a leading participant with its own exhibition space (hall 28, booth 38.13.1)– is presenting the evolution of its technology offering, from the production of capsules to complete lines for PET.

Already a global leader in compression technology (CCM series for plastic caps), in recent years Sacmi has acquired a role as a key player in the production of preforms (IPS range). This has led to intense research and technological development to achieve full synchronization of the various phases in order to multiply the opportunities available to producers.

Iran, an emerging market with great manufacturing tradition, has recently re-emerged on foreign markets, showing great dynamism and a strong demand for technology. Hence the desire of Sacmi, which has been operating in the country for several years, to play a leading role at the service of the local food & beverage industry.

The only global competitor capable of providing solutions for each stage of the beverage production line, PET ("from pellet to pallet"), GLASS, CANS, BAG-IN-BOX and FORM- FILL-SEAL.

Sacmi also provides customers with constant advice, thanks to the support of the Sacmi Beverage R&D laboratory, certified by the main international players in the industry. From design of the system to all the subsequent after-sales stages, Sacmi stands out from its competitors due to its capacity to design integrated and comprehensive plant solutions, a capacity that has become the main strength of the company's proposal, alongside the recognised excellence of the individual machines.

In particular, in the beverage sector, Sacmi has recently introduced HEROblock, the "all-in- one" four-block that combines all the container and cap production stages, followed by filling and labelling, in a single, high-performance process. Sacmi combines this innovation, which eliminates intermediate handling and improves efficiency and logistics processes, with an innovative system proposal upstream of the process (CPB cap and preform storage system), resulting in a truly efficient HEROLine in terms of quality, productivity and consumption.

The capacity to bring the benefits of compression technology, in which Sacmi is a global leader, to areas other than caps is also at the heart of the groundbreaking CBF (Compression Blow Forming), a solution for the production of containers starting directly from the granulated material. Precise and versatile – thanks to the possibility of working equally well with all the main commercial resins – CBF combines the best features of alternative technologies such as EBM, IBM, ISBM. Thanks to the high thermodynamic stability of the process, the absence of an injection point in the bottom of the containers and high productivity and precision in the neck, superior quality blown containers can be produced at profitable rates, as the markets soon recognised, particularly the dairy and drug sectors.

Sacmi combines this technological excellence with the wide availability and efficiency of its service in all the markets where it operates. In particular, local customers can count on the prompt spare parts and support service of Sacmi Iran, Sacmi’s operations centre near Tehran, which has been operating since 2006. The entire Sacmi beverage range is also available, complete with vision and quality control systems, both in-line and in thelaboratory. The range designed to interface with the Sacmi H.E.R.E. advanced plant supervisor, which provides innovative Industry 4.0 features, from monitoring to diagnostics and predictive maintenance.

The Total, Packaging, Processing & Supply Chain Event is coming to Pragati Maidan on 25 th July 2018.

Time for action! The visitor invitations are already dispatched, the exhibitor directory is under process, tickets are booked, machines to be launched-to be displayed are listed, products are sorted, yes, the industry is all set to witness yet another edition of PackPlus Exhibition at New Delhi.

PackPlus, along with SupplyPlus, PackSol, CartonTech and India Converting Show will feature more than 400 companies at the exhibition. The event will host 100+ product launches, 200+ running machines and several other attractions.

Talking about few launches planned at PackPlu s, Advanced Industrial Micro Systems is launching Hand Held Ink-Jet Printer Model IJP-M3S/M3S; Aztec Fluids & Machinery will launch Fibber Laser, Ishida India will present next generation X-Ray & Checkweigher; Jayalakshmi Poly Packs will offer the Cushion Packaging / Void Fill Packaging; Maharashtra Plastic & Industries will present ‘KOLSITE’ Brand Semi Auto Strapping Machine; Makewell Engineering will launch two lane creamer machines; BENZ Packaging Solutions will present Returnable Packaging, Feather Weight Pallets & Compressed Wood Pallets and Avians Innovations Technology will launch High Speed Doors, Insulated Rolling Shutters.

The large gamut of LIVE running machines has always been a key highlight of PackPlus Exhibition. To name a few, Ace Finepack will display Bestcode CIJ Printing & UCS TTO coding machine; Clearpack will offer high speed case packing and shrink wrapping machines; Inpack Fabrications will be demonstrating Automatic VFFS Machine; Jay Instruments And Systems will present Flow Wrap Machine, X- Ray Inspection Machine; KGK Jet India will demonstrate Inkjet printers; SAURABH FLEXPACK SYSTEMS will display KAWACH 700 Automatic VFFS packaging machine and Spheretech Packaging will showcase latest tin making plant from Korea along with other weigh metric and volumetric filling lines.

