Issuu

EDITRICE ZEUS SRL - Via Cesare Cantù, 16, 20831 - SEREGNO (MB) - Tel. +39 0362 244182 -0362 244186 - www.editricezeus.com - Trimestrale Tariffa R.O.C.: Poste Italiane spa - Spedizione in abbonamento postale - D.L. 353/2003 (conv. in L. 27/02/2004 n.46) art. 1, comma 1, DCB Milano TAXE PERCUE (tassa riscossa) Uff. Milano CMP/2 Roserio - ISSN 1827-4102

international YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER N°3-2026

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COA2.0

Visit Us in Booth #LU-8335

Booth K002 hall 2

www.minimotor.com

08/07/26 10:41

WIR MACHEN ZUKUNFT WE CREATE THE FUTURE Join us

SAVE THE DATE 21. – 23.9.2O27

NÜRNBERG, GERMANY FACHPACK.DE

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EUROPÄISCHE FACHMESSE FÜR VERPACKUNG, TECHNIK UND PROZESSE EUROPEAN TRADE FAIR FOR PACKAGING, TECHNOLOGY AND PROCESSING

14/04/26 04.11.25 13:59 14:29

SEE YOU AT:

BOOTH S-2501

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Visit coesia.com to discover more!

28/09/26 11:00

JOIN US AT PACK EXPO BOPP, BOPET, BOPE, and CPP Films

Booth W-50104, West Hall October 18-21, 2026

FASTEST GROWING PACKAGING FILMS MANUFACTURER

ONE WINDOW FLEXIBLE PACKAGING SOLUTION FOR BOPP, BOPE, BOPET & CPP FILMS

Pioneer IN 5-LAYER BOPP TECHNOLOGY IN PAKISTAN

McCormick Place Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Incepted in 2015 and started commercial production in 2017, International Packaging Films Limited together with its subsidiaries, Cast Packaging Films (Private) Limited (CPAK), Petpak Films (Private) Limited (PETPAK), and Global Packaging Films Limited (GPAK), holds a strong nationwide footprint, making it the largest integrated flexible packaging films manufacturing group in Pakistan. Since 2023, IPAK has strengthened its international footprint through IPAK CONNECT in Dubai, and now IPAK EUROPE in Portugal to serve regional and European markets. Together, they connect IPAK with global markets, facilitating the international business opportunities, strengthening customer relationships, and fostering long-term partnerships across geographies. IPAK is a leading manufacturer of flexible packaging films, trusted by brands and customers in over 40 countries. Through precision, consistent quality and sustainable innovation, we deliver packaging that meets today's needs and tomorrow's challenges.

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06/10/26 10:02

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YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

FOCUS PACK EXPO

40-41 IMA SPA INSIDE Pharma Discover our all-inone solutions for the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors.

HANDLING SYSTEMS

56-57 M.H. MATERIAL HANDLING SPA Activated Ball Sorter: a versatile solution for packaging.

SONIA V. MAFFIZZONI Editorial Manager For years, packaging performance was measured mainly in packs per minute. Today, the real challenge is how quickly a production line can adapt to change. This is particularly evident in the U.S. market, where growing product variety, shorter runs and labour shortages are reshaping investment priorities. At the same time, new packaging formats and sustainability requirements are pushing manufacturers towards more flexible systems, capable of handling different materials without compromising quality or efficiency. Robotics, smart automation and connected technologies are becoming essential, from inspection to end-of-line operations. In a market where every investment must deliver measurable value, competitiveness increasingly depends not only on speed, but on the ability to combine adaptability, reliability and sustainability.

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Quarterly magazine dedicated to the world of packaging. Registration: Court of Monza no. 5. Reg. Stampa of 22/12/2020. Rivista trimestrale dedicata al mondo del packaging. Registrazione: Tribunale di Monza al N. 5 Reg. Stampa dal 22/12/2020. Editorial management and registered office: Via Cesare Cantù, 16 20831 Seregno (MB) - Italy Tel. +39 0362 244182 / +39 0362 244186 web site: www.editricezeus.com e-mail: redazione@editricezeus.com portal: www.packaging-mag.com

12/10/26 14:12

SOME CONTENTS PACKAGING

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

58/60 MAKRO LABELLING SRL Intelligent choice.

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION

62-63 MINI MOTOR SPA CoA 2.0: Mini Motor revolutionizes packaging with wireless format changeover.

PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL is the international magazine for the packaging industry year VII - 3-2026 Packaging International Europe: single issue: Euro 25 Annual (four issues): Euro 90 Outside Europe: single issue: US$ 30 Annual (four issues): US$ 109 Subscription payment can be made in the name of Editrice Zeus srl, by bank money transfer or cheque.

SOMMARIO PI 3-26-inglese.indd 3

Amministrazione: amministrazione@editricezeus.com

editorial manager: S.V. Maffizzoni redazione@editricezeus.com

project and layout design creative dep.

editorial production: Sonia Bennati bennati@editricezeus.com account dep. manager:

translations: Zeus Agency

ZEUS Agency grafica@editricezeus.com

printing: Zeus Agency

12/10/26 14:12

a chat with

Sonia Bennati

INTERVIEWS and STORIES that tell INNOVATION

CABKA: REUSABLE TRANSPORT PACKAGING FOR CIRCULAR SUPPLY CHAINS Edited by SONIA V. MAFFIZZONI BENNATI

Circularity, durability and compliance are increasingly influencing the development of transport packaging. At interpack 2026, held last May in Düsseldorf, Cabka presented its approach to reusable load carriers, based on recycled materials, long service life and end-of-life recyclability. We spoke with Alexander Masharov, CEO of Cabka, about plastic pallets, CabCubes and the role of circularity in modern supply chains. _______ Cabka is strongly associated with recycling and circularity. What does this mean in practice? Cabka is at the forefront of everything related to circularity, recyclability and reusability in the supply chain. We mainly supply pallets and CabCubes for transporting goods. Our products come from six factories around the world and most of our pallets are manufactured using around 90% recycled materials. This is an important part of our approach to circularity, together with a model based on selling, servicing and buying back. What are the main differences between a wooden pallet and a plastic pallet? One of the main differences is durability. Plastic pallets are stronger and can 6

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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withstand more transport cycles than wooden pallets. At the end of their useful life, after hundreds of transport movements or pooling cycles, they can be recycled and the material used to produce a new pallet. Cabka has been operating for around 30 years. Which markets and industries do you serve today? We were established in Europe, but today we operate globally, including in the United States. Our customers include companies from the automotive and pharmaceutical industries, pooling operators and, more generally, any business that needs to transport goods on a pallet or inside a CabCube. Are customers looking beyond the product itself today? Definitely. Today, it is not only the product that matters. Companies also want to be ready for circularity and for new legislation such as the PPWR. It is no longer simply a matter of asking for a pallet and a price. Customers want to make sure they are compliant and that the product has the right quality and performance to meet their transport requirements. What role did interpack 2026 play for Cabka? interpack gave us the opportunity to speak directly with customers and meet them one-to-

CABKA - intervista sonia - PI 3-26.indd 3

Alexander Masharov CEO of Cabka

one. It is also well located in terms of attracting visitors. We had some very busy days there. I cannot disclose the number of leads generated, but overall it was a good show in terms of the prospects we expect to develop. For Cabka, circularity therefore goes beyond the use of recycled materials: it also means extending product life through durability and reuse, and recycling the material at the end of the product’s lifecycle.

Visit: www.cabka.com

09/10/26 08:01

FOCUS: PACK EXPO

ELETTROMECCANICA BONATO: BRINGING RELIABLE STATIC CONTROL EQUIPMENT FROM ITALY TO GLOBAL MARKETS

n the world of industrial manufacturing, operational reliability is never accidental. It is the direct result of deep technical expertise, continuous research, and the ability to evolve alongside the complex needs of modern industries. This philosophy perfectly reflects the corporate identity of Elettromeccanica Bonato, an Italian company that has successfully transformed decades of field experience into a modern, highly respected, and internationally operating industrial partner.

built a solid global reputation for delivering advanced antistatic solutions engineered to optimize production line quality, minimize costly machine downtime, and substantially enhance workplace safety standards.

