The International Organization of Aluminum Aerosol Container Manufacturers (AEROBAL) reports that global deliveries from its members increased by 4.4 percent to just over 3.4 billion units in the first half of 2024.

Market growth is primarily driven by strong demand from the quantitatively dominant sectors of deodorants and hairsprays, which saw increases of 7 and 8 percent, respectively. Demand from the pharmaceutical sector also grew positively by around 3 percent. Deliveries to the less significant food sector were particularly satisfactory, rising by as much as 12 percent.

The market growth was mainly driven by deliveries to the 27 EU member states, including the UK, and to South and North America, which increased by around 5 percent and 11 percent, respectively. Deliveries to Asia/Oceania and the Middle East also saw increases, rising by approximately 3 percent and 17 percent, respectively. However, deliveries to Africa declined by about 3 percent.

Sustainability remains a top priority

The topics of sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of packaging remain a key focus across the packaging industry. As such, there is lively demand for aluminum cans with the highest possible content of post-consumer recycled material. However, the growing global demand is met with limited availability of high-quality aluminum scrap, which is needed for the technically demanding production of aluminum aerosol cans. Additionally, the demand for "green aluminum" produced using renewable energy (and thus having a significantly lower CO2 footprint) is increasing significantly.

Of central importance to the industry is an efficient Design for Recycling criterion, to ensure that aluminum aerosol cans can be returned to the recycling loop with minimal material use and packaging complexity. "The current draft of a new European packaging regulation already includes requirements for consistent design for recycling, which still need to be further specified by delegated acts from the EU Commission. A consortium of packaging associations is currently working with the Cyclos HTP Institute on a study to develop specific design for recycling criteria and guidelines for various aluminum packaging types. This document is intended to serve as a scientifically sound basis for upcoming discussions with relevant European standardization and legislative bodies," explains AEROBAL Secretary General Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed.

Demand Slowdown Expected Due to Tense Economic Situation

The generally weak economic conditions worldwide (with few exceptions), multiple crisis hotspots, and still relatively high inflation rates are dampening the mood in the aluminum aerosol can industry despite the clear increase in global deliveries.

This unsatisfactory mix of economic and political challenges is creating headwinds that are slowing growth for both our member companies and customers. But overall, the aluminum aerosol can industry is resilient, so we still expect demand to remain consistent or even see slight growth in the second half of the year. The medium-term outlook for aluminum aerosol cans remains quite positive as well" concludes AEROBAL President Rob Huffman.
 

An ideal packaging concept for sliced cheese or cold meats is packaging with a reclose system. They prevent products from drying out prematurely, while retaining freshness, flavor and an appetizing appearance and providing extra convenience – an aspect that surveys have shown to be of great importance to the majority of consumers. And when it comes to performance and sustaina-bility, there is one system that takes the top spot – the practice-proven Mul-tipeel system from SÜDPACK.
In technical terms, three well-known reclose systems dominate the European market for sliced cheese and cold meats: snap-on lid systems, reclosable labels or adhesive strips, and lidding films with an integrated reclose system, such as Multipeel from SÜDPACK. “Our system is definitely superior to other technical solutions in terms of material efficiency, costs and line performance. Snap-on lids are considered less sustainable due to the substantial material require-ments for the heavy lid solution. And while reclosable labels weigh less, they are economically less attractive. Line performance in the packaging process is also significantly restricted,” explained Valeska Haux, Vice President Strategic Marketing & Sustainability at SÜDPACK.
Multipeel – more than just product protection
The practice-proven high-performance films from SÜDPACK make it easy to open and securely reclose a package thanks to the integrated Multipeel func-tion. In a Multipeel pack, sliced cheese loses much less moisture and weight after being opened for the first time compared to a packaging concept without a reclose system. This means the cheese stays fresh and appetizing right down to the very last slice and nothing has to be prematurely thrown away. What’s remarkable is that even with a comparable film thickness, the solution has a carbon footprint that is almost identical to packages without a reclose system. “As a result, Multipeel packs contribute to a more positive eco-balance for cheese – a product with a fairly high carbon footprint compared to other foods,” highlighted Haux.
Modular portfolio
The Multipeel top web product family includes conventional material compo-sites as well as recyclable structures based on polypropylene. Combined with suitable bottom webs, they result in recyclable packaging solutions with an optimal reclose function. A guarantee for maximum packaging reliability and efficiency is offered by the combination with a matching bottom web from SÜDPACK’s extensive range of products. 
Depending on the product and requirements, the Multipeel films are available with different barrier functions to provide optimal product protection or me-chanical properties, for example for bulk packaging, which is opened and closed quite frequently. Regardless of the type of product used from the Mul-tipeel family, both the conventional and recyclable films can be easily pro-cessed on standard machines. And thanks to the established, practice-proven SÜDPACK reclose system, they offer high process reliability and product safety with optimal production output.
Also trailblazing in sustainability
As a basic principle, the structures are very material efficient. Haux noted that “for almost 20 years, SÜDPACK has been a hallmark for experience and quality in reclosable films. As one of the first suppliers on the market, we focused on developing sustainable concepts in this product segment, which is why we are now able to implement fully sustainable packaging solutions.”
To give an example, a packaging concept based on polypropylene that consists of an Ecoterm bottom web and a reclosing Multipeel PurePP top web has been certified with a recyclability of more than 90 percent by the independent cy-clos-HTP institute. 
And in the years ahead …
“… we are expecting to see a demand for reclose systems that is just as strong as the current demand,” forecast Haux. After all: “In the future, the focus on reducing food waste will only continue to increase among end consumers. At the same time, legislators are setting the course for reduced food waste, and are doing so worldwide. Apart from that, the sharp increase in food prices have also lead to more mindful behavior. That is why packaging with reclose systems will remain indispensable in the foreseeable future from both an envi-ronmental and ecological point of view.”

About SÜDPACK
SÜDPACK is a leading manufacturer of high-performance films and packaging solutions for the food, non-food and medical goods industries and also of cus-tomer-specific compounds for technically demanding applications. 
The family business, which was founded by Alfred Remmele in 1964, is head-quartered in Ochsenhausen. The production sites in Germany, France, Poland, India, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the USA are equipped with cutting-edge plant technology and manufacture to the highest standards, including the capacity to operate under clean room conditions. The global sales and service network ensures a high degree of proximity to the customer and comprehen-sive application technology support in more than 70 countries.
With its state-of-the-art Development and Application Center at its headquar-ters in Ochsenhausen, the innovation-oriented company offers its customers an optimal platform for developing individual and tailor-made solutions and also for performing application tests.
SÜDPACK is committed to sustainable development and fulfills its responsibility as an employer and towards society, the environment and its customers. For its sustainable product developments and consistent commitment to a func-tioning circular economy in the plastics industry, SÜDPACK has received nu-merous awards.
 

The company’s FP10/VI 5 is a fully automated filling/vertical cartoning line in a minimal footprint. 
IWK also will showcase its CH 4 Cartoner, an automatic format-adjusting unit that reduces energy consumption by over 20%.  

Parsippany, NJ – IWK Packaging Systems, Inc., a manufacturer of premium tube filling and cartoning equipment for the pharmaceutical, health & beauty sectors, will showcase a pair of integrated machinery lines comprising its two primary niches at Pack Expo, November 3-6 in Chicago. At its Booth #W-16085, the company will demonstrate tube filling and cartoning units suitable for a broad array of applications. 

Each of IWK’s two lines at Pack Expo will feature the compact, low-cost FP10 Tube Filler, complete with an innovative hot air tube heating system for sustainability-minded energy savings and a sound mechanical design allowing excellent accessibility from all sides. Maximum process reliability is assured via servo technology, and changeovers can be performed quickly. For manufacturers running other models of IWK tube filling equipment, the FP10’s format and product contact parts are interchangeable throughout the entire FP Series. Capable of filling and closing up to 70 tubes per minute, the FP10 can handle metal, plastic or laminated tubes.