In the PackSol segment AG Ploy Packs (P) Ltd. will present PET & HDPE bottles with creams jar for cosmetic and pharma companies; Ganesh Packaging Store will offer Fillflo Air Cushion Packaging & Shoes Wrap Packaging; Selmex Industries will present Silicone Sealants, Air Bubble Films and Poly Oly Shrink Film; Vikas Packaging will showcase Honeycomb pallets; Teknobyte India Pvt. Ltd. will present Pet Preforms, PET/HDPE Bottles, Jars, Caps-Closures and Guangzhou Hengrui Non-woven Co. will offer laminated paper and laminated nonwoven.

Adding value to India Converting Show will be companies like Avtar Mechanical Works, which will present Paper Bag, Making Machines; Hydrotek Engineers will launch Digital Flexo printing Blocks For Photo/ Halftone Printing; Sahil Graphics will present Automatic Paper shopping making machine along with High-speed Non woven bag making & printing machine; Vardhman enterprises will launch a high speed paper cup machine and BST electromat India will offer new division of Automation for printing machines.

CartonTech will drive lot of attention with Orange O Tec Pvt. Ltd introducing Digital Cutting Machine " KoloRado"; 3S Graphic Solutions displaying semi automatic rigid box machines including plate type dust free grooving machine; Ample Graphics showcasing the new advanced Video-Assisted Positioning System for accurate Rigid Box manufacturing and Neelkanth Manchinery Company displaying Fingerless Corrugation Machine, to name a few.

The visitor registrations are in full swing and the event is glad to associate with Trio Motion Tech, which has come forward to become the PackPlus ‘Registration Partner’.

International Packaging Conclave, the knowledge sharing interactive platform, will happen on 27 July at the same venue. The focus this year will be on Safe Packaging: New Regulatory Landscape. The draft of the new "Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulation, 2018” is ready and awaiting final notification soon by the FSSAI. The new regulations are expected to entail significant changes in the supply chain for packaging of food and beverage. The Conclave aims to un-pack the implications of the forthcoming new regulations.

RPC Promens Industrial is meeting growing demand for 10 litre industrial containers in a variety of markets with a choice of three designs that satisfy the needs of a many different applications.

The three ranges – Dynostack, Continental and SmartCan – offer a durable construction for a reliable performance, including UN certification for the carriage of hazardous goods. The use of food grade material and a range of neck options give them the flexibility to handle all types of products, and a choice of colours and decoration options allows customers to promote their individual brand image.

Dynostack offers an ideal entry-level solution for many products, while the Continental is certified to the highest standard of UN testing, making it an X Pass container. This underlines the robustness of the design and means it is the most suitable container for hazardous products and extreme environments.

The latest introduction, SmartCan, combines an aesthetic design for maximum on-shelf appeal with a variety of user-friendly features. These include a conical neck finish that protects the cap from contact with other containers and enables optimised emptying; defined corner ribs for extra strength and stability during stacking; and improved hand clearance around the handle and an indented grip on the base, for safer handling and improved pouring.

SmartCan is also available in 20 and 25 litre sizes, enabling the creation of family ranges.

RPC Promens can provide full technical support, including assistance with filling trials.

27 June 2018, Noida (India): Flexfresh, the special patented film that Uflex Limited has developed comprising a proprietary polymeric formula elongating the shelf life of flowers is serving to be a boon for Flower Companies across the globe.

Flexfresh works on the principle of Active Modified Atmospheric Packaging (AMAP) and happens to be the first ever film for packing fresh produce that is bio-degradable by composting and complies with all international regulations for overall migration (EC 1935/2004), reach compliance (EC 1907/2006) and qualifies for biodegradation under DIN EN 13432 (2000-12). The packaging can be industrially composted within 180 days.

Flexfresh works in conjunction with Fast Respiration Meter and Laser Perforation system supplied by Perfotec B.V. of The Netherlands. While the respiration meter ascertains the respiration rate of the flowers, the laser system uses this information to adapt the permeability of the polymeric film with the help of perforation matrix.

Waterless Internet Flower Packaging is becoming increasingly popular among global flower companies for the myriad benefits that it brings to the table.