Founded in 1978 in the Veneto region of Italy, the company specializes in the custom design and high-precision manufacturing of equipment dedicated to controlling and neutralizing static electricity. Over nearly five decades of activity, Elettromeccanica Bonato has

While static electricity might appear to be a secondary operational nuisance, its tangible impact on highspeed automated production can be considerable. Uncontrolled electrostatic charges frequently lead to persistent dust attraction, unwanted material adhesion,

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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IT IS TIME TO TAKE CONTROL OF

STATIC

Static electricity is a problem only until you discover how to control it. And it can even become your best ally with the right equipment in your hands.

“IDB-7” 24Vdc short-range antistatic bar

Visit our booth LU-8427 in the Italian Pavilion

Via Timonchio 1 36010 Carrè (VI) Italy +39 (0)445 368178 info@elettromeccanicabonato.it www.elettromeccanicabonato.it

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

unexpected machine stoppages, severe surface defects, and even hazardous spark discharges in flammable processing environments. Across key manufacturing sectors-including textiles, plastics, printing, packaging, converting, labeling, and industrial painting-these challenges directly jeopardize overall operational efficiency, product consistency, and manufacturing profitability. Elettromeccanica Bonato addresses these critical production bottlenecks through a specialized, engineeringdriven approach. The company’s comprehensive product portfolio encompasses high-efficiency antistatic bars, ionizing blowers, air guns, precise nozzles, powerful electrostatic generators, dedicated power supply units, durable carbon fiber brushes, and fully customized static control systems specifically tailored to unique machine configurations.

A major competitive advantage of Elettromeccanica Bonato resides in its proven capacity to deliver custommade engineering solutions. Rather than offering purely standardized catalog items, the company collaborates directly with clients to analyze specific operating conditions, identify root causes, and select the most effective technology for each scenario, backed by highly responsive and expert technical support. Driven by continuous investments in R&D alongside an expanding international network of authorized agents and distributors, Elettromeccanica Bonato guarantees durable, high-performing electrostatic systems worldwide. Combining technological innovation with human expertise, the company reinforces its standing as an essential global partner for industrial static control. www.elettromeccanicabonato.it

SECTORS PACKAGING LABELING PLASTICS

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

FP 100 HP: HIGH-SPEED PAPER SEALING BY TECNO PACK

ecno Pack continues its tradition of research and development, with an ever-increasing focus on energy savings and the shift towards fully sustainable packaging. The 2025 edition of the international IPACK-IMA trade fair marked the debut of the flagship model among horizontal flow pack packaging machines: the FP 100 HP BOX MOTION 520. This new model has been specifically designed to ensure perfect sealing on paper, even at high speeds, delivering smooth and linear operation while elimi-

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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nating the typical challenges associated with similar applications. The FP 100 HP BOX MOTION 520 is the result of extensive optimization efforts, significantly enhancing both the reel drive system and the longitudinal and transversal sealing groups. The transversal sealing unit features an innovative box motion system with extended sealing time, capable of delivering adjustable sealing pressure up to 600 kg per square centimeter, even at the highest operating speeds. The film unwinding mechanism benefits from precision regulation, fully automated and supported by load cells. These ensure consistent film feed to the longitudinal sealing group under all conditions - from startup to top speed, during in-cycle adjustments, restart phases, and automatic reel changes. The longitudinal sealing unit, consisting of four pairs of wheels, features exclusive micrometric adjustments designed for paper sealing, accommodating varying thicknesses and material consistencies.

the FP 100 HP BOX MOTION 520 producing perfectly sealed paper packages at high speed (up to 160 packs per minute), appreciating the machine’s operational smoothness — a top-level performance maintained effortlessly at cruising speed. Tecno Pack is fully prepared to meet the new challenges of industrialization in primary flow pack packaging, offering a thoroughly tested, reliable solution aligned with the demands of today’s market. www.tecnopackspa.it

SECTORS LABELING CODING COSMETICS

At the Tecno Pack Group booth during IPACK-IMA 2025, visitors witnessed

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

SMARTSOLVE AND ALLIEDFLEX ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC COLLABORATION TO ADVANCE SUSTAINABLE FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

LLIEDFLEX® Technologies, Inc., Sarasota, FL, a leading North American supplier of flexible packaging machinery and integrated packaging solutions, and SmartSolve, an innovator in water-soluble and environmentally responsible packaging materials, have announced a strategic collaboration to advance sustainable flexible packaging solutions. The collaboration brings together ALLIEDFLEX’s expertise in flexible packaging machinery—pouch, sachet, stick pack and stand-up pouch packaging, filling and sealing technologies, and packaging system integration—with SmartSolve’s portfolio of water-soluble packaging materials. Together, the two companies will work to develop and commercialize practical packaging solutions that combine advanced flexible packaging materials with proven packaging machinery and automation—helping brand owners move sustainable packaging concepts from development into commercial production. Turning Sustainable Packaging Innovation into Production Reality Consumer packaged goods companies face growing pressure to reduce packaging waste, minimize dependence on conventional materials, and develop formats

RISOLUZIONE NON ADATTA

that support ambitious sustainability objectives. Regulations such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) are accelerating that shift. But introducing a new material is only part of the challenge. For sustainable packaging innovation to reach meaningful commercial adoption, new materials must run reliably and efficiently on production-scale packaging equipment. That is where the ALLIEDFLEX–SmartSolve collaboration creates a compelling opportunity. “The packaging industry doesn’t simply need new sustainable materials. It needs sustainable materials that can be successfully commercialized. Our collaboration with SmartSolve brings material innovation and packaging machinery expertise together so we can help customers move from an exciting concept to a practical, scalable packaging solution.” Dennis Calamusa, President & CEO of ALLIEDFLEX Meet Both Companies at PACK EXPO International 2026 ALLIEDFLEX® and SmartSolve will both be exhibiting at PACK EXPO International, October 18–21, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago: • SmartSolve Industries — West Hall, Booth W-18110, Containers and Materials Pavilion • ALLIEDFLEX — South Building, Booth S-4137 www.alliedflex.com

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

GSP - PACKAGING MACHINES AND AUTOMATIC PACKAGING SYSTEMS

eneral System Pack builds and supplies packaging machines and automatic packaging systems, distinguishing itself with its advanced technology and extremely high quality standards.

GSP 50 EVO

The packaging lines produced by General System Pack are electronically managed, extremely sturdy, durable, and simple to operate and are built adopting solutions that aim to meet the most stringent ergonomic and hygienic demands. The wide range of models which General System Pack offers provide excellent flow pack solutions for every packaging sector, including automatic feeders and end-of-line equipment, ranging from controlled atmosphere to high speed, all the way to maximum levels of automation. The packaging lines offered are the best solutions for small and medium enterprises that wish to provide industrial-style packaging for their products.

GSP 65 BB

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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GSP 75 EVO

in the film. It is the perfect solution for increasing the shelf life of food products, while also providing a bag that is aesthetically pleasing and able to provide good mechanical protection to the contents. GSP 50 EVO: Highly technological horizontal electronic packaging machine: a fast, easy-touse, and versatile machine that is capable of combining high technology and an excellent quality-price ratio. Visit: www.gsp.it The following are several examples of packaging machines and automatic series:

GSP -PI 3-26.indd 4

GSP 55 EVO: Electronic packaging machine, versatile and reliable, extremely flexible when it comes to changes in format, perfect for food and non-food products, for both single servings and multi-packages. It is characterised by a cantilevered structure and ease of accessibility, as well as its hygienic standards, simple maintenance, and built-in safety.