IWK’s FP10 Tube Filler is operated via an HMI touch panel offering an intuitive, ergonomic user interface. Relevant process parameters¬ are vividly displayed, with changeover directives and a running count of both good and faulty tubes showcased throughout the duration of product runs. Remote servicing is available via wifi. 

The FP10 will be paired with two of IWK’s cartoning machines. First, the company’s VI 5 Vertical Cartoner is an intermittent motion machine with an open, accessible work area and a modularly extendable length that optimizes floorspace. In addition to tubes, the unit is suitable for a wide array of primary packages including bottles, vials, blister packs, jars, pouches and other similar components, and can produce up to 75 cartons per minute. 

Among the VI 5's key highlights is the ability to change formats quickly. This functional versatility is aided by easy, repeatable changeover steps, a centralized transport height adjustment system, and carton buckets. No adjustment of rails is needed along curves, further expediting product changeovers. 

The VI 5's servo-driven, cam-guided carton transport system also offers positioning precision. The machine is available with 22, 40 or 54 carton carriers depending on requirements. Other options including leaflet feeders, booklet feeders and a large variety of automatic product loading systems.  

For horizontal cartoning applications, an FP10 Tube Filler also will be attached to a CH 4 Horizontal Cartoner. This innovative machine platform can be offered in either intermittent or continuous motion, and has the flexibility to handle carton opening from either direction.

Powered by advanced servo motors, the IWK CH 4 Cartoner can produce up to 120 cartons per minute while assuring gentle product handling, simple 10-minute format changeovers, and easy cleaning. To save on operation expenses, the cartoner delivers cost-effective regeneration by applying the energy gained through recuperation directly back into the production of the cartons. This results in a 21% overall reduction in energy consumption.

The CH 4 is quickly adaptable to a wide range of applications and cartoning specifications and, thanks to its compact design, the machine builds upon IWK’s reputation for cGMP-guaranteed, floorspace-conscious equipment. 
 

Kevin McKell, CSO at Vetaphone explains why surface treatment is key to achieving success in this sector

In the fiercely competitive retail landscape, the significance of corona surface treatment in converting processes cannot be ignored.  Brand owners striving to sway consumer preferences recognise that high-quality images and presentation are non-negotiable.  To achieve the best shelf appeal, packaging quality is vital.  This is where converting machine and equipment manufacturers step in, delivering top-notch solutions that ensure premium packaging and elevate a product’s chances of success on the market.
In the realm of packaging conversion, the process of converting involves working with non-absorbent substrates like film, foil, or metallised paper and board.  Prior to utilisation with inks, varnishes, lacquers, lamination, or other converting techniques, these substrates must undergo surface treatment to ensure a secure adhesion. Achieving a consistently high-quality finish is paramount in this endeavour.  For this purpose, converting machinery and web converting equipment play a pivotal role in facilitating the surface treatment process, resulting in impeccable end products.

One of the pleasures of being a pioneer in any field is the knowledge it brings with it. This provides a deep understanding of the technology involved and its operational impact on the marketplace.  But being a pioneer also creates a duty to distribute this knowledge and expertise because only when people fully understand the technology can they begin to appreciate the benefits it can offer them in their own business.

At Vetaphone, we believe strongly in transparency so that our knowledge can be shared, and we invest heavily in promoting the subject of surface treatment as a generic technique. We do this because we know that explaining what it is, how it works, and why you need it, will allow you to make a rational and informed decision about the right product to buy.
Surface treatment may be an ancillary process to the main event, but the part it plays is a vital one in the overall success of the operation. This is why we take our educational responsibilities very seriously, whether demonstrating our technology at our Test-Lab and demonstration centre in Kolding or out in the field at exhibitions and seminars. We also place great importance on tuition and instruction time on-site with our customers to ensure they are fully conversant with our product and know exactly how it functions.
Understanding the role that surface tension plays in adhesion, and the various requirements that different substrates must have to achieve their best performance, equips companies with both the technology and technical knowhow that will place a Corona or Plasma system at the heart of their production process.  To many in our industry, surface treatment is a necessary component that once installed and powered-up is largely forgotten. Our mission is to demonstrate the unique controllability that our systems offer, which allows customers to fine-tune their production process.  We know that coating production environment.  This demands specialist equipment and in-depth knowhow from the people who design and manufacture it.
With Vetaphone Corona treater coating systems, you can be sure that all your demands for reliability and performance at high-speed will be met, including the challenging specifications required for pull stations. Our Corona systems feature pneumatically activated electrode assemblies that pivot away to allow easy access for webbing up. You can also specify a quick retraction system to protect the electrode cartridge, and this will prolong the electrode’s working lifetime. Trust us to meet challenging specifications for pull stations with our top-notch Corona coating machines.

If you are running metallised substrates at speeds over 450m/min (1475ft/min) then Vetaphone’s unique DHP® system will protect the substrate from damage and prevent the creation of pin holes.  It also reduces the internal current consumption for more cost-efficient production – especially important at a time or rising power costs.
In short, whatever the need for surface treatment in your production process, we have the most experience and background knowledge in the market and will be very pleased to share it with you.
 

Work began at the new facility on September 19, 2023. Now, just one year after the groundbreaking ceremony, construction is in full swing. The ex-pansion of SÜDPACK MEDICA’s French site in Coulmer, located in the Orne region, is on track – and it is the largest single project within the SÜDPACK company group. When operations at the site begin on July 1, 2025, the area dedicated to cleanroom pouch production will have doubled in size com-pared to its previous capacity. 
The site reflects SÜDPACK MEDICA’s 35 years of expertise in cleanroom pouch manufacturing. The specialized facility in Normandy focuses on pro-ducing sterile barrier systems for medical technology and diagnostic applica-tions, as well as primary packaging for pharmaceuticals and product-contacting components of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API). Accord-ingly, the Coulmer site is certified in accordance with ISO 13485 and 15378.
“The expansion of our ISO7-certified cleanroom facility, along with our strong focus on minimizing particulate load, will allow us consolidate our position in both the medical goods and pharmaceutical industries,” explains Managing Director Thomas Freis. This is a strategically important decision for SÜDPACK MEDICA, as demand for sterilizable cleanroom pouches con-tinues to rise, presenting significant market potential. Reducing particulate load is a critical concern, especially for manufacturers involved in the pro-cess chain for liquid pharmaceutical dosage forms. Glass bottles, ampoules, and syringes used to administer liquid parenterals, such as infusions, must have minimal particulate contamination before filling to prevent the intro-duction of foreign particles into the patient’s bloodstream.” 
SÜDPACK MEDICA’s product and service portfolio
… is consistently aligned with market demands and customer needs. With a vertically integrated, circular value chain, the company’s product spectrum ranges from compounding and extrusion to laminating, printing, and pouch production, and even includes the reprocessing of post-industrial materials. In the standard-pouch segment, SÜDPACK MEDICA’s impressively broad product range ensures optimal coverage for most common applications in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors. Beyond this, the specialists in Coulmer can also deliver tailored process solutions for complex pharmaceu-tical products. 
Three-side-seal pouches
In recent years, the company has invested in flow pack and three-side-seal pouch machines to meet the growing demand for films and pouch-making materials that can be utilized at various stages of the value chain, including in the pharmaceutical industry. SÜDPACK MEDICA now offers a wide range of sealed barrier pouches for nearly every requirement – in response to steadily increasing demand.
Small-format pouch solutions are commonly used for packaging compo-nents such as stoppers or filters for liquid dosage forms. Larger formats are available for prosthetics, instruments, wound care products, and even sur-gical textiles. The combination of durable carrier films and gas-permeable lidding films enables high-barrier packaging that is gamma sterilizable, as well as packaging concepts suitable for gas-based sterilization, such as eth-ylene oxide (ETO) sterilization. Additionally, fully film-based three-side-seal pouches with peel systems are available.
The available formats, material combinations, inks, and opening systems are extensive. “We offer our customers high-barrier pouches perfectly tai-lored to their specific needs – whether made entirely of film or combined with Tyvek® or medical paper. The production of pouch-making material, narrow rolls, and lids always takes place under ISO7 and ISO8 cleanroom conditions,” emphasizes Thomas Freis. 
Tubular bags
SÜDPACK MEDICA’s conventional and sustainable tubular bags meet all the specific requirements for stability, transparency, barrier performance, and efficiency – without side seams or migration risks. These bags are also pro-duced under cleanroom conditions. 
While tubular bags made from blown films using pharmacopoeia-compliant raw materials are characterized by excellent opening properties, coextru-sion solutions offer excellent puncture resistance and are also used as sec-ondary packaging for bio-processing bags.
A key advantage for customers is that SÜDPACK MEDICA’s standard pouch concept even allows small order quantities. Additionally, delivery times are short, as common sterile barrier materials made from various Tyvek® grades (both coated and uncoated), as well as medical papers from leading manufacturers, are readily available from stock. A further benefit is that, thanks to modern production equipment, standard products can be swiftly tailored to meet the needs of individual customers. Moreover, by slitting sterile barrier materials in the cleanroom, flexibility is increased – both for customers and for SÜDPACK MEDICA. 
Tyvek® patches in pouch packaging
By incorporating strategically placed Tyvek® patches on the back of the pouch, SÜDPACK MEDICA facilitates a fast and efficient gas diffusion pro-cess during ETO sterilization. Thomas Freis explains: “This allows us to com-bine the benefits of tubular pouches with the advantages of gas sterilization. Customers don’t have to sacrifice the excellent opening behavior they are accustomed to, which can be further enhanced with a tear notch if required. Tyvek® is well known for its excellent peelability and high puncture re-sistance. It is tear-resistant and moisture-resistant – and naturally provides an exceptionally effective microbial barrier.” Typical applications include pouch packaging for wound care products, surgical kits, and dialysis filters. 
The expansion of the Coulmer site will ensure that SÜDPACK MEDICA is well-equipped to meet future requirements. Thomas Freis: “If we can stay on schedule – and it looks like we will – we plan to install the first machines by the middle of next year. By the end of July, we will gradually begin pro-duction in the new facility.”