Explaining the benefits and sustainability aspects of the award winning Waterless Internet Flower Packaging, Mr. Siva Shankaran Vice President, Flexfresh at Uflex Limited says, “The special proprietary polymeric substrate is the first biodegradable (by composting) film that maintains the hydration of flowers during transpiration(evaporation causing loss of moisture during respiration) thus creating a closed loop system. Flowers are put to slow respiration mode by reducing the oxygen availability preventing excess oxidation and dehydration. The film keeps the flowers breathing in hydrated oxygen and releases excess humidity keeping them touch dry. The flowers thus can go without water for a significant number of days as the humidity is fed back in to them as they continue to breathe in the modified atmosphere.

This solution enables to hold flowers intact at the destination anywhere between 10-15 days as per the supply chain requirements against the normal shelf-life of 4-5 days offered by conventional packaging. This in turn enables florists and retailers to plan and store large inventory for festive rush. This development is a major shot in the arm for E- commerce companies and Retailers bringing enormous savings.

We are visualizing an instore display without water and web shops that can offer preformed flower bouquets by post parcel without having to worry about poor quality on arrival. This packaging solution completely alleviates the use of millions of gallons of water from the flower supply chain currently used thereby making it one of the most sustainable packaging solutions. Solutions entailing e-commerce packaging are proving to be as challenging today as were our first efforts around defining the sustainable packaging at the turn of this century. Just as we learned then that there is no such thing as ‘the most sustainable package’, we are learning today that there are many areas of focus that can lead to a more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally responsible e- commerce packaging solutions perfectly echoing the ethos of a brand that consumers rightly expect. While designing Waterless Internet Flower Packaging this was the axiom that we adhered to.

Internationally, all flowers are transported using expensive Air Freight from Growing Region to the Markets. The typical supply chain is Grower, Auction House, Wholesaler, Retailer/ Florist and finally the Consumer, which is now possible through offering E- Commerce platform to connect the Growers/ Brand Owners directly to the Consumers. It is now possible to ship flowers through post parcel as the package does not have any water, eliminating the possibility of cross contamination with other courier goods.”

Mr. Siva Shankaran further adds, “One of the significant savings that accrues is the fact that nearly 2.7 times more material can be carried per truck, since water is completely eliminated if the transportation is done from Grower to the Retailer using Sea Freight. Similar savings are also possible while transportation is done from Auction house to Retailers. To address the market requirements, Uflex and Perfotec offer solutions both for E-Commerce/ Retail Packaging (through flow wrap packing) and Bulk liners for sea freighting of flowers from grower to the market.

Since the freshness of the Fresh Cut Flower is indicated by its water content, with least weight loss and lower oxidation, the flowers look much fresher and more appealing to the consumers. The overall consumer complaints have actually reduced by 90% regarding freshness of the flowers.

These benefits accrue to the consumers in terms of costs with freshest flowers having longer vase life enhancing the overall value proposition. This is where Flexfresh does the trick.

Further, the liner bags made of translucent film of special patented polymeric composition allow visibility to the brands of the florists.

Particularly noteworthy is the fact that it is also possible to bring flowers straight from Harvest to market by economic Sea freight. This results in significant carbon footprint reduction and also enables longer storage between 30-40 days from the time of harvest.”; expounds Mr. Siva Shankaran.

Recent Trial of Waterless Internet Flower Packaging by a renowned Flower Group in The Netherlands

Recently the E-commerce wing of a renowned Flower Group in The Netherlands conducted a trial for Waterless Internet Flower Packaging. Sharing more details about the trial, Mr. Bas Groeneweg, Director, Perfotec B.V. says, “In order to establish an independent review of what AMAP technology and Flexfresh can offer - a joint trial was carried out between our client, Perfotec and Flexfresh. We appointed an independent third party, Flower Watch (www.flowerwatch.com) for conducting this trial. Flower Watch enjoys worldwide recognition as a leading expert in monitoring and securing the quality and vase life of fresh cut flowers.

Flower Watch carried out the complete evaluation of the flowers with two different set- ups. One where we maintained the flowers in cold storage for seven days at 5 degrees Celsius and thereafter in water bucket at 5 degrees Celsius for two days and the Second setup entailed maintaining the flowers in cold storage for fourteen days at 5 degrees Celsius and in water bucket for two days at 5 degrees Celsius. This was done in order to establish the comparison between the different conditions in which the flowers are usually received at destination. Pink O’ Hara Rose variety was particularly chosen because of the complexities like higher respiration and wilting rates that are associated with its supply chain.