SECTORS

GSP 65 BB: Horizontal electronic packaging machine for long term heat sealing, designed to create hermetic bags in a controlled atmosphere for products that are more challenging to transport or that require extreme caution and zero shocks during transport and insertion

BIOMEDICAL

FOOD

HARDWARE

07/07/26 15:17

FOCUS: PACK EXPO

CAMOZZI AUTOMATION: INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE PACKAGING

Series FSX Flow Sensor: Ideal for monitoring both the machine’s overall air consumption and critical areas, helping improve efficiency and reduce waste.

s packaging operations evolve, manufacturers face increasing demands for flexibility, productivity, safety, and energy efficiency. With an integrated portfolio of pneumatic, electric and mechatronic solutions, Camozzi Automation supports machine builders in developing high-performance packaging systems for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Camozzi Automation supports every stage of the packaging process, from primary packaging to end-of-line handling. In primary packaging, where components may come into direct contact with food, compliance with stringent hygiene and safety regulations is essential. The company addresses these requirements with foodcontact-compliant components, certified seals and NSF H1 lubricants, together with stainless steel and certified

SECTORS PACKAGING AUTOMATION PHARMACEUTICAL FOOD & BEVERAGE

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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OPTIMIZING YOUR PACKAGING PROCESS Safer. Better. Faster.

Electromechanical cylinders Series 3E with integrated drive Series DRVI Reduce setup times and increase the operational efficiency of your processes.

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO veloped specifically for food and vending applications— including coffee machines— these fittings provide a highperformance alternative to stainless steel, combining outstanding thermal resistance with long service life. To further improve machine efficiency and reliability, the Series FSX flow sensor continuously monitors compressed air consumption up to 10,000 l/min, enabling precise energy control and supporting sustainability objectives. Across every stage of the packaging process, Camozzi Automation Series 3E Compact Electromechanical Cylinders: also integrates predictive combined with Series DRVI integrated field-oriented control drive. maintenance and machine safety solutions, including Series D valve islands technopolymer fittings that ensure reliability, durability, with CoilVision technology for real-time valve monitoring as well as SafeMax safety valves designed for and long-term operational safety. seamless integration with Series MX and MD air In secondary packaging, where rapid product changeo- preparation units. By combining certified components, vers have become a key productivity factor, precision advanced monitoring technologies and application experand flexibility are critical. The combination of the Series tise, Camozzi Automation helps machine builders deveDRVI drive and the Series 3E electric cylinder lop packaging systems that maximize productivity, simplify delivers fast, accurate positioning, significantly reducing integration, ensure regulatory compliance and are ready setup times while improving Overall Equipment Effecti- to meet the evolving demands of global markets. veness (OEE). These electromechanical solutions enable manufacturers to increase operational flexibility without it.automation.camozzi.com compromising precision or production speed. The same focus on performance extends to tertiary packaging, where demanding production rates require robust and reliable handling systems. Camozzi Automation offers a complete range of gripping systems, vacuum technologies, and long-stroke handling solutions available in both pneumatic and electric versions. Engineered for continuous operation, these technologies provide the robustness and consistency needed for high-throughput production environments.

Series D Valve Island: Multipole and Fieldbus versions.

Compliance remains one of the company’s key strengths. Camozzi Automation components meet major international standards, including FDA requirements and EC Regulation 1935/2004 (MOCA), ensuring suitability for food processing applications worldwide. The portfolio is also expanding with a new generation of PPSU fittings capable of operating at temperatures up to 140°C. De20

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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Automating tape application in your packaging! X-TREME LIGHT 700 and 1000 Single and double-sided tape application machines for flat substrates up to 700mm or 1000mm wide and 10mm thick.

Maximum application speed

Maximum installable applicators

Blackbox

To integrate one of our standard applicators on a folder-gluer or into a production line.

X-TREME PRO e-commerce

Configuration of our X-TREME PRO to apply double-sided and tear tape in one step for e-commerce “close-open” - “close-open-reclose” tape configurations.

Maximum installable applicators

Maximum application speed

FOAM TAPE

FINGERLIFT

SINGLE AND DOUBLE-SIDED ADHESIVE TAPE

Our applicators are able to apply various types of adhesive tape, not only standard but also customised.

TISSUE TAPE

www.enimac.it TEARTAPE

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MADE IN ITALY

14/04/23 10:02 10:44

FOCUS: PACK EXPO

ENIMAC ISN’T JUST ANOTHER SPECIAL-PURPOSE MACHINE DESIGN COMPANY

nimac founded in 2013 and located in Italy just, outside of Milan, designs, manufactures and sells standard tape application machines, custom tape application solutions, and tape applicators for integration into production lines or other machines that require an added tape application process. The company helps customers accurately apply tape where needed, increase productivity, save external costs, and free internal personnel from taping for more value-added activities. It has clients in over 30 countries from the Americas to Europe and Asia and has distributors in several countries and also sells direct. Its standard products apply tape to many products – envelopes, posters, pocket folders, FSDUs, wobblers, frames, cardboard sheets, PVC strips, aluminum sheets, etc. Enimac currently has three standard machine models for small, medium and large formats. Key characteristics of their applicators include: • All applicators are individually programmable. • Fully electronic with no need for compressed air. • Easily read and apply tape to white, colored, black, transparent and die-cut substrates of many materials including paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, glass, etc. • Apply many different types of tape with the same applicator • Can apply more than one strip of tape with the same applicator In addition to the standard products Enimac has also delivered solutions with 2- & 3-axis

cartesian systems, pick & place technology, and is developing a Cobot solution. The company serves many industries including packaging, automotive, medical, and appliances among others. Being part of a tape converting group Enimac advises clients on tapes that are right for their application and its machines and also develops solutions that are perfectly adapted to a particular tape and/or substrate. Enimac is not just another special purpose machine design company. It has tape in its DNA. www.enimac.it/en

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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It has tape in its DNA Tape Application Made Easy

SECTORS FOOD COSMETIC PHARMACEUTICAL

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CAMA NORTH AMERICA RETURNS TO PACK EXPO INTERNATIONAL 2026

ama, a global supplier of secondary packaging machines, is excited to announce its return to PACK EXPO International in Chicago, Illinois, from October 18-21st. Cama will showcase how advanced automation, robotics and sustainable packaging solutions are helping manufacturers respond to evolving market demands. Visitors to Cama’s Booth N-5146 will have the opportunity to view several of our most advanced technology solutions in action, each engineered to address today’s manufacturing challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. A key attraction will be the MTL Monobloc Top Loader, one of CAMA’s flagship technologies, designed to combine advanced robotics, ergonomics and intelligent machine design. This integrated system combines carton erection, product grouping, carton filling, and carton closing within a unified machine footprint

- a level of integration that simplifies line layout and reduces the complexity of synchronizing multiple separate machines. Designed with operators in mind, the MTL combines high performance with enhanced ergonomics. Improved accessibility, better process visibility and optimized material handling simplify operation and maintenance activities, helping manufacturers increase productivity while creating a safer and more comfortable working environment. At the heart of the MTL is CAMA’s in-house-developed robotic platform. The machine combines six RB002 delta robots with the latest RB003 carbon-fiber robot to deliver high-speed, high-precision, product handling. By developing its robotics technology internally, CAMA ensures seamless integration, enhanced reliability and long-term performance, while the advanced carbon-fiber construc-

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tion of the RB003 supports faster cycle times and greater operational efficiency. In addition to the MTL, visitors to the booth will be able to explore our Automatic Carton Loader, designed to automate the loading of carton blanks into magazines. The ACL eliminates a repetitive manual task, helping manufacturers improve efficiency, maintain consistent machine performance and reduce operator workload. Attendees can also discover onsite Cama’s Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) for internal logistics, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for packaging automation. Together, these technologies demonstrate how CAMA looks beyond the single machine, helping manufacturers connect equipment, processes and services into a more efficient and future-ready production model. Whether supporting greenfield projects, line upgrades or automation retrofits, CAMA focuses on delivering measurable improvements in productivity, reliability and overall equipment effectiveness.