About SÜDPACK MEDICA AG
SÜDPACK MEDICA AG is headquartered in Baar (CH) and is one of the leading suppliers of ster-ile packaging solutions in Europe as well as a pioneering partner for the global medical, phar-maceutical, and diagnostics industries. The company is part of the SÜDPACK company group and was founded in 1989. The core competency of SÜDPACK MEDICA is the development of plastic-based packaging solutions for sterile goods. The product and performance range of SÜDPACK MEDICA extends from standard solutions to tailor-made, customer-specific packag-ing concepts. It includes the production of coextruded flexible and rigid films, which are used as base and lidding films, and of pre-made pouch solutions for a wide variety of products. SÜDPACK MEDICA also benefits from the SÜDPACK Group’s long-standing leadership in tech-nology and innovation in the coextrusion of polymer-based film solutions. 
The production of SÜDPACK MEDICA products is performed at four sites in France, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands. These sites are equipped with the latest plant technology and manufacture to the highest standards of quality and hygiene, including the capacity to operate under clean room conditions.
For optimal support and collaboration with their customers around the world, SÜDPACK MEDI-CA relies on a specialist team working in quality, sales, development and application technolo-gy, one that has long-standing expertise in polymers and process engineering and in the market for sterile packaging. This makes SÜDPACK MEDICA a competent solutions partner for their customers when it comes to the implementation of packaging solutions, including those with the most demanding requirements.
SÜDPACK is committed to sustainable development and fulfills its responsibility as an employer and towards society, the environment and its customers. With its own site for processing bi-opolymers and its own compounding facilities, the SÜDPACK Group is also among the trailblaz-ers in the production of forward-looking, sustainable and recyclable packaging concepts. 
 

Markem-Imaje, the global provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions and industrial marking and coding systems, supported the Lunelli Group, a symbol of excellence in Italian beverage, in adapting to the stringent EU regulations on wine labelling. 

Within the Lunelli Group, the Bisol1542 and Jeio brands stand out, represented by the historic Bisol1542 winery, which boasts a centuries-old legacy that began in 1542 in the hills of Valdobbiadene, recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. 

The cellar, through the Bisol1542 labels, tells the different nuances of the Prosecco Superiore di Valdobbiadene, influenced by the unique encounter between soils, vintages and vineyards. Jeio, on the other hand, stands out for its cuvées, offering a Prosecco Superiore with a young, unmistakable and cosmopolitan character.

Under Regulation (EU) 2021/2117, which came into force last December, all EU wine producers and suppliers need to provide the most accurate and up-to-date ingredient and nutritional information at retail, a difficulty given the propensity of wine’s ever-changing composition. Although this represents a challenge for wine producers, with proprietary Markem-Imaje Smartdate X65® thermal transfer overprinting hardware and CoLOS® software, compliance is now not only facilitated but guaranteed. Additionally, ingredient and nutritional data are managed automatically with no need for manual labeling or verification.   

Compliance with the ‘EU Wine Regulation’ as it is more commonly known, requires capturing up-to-date ingredient and nutritional data for each batch of wine, at a maximum, and the provision of scannable QR codes for data access. By using the Markem-Imaje CoLOS® software together with the Smartdate X65®, which excels at printing QR codes on either paper or plastic labels on bottles whilst on the production line, you can generate QR codes on-the-fly. 

As the CoLOS® software integrates fully with Lunelli Group’s ERP, the data to be accessed via its dedicated QR code on the bottle label is automatically uploaded to the production line to be printed there. The software also enables the frequent need for variations imposed by the different label designs, adapting to the specific needs of each brand.
Thanks to the ease of changing the printing color using the Smartdate X65® thermal transfer overprinter, a technology in which Markem-Imaje has over 30 years of experience and remains market leader, each label can be easily customized. When used in association with CoLOS® software and an ERP, real-time production monitoring is conducted, reducing waste and energy consumption, which improves operational efficiency and environmental impact.
 
“Through the innovative Markem-Imaje system, we were able to use all the inventory of labels already in stock, without having to dispose of them and avoiding additional costs for the company, as well as respecting the value of sustainability, which is fundamental to all the brands of the Lunelli Group,” says Leonida Fedrigo, Production and Maintenance Manager at Lunelli Group. “This year, Bisol 1542 celebrates 10 years in the Lunelli Group and tripled its previous awards from the top international critics in 2023,” Fedrigo says. 
 

About Markem-Imaje    
 
Markem-Imaje, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dover Corporation, connects products and protects brands through intelligent identification, packaging intelligence, and connected product solutions. We offer the industry’s most comprehensive range of marking and coding systems seamlessly integrated with trusted software, services and consumables. Over 50,000 customers worldwide partner with us to help them unlock the power of information in codes.     
    
With decades of proven expertise provided through the most extensive global network, we empower our customers to optimize supply chain efficiencies, achieve sustainability and compliance objectives, keep products safe and engage their consumers. This is intelligence, beyond the mark.    
 

From September 24 to 26, 2024, the “Seed meets Technology” event in Zwaagdijk-Oost, Netherlands (near Amsterdam) will focus on innovations in the horticulture industry – from cutting-edge technology to sustainable solu-tions for plant protection, cultivation, and marketing. And SÜDPACK will also be there: The renowned film manufacturer will showcase its range of high-barrier laminates for packaging sensitive seeds, with a special focus on its range of recyclable PP-based products. 
With around 40 exhibitors and 1,500 industry professionals, “Seed meets Technology” is a relatively small yet exclusive event. The program includes live demonstrations and a packed conference schedule, both in the exhibition hall and on the demo fields, fostering interaction and professional dialogue among industry experts. 
Later this month, SÜDPACK will make its debut at this prestigious event, focus-ing on both conventional and sustainable high-performance films for packaging sensitive seeds in smaller sachets. 
Product protection, recyclability, process safety
Building on its extensive experience with conventional laminates, including those with aluminum barriers, SÜDPACK now offers a wide range of recyclable high-performance films suitable for packaging various products. To meet the specific requirements of the horticulture industry, SÜDPACK has developed a polypropylene-based film solution specifically for seed packaging. With inte-grated barrier functions, it ensures sensitive seeds are fully protected from oxygen, UV light, and moisture, preventing premature germination or quality degradation. This recyclable packaging concept can also be certified by external bodies. These innovative single-material solutions, like their conventional counterparts, are available as pre-made pouches or roll stock – the latter can be processed quickly and easily on standard filling and sealing machines for seed packaging. With its superior sealing strength, the new material delivers exceptional package quality, producing optimally sealed pouches with excellent burst resistance.
Visitors to the SÜDPACK booth in the exhibition hall will have the chance to explore the company’s range of products and services, with packaging and film experts on hand throughout the event for in-depth discussions. 