Three samples of flowers were compared i.e. (a) packed in Flexfresh, (b) packed in Nappy Sack and (c) unpacked.

It was found that Flexfresh offered a guaranteed seven day vase life in both the cases i.e. after seven and fourteen days of cold storage. Whereas unpacked flowers and the ones in Nappy Sack stared wilting from the second day itself. The roses packed in Flexfresh stood fresh even on the seventh day.”

Expressing delight over the trials, Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman & Managing Director, Uflex Limited said, “We are delighted with the independent validation of Flexfresh and Active Modified Atmospheric Packaging (AMAP) technology for extending the shelf life of flowers. This allows us to serve our clients better; reduces wastage and helps them passing on the benefits further to their customers. We are happy to associate with Perfotec B.V.”

To sum up, Mr. Siva Shankaran said, “Besides, flowers, Flexfresh as a packaging solution is getting increasingly popular globally for extending the shelf-life of various fruits and vegetables. This packaging is much sought after by the exporters from across the world for exporting their fresh produce by economic sea freight instead of exorbitant air dispatch. Plethora of sustainability benefits that come along with Flexfresh further makes the proposition eco-friendly and popular in the day and age we live.”

BASF Venture Capital has invested in RE’FLEKT, a Munich and San Francisco-based Augmented Reality startup that provides enterprise customers content creation and remote expert solutions. BASF Venture Capital’s opening investment of 3,75 million Euro ($4.4 million US Dollar) follows Bosch’s investment in the company in 2015.

“The investments from two of the world’s largest industrial companies validate our leading position in the Augmented Reality market. With the new funding, we will continue our strong growth and further invest in our team and products,” says RE’FLEKT CEO and founder Wolfgang Stelzle.

“Digital technologies are a high priority at BASF. We see significant benefits in using Augmented Reality for a variety of key simulation, communication, and digital learning use cases, especially related to operations and industrial processes,” says Markus Solibieda, Managing Director of BASF Venture Capital. “Our partnership with RE’FLEKT further establishes value for our customers, who will be able to use Augmented Reality to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of manufacturing and industrial processes.”

RE’FLEKT has been developing its enterprise Augmented and Mixed Reality ecosystem since the company was founded in 2012. Consisting of a multi award-winning content creation platform and a remote expert solution for maintenance, training and operations, the RE’FLEKT ecosystem intelligently projects step-by-step instructions directly onto complex machines and systems using Augmented Reality. “The RE’FLEKT platform helps machine operators and maintenance personnel eliminate mistakes and significantly in-crease uptime,” says Wolfgang Stelzle, founder and CEO of RE’FLEKT.

Industrial companies use the RE’FLEKT Ecosystem to transform their existing CAD drawings and data from traditional technical documentation into interactive Augmented Reality applications for mobile devices and smart-glasses. These applications can be used regardless of location to provide interactive user support and standardize learning and education for complex machinery and processes.

The 2020 global market potential for AR applications is estimated at more than one-hundred billion dollars. Market trends such as knowledge society, connectivity, and globalization are just a few of key factors that expected to drive the opportunity for enterprise AR solutions that improve communication and knowledge transfer.

Auburn, AL – CSP Technologies, Inc. – a leader in designing and producing packaging solutions that ensure product protection, enhance brand recognition and improve consumer experiences – has completed a 100,000-square-foot facility expansion at its Auburn, Alabama headquarters, and is currently transitioning several new and enhanced capabilities into the ample space.

To date, the expansion is highlighted by CSP Technologies’ first-ever onsite Material Science Lab – which, in addition to housing integrated R&D equipment, now hosts a venue for streamlined collaboration between engineers, R&D and production personnel. Other areas in the facility will be utilized for labeling and other secondary packaging processes.

The expansion was necessary due to the recent growth in several sectors of CSP Technologies’ business, particularly pharmaceutical packaging and medical devices. The additional space comes on the heels of a new thermoforming line which, in addition to pharma packaging production, will be utilized for an upcoming portfolio of antimicrobial products for food safety.

Over the last three years, CSP Technologies has greatly increased its global in-house design, engineering, material science and project management capabilities, providing a “one stop shop” from concept to commercialization.

Currently, most of the new space is utilized for warehousing. As CSP’s primary manufacturing needs continue to expand over time, an increasing portion of the additional room will be converted to manufacturing space and dedicated to producing packaging solutions for medical devices and sensitive pharmaceutical products.