This partnership-driven approach will be showcased at a dedicated CAMA Pro-Service area on the stand, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their packaging operations. Through a comprehensive portfolio of services, CAMA helps customers protect their investment, extend equipment life and maintain high levels of operational efficiency. Visitors are invited to meet Cama’s global team of packaging automation experts at Booth N-5146 to discuss current challenges, future projects and new opportunities to improve efficiency, flexibility and sustainability across their operations. www.camagroup.com

SECTORS PACKAGING FOOD - NO FOOD PHARMACEUTICAL

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THE VOICE OF

the market

IPAK: DRIVING INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY IN FLEXIBLE PACKAGING by Muhammad Ali Mirza Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at IPAK Group

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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IPAK is strengthening its global presence through advanced film technologies, recyclable packaging solutions and continued investment in innovation and sustainability.

The flexible packaging industry is facing growing demands for performance, recyclability and innovation. Since starting production in 2017, IPAK has expanded its manufacturing capacity, diversified its film portfolio and strengthened its international presence. Muhammad Ali Mirza, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at IPAK Group, shares his perspective on evolving market needs, sustainable materials and the strategies driving the Group’s international growth.

nationwide footprint, making it the largest integrated flexible packaging films manufacturing group in Pakistan. Since 2023, IPAK has strengthened its international footprint through IPAK CONNECT in Dubai, and now IPAK EUROPE in Portugal to serve regional and European markets. Together, they connect IPAK with global markets, facilitating the international business opportunities, strengthening customer relationships, and fostering long-term partnerships across geographies.

IPAK has grown rapidly in the packaging films industry. How has the company evolved, and what has driven this development? Incepted in 2015, IPAK started commercial production in 2017 and has since scaled to a capacity of 150,000 metric tons a year. Three things drove that growth: sustained investment in modern, high-speed production lines, a focus on consistent quality that customers can rely on, and clear understanding of what customers need.

How has your product portfolio evolved to meet the changing needs of the packaging market? IPAK offers a diversified product portfolio including BOPP, BOPET, BOPE and CPP films, enabling one-window packaging solutions for both domestic and international markets. Powered by cutting edge technology, including its state-of-the-art 10,400m co-extruded BOPP production line from Brückner Maschinenbau (Germany), the Group stands as a trusted partner to leading FMCGs, industrial manufacturers, and exportoriented enterprises.

International Packaging Films Limited, together with its subsidiaries, Cast Packaging Films (Private) Limited (CPAK), Petpak Films (Private) Limited (PETPAK), and Global Packaging Films Limited (GPAK), holds a strong

The biggest shift is sustainability. The rise of recyclable mono-material films and PCR-based innovations, such as our Zeest and Tarmim ranges, playing a crucial role

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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THE VOICE OF

the market in meeting the stringent requirements of regulations like PPWR. These films are designed for high recyclability, reducing reliance on multi-layer structures that are difficult to recycle. These innovations address the dual goals of enhancing sustainability and aligning with evolving regulatory demands, making them indispensable for the future of the packaging industry. Sustainability is increasingly shaping the flexible packaging industry. How is IPAK responding through its products and manufacturing strategy? Under the Tajdid brand, we are presenting innovative sustainable packaging solutions ‘Zeest,’ our recycled resinbased films and ‘Tarmim’ redesign range. These solutions align with global sustainability regulations and achieve compliance to help our clients meet recyclability and waste reduction goals while supporting a circular economy. we hold ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications, and our ISCC Plus certification supports traceable, circular solutions. We are also members of RecyClass and CEFLEX, which keeps our development aligned with global designfor-recycling guidelines. Our BOPP, BOPET plants, and metallizing units are partially powered by an 8 MW solar energy system, generating around 63,500 kWh, which directly supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by reducing reliance on nonrenewable energy. This shift avoided 25 tCO2 emissions, contributing to our goal of lowering carbon footprints,

while also reducing diesel and natural gas consumption by 2,455 gallons and 500,000 cubic feet, respectively. Additionally, our waste heat recovery system avoided 154 tCO2, bringing total emissions down from 1,274 tCO2 to 1,120 tCO2, a significant step toward mitigating climate change. With a strong portfolio across BOPP, BOPET, BOPE, and CPP films, and global outreach through IPAK Connect & IPAK Europe, we are committed to leading the way in sustainable packaging. Looking ahead, what are IPAK’s main priorities for growth, innovation, and international expansion? On growth, we will keep expanding capacity and enhance service levels for existing customers. On innovation, our priority is recyclable, mono-material-ready films and that deliver the functional performance brands expect, developed hand in hand with customers collaborations. To strengthen our redesign portfolio, soon we are coming up with new proprietary extrusion technology enabling us to offer ultra-high barrier AlOx coated clear and metallized BOPP films, Retort grade. Internationally, we already export to over 40 countries, and we intend to expand our market footprints, strengthen relationships in global markets. PACK EXPO International is an important step in that journey, and we invite visitors to meet us at Booth W-50104. www.ipak.com.pk

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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PROVEN INNOVATION

High-performance ALritma labelling head: • • • • • • • •

Modular structure with swiveling components. High-torque stepper motor. Unwinder with expansion locking system. Rewinder with collapsible device for easy liner removal. Harsh-environment kit: IP55 protection, stainless steel bearings. Separate IP55 fanless control box. Microprocessor control for high accuracy at variable speed. 7” multilingual touchscreen panel with 100 recipes and Industry 4.0 connectivity.

Innovation or conservation? These philosophies are apparently opposite and irreconcilable. The former promises superior performance and new features. The latter guarantees the reliability and practicality typical of tried and tested solutions. ALTECH is committed to both innovation and conservation in our labelling machines. Each of them contains the most innovative technologies, but it is also the result of design reﬁnements based on 30,000 acceptance tests. Thanks to such technical expertise, we are able to state that every labeller we oﬀer is not only state-of-the-art, but it is also user-friendly, functional, and reliable. An example? Our ALritma labelling head.

ALTECH Srl

Viale de Gasperi, 70 20008 Bareggio (MI) - Italy Tel. +39 02 90363464 info@altech.it

www.altech.it

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07/07/26 12:09

FOCUS: PACK EXPO

ALTECH TO SHOWCASE ITS MOST INNOVATIVE INDUSTRIAL LABELING SOLUTIONS at PACK EXPO International 2026 in Chicago

t PACK EXPO International 2026, one of the world’s leading trade shows for packaging and processing technologies, ALTECH, the Italian company specializing in the design and manufacture of industrial labeling systems, will exhibit at Booth W 36052 - West Hall - Package Printing Pavilion.

The company’s participation confirms its strong international focus and provides an excellent opportunity to present its latest technologies for automatic labeling, printand-apply systems, and product identification solutions for industry. In 2026, ALTECH celebrates 35 years of business, reaffirming its expertise in the design and manufacture of industrial labeling systems entirely made in Italy. Every machine is engineered to deliver outstanding

SECTORS PACKAGING LABELLING FOOD - NO FOOD

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO build quality, reliability, modularity, and a high degree of customization, ensuring seamless integration into modern packaging lines. The robust mechanical construction, featuring high-strength alloys and stainless steel, combined with electronic and pneumatic components supplied by leading international manufacturers, guarantees excellent performance, precise label application, and continuous operation even in the most demanding industrial environments. During the exhibition, ALTECH will showcase some of the flagship solutions from its product range. ALritma, the latest-generation automatic labeling head, will be presented in its stand-alone configuration, ideal for integration into high-speed automatic production lines. ALline C will perform live demonstrations of wrap-around labeling on cylindrical containers using an innovative three-roll system that ensures outstanding accuracy and reliability, even at high operating speeds.

For top and bottom labeling applications, ALbelt will be on display, equipped with the ALritma T unit for the automatic printing and application of labels with variable data. Completing the exhibition will be ALcode, the Print & Apply system designed for the real-time printing and application of labels featuring barcodes, QR codes, variable data, and traceability information an increasingly essential solution for today’s manufacturing and logistics operations. ALTECH’s technical and sales specialists will be available throughout the exhibition to present the company’s labeling solutions and discuss customized projects tailored to the specific requirements of a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and logistics. PACK EXPO International 2026 - Chicago ALTECH Booth W 36052 - West Hall - Package Printing Pavilion www.altech.it

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

CLEVERTECH: SMARTER PALLETIZING, SMARTER PRODUCTION

levertech is a leading manufacturer of packaging machinery headquartered in Reggio Emilia, Italy. With a strong global footprint, the company operates manufacturing facilities in the United States, including its Fort Myers, Florida site, where Clevertech North America employs more than 50 people and serves as a key reference hub for the entire Clevertech Group. Further sales, service and manufacturing operations are located in China and India, supported by service hubs worldwide, ensuring an extensive presence across all continents. Clevertech’s approach to today’s industrial challenges is based on the engineering of complete production lines. The company operates both in brownfield environments, upgrading and optimizing existing plants and lines, and in greenfield projects, covering the entire production flow from processing through to warehousing.