About SÜDPACK
SÜDPACK is a leading manufacturer of high-performance films and packaging solutions for the food, non-food and medical goods industries and also of cus-tomer-specific compounds for technically demanding applications. 
The family business, which was founded by Alfred Remmele in 1964, is head-quartered in Ochsenhausen. The production sites in Germany, France, Poland, India, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the USA are equipped with cutting-edge plant technology and manufacture to the highest standards, including the capacity to operate under clean room conditions. The global sales and service network ensures a high degree of proximity to the customer and comprehen-sive application technology support in more than 70 countries.
With its state-of-the-art Development and Application Center at its headquar-ters in Ochsenhausen, the innovation-oriented company offers its customers an optimal platform for developing individual and tailor-made solutions and also for performing application tests.
SÜDPACK is committed to sustainable development and fulfills its responsibility as an employer and towards society, the environment and its customers. For its sustainable product developments and consistent commitment to a func-tioning circular economy in the plastics industry, SÜDPACK has received nu-merous awards.
 

Top 3D Printers Revolutionizing Packaging in 2024

In 2024, 3D printers have become key tools for companies seeking to innovate, reduce waste, and improve sustainability in packaging. Here's a look at the top 5 3D printers making waves in the packaging world.

1. Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle

Best for: Small-scale, high-quality packaging prototypes

The Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle is widely praised for its versatility and precision. Combining dual extrusion with a wide range of material compatibility, this printer excels at producing detailed prototypes and customized packaging designs. The S5 Pro also includes an Air Manager and Material Station, which improves reliability and ensures safe printing of materials like PLA, ABS, and TPU—ideal for eco-friendly packaging options.

- Key Features:

  - Dual extrusion for multi-material printing

  - Compatibility with a wide range of filaments, including bio-based materials

  - Enhanced reliability with filament drying and automatic material switching

  - Intuitive software for easy design integration

For companies focused on sustainable and creative designs, the Ultimaker S5 Pro is a solid investment. Its eco-friendly options and precision make it ideal for creating custom, high-end packaging.

2. Formlabs Form 3L

Best for: Large-scale, intricate packaging prototypes

The Form 3L is a large-format resin printer from Formlabs, known for producing highly detailed and smooth parts. This is particularly useful for packaging design, where aesthetics and intricate features are crucial. The SLA (Stereolithography) technology used in the Form 3L ensures that fine details, such as embossed logos or complex textures, are accurately reproduced.

- Key Features:

  - Large build volume (33.5 x 20 x 30 cm) for creating bigger prototypes or multiple parts in one run

  - Industry-leading resolution and surface finish

  - Material versatility, including flexible and rigid resins

  - Automated resin dispensing for seamless production

The Form 3L allows companies to explore complex designs while minimizing the need for post-processing, which speeds up the product development cycle.

3. Markforged Mark Two

Best for: Durable, functional packaging components

Markforged’s Mark Two stands out by incorporating continuous carbon fiber into 3D-printed parts, significantly increasing strength without sacrificing flexibility. This makes it ideal for packaging companies that require durable components, such as molds or fixtures used in the packaging process.

- Key Features:

  - Continuous carbon fiber reinforcement for enhanced strength

  - Wide range of industrial-grade materials, including Onyx and Nylon

  - Integrated cloud-based software for remote printing and monitoring

  - High dimensional accuracy, critical for functional parts

While the Mark Two may not be geared towards aesthetic packaging prototypes, its ability to create robust parts and tools used in packaging production is unmatched.

4. Prusa i3 MK4

Best for: Affordable, rapid prototyping

Prusa 3D printers have garnered a reputation for being highly affordable without compromising on quality. The Prusa i3 MK4 continues this trend, offering impressive print resolution and reliability at a price point accessible to smaller businesses. It’s an excellent choice for rapid prototyping, allowing teams to iterate quickly on packaging designs without breaking the bank.

- Key Features:

  - Modular design with easy upgrades and repairs

  - High-resolution prints with consistent layer adhesion

  - Multi-material upgrade kit available for mixed-material designs

  - Open-source software and hardware for customization

The Prusa i3 MK4 is an excellent option for startups and smaller companies looking to innovate in packaging without large upfront investments.

5. HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series

Best for: High-volume, production-level packaging solutions

HP’s Jet Fusion 5200 series is a game-changer for companies ready to scale. Utilizing Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology, this 3D printer excels in producing parts quickly, making it ideal for packaging companies that need both high-volume output and precision. The printer can manufacture packaging components or even end-use packaging materials, providing a production-ready solution with minimal lead time.

- Key Features:

  - High-speed, large-scale production capabilities

  - Consistent mechanical properties across parts

  - Industry-grade accuracy, perfect for tight tolerances in packaging components

  - Low running costs due to efficient material usage

For large-scale manufacturers looking to integrate 3D printing into their packaging line, the HP Jet Fusion 5200 offers a scalable, cost-effective solution.

Other options:

Stratasys F370

The Stratasys F370 is a versatile 3D printer that supports a wide range of materials, including engineering-grade thermoplastics. This flexibility allows for the creation of packaging solutions with specific properties, such as durability, heat resistance, or chemical resistance.

Carbon DLS Technology

Carbon's Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) technology offers a unique approach to 3D printing, enabling the production of complex, high-resolution parts in a fraction of the time. This technology is particularly well-suited for creating intricate packaging designs with smooth surfaces and fine details.

Nexa3D NXE 400

The Nexa3D NXE 400 is a high-speed 3D printer that offers exceptional throughput and accuracy. It is designed for rapid prototyping and low-volume production of packaging components, allowing for quick iterations and efficient product development.

Comprehensive services punctuated by precision, tight-tolerance metalworking expertise and injection molding solutions; company also will display range of medical tubing such as catheter-based systems, as well as select medical device packaging solutions.

which utilizes advanced materials science expertise to help deliver better patient outcomes, will emphasize its substantially expanded capabilities for the design and manufacture of Class III implantable devices and delivery systems at MD&M Minneapolis, October 16-17. At its Booth 3926, the company will highlight its status as a full-fledged CDMO in these niches, one capable of partnering with startups and established entities alike on everything from initial concepting, prototyping and pilot production through larger-scale manufacturing and commercialization.

TekniPlex Healthcare is among the few medical device CDMOs offering comprehensive, ideation-to-completion product creation across a wide range of categories including endovascular stents, heart valves and delivery systems. Among other points of distinction, the company offers high-precision, tight-tolerance development and prototyping for a broad array of miniscule metal components typical not only in cardiovascular settings but also pulmonary, gastrointestinal, laparoscopic and other endoscopic applications – including devices for delivering chemotherapy drugs.

TekniPlex Healthcare’s enhanced stature reflects its significantly expanded upstream capabilities. A longstanding leader in medical tubing solutions, the company now offers an array of services supporting customers from early ideation stages through product development, prototyping, testing and full production of catheter-based systems and other tubing-related solutions. This includes an array of precision secondary processes, as well as clean room assembly of Class II and Class III devices such as stents, heart valves, catheter-based devices and delivery systems. 