“The advancements at our new space allow CSP Technologies to expand our capabilities and continue to offer our clients the best service possible,” said John Belfance, CEO of CSP Technologies. “Enhancing the robustness of our onsite R&D activities is a particularly promising update. As the industry continues to evolve, we are confident that our facility will accommodate an ever-growing array of services while prioritizing innovation, quality and customer satisfaction.”

Another four solutions were recently supplied to wine closure companies in Australia and Chile, with outstanding new machine features ensuring total quality control of such caps

Already a world-beating solution for in-line inspection of plastic and metal caps, the Sacmi CHS360 is steadily winning over customers in the wine sector too. No less than four such solutions have recently been sold for the inspection of tall aluminium caps, an ever-more popular closure in the wine industry as it provides better sealing performance than standard corks.

The customers included two Chilean firms. The first, the branch of a major US multinational, installed and started up the new system a short time ago. The second, a local firm with 40 years' experience in metal cap manufacturing, was provided with 2 different machines. In Australia instead, the system was purchased by a leading Victoria-based producer of caps and crown corks for wine and beer products.

Note that the Sacmi CHS360 configured for the inspection of tall aluminium caps has recently been enhanced with new features, including 2 cameras (instead of just one) with dedicated lighting to improve inspection of the seal. A further camera was incorporated to inspect decoration: able to capture 2 images in mere micro-seconds, it improves system sensitivity in detecting scratches and dents (in this case too, the illuminator plays a key role) by assessing reflections from the bottom of the cap, generally coloured gold or silver.

Lastly, 4 lateral cameras inspect the decoration and anti-tamper band, bringing the total number of high resolution image capture devices to seven. Operating at up to 1000 caps per minute, the CHS360 module sets the industry standard thanks to high speed, precision inspection, now enhanced even further by the new features for this specific configuration.

For the two Chilean companies, this is their first experience with Sacmi inspection solutions. For the Australian customer, instead, this is a follow-up order to a recently purchased CHS solution for crown caps, another key area for this company.

RPC bpi protec’s Worcester site has established a closed-loop recycling scheme to capture surplus plastic packaging and turn it into second-life products for the benefit of its customers’ sustainability and CSR activities.

Unused wicketted polythene (PE) bags and PE films are returned under the protec Reprocess Scheme, which links with its sister recycling division to create a variety of no maintenance, sustainable and cost-effective Plaswood products such as activity tables and benches. Plaswood is produced using 100% recycled polythene, diverting valuable waste from landfill and providing a realistic, long-lasting alternative to hardwood that itself can be fully recycled at the end of its use.

As an added advantage all protec Reprocess Scheme collections are made by lorries on their return journey from making a delivery to customers, saving on fuel costs and the CO 2 footprint of transportation.

As part of the RPC bpi group, RPC bpi protec is Europe’s largest recycler of PE films, recycling over 85,000 tonnes each year. The protec Reprocess Scheme is an important part of the company’s service to customers that helps to deliver sustainable packaging solutions as Sue Mohan, RPC bpi protec’s Sales Director explains.

“We have already partnered with a number of important customers on this initiative, helping to support their CSR and sustainability programmes by taking their unused packaging and turning it into Plaswood benches for the benefit of organisations local to them.

“The protec Reprocess Scheme is a real differentiator for us, both minimising waste and maximising efficiencies within our supply chain. Our aim is to widen this service and bring the sustainability benefits it offers to our other customers in the very near future.”

The RPC Bramlage Division has introduced a new premium cosmetic jar into its standard collection. The Coral jar provides an alternative to the traditional cylindrical shape, with an innovative raised section at the base.

Made by RPC Bramlage Barcelona, the Coral jar is ideal for facial care products with the modern and rounded shape also providing consumers with the perfect grip for easy handling.

Production has been optimised to reduce both the quantity of material and the energy needed to manufacture it. It is injection moulded in high quality resin to create a premium image on-shelf, with either a stone effect or excellent transparency for a glass-like finish.

For additional personalisation, a choice of nine closure options is available and a wood cap version can also be specified.

The entire contours of the jar are available for decoration, including metallisation, electroplating, hot stamping and lacquering, as well as coloured versions. This enables each jar to be tailored to individual customer requirements for effective branding and on- shelf differentiation.

Pianoro (Bologna) – The Marchesini Group took over 100% of Schmucker, a company from Gorizia specialised in building stickpack packaging machinery for the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic markets.