SECTORS PALLETIZING AUTOMATION DIGITAL FACTORY

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PRODUCTS HANDLING AND PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

This distinctive expertise, together with the contribution of its 600 employees worldwide, enabled the company to achieve revenues of €250 million in 2025, with strong performance continuing throughout 2026. Building on these results, Clevertech will present several major innovations at PACK EXPO Chicago 2026. At booth N-6232, Clevertech will showcase new developments in palletizing and automated finished-product handling, including an advanced automated warehouse system and a reworking solution designed specifically for pallet distribution. Among the key innovations are Tetris pallets, capable of handling more than 25 different palletized SKUs within a single load, and Rainbow pallets, featuring multiple product references arranged in homogeneous layers, with one SKU assigned to each pallet level.

operational complexity. From a material handling perspective, incoming single-SKU pallets are managed layer by layer. Complete layers are depalletized and transferred onto trays, which handle product movement within the automated warehouse. The high-density storage system can manage trays containing complete layers of a single SKU and move them seamlessly between depalletizing, storage and final palletizing. Final pallet configurations are determined according to orders received directly from the warehouse or produc-

This patented material handling technology offers a significant advantage in terms of space requirements, thanks to the vertical development of the system. Its streamlined operating concept also eliminates the need for additional AGVs, delivering high efficiency, optimized use of floor space and reduced 34

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO tion management system, to which the Clevertech solution is fully connected. The system can create mixed pallets containing up to 25 different SKUs on the same load, pallets featuring a different SKU on each layer, or multi-flavour configurations assembled according to specific distribution requirements. At PACK EXPO, Clevertech will also provide live demonstrations of its Clevertech Digital Factory package, already deployed across several installations worldwide. One application has reached a record of 110 machines connected within a single facility. Through Clevertech Digital Factory, manufacturers can monitor machine energy consumption in real time, with dedicated dashboards enabling data analysis according to operating hours, product formats and other customized parameters. The same platform provides real-time monitoring of key line KPIs, including OEE, MTBF, MTTR and many other performance indicators. Users can also access detailed data such as the three main causes of downtime for each machine, progressing towards real-time analytics capable of suggesting the most effective actions to improve performance and optimize monitored KPIs. Against this backdrop of continued growth and international expansion, PACK EXPO Chicago represents an opportunity for Clevertech to introduce its latest technological developments to the market, further strengthening its role in the evolution of automation for the processing and packaging industries. www.clevertech-group.com Curious to discover what the future of automation will look like? Visit Clevertech at PACK EXPO Chicago, Booth N-6232.

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THE VOICE OF

the market

COESIA: CONNECTING AUTOMATION, PACKAGING AND DIGITAL INNOVATION by Luca Aiolfi Head of Division, Consumer Market Solutions at Coesia

Paper-based and mono-material solutions ensure sustainability without compromising performance or productivity.

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Packaging is increasingly about connecting technologies, data and expertise across the entire production process. At PACK EXPO, Coesia will present an integrated approach that brings together automation, robotics, digital tools and sustainable packaging solutions.

Luca Aiolfi, Head of Division, Consumer Market Solutions at Coesia, shares some insights into the challenges shaping today’s production environments and the technologies helping manufacturers respond. How does Coesia combine technologies and expertise across the Group to respond to increasingly specific production needs? Manufacturers increasingly need complete production solutions rather than individual machines. Coesia’s segment approach starts with the customer’s production challenge in mind and brings together the most relevant expertise across the Group to address it. For example, Coesia may supply a full bar line by combining ACMA’s flow wrapping solutions, FlexLink conveyors, R.A Jones cartoning and high-speed robotic handling by PWR, a Coesia partner. By combining these capabilities, customers can optimize the production flow, improve efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and increase flexibility when market requirements change.

Automation and robotics help manufacturers combine human expertise with intelligent systems to improve productivity and ergonomics.

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THE VOICE OF

the market At PACK EXPO, Coesia will focus on sectors including snacks, pet food, pharma and personal care. What market needs and production challenges are driving these priorities? These sectors face similar pressures, such as increasing product variety, labor constraints, sustainability requirements and the need for greater flexibility. In snacks and pet food, manufacturers manage more SKU variations and shorter product lifecycles, requiring efficient product handling, wrapping, pouching, cartoning and shelf ready packaging. In highly regulated environments such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals, priorities include traceability, inspection, serialization, compliance and process control. Personal care manufacturers need frequent format changes, rapid product launches and attractive shelf appeal. Across sectors, customers want to improve productivity while maintaining quality and adapting faster to changing market conditions. Coesia combines automation, packaging, material handling, inspection and digital capabilities to address these challenges holistically. How are automation and robotics changing production efficiency, ergonomics and the role of operators on the shop floor? Automation and robotics help manufacturers improve productivity and working conditions. FlexLink’s robotic handling and palletizing solutions automate repetitive and physically demanding tasks while maintaining stable product flow. With increasing automation, operators spend less time on manual activities and more time supervising systems, monitoring performance, supporting quality assurance and driving continuous improvement. The objective is to combine human expertise with intelligent systems to improve ergonomics and production efficiency.

How are digital tools, AI and sustainable packaging solutions helping manufacturers improve performance and prepare their lines for future needs? Manufacturers want to achieve predictable performance, higher equipment effectiveness and lower total cost of ownership throughout the equipment lifecycle. At Coesia, digitalization, AI and services increasingly work together to translate this vision into concrete milestones and results. We support customers through service models ranging from corrective and preventive maintenance to predictive approaches that use data and early issue detection to reduce downtime. AI creates value by transforming production data into actionable insights, improving maintenance planning, performance optimization and OEE. Sustainability follows a similar logic; the challenge is not only identifying new packaging materials but implementing them reliably at industrial scale. We help customers test materials, validate machinability and adapt equipment for recyclable, paper-based and mono-material solutions, ensuring sustainability does not compromise performance or productivity. About Luca Aiolfi, Head of Divison, Consumer Market Solutions Luca Aiolfi leads Coesia Consumer Market Solutions at Coesia, bringing extensive international experience across packaging, automation, and manufacturing technologies. Having held various leadership roles at Coesia, ACMA, and GDM, including Chief Executive Officer of GDM, he has a strong track record in business transformation, operational excellence, and innovation. His expertise spans global operations, customer-centric industrial solutions, and sustainable growth strategies for consumer goods manufacturers. www.coesia.com

Sustainable packaging solutions 38

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World Forum and Leading Show for Life Science and Process Industries

NEW AT 027: 2 A M E n ACH novatio y in

#energ

UNLEASH INNOVATION. ACCELERATE FUTURE. ACHEMA is the global hotspot for industry experts, decision-makers and solution providers. Experience unseen technology, collaborate cross-industry and connect yourself worldwide to make an impact. Are you ready? Join now!

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14 - 18 June 2027 Frankfurt am Main, Germany www.achema.de

29/09/26 16:12

FOCUS: PACK EXPO

Visit us at BOOTH S-1720

INSIDE PHARMA Discover our All-In-One Solutions for the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Sectors

he Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Divisions of IMA Group and its specialists are glad to introduce IMA Pharma, the All-In-One supplier specializing in the design and manufacture of innovative machines and complete lines for the processing, medical assembly and packaging of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products, as well as projects concerning digitalization, sustainability, and customer service solutions.