Among the specific solutions TekniPlex Healthcare will feature at MD&M Minneapolis is its PTA/PTCA Balloon Catheter Tubing for coronary and non-coronary angioplasty applications. Ranging in balloon size from 1 to 30mm, the company’s customized balloon catheter tubing is manufactured at tight tolerances (± .0005”) with concentricity of over 90%. The tubing’s controlled elongation rate provides blown balloons with uniform wall thickness, improving overall yield and substantially reducing bursting risk.

TekniPlex Healthcare’s tri-layer inner tubing constructs are particularly sophisticated. The solutions consist of polyamide (nylon) or polyether block amide copolymer (PEBA) outer layers with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner layers. The small-diameter, thin-wall, tight-tolerance, high-precision configurations are required for use in interventional vascular apparatuses to allow diagnostic and therapeutic devices – for example, balloon catheters for coronary, peripheral and neurovascular intervention – to more easily advance over guidewires. 

The inner tubing’s HDPE inner layer reduces friction on the wire, while the outer layer is bondable to balloon catheter tubing of similar materials; the middle layer is an extremely thin adhesive ‘tie layer’. The thickness of the inner and outer layers can be customized to suit various applications.  

TekniPlex Healthcare is also dedicated to developing custom solutions to unique problems in the medical and bioprocess fields. At MD&M Minneapolis, the company also will showcase its paratubing, which it can produce in up to eight custom-colored, textured, or striped tube formations to distinguish between flow paths. Other examples include patented multilayer tubing configurations that offer extremely low absorption properties to help extend the usable life of insulin and other unstable drug products, such as chemotherapy drugs. Another patented configuration, designed for fluid transfer of DMSO and other solvent suspensions, allows for safe product delivery in dual hormone delivery systems and advanced cell & gene therapy processes.

Finally, TekniPlex Healthcare will showcase samples of its medical device packaging offerings, including a variety of grid lacquer-coated paper specifications and coated Tyvek® options. Later this year, TekniPlex Healthcare also will open a new facility in Madison, WI. Commencing with state-of-the-art air knife capabilities for coated Tyvek® and reinforced paper, the plant will subsequently showcase a seven-color extended gamut flexographic printing press utilizing both water- and solvent-based inks. The high-definition printer features fast changeover to help expedite customer delivery times and minimize waste compared to previous technologies in the production environment.
 

About TekniPlex Healthcare
TekniPlex Healthcare utilizes advanced materials science expertise and technologies to develop and deliver critical solutions for medical and diagnostic devices, drug delivery systems and sterile barriers healthcare packaging applications. With a global reach, the division’s deep understanding of the greater pharmaceuticals and medical landscape helps it produce exemplary barrier properties for drugs and precision medical devices for interventional and therapeutic procedures. 

In the medical device niche, TekniPlex Healthcare embodies a comprehensive CDMO partner capable of servicing every stage of the product life cycle, from design and development through component manufacturing and final assembly. Throughout its broad purview, the division’s ever-evolving portfolio helps meet demands for high-leverage medicines and mission-critical healthcare products that benefit care providers and patients.

Pical provides a user-friendly solution for edible oils, dressings and sauces

Berry Global has launched a tamper-evident pouring closure for edible oils, dressings and sauces, which combines consumer convenience and functionality with sustainability enhancements that improve its recyclability.

Fully compliant with EU regulations for single-use plastics, the new Pical Pouring Closure – part of Berry’s B Circular portfolio – features a special tamper-evident tab that drops inside the closure when the lid is opened for the first time. This ensures the tab remains with the pack so that all components enter the recycling stream. The snap-on neck finish also means that the bottle does not require an additional sleeve for tamper evidence.

Company will also introduce serialization module for flat cartons, and demonstrate a high-speed automated visual inspection unit for liquid-filled vials.
 

Antares Vision Group – a technological partner in the digitalization of products and supply chains for companies and institutions, and a leader in traceability and inspection for quality control – will introduce a sophisticated new traceability solution for pharmaceutical bottles at Pack Expo, November 3-6 in Chicago. At its Booth S-3754, the company will debut the Omnivision Bottle Serialization Station for round, square or rectangular bottles commonly used in healthcare applications. Other solutions that Antares Vision Group will showcase include the debut of a standalone module for the offline serialization of flat cartons, and a high-speed inspection unit for liquid-filled vials.

Across Antares Vision Group’s core strengths of traceability and inspection, the solutions showcased at Pack Expo share several commonalities. Perhaps most prominently, all three solutions – and in fact, the vast majority of the company’s overall portfolio – can be deployed as integrated modules into existing production environments. This inherent agnosticism amounts to a key compatibility element that substantially simplifies incorporation. Concerning traceability specifically, the company’s ultra-secure cloud-based systems enable end-to-end “full stack” connection of the physical and digital worlds. The holistic, fully validated, preconfigured, automated platforms span serializaition Levels 1 through 5, ensuring compliance and connectivity with partners and regulatory authorities. 

Versatile Automated Serialization Solution for Bottles

Capable of handling a wide range of bottle sizes at speeds up to 300 per minute, the Omnivision Bottle Serialization Station can print unique helper codes on the top or bottom of each bottle, then perform a 360-degree reading of the unoriented bottle surface for recognition of printed serialized data and code association. This helper code is then used for subsequent manual or automatic aggregation phases, such as bundling or case packing. The system's seamless product handling ensures superior printing quality, and a lateral belt system provides bottle separation. Optional topsert inspection is available.

Serialization Module for Flat Cartons

Also at Pack Expo, Antares Vision Group will premiere a standalone semi-automatic serialization module specifically designed to handle flat, empty cartons and boxes. The Print & Check FT performs traceability functions including marking, recording, and serialization data verification. Flat cartons are loaded into a collector, which precisely feeds the conveyor belt. Cartons are then printed, with a high-resolution camera confirming data correctness and an end-of-belt reject system removing any erroneous ones. 

The Print & Check FT can achieve line speeds up to 30 meters per minute, and incorporate up to four thermal inkjet printing heads. Other features include an 18.5-inch touchscreen for intuitive operation, a manual code reader for product identification and re-aggregation, adjustable rubber grips to accommodate various carton sizes, and a signaling column that monitors overall machine status.

High-speed Visual Inspection & Leak Detection of Liquids in Glass Containers

Antares Vision Group is also a market leader in automatic inspection solutions. At Pack Expo, the company will demonstrate an automatic Visual Rotating Inspection (VRI) system capable of inspecting up to 400 liquid-filled glass containers per minute. The machine combines sophisticated particle & cosmetic detection able to integrate with high voltage, vacuum, and headspace gas analysis (HSGA) technology-driven closure integrity verification at an exceptionally rapid production pace. 

The machine allows for the precise detection of cosmetic defects and particles and checks fill levels. The VRI unit can inspect liquids in a wide variety of viscosities, including water-like, oily, suspension, gel, emulsion, lyophilized, and powder products. Vials are also inspected for cosmetic defects such as crimping quality, flip-off color, neck-shoulder sidewalls, and stopper position. Molded glass and plastic containers also can be inspected for particles and cosmetic defects.  

Optional add-on features include code verification, optical character recognition (OCR)-optical character verification (OCR-OCV), and serialization incorporation.

A split-infeed screw setup provides smooth and reliable operation, preventing undesired stops and restarts. A main floating carousel with a torque motor-driven inspection platform allows ideal cleanability and single-point product handling (from the neck), providing a constraint-free optical setup and improving detection capabilities through enhanced Field of View (FOV) and Depth of Field (DOF). Guideless conveying utilizes vacuum-operated star wheels, minimizing container breakage risks and false rejects. Changeover for star wheels and grippers is approximately 30 minutes, thanks to a guided operations sequence that does not require mechanical adjustments. Inspection reconfiguration occurs intuitively according to recipe selection.