Schmucker’s success began in 1977 in a small workshop on the border between Italy and Slovenia, where the two Schmucker brothers set up a small business to design systems for the food industry. Over following years, they built single-line and multiple-line packaging machines for sticks filled with liquid, powder, granular, cream and gel products. The growing demand of multinational enterprises, alongside experiments on cutting-edge prototypes, convinced the company to diversify the reference markets, which boosted its growth impressively. Today, Schmucker employs 80 people and its turnover in 2017 was 10,5 million Euro, with a share of 80% in exports.

Marchesini’s acquisition of Schmucker came after that of Dumek, a company specialised in designing processing machines for cosmetics, of Vibrotech, working in the field of infeed and positioning systems for automated industrial processes and of SEA Vision, a leading manufacturer of inspection systems used in the pharmaceutical anti-counterfeit sector. Similar to the previous transactions, Schmucker is also a part of the Group’s strategy of strong expansion, which is also occurring on the internal lines too, with the new Beauty Division and the new rapid prototyping department, which was inaugurated on May 25 th this year.

Pietro Cassani, the CEO of the Marchesini Group, said: “Just like we did for the other acquisitions, Schmucker too will continue to be managed by its founders in order to guarantee business continuity, to safeguard the local suppliers and topass on their know-how. The single-dose stickpack market is very interesting. Over recent years, it has moved from food to pharmaceuticals, also thanks to the ease-of-use and to a size that saves 20-30% of packaging material compared with the sachets sealed on 4 sides”.

Enrico Schmucker, the CEO of Schmucker, added: “We are honoured to belong to an enterprise such as the Marchesini Group. We are convinced that we will provide an important contribution to the Group’s expansion strategies thanks to our skills and our team”.

The two companies have already started to work together. At the Achema tradeshow in Frankfurt, Schmucker exhibited a sachet line, at its booth, which has been sold to SIT in Trezzano sul Naviglio, a renowned Italian contract packer that exports most of its production.

Schmucker follows last month’s acquisition of 80% of Creinox, a company in Ariano Polesine (Rovigo) that works with stainless steel, especially to product containers and tanks for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The turnover in 2017 of Creinox was 1 million Euro.

20 June 2018, Noida (India) / Shanghai: Sky is the limit for being innovative. Any application will be welcomed if it holds merit for potential customers. With encouraging response from the market already, ASEPTO - the aseptic liquid packaging brand from the house of Uflex Limited - India’s largest multinational flexible packaging materials and Solution Company will test waters for its holographic applications in aseptic liquid packaging by participating in Propak China exhibition from 11–13 July 2018 in Shanghai. ASEPTO will be on exhibit at Hall Number – N 1; Stall Number – 1NO1.

Talking about the potential that the brand beholds, Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma, President and CEO of New Business Initiatives, Uflex Limited, said, “This show, considered to be the carnival of processing and packaging technology industry will help us showcase ASEPTO’s holographic excellence in the untapped Chinese packaging market. We want to make a dent in the market by reaping the first- mover advantage.”

“ASEPTO is uniquely positioned and has all the capabilities for strengthening the market share of beverage manufacturers around the world, especially large markets like China. Holography has not yet been explored by the Chinese. Our dynamic range of holographic packs, which is our USP, has the ability to grab a substantial market share in this segment,” Mr. Sharma added.

“In fact, the Chinese premium aseptic carton segment is growing at an accelerated pace, which several food companies intend to penetrate into by exporting their products in metalized packs. Here, ASEPTO has a clear strategic advantage to establish itself as the front-running specialized retail packaging solution for beverage companies. The brand with its unique UHT metalized/holography packs happens to be the perfect and preferred choice in the significant six layer aseptic packaging market of China. As a matter of fact, Chinese consumers are increasingly looking for a premium appearance for their brands. This is where ASEPTO perfectly fits in. ASEPTO Spark and ASEPTO Premium are the two variants with variety of holographic, multi-lens, foil stamping & embossing effects on the packs. While there may be choices in the market but ASEPTO scores way high on the distinction parameter.” noted Mr. Ashwani Sharma.