Meeting the Divisions at the Show: IMA Life - the division specializing in aseptic processing and freeze-drying solutions - will be presenting SENSITIVE AP400 labelling solution, available with key features and design aspects that have been created to facilitate the operator’s tasks throughout the entire process, while ensuring the superior performance and versatility of a labeller that has already encountered widespread success in the pharmaceutical sector. Transparent on three sides, operators are always able to closely monitor the labelling process, and the large front

I-SCAN electronic tablet counter

SENSITIVE AP400 general view and triple rejection unit 40

panels provide excellent access for cleaning and maintenance. The sliding reel holder, at a convenient height of 790 mm from ground level, makes changeover operations comfortable and swift, and the labelling process runs uninterrupted increasing productivity. IMA Safe announces our new state-of-the-art revolutionary electronic tablet counting system with product detection and single tablet rejection I-SCAN technology. This cutting-edge sensor counts and detects damaged tablets or capsules prior to being filled into the bottle, ensuring the highest level of precision and accuracy. I-SCAN’s new single tablet rejection system eliminates each damaged product detected, avoiding discarding multiple

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO tablets or the filled bottle. Available in low to high-speed models, with compact footprints and quick changeover, I-Scan is the ideal tablet counting solution. IMA MED-TECH, specializing in advanced assembly and handling solutions for a wide range of medical devices, including injectables, inhalers, diagnostic devices, wearables, surgical sutures, contact lenses and IOLs, will present the X-PEN, a versatile modular platform for the final assembly of pen injectors and autoinjectors.

X-PEN modular platform for pen injectors and autoinjectors assembly

The X-PEN portfolio offers flexible solutions ranging from manual to fully automated systems, meeting the needs of diverse production environments with output speeds from 2 PPM to 160 PPM. Designed for both pre-assembly and final assembly, X-PEN integrates automated quality controls, including force-distance measurements and vision inspection, ensuring optimal precision and product integrity. The platform is ideal for assembling devices used in the treatment of conditions like diabetes, obesity, and multiple sclerosis, among others. Among the technologies on show, Omas Tecnosistemi presents the G-BLOK intermittent filling and closing machine, designed for liquid, cream, and powder applications in both the pharmaceutical and personal care sectors. Its GP-500 version, featuring a new puck-based configuration, is prearranged for a second closing station, enabling the seamless integration of an automatic closing station alongside the cap positioning unit. This latest evolution enhances automation while preserving the flexibility that defines the G-BLOK family,

allowing the machine to scale with production needs and supporting a gradual transition from semi-automatic to fully automated operation as business requirements evolve. Its modular architecture, combined with a wide range of dosing systems, ensures fast format changeovers and the ability to handle multiple product configurations within the same production day. Available in single-step and double alternatingstep versions, the GP-500 delivers the versatility and ease of use required by modern filling and closing lines. At PackExpo, IMA will be presenting a dedicated Personal Care corner showcasing the Group’s technologies for skin care and make-up, personal hygiene, body and hair care, and fragrances. Designed to offer a complete overview, the area brings together processing, primary and secondary packaging, and end-of-line solutions tailored to the cosmetic market. IMA Pharma is composed of highly expert divisions able to offer tailor-made solutions for the most sophisticated requests of the pharmaceutical market: IMA Active (Solid Dose Solutions), IMA Life (Aseptic Processing and FreezeDrying Solutions), IMA Safe (Packaging Solutions) and IMA EOL (End of Line Solutions). Completing this framework, IMA MED-TECH adds its specialized know-how in medical device assembly. For further information, please visit our website imagroup.com/pharma

SECTORS PACKAGING FOOD PHARMACEUTICALS

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a chat with

Sonia Bennati

INTERVIEWS and STORIES that tell INNOVATION

EUROPAMA: UNITED TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF PROCESSING AND PACKAGING Edited by SONIA V. MAFFIZZONI BENNATI

Riccardo Cavanna In an ever-evolving market, the challenges facing processing and packaging machinery manufacturers extend beyond national borders. We speak with Riccardo Cavanna, President of EUROPAMA, about innovation, regulation and competitiveness, and the importance of a collective response. _______ Riccardo, why is it important today to bring together European industry associations? Because many decisions affecting our companies are made at European level and have an impact on the entire industry, even though each manufacturer experiences their consequences within its own business. Just think of machinery requirements, access to innovation or the conditions for competing in international markets. National associations have a close understanding of their members’ needs. EUROPAMA provides a platform to bring these perspectives together and present a common position to European institutions. Our industry has a great deal to contribute, but we need to ensure that our voice is heard clearly. By speaking with one European voice, EUROPAMA can help turn Europe’s industrial strength into influence. Who is involved in shaping this common position? It is a team effort involving associations and individuals with different backgrounds and expertise. Working alongside me is Markus Rustler, Vice President of EUROPAMA and representative of Germany’s VDMA. Oscar Rojo, from the French association EVOLIS, serves as the Federation’s Secretary General. The Steering Committee also includes Johannes Schmid-Wiedersheim, Managing Director of VDMA’s Food Processing and 42

President of EUROPAMA

Packaging Machinery division, and Gian Paolo Crasta, General Director of UCIMA. The Board also includes representatives of the other founding associations: AMEC Envasgraf from Spain, EVOLIS Processing and Packaging from France, PPMA from the United Kingdom, and SWISSMEM – IGV – Packaging Technology from Switzerland. This collaboration is essential. It helps us identify the challenges shared by companies across different countries and translate them into concrete priorities. What message do you want to convey to European institutions? That the value of our technologies extends far beyond the industry that manufactures them. Food manufacturers need machinery to process and package their products safely and efficiently. The same applies to the pharmaceutical, beverage and many other industries. The strength of Europe’s food, pharmaceutical and other essential industries also depends on the strength of the machinery industry that supports them. Europe cannot strengthen its food, health and industrial resilience without maintaining the technologies, skills and manufacturing capabilities that make production possible. Supporting Europe’s ability to develop these solutions also means strengthening the industries that rely on them. A strong European machinery industry gives manufacturers access to secure technologies, local engineering expertise, long-term maintenance capabilities and greater control over their industrial data and production systems.

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We want the role of machinery manufacturers to be considered when industrial policies and regulations affecting investment are defined. Processing and packaging machinery should be recognised as a strategic enabling industry for Europe. This is a sector in which European manufacturers hold a leading global position, accounting for approximately one-thirds of worldwide trade in food processing and packaging machinery. What are EUROPAMA’s main priorities? We aim to strengthen the industry’s competitiveness, support technological innovation and help companies seize the opportunities offered by European programmes. Another key issue is competition. Our priorities are competitiveness, technological leadership and industrial resilience. We want European manufacturers to remain at the forefront of automation, digitalisation, cybersecurity and sustainable production. European manufacturers invest heavily to comply with stringent requirements, from machinery safety to cybersecurity. These are objectives we fully support. Industrial resilience today also means technological resilience: knowing who controls the software, data, remote access and updates of the machines that keep essential production running. At the same time, we need to consider the differences between European companies and manufacturers operating in other regions, where regulatory obligations may differ or substantial public support may be available. We are not calling for markets to be closed. We are calling for a more level playing field. Our objective is not less regulation, but smarter implementation, effective market surveillance and fair

EUROPAMA - UCIMA - intervista sonia - PI 3-26.indd 3

competitive conditions for all equipment placed on the European market. EUROPAMA also includes associations from countries outside the European Union, such as Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Why is this important? Because our industrial value chains do not stop at EU borders. We share technologies, customers, markets and many of the same challenges. Bringing these perspectives together makes the Federation more representative and enables us to address common issues with a broader outlook. Giving machinery manufacturers a collective voice also means highlighting the contribution their technologies make to the industries that use them every day. It is through this connection, and through the ability of associations to work together, that EUROPAMA intends to develop its proposals. EUROPAMA’s challenge will be to turn the shared needs of machinery manufacturers into concrete proposals that we hope will be heard and embraced. From food processing lines to pharmaceutical production facilities, processing and packaging machinery plays an essential role in industrial manufacturing. EUROPAMA brings together a wealth of expertise developed across different countries, creating a common platform for an industry facing shared challenges. Our ambition is to ensure that processing and packaging machinery is recognised not only as a successful European manufacturing industry, but as a strategic technology base for Europe’s food, health and industrial resilience. Visit: europama.eu

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO

OMETEC: EXCELLENCE IN PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

n Integrated Process for a Competitive Advantage OMETEC oversees the entire process, from co-design to final molding. How does this integration provide a competitive advantage for your clients in the packaging sector? OMETEC is a strategic partner for packaging companies thanks to an integrated production process that begins with co-design and extends to final molding. This synergy reduces time-to-market, optimizes costs, and ensures maximum quality and customization. By managing every phase internally, we guarantee precision in tolerances and high-performance materials, meeting the demands of an increasingly demanding market.