About Antares Vision Group 

Antares Vision Group is driving digitalization of products and supply chains by leading traceability, inspection, and integrated data management. AV Group helps companies and institutions to achieve safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability, enabling Trustparency®. 
DIAMIND, AV Group’s integrated ecosystem of solutions, simplifies the technology environment and supports business growth by enabling a data-driven and tailored journey to digital innovation. Connecting physical products with digital identities, DIAMIND runs at the line, factory, warehouse, enterprise, and supply chain levels and guarantees product quality (inspection systems and equipment) and end-to-end traceability (from raw materials to production, from distribution to the consumer and back) through integrated data management, applying artificial intelligence and potentially blockchain. 
AV Group operates in the Life Science (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and hospitals), Beverage, Food, Cosmetics, Chemicals, and Packaging industries and potentially many others. 
AV Group has been listed in STAR segment of Euronext since 14 May 2021. It has been included in the Euronext Tech Leaders index, dedicated to leading tech companies with high growth potential, since July 2022.
In 2022, Antares Vision Group recorded a turnover of €223 million. The Group operates in 60 countries, employs over 1,300 people, and has a consolidated network of over 40 international partners.
 

European tube market takes a break from growth 

The European tube market was somewhat weaker in the first half of 2024. The european tube manufacturers association (etma) reported a decline in deliveries of 1 per cent to a total volume of around 6 billion units.

The three tube types developed differently. While demand for aluminium and plastic tubes fell by around 2 percent, deliveries of laminate tubes increased by just under 2 percent. Looking at the individual sales markets, deliveries to the dental care, household and food sectors increased, while demand from the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors, which are stronger in terms of volume, declined.

‘Overall, tube producers have quickly adapted to the slight downturn of demand in the first half of 2024 and are satisfied with the steady average growth on a three-year basis. We have therefore returned to a degree of normality,’ emphasizes etma President Zoran Joksic.

Stabilisation of supply chains amid persistent bottlenecks in recycling materials

Compared to the coronavirus crisis, supply chains in the industry have now stabilised again. The availability of primary materials has improved significantly. However, given the tight supply situation, there is still fierce competition for high-quality recycled materials in order to fulfil customer requests for more recycled content in packaging.

‘For plastic packaging in particular, we need a further push for mechanical recycling facilities across Europe, a destigmatisation of chemical recycling for complex composites and predictable political guidelines so that the necessary investments in recycling capacities and closing the supply gap can be realised,’ says Joksic.

Better outlook for 2025

While the situation on the commodity and energy markets has eased further, the situation regarding labour costs and the availability of skilled workers remains tense. Inflation is on the decline, but consumers' spending mood remains subdued despite rising purchasing power.

‘The multiple crises worldwide are encouraging European consumers to stay prudent, even though the packaging industry has always proven to be very resilient in crisis times in the past. The current situation is not affecting the strategy of tube manufacturers who expect new growth for the year 2025,’ summarizes Joksic.
 

Reifenhäuser Group, a global leader in plastics extrusion technology, announces a significant expansion of its field service operations across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. Building on a longstanding presence in the region, which includes a sales office established in United Arab Emirates five years ago, Reifenhäuser is now taking a major step forward to enhance its local customer support and service capabilities.

With the establishment of a new Service Hub for the MEA, UAE and GCC regions Reifenhäuser encourages its strategy to strengthen comprehensive and responsive service solutions. The hub will include extended premises and the establishment of a highly specialized service team on site to encompass a full spectrum of field-engineering services, covering the installation of machinery, commissioning, and ongoing service support.

This expansion is driven by Reifenhäuser's commitment to being "Close to our customers," a philosophy that prioritizes proximity to customers to better understand and meet market demands. The new hub will enable Reifenhäuser to offer enhanced local support, ensuring faster problem resolution and improved accessibility for businesses operating in the MEA region. In line with this growth, Reifenhäuser has also expanded its facilities in Lagos (Nigeria), with plans to further expand its presence. The MEA market is recognized by Reifenhäuser as a very important and rapidly growing region.

Bharath Yalla, Managing Director of Reifenhäuser Middle East & Africa, commented on the expansion: "Our strong dedication to local markets is now embodied in UAE and Lagos. We promised, and we delivered. This is just the beginning of bringing our global expertise closer to our customer needs."

Bernd Reifenhäuser, CEO of Reifenhäuser Group, also remarked on the company's customer-focused approach: “We are committed to building lasting relationships with our customers, ensuring they receive the guidance and support necessary for effortless equipment start-ups and optimal operational efficiency.”

Reifenhäuser's investment in the MEA region underscores its commitment to delivering exceptional service and support, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in the plastics extrusion industry.

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.

A new white paper from Berry Global offers insights on how to balance the drive towards more sustainable industrial stretch films while delivering the required levels of performance and reliability for every application.

Businesses across all sectors are seeing increasing demand for more sustainable transit packaging. However, while this drive for sustainability is important, it is equally essential to acknowledge that stretch film’s primary function remains to provide load stability and protect against dust, dirt, and moisture.
 
The Berry white paper Selecting High-Performance, Sustainable Stretch Films – Key Considerations discusses some of the key factors that need to be addressed in the decision-making process and outlines other ways in which the design and production of stretch film can support a business’s sustainability goals. 

“True sustainability in any form of packaging requires a comprehensive holistic and product-focused approach,” said Gabriele Ditsch, Sales Director of Berry Global’s European Flexibles Division. 

“A so-called sustainable stretch film that fails to protect or transport the product effectively can end up causing greater environmental damage, not to mention serious cost implications, through spilt, lost and wasted product.”

“In addition to our white paper, which has been created to invite companies to approach the subject of sustainability with an open mind, we also offer our customers a comprehensive Stretch Film Analysis as part of our initial sales process to assist them in the making the right decision for their specific application.”

About Berry 
At Berry Global Group, Inc. (NYSE: BERY), we create innovative packaging solutions that we believe make life better for people and the planet. We do this every day by leveraging our unmatched global capabilities, sustainability leadership, and deep innovation expertise to serve customers of all sizes around the world. Harnessing the strength in our diversity and industry-leading talent of over 40,000 global employees across more than 250 locations, we partner with customers to develop, design, and manufacture innovative products with an eye toward the circular economy. The challenges we solve and the innovations we pioneer benefit our customers at every stage of their journey.
 

Acquisition expands the company's local footprint in Asia-Pacific and offers exciting new packaging solutions to customers worldwide

Berlin Packaging, the world's largest Hybrid Packaging Supplier®, announced today the acquisition of Nissho Jitsugyo Co., Ltd. (“Nissho”), a leading supplier of packaging products and services to diverse markets and regions across Japan.

Founded in 1965 in Osaka, Japan, Nissho offers a broad portfolio of packaging solutions to a diverse base of Japanese customers in local food & beverage, beauty, personal care, and healthcare markets. Built on 60 years of operational expertise and deep market knowledge, Nissho serves thousands of local customers from multiple locations across eastern, western, and southern Japan.

Nissho’s impressive suite of solutions features an array of glass and plastic packaging products sourced from a network of high-quality local manufacturers. Nissho also offers its customers valueadded services such as design and new product development, sourcing and procurement, warehousing, filling and assembly, and logistics management capabilities.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Nissho to Berlin Packaging. Nissho and Berlin share a common vision to provide exceptional service and support to local customers of all sizes while enhancing our relationships with supplier partners," said Bill Hayes, Berlin Packaging's Global CEO and President. "This is a highly strategic acquisition for Berlin that expands our presence in AsiaPacific and creates significant opportunities to better serve Japan-based customers through Berlin’s global packaging solutions."

"We are very proud to partner with Berlin Packaging, and we are excited to embark on a new chapter of success for Nissho. Through the combination of Nissho’s excellent customer service and Berlin’s industry-leading innovation, sustainability, and global supply chain capabilities, we will bring even greater value to our customers, suppliers, and employees," said Seiji Ikoma, Nissho's President.