Metalized packages are not being sold by any aseptic packaging supplier locally in China, and only a couple of Chinese companies apart from an international brand are supplying metalized packaging material.In China portion packs and family packs with volumetric range from 200ml to 1000ml are quite popular. However, that is not holographic packaging. While ASEPTO by Uflex offers holographic packs; it is entering the Chinese market and will supply the above mentioned ranges as printed and holographic packs. In the context of market size, some Oceanian companies export almost 200 million metalized packs per annum to China. This outlines the market potential that India could capitalize upon. Hence, the introduction of an Indian brand providing holographic metalized packs will offer a greater degree of value-addition and protection to customers as compared to players who are presently not offering such premium packs. Consumers would cherish the high perceived value of the premium packs. The value proposition for retailers will be no less enticing either. Holographic packs will provide outstanding shelf performance to attract quality-focused consumers—leading to higher sales volumes thereby driving profitability.

Furthermore, holography as a feature only available through ASEPTO packs—is not restricted to just one kind of design; it actually opens up a plethora of options for retail beverage companies to choose artworks of their choice that best describe their product’s proposition to customers and further enhance the look and feel at the Point-of- Sale (POS). Therefore, ASEPTO offers a compelling USP for beverage manufacturers dealing in dairy, juices and distilled beverages allowing them to evolve all new product lines/brands by bringing about startling and strategic changes in their packaging.

Being fully integrated flexible packaging solution company that Uflex is, ASEPTO is complemented by the Aseptic Filling Line called ASEPTO Smart 78 - the first ever fully Indian advanced and sophisticated aseptic filling machine with a capacity of Forming- Filling and Sealing 7,800 packages per hour for sizes ranging from 100, 125, 160 and 200 ml slim packs. The machine comes equipped with special tools for superior and optimized operations. It has several significant features such as advanced integration with PLC, lesser electronic parts, better human interfacing making it operator friendly in addition to delivering highest production speed than any other comparable machines. The machine is low on maintenance which is a big advantage for the company’s clients as it will bring down the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). In this category, most of the machines generally process 7,500 packs per hour unlike the machine by Uflex that has a capacity of processing 7,800 packs per hour. “ASEPTO is gradually gaining a firm toehold in the Indian market simultaneously making noteworthy strides internationally. China shall soon witness the agility, uniqueness, novelty and splendor of ASEPTO. We are all set to delight the Chinese.” concludes Mr. Ashwani Kumar Sharma.

Cambridge, 19 th June 2018 The combination of speed, quality and reliability of the Xaar 2001+ U printhead made it the ideal choice for Canon’s entry into the digital label printing market, with the launch of its Océ LabelStream 4000 press.

The roll-to-roll industrial-scale UV inkjet press provides CMYK+W printing and features the latest Xaar 2001+ U printheads. Targeted at label and flexible packaging converters, it can print on a wide range of standard label stocks including PP and PE plus selected special substrates.

The Océ LabelStream 4000 has been developed in collaboration with label industry specialist, and long-standing partner of Xaar, FFEI, incorporating Xaar’s 2001+ U printhead technology.

“The support from Xaar has been a critical part of the success of this project, enabling us to integrate the Xaar 2001+ printhead and deliver the reliability and print quality label producers demand,” commented Andy Cook, Managing Director at FFEI.

Combining high resolution and proven TF Technology ink recirculation, the Xaar 2001+ U sets a new standard for print quality and reliability in single-pass digital printing. In order to deliver an optimal and flexible solution to customers, the Océ LabelStream 4000 uses different printhead variants from the Xaar 2001+ U family. The small drop size of the Xaar 2001+ GS6U provides crisp details in CMYK, whereas the larger drop size of the Xaar 2001+ GS12U achieves high opacity withwhite ink. This enables the Océ LabelStream 4000 to deliver an impressive 80% opacity (“alpine white) at speeds of 48m/min in its Graphics mode, and a 67% opacity (“true white”) in a faster Production mode at 68m/min.

Available in a number of configurations to suit different needs in labels and flexible packaging, the Océ LabelStream 4000 will launch in two widths at 330mm and 410mm.

Gerard Winn, Senior Product Manager at Xaar, said: “We are delighted that the Xaar 2001+ U printhead has been chosen as the technology behind the Océ LabelStream 4000. With its productivity, print quality and reliability in single-pass applications, it provides the performance and durability that label and packaging producers demand and need to get ahead of their competitors.”

St. Louis, MO (18 June 2018)

Mark Andy, a pioneer to the label and packaging industry announces the acquisition of Brandtjen & Kluge, Inc., a US manufacturer of reliable, high-quality print finishing equipment for foil stamping, die cutting, folding and gluing, and UV coating.

The acquisition builds on the Mark Andy corporate vision of driving profitability in pressrooms worldwide through a strategy to be the Total Solutions Partner. Kluge provides customers a full life cycle solution for offline finishing with OEM parts and consumables, high quality services, and innovative equipment.