OMETEC is a company with over forty years of experience in the packaging market, specializing in the design and manufacturing of molds for caps in the pharmaceutical, detergent, and cosmetics sectors.

Industry 4.0: innovation for quality and efficiency You use advanced technologies and interconnected systems based on Industry 4.0 principles. How do these solutions impact production quality and lead times? The adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies has transformed our production process: real-time monitoring improves quality control, automation reduces errors, and

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FOCUS: PACK EXPO predictive maintenance ensures continuous production. Additionally, digital simulation allows us to optimize projects before implementation, minimizing waste and reducing processing times. Commitment to sustainability What concrete actions have you taken to make your processes more sustainable, and how do they reflect on the final packaging products? Sustainability is at the core of our strategy. We use bioplastics, recycled, and compostable materials, reduce energy consumption, and recycle production waste. To further strengthen our environmental commitment, we are obtaining the ISO 14001 certification, which validates our responsible approach to resource management and reducing environmental impact throughout the production chain. Certifications: ensuring excellence What role do certifications play in your daily operations, and how do they ensure high standards for your clients? Certifications are a guarantee of quality for our clients. We have ISO 9001 and ISO 45001, and are also obtaining ISO 14001, to ensure controlled processes, environmental awareness, and compliance with industry standards. Moreover, we believe in fostering a fair and inclusive work environment. For this reason, we already got the UNI PDR 125 certification for Gender Equality, promoting equal opportunities and valuing diversity within our team. We are also working on our Sustainability Report.

International expansion and future growth You are investing in trade shows and foreign markets. What are your growth objectives, and what opportunities do you see in the international packaging sector? We are determined to expand into international markets. Participating in trade shows and events allows us to strengthen our presence in Europe, North America, North Africa, and Asia, expanding our network of clients and partners. We aim to grow in sustainable packaging, responding to the increasing demand for innovative, lowimpact solutions. With our experience, technology, and strategic vision, OMETEC is the ideal partner for companies seeking efficient, customized, and sustainable packaging solutions, with a strong commitment to innovation, social responsibility, and international growth. www.ometec.it

SECTORS FOOD & BEVERAGE PACKAGING LABELLING

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POST-INTERPACK

FAMS: ADVANCED AUTOMATION FOR CASE PACKING AND PALLETIZING

orn from a strong family passion, FAMS was founded in 1992 and quickly established itself in the design and manufacture of automatic packaging machines, with particular expertise in end-ofline automation for a wide range of production sectors: from food to beverage, from cosmetics and detergents to lube oil and corrosive products.

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POST-INTERPACK

This broad field of application is supported by consolida-ted experience in case packing and palletizing techno-logy. An expertise that translates every day into simple, robust, flexible and high-performance solutions, capable of fully meeting each customer’s specific requirements, both in terms of the type of product to be handled and the required production speed.

machines, offering solutions with a highly competitive quality-to-price ratio compared with those of its competitors. This has also led international machine builders to choose FAMS as an ideal partner for the development of complete production lines. www.fams.it

The functional and distinctive advantage of FAMS machinery lies in the fact that product pick-up and placement inside the case are carried out in line with the direction of case movement. This configuration reduces product accumulation during the feeding phase and consequently increases the overall speed of the operating cycle. Over the years, FAMS has earned the trust and loyalty of a large number of customers, exporting its know-how, versatility and technological reliability worldwide. Its customer base includes both small domestic producers and large multinational companies. Numerous contract packers also rely on FAMS machinery, taking advantage of its flexibility to diversify and optimize both small and large production batches. Today, FAMS is internationally recognized among manufacturers of automatic case packing and palletizing

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BEYOND TECHNOLOGY: THE VALUE OF SERVICE

nterpack once again confirmed its role as the world’s leading exhibition for the packaging industry, bringing together manufacturers, technology providers and customers from across the globe. For OMAG, the event represented an important opportunity to showcase the company’s latest innovations, strengthen relationships with existing partners and establish new international contacts.

One of the highlights of our stand was the presentation of our new cartoning machine, developed to offer greater flexibility, efficiency and seamless integration with complete packaging lines. The machine attracted significant interest throughout the exhibition, confirming the market’s appreciation for solutions that combine advanced technology with ease of use and production reliability. Innovation with a purpose Over the past few years, OMAG has experienced a remarkable journey of growth and transformation. We have expanded our production facilities, strengthened our research and development activities, and continued to invest in increasingly advanced solutions for both primary and secondary packaging. 48

SECTORS PACKAGING PHARMA & HEALTHCARE

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POST-INTERPACK

This evolution has reinforced one key belief: technology alone is not enough. Today’s packaging machines are expected to deliver high performance, flexibility and reliability while adapting to increasingly complex production environments. Their true value, however, lies in their ability to support customers every day and contribute to the long-term efficiency of their operations. Service as part of the solution At Omag, service is not an additional offering, it is an integral part of every solution we deliver. Our commitment extends throughout the entire lifecycle of every machine, from design and installation to ope-

rator training, technical assistance, upgrades and performance optimization. This customer-oriented approach has driven continuous investment in digitalization and smart technologies designed to simplify operations and improve efficiency. Today, IoT connectivity, remote support and predictive maintenance are key elements of our strategy. By continuously monitoring machine performance, we can respond more quickly, anticipate potential issues, reduce downtime and help customers maximize productivity. The same philosophy is reflected in My-O, Omag dedicated customer portal, which provides immediate access to technical documentation, manuals, drawings, spare parts information and all the resources needed to manage packaging equipment efficiently. Looking ahead The positive response received at Interpack reinforces our commitment to continue investing in innovation while remaining true to the values that have always distinguished OMAG: expertise, responsiveness and close collaboration with our customers. Because the best technology is not simply the most advanced. It is the technology that creates value every day, helping customers work smarter, grow with confidence and successfully face the challenges of tomorrow. www.omag-pack.com

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INDUSTRIAL MATERIAL HANDLING: DRIVING EFFICIENCY, SAFETY AND OPERATIONAL CONTINUITY

n an increasingly production-driven landscape focused on automation, process optimization, and maximum operational safety, material handling has become a strategic factor in ensuring efficiency and continuity throughout the entire supply chain. This is especially true for highly regulated and competitive sectors such as food and pharmaceuticals, where reliability and precision are no longer simple competitive advantages, but essential requirements. It is within this context that the solutions developed by BADA Material Handling stand out. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing industrial handling systems created to help businesses achieve smoother, safer, and more efficient production processes. An increasingly important aspect of modern industry is the ability of companies to make their production facilities not only efficient, but also flexible and ready

SECTORS FOOD & BEVERAGE PHARMACEUTICAL AUTOMATION

YOUR PACKAGING INSIDER

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to adapt to changing market demands. In this scenario, the solutions offered by BADA Material Handling play a key role, allowing manufacturers to improve the internal organization of production flows without compromising operational simplicity.

able handling systems improve internal process management while maintaining high productivity standards. In the pharmaceutical sector, where control, precision, and safety are fundamental priorities, having robust solutions designed to operate in highly sensitive environments represents significant added value.

The ability to integrate reliable systems into existing production lines makes it possible to optimize overall plant performance, supporting more dynamic process management while contributing to increasingly sustainable, quality-driven, and continuity-oriented production models.

BADA’s philosophy is built around a clear principle: developing technologies capable of adapting to the specific needs of each production facility while providing companies with tools that improve daily efficiency without adding unnecessary complexity.