All employees, management, 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, sustainability solutions, and logistics services for customers across all industries. Berlin Packaging brings together the best of manufacturing, distribution, and income-adding service providers. Its mission is to increase the net income of its customers through packaging products and services.

the packaging machine manufacturers Hastamat and LoeschPack will be presenting their innovations and latest technologies at the FACHPACK in Nuremberg. The subsidiaries of the Piepenbrock business group are leaders in the packaging sector, and will be showing their wide range at the European specialist trade fair for packaging, technology and processes together for the 13th time already – at the stand in hall 1-243.

At the trade fair stand, Hastamat will be showing its RM-270 vertical form, fill and seal machine to the specialist audience – for the first time with a doy style bag made of paper-based, recyclable material. "The packaging solutions from Hastamat and LoeschPack are versatile, innovative and ground-breaking. They cater for individual customer requirements, with reference to output, flexibility and sustainability, for instance", says Olaf Piepenbrock, Executive Partner of Hastamat, LoeschPack and the parent company Piepenbrock.

Flexible vertical form, fill and seal machine for all bag shapes

The RM-270 vertical form, fill and seal machine from the series of the same name by Hastamat impresses with its hygienic stainless steel construction. It packages numerous products flexibly and in accordance with customer requirements. Whether it's powdery, lumpy, pasty, liquid, brittle, stickshaped, fresh or frozen: The machine can be reset to the respective product in an instant. Different dosers and special applications can be easily integrated. The unit, made up of a machine enclosure and control cabinet, makes for straightforward machine housing and quick cleaning. The flexible high-speed packaging machine produces up to 220 bags per minute. In the process, it covers all formats and bag shapes. Even new, recyclable wrapping materials can be processed easily. The experts at Hastamat are looking forward to providing individual consultation at the trade fair stand.

Packaging solution tailored to customer requirement

LoeschPack will be showing a selection from the range of its sustainable packaging systems and compete packaging lines. Whether it's chocolate, biscuits and waffles, chewing gum and confectionery, pharmaceutical items, breakfast cereals and proteins bars or other food and non-food products: With the machine manufacturer's system solutions even sensitive products are packaged safely – from feeding to cartoning. The packaging solutions are just as individual as their requirement, designed to meet the needs of the customer. In addition, LoeschPack provides you with complete service around the globe.

About Loesch Verpackungstechnik

LoeschPack is one of the technological and innovative leaders when it comes to packaging machines and complete lines for packaging chocolate, chewing gum, confectionery, long-life bakery products, food and non-food. LoeschPack has been active in these dynamic sectors since 1919, standing for the highest quality demands, flexible and economically viable packaging line concepts and complete service with innovative service products available around the globe.

Part of company’s “GeoPack” product line, protein trays are compostable in industrial compost settings.

TekniPlex Consumer Products (TPCP), a globally integrated provider of innovative solutions through materials science and manufacturing technologies, has received certification from the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) for a compostable foam protein tray. Part of the company’s GeoPack range of sustainability-minded products, the protein tray has been officially designated as biodegradable in industrial compost settings. 

The protein tray recognized by BPI is composed of cellulose-based direct food-contact material, and is manufactured in the United States. Conveniently for meat, poultry and seafood brand owners, the GeoPack foamed tray represents a “drop-in” replacement for traditional polystyrene foam trays, as it is compatible with existing overwrap equipment commonly found within case ready packing environments. Additionally, these trays are suitable for use in less automated environments, such as in-store or “back of house” packing. 

TekniPlex Consumer Products’ GeoPack solutions meet defined sustainability criteria comprising varying combinations of materials science sustainability’s “4 Rs” – reduce, recycle, reuse and renew. Elements include biodegradable or compostable materials, post-consumer recycled content, recyclability, renewable substrates, and legislation compliance. The goal is to deliver solutions tailored toward customers’ sustainability metrics, including providing information on specific products’ environmental impact. Among other items, GeoPack solutions include molded fiber egg cartons and trays, molded fiber agricultural trays for produce, and recycled polyester (rPET) egg cartons comprised of 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content.

“When we look at the current market segments within TekniPlex’s Consumer Products division, sustainability means different things to various stakeholders,” said Chuck Gallagher, Vice President of New Product Development for TekniPlex. “For protein packaging, alternatives to polystyrene foam are limited compared to other segments. Packing protein at scale using fiber-based packages can be a challenge due to the wet packaging environment. Without necessitating substantial equipment investments, the GeoPack compostable tray introduces sustainability elements without sacrificing durability – a crucial factor for the case ready landscape 

About TekniPlex Consumer Products
TekniPlex Consumer Products specializes in advanced materials science solutions for companies in the food & beverage and CPG industries with a focus on protecting products, strengthening brands, and innovating sustainably. TekniPlex Consumer Products serves companies around the world in sectors including beauty and personal care, household items, and food & beverage.

With an expanding selection of material-diverse solutions – bolstered in recent years, by a series of strategic acquisitions – TekniPlex Consumer Products is leading the way creating next-generation packaging designs that address real-world challenges in the markets it serves. Most notably, the company is focused on developing more sustainable solutions that continue to provide product safety and consumer satisfaction.

Among other benefits, company’s new NITRODOSE® G3 SERVODOSER® can adjust liquid nitrogen flow rate without nozzle changeover. 

Vacuum Barrier Corporation, a leader in the design, engineering, and fabrication of liquid nitrogen dosing and piping systems, will demonstrate its newest high-speed liquid nitrogen dosing system at Pack Expo, November 3-6 in Chicago. At Booth  C-2516, the company will display its NITRODOSE® G3 SERVODOSER®, whose differentiators include adjusting the flow rate during discrete and continuous dispensing without changing nozzles.

An advanced dosing system designed for fast, precise delivery of low-pressure liquid nitrogen in beverage applications, the NITRODOSE® G3 SERVODOSER® allows manufacturers to adapt to their production needs without downtime. The seamlessly integrated system can handle up to 2,000 containers per minute (CPM) while offering exemplary dosing control. The NITRODOSE® system is used for non-carbonated beverages in plastic bottles or aluminum cans, where it adds rigidity to enhance structural integrity and durability.

Equipped with a seven-inch color touchscreen for intuitive operation, the NITRODOSE® G3 SERVODOSER® can deliver dosing durations as brief as 4 milliseconds and offers an accuracy of approximately +/-1% of dose weight.

The system also offers Clean in Place (CIP) protection, with an automatic cover that prevents moisture from entering the dosing head during the process, eliminating potential freeze-ups. The nozzle is designed to withstand high-pressure washdowns or harsh chemical cleanups. 

"The NITRODOSE® G3 SERVODOSER® represents a significant advancement in liquid nitrogen dosing technology," said Jim Fallon, International Sales Manager at Vacuum Barrier Corporation. "This system not only meets the high demands of beverage production but also offers unparalleled flexibility and efficiency.

About Vacuum Barrier Corporation 

Vacuum Barrier Corporation (VBC) is a leader in designing, engineering, and fabricating liquid nitrogen dosing and piping systems for various industries, including food & beverage, semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and biotech.  

Since 1958, the company has specialized in delivering tailored liquid nitrogen solutions, both custom and standard, to meet the unique requirements of its clients. As a one-stop source for complete system integration, Vacuum Barrier Corporation consistently upholds the highest safety and quality standards.
 

Company also will provide live demos of next-generation automatic filler-sealer for single-dose plastic vials, and showcase sustainability-minded blister packaging, as well as other film solutions.

TekniPlex Healthcare, which utilizes advanced materials science expertise to help deliver better patient outcomes, will emphasize its expertise and intellectual property related to single-use bioprocessing cell & gene therapy at CPHI Milan, October 8-10. At its Stand 20C2, the company will showcase portfolio examples for the rapidly expanding biologics sector, for which it supplies complementary solutions across upstream, downstream processing and final fill operations. Among other solutions, TekniPlex Healthcare now offers customizable barrier cleanroom films, tubing such as weldable TPE and TPV, silicone and PVC, and various compounds for associated molded components. 

TekniPlex Healthcare is a leader in the production and supply of tubing in a variety of configurations, grades and durometers for cell and gene therapy applications. Both single- and multi-lumen constructions are available, as are multilayer versions incorporating complementary materials for performance optimization.