With a rich history and dedication to small and medium size formats, Kluge equipment is the ideal finishing solution for commercial printers and finishers, direct mail manufacturers, as well as packaging converters. Based in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, Kluge equipment includes foil stamping, embossing, UV coating, and die-cutting presses.

“Mark Andy is excited to add a company with such a recognizable brand that has been built over decades with thousands of installations and satisfied customers worldwide. We look forward to continuing Kluge’s tradition of high quality products, services, and consumables with the broader support of Mark Andy’s global infrastructure,” shares Kevin Wilken, CEO, Mark Andy.

“Kluge is an industry leader in print finishing and has evolved over the years to meet the ever-changing demands of our customers,” said Michael Aumann, CEO, at Brandtjen and Kluge. “The Brandtjen family is very proud of the legacy they have established and nurtured since the company was founded in 1919. We view today’s transaction as an opportunity to continue growing our business while joining an even larger family that will allow us to build on our commitment of manufacturing durable equipment and to consistently support profitable operations for our customers.” Aumann will continue to lead Kluge as President of the Brandtjen & Kluge division which will continue operations in St. Croix Falls, WI.

The draft of the new "Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulation, 2018” is ready and awaiting final notification soon by the FSSAI. The new regulations are expected to entail significant changes in the supply chain for packaging of food and beverage. The International Packaging Conclave 2018 aims to un-pack the implications of the forthcoming new regulations.

The International Packaging Conclave is a knowledge sharing interactive platform for the packaging industry that comes together with the PackPlus Exhibition in New Delhi every year. This year it has been scheduled to be held on Fri, 27 July. It will aim to clarify the role and responsibilities of the packaging industry towards meeting the new FSSAI regulations.

The last edition of the Conclave, held on 4 Aug 2017, was a widely attended event and served as an introduction to the need for safe packaging "for a better tomorrow". It was attended by more than 175 delegates and invitees consisting of a distinguished list of brand owner companies, major convertors and printers, raw material suppliers as well as delegates from FSSAI and other statutory authorities, scientists, media, business owners and packaging industry veterans.

The 2018 edition of the Conclave, to be held at the International Business Lounge, Pragati Maidan, will delve deeper into the implications of the new regulations on food packaging and will feature panel discussions and case studies presented by brand owner company experts. The Conclave will be of utmost relevance to brand owners, convertors, raw material suppliers, packaging technologists and consultants. Experts from the European Union have been specially invited to present their experience and perspective on stringent EU Food Laws.

PackPlus, the total packaging, processing & supply chain event, will also be held at the grounds of Pragati Maidan between 25-28 July. The Conclave, being held concurrently, will offer an excellent opportunity to the visitors of the exhibition to take advantage of both the events.

CINCINNATI, OH (June 15, 2018) – Michelman was a winner at the 12th Anniversary, 2018 MANNY Awards Dinner, held June 13, 2018 at the Sharonville Convention Center in Cincinnati, Ohio and sponsored by Cincy Magazine. Kreg Keesee, Michelman’s Chief Supply Chain and Information Officer, accepted the award in the Best Place to Work category.

Michelman’s award was based on its strong relationship with associates. According to Mr. Steve Shifman, President & CEO at Michelman, “Michelman Values are at the core of associate relationships, and a testimony to the company’s success. These values include Integrity, Respect, Success, Collaboration, Curiosity, and Giving, and are a direct reflection of the organization and the driving force behind our achievements around the globe.”

Michelman is a global developer and manufacturer of environmentally friendly advanced materials for industry, offering solutions for the coatings, printing & packaging and industrial manufacturing markets. Headquartered in Cincinnati, and with manufacturing facilities on three continents, the company will be holding its 7th Annual Commitment2Community Day, when hundreds of associates leave their offices, labs and email behind for a full day to volunteer their time at a wide variety of locations.

Mr. Shifman commented, “One of our most important core values is Giving. Our staff is comprised of hundreds of generous associates who give freely of themselves, their time, their energy, their knowledge, and their resources. They do so with no expectation of receiving anything in return other than the satisfaction that comes from participating in a successful business and living in a thriving community. In the Tristate area alone, Michelman associates participate in more than 40 non-profits and have volunteered approximately 3,780 hours throughout the year. The genuine embracement of the spirit of Giving makes me proud to have won this particular award at the 2018 MANNY event.”