For traditional bioprocess applications, TekniPlex Healthcare produces tight-tolerance biopharm-grade tubing constructions comprised of TPE, TPV and silicones. For each of its offerings, the company’s manufacturing prowess boasts extrusion across four continents, and covers all stages of the drug development process, from small batch production through scale-up and commercial quantities.

“The biologics sector is among pharma’s fastest growing niches, one with an expanding, ever-evolving need for high-quality materials and components suppliers capable of serving as true solutions partners,’ said Chris Qualters, CEO of TekniPlex Healthcare. “As we continue to build upon our concept-to-commercialization capabilities along with our capacity potential, we’re well positioned to address this sector’s needs through value-added solutions that help bring life-changing therapies to market.”

Also at CPHI Milan, TekniPlex Healthcare will provide live demonstrations of its latest filling and sealing machine for plastic containers. The Pentafill® A25 Filling & Sealing Machine offers several improvements over previous models, including improved sterility and a smaller footprint. 

The new model brings several advantages over its predecessor. In addition to the enhanced sterility afforded by fully automatic mechanisms, the machine does not require preheating with hot air, significantly mitigating any risk of compromising the filled product. The unit also has no central machine support, allowing for unobstructed laminar flow. Capable of producing up to 25 five-vial strips (125 vials total) per minute, the versatile unit is suitable for filling a wide range of viscosities for applications serving the pharmaceutical, diagnostics, nutraceuticals and animal health markets. 

Sustainability-minded blister packaging solutions

At CPHI Milan, TekniPlex Healthcare will showcase its range of more sustainable blister packaging solutions, all suitable for running on standard blister packaging machines. Most recently, the company introduced a pharma-grade blister film with 30% post-consumer recycled content (PCR) on a mass balance basis. The solution incorporates partner company Alpek Polyester’s Octal rDPET™ Sheet technology and, when combined with TekniPlex’s Teknilid® Push polyester lidding, yields a blister package recyclable wherever the polyester stream exists.

TekniPlex Healthcare also will exhibit the world’s first fully transparent recyclable mid-barrier blister package. Recyclable in geographies where the #5 (polypropylene) recycling stream is available, the mid-barrier blisters feature a polyolefin blister film paired with a barrier PP lidding film. When introduced last year, the solution marked the first time a formed blister + lidding combination with moisture barrier was certified as recyclable – a significant milestone. TekniPlex Healthcare also will exhibit a recyclable polyester mono-material blister + lidding combination, suitable for products that do not require barrier protection. 

Finally, TekniPlex Healthcare also will showcase its Flexapharm® SBC series of PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride) coated PVC structures, which offer exemplary barrier against oxygen and moisture. Also on display will be an array of Aclar® laminates designed to preserve the efficacy and shelf life of drugs with demanding environmental protection requirements. The company also will emphasize its expanded capabilities for producing blown film bags in clean rooms, including a recently incorporated multilayer line at its Belgium manufacturing facility.
 

About TekniPlex Healthcare
TekniPlex Healthcare utilizes advanced materials science expertise and technologies to develop and deliver critical solutions for medical and diagnostic devices, drug delivery systems and sterile barriers healthcare packaging applications. With a global reach, the division’s deep understanding of the greater pharmaceuticals and medical landscape helps it produce exemplary barrier properties for drugs and precision medical devices for interventional and therapeutic procedures. 

In the medical device niche, TekniPlex Healthcare embodies a comprehensive CDMO partner capable of servicing every stage of the product life cycle, from design and development through component manufacturing and final assembly. Throughout its broad purview, the division’s ever-evolving portfolio helps meet demands for high-leverage medicines and mission-critical healthcare products that benefit care providers and patients.

•    The company celebrates 75 years of pioneering growth and sustainability in 2024.
•    Nefab will present fiber-based, thermoformed circular packaging solutions and advanced logistics and digital services at FACHPACK 2024.
•    Find Nefab at booth 6-228 in hall 6 at FACHPACK 2024, Nuremberg, Germany, from the 24th to the 26th of September.

Nefab is set to make a strong impression at FACHPACK 2024, where it will showcase its latest innovations in sustainable packaging and digital solutions.  From award-winning fiber-based packaging to advanced thermoformed solutions and logistics and digital services, Nefab's offerings are designed to drive sustainability and efficiency across supply chains. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge solutions that not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance operational effectiveness, highlighting Nefab's commitment to creating a smarter, more sustainable future for the supply chain.
 
“Sustainability and digitalization are reshaping the packaging industry, and this transformation must be fueled by innovation. With 75 years of pioneering resource-saving solutions, Nefab is committed to leveraging our legacy to achieve a significant milestone: reducing 10 million tons of CO2-eq in customers supply chains by 2030.” said Rui Garrido, Executive Vice President, Europe, Middle East & Africa at Nefab.

Promoting recyclability with award-winning fiber-based solutions

Visitors at FACHPACK 2024 will be able to explore Nefab’s latest fiber-based packaging solutions, which highlight the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The internationally recognized EdgePak Collar is a lightweight alternative to wooden pallet collars in one-way flows. This innovative solution reduces CO2-eq emissions, landfill waste and transport costs. At the same time, the combination of corrugated collars, insertable strawboard corners and standard pallets provides the convenience and stacking strength of the traditional collar concept. In addition, Nefab will showcase its award-winning FiberFlute, a sustainable cushioning solution that delivers outstanding performance while being 100% paper-recyclable. Both solutions underline Nefab’s dedication to creating environmentally responsible packaging without compromising functionality.

Closing the loop with circular packaging solutions

Nefab will also present its circular thermoformed solutions, highlighting thermoformed trays and cushioning solutions. These sustainable plastic packaging applications are crafted from high recycled content and are designed to reduce the carbon footprint across the supply chain. Nefab’s thermoformed trays are highly customizable and protective, making them ideal for precision packaging in automated lines. Additionally, Nefab’s cushioning solutions offer superior protection while utilizing sustainable materials that can be recycled up to 50 times. Both solutions underscore Nefab's commitment to sustainability and circularity, providing innovative options for industries such as Automotive, Electronics, Telecom, and Aerospace.

Digital & Logistics solutions to optimize supply chains

At FACHPACK, Nefab will also feature its advanced Digital & Logistics Services, which are designed to optimize supply chains and enhance operational efficiency. Applied in three turnkey solution areas: returnable packaging management, high-value assets management, and installation management, these services are technology-agnostic, allowing for seamless integration of over 90 different devices across all major network technologies. By providing real-time data and comprehensive visibility, Nefab's digital offerings help customers to manage their assets more effectively, to reduce environmental impact, and to lower total costs, contributing to a smarter and more sustainable future. To further enhance sustainability, Nefab's GreenCalc Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) tool quantifies supply chains' environmental and financial savings, supporting customers in making informed decisions to reduce their carbon footprint and total costs. Finally, visitors can immerse themselves in a 3D model of an authentic warehouse designed to showcase how we optimize efficiency tailored to our customers' unique needs.

To learn more, visit Nefab’s booth no. 6-228 in hall 6 at FACHPACK 2024 in Nuremberg, Germany, from September 24th to 26th.

We save resources in supply chains for a better tomorrow.
ABOUT NEFAB

Nefab saves environmental and financial resources by optimizing supply chains. We do this by innovating together with our customers to create smarter packaging and logistics solutions while always respecting people and high ethical standards. This contributes to a better tomorrow for our customers, for society and for the environment. 
With more than 75 years of experience combined with competence and presence in more than 38 countries, we offer global solutions and local service worldwide to companies in industries such as Telecom, Datacom, Semicon, Energy, Healthcare, Mining & Construction, and LiB & E-mobility. Nefab Group has over 4900 employees spread across 38 countries, with a yearly turnover of 10.3 BSEK. The owners are the Nordgren/Pihl family and FAM AB, a privately owned holding company within the Wallenberg Ecosystem.