From raw material management to supporting packaging lines, BADA products are designed to integrate seamlessly into production environments where speed, ergonomics, and operational continuity are critical factors.

In a market where innovation also means simplification, investing in advanced material handling systems is no longer an optional choice, but a fundamental component of industrial competitiveness.

The objective is not simply to move materials, but to optimize production flow by reducing downtime, minimizing manual intervention, and eliminating inefficiencies. In the food industry, where speed and organization directly impact responsiveness to market demand, reli-

This is exactly where BADA continues to stand out: transforming material handling into a driver of growth. Visit: badamh.com

ENGINEERED FOR WORK. BUILT TO LAST. With BADA brand products, your product handling is seamless. Hygiene, safety, and high performance. Avoid logistics downtime with products that are 100% Made in Italy and designed to withstand even the most aggressive environments.

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GAMPACK: EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION IN INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING

ounded in 2003, Gampack has become a global reference in secondary packaging and end-ofline turnkey solutions. With over 20 years of experience in packaging automation and a strategic acquisition in 2020 of a renowned Italian robotics company, Gampack serves industries such as food & beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and pet food with tailored, high-performance systems. A Company with an Innovative DNA Gampack is renowned for its innovative approach to designing and manufacturing advanced secondary and tertiary packaging systems. Our production is primarily structured around three specialized internal divisions (Automatics, Robotics and Palletizing Divisions), each focused on delivering high-performance solutions across different packaging areas.

A recent example of our expertise is a specialized production line for the pharmaceutical industry, designed to pack cartons into American cases. In this process, the case-packer prepares the pre-erected cases, which are then filled by a 6-axis robot and finally sealed with adhesive tape, achieving an output speed of 12 cases per minute. A dedicated labelling machine subsequently applies an overwrapping warehouse pallet label to each case. Finally, as the cases move towards the palletizing

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Welcome to Gampack, the perfect partner for secondary packaging machines and complete, integrated end-of-line solutions.

Why Choose Us? GAMPACK invests the 8% of its turnover in R&D in order to find the best and most suitable solutions with its team of experienced engineers, continually looking for new and stimulating milestones and with a constant eye towards the future.

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cell, a Cobot places them on the pallet, creating the layer configuration requested by the customer. This cutting-edge solution exemplifies Gampack’s commitment to delivering top-level technological systems tailored to the specific needs of each sector also in small spaces. Flexibility and Reliability Flexibility is a cornerstone of Gampack’s design philosophy. Its machines can quickly adapt to various packaging sizes and production needs, ensuring maximum versatility. With over 1,700 installations worldwide, Gampack guarantees solutions tailored to the customer’s needs, backed by excellent after-sales service, which distinguishes the company from its competitors. This includes timely spare parts supply and technical interventions on production lines within 24 hours from the customer’s request to ensure seamless operational continuity, reinforcing the company’s reliability. Two Decades of Growth and Vision Led by co-founder and President Giuseppe Gazzola, Gampack pursues continuous innovation and ambitious 54

growth. A solid management team supports its futurefocused strategy, driving success while maintaining Gampack’s core identity. With an unwavering focus on innovation and sustainability, Gampack strengthens its leadership by offering full turnkey systems-from processing line output to palletizing and pallet transport to automated warehouses via AGVs. www.gampackgroup.com

SECTORS COSMETICS FOOD & BEVERAGE PHARMA

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CASE STUDY: EXXONMOBIL SIGNATURE POLYMERS AND LD PACK Develop innovative Mono-PE frozen food packaging solution for excellent packaging integrity

xxonMobil, one of the largest publicly traded international energy companies, uses technology and innovation to help meet the world’s growing energy needs. The company recently launched its new ExxonMobil Signature Polymers portfolio brand, which focuses on delivering best-in-class service and partnerships within the polymers industry. ExxonMobil Signature Polymers unifies ExxonMobil’s polyolefin products under a single brand, simplifying portfolio navigation and promoting enhanced collaboration across the value chain.

As demand for frozen foods continues to increase, there is growing recyclability interest across the value chain, and the development of mono-material solutions has emerged as a pivotal approach to help reconcile complex design challenges with the preservation of excellent mechanical performance. Traditional frozen food packaging often relies on multi-material laminates, such as BOPET//PE structures, which can be difficult to recycle due to their multi-material structure.

In testing against a reference BOPET//PE laminate, the mono-PE structure achieved 100% bag drop survival after frozen conditioning at -30°C from a 3-meter drop height, while also delivering enhanced needle puncture resistance and improved low-temperature tensile strength. The film also provides balanced stiffness for shelf appeal and excellent packaging integrity throughout storage and transportation. The high-performance MDO PE//PE solution offers a promising pathway to unlock the potential of mono-PE solutions for frozen food packaging. WHERE: To check out the full case study, visit.: www.exxonmobilchemical.com

To help address this challenge, ExxonMobil Signature Polymers collaborated with LD PACK to develop an innovative frozen food packaging solution that offers a compelling monomaterial design alternative to conventional laminates. Built around Exceed™ Stiff+, Exxtra™ Seal and Exceed™ HD polymers and powered by LD PACK’s advanced converting technology, the MDO PE//PE structure was designed for recyclability* and can provide balanced stiffness for shelf appeal and excellent package integrity after freezing.

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ACTIVATED BALL SORTER: A VERSATILE SOLUTION FOR PACKAGING

roduction lines are running faster, while packaging is becoming lighter, thinner and more delicate. Recyclable materials, reduced plastic films, paper and cardboard are changing the way products behave along production lines. On one hand, these changes represent an important step towards greater sustainability. On the other, they introduce new challenges in product handling and manipulation. Lighter and more deformable packages require increasingly delicate, precise and versatile conveying systems. This is where activated ball systems are finding more and more applications. Originally developed for sorting applications in the logistics sector, the activated ball sorter like MH Material Handling’s Magic Sorter has proven to be extremely versatile in packaging lines as well.

SECTORS FOOD PHARMACEUTICAL

The operating principle is based on the activation of freerunning balls integrated into a plastic modular chain. De56

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pending on the system used to activate the balls from below, different results can be achieved. The simplest application is obtained by allowing the balls to run over a uniform surface during the normal movement of the chain. In this way, the product is accelerated compared to the nominal conveyor speed, in some cases approaching almost twice the set speed. One of the most common applications involves the use of a belt positioned perpendicular to the movement of the chain. By activating the motion of the lower belt, the product acquires a transverse movement component that can be used for rejection, sorting or distribution across multiple lanes.

handling even extremely light or thin products. Since the product is driven from below, the risk of jamming or losing stability during diversion is reduced. Experimental tests have also shown good results with products featuring non-perfectly regular bottoms. This characteristic is becoming increasingly important due to the evolution of packaging materials. The growing use of recyclable and compostable packaging is leading to less rigid, more deformable packages that are often more difficult to handle. While improving packaging sustainability, they also make product handling along the line more delicate.

By placing rotating plates or belts moving in opposite directions under the chain surface, products can instead be rotated around their vertical axis. In these applications, precision and repeatability depend heavily on both the mechanical design and the control sequence of the system.

In this scenario, systems such as MH Material Handling’s Magic Sorter activated ball sorter make it possible to address issues that, until a few years ago, were considered marginal. They offer new possibilities in the handling of complex products and help maintain efficiency and production continuity even with increasingly advanced packaging solutions.

From an application point of view, one of the most interesting aspects of this technology is the possibility of

Visit: www.mhmaterialhandling.com

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MAKRO LABELLING: INTELLIGENT CHOICE

anufacturing environments are becoming increasingly complex. Product diversification, shorter production runs, stricter quality requirements and growing demands for operational efficiency are reshaping the way companies approach packaging and production processes. In this evolving scenario, reliability, flexibility and process control have become essential elements for maintaining competitiveness and ensuring consistent product quality. Since its foundation in 2009, Makro Labelling has built its growth on a clear industrial vision: developing technologies capable of combining performance, precision and long-term reliability. Through continuous investment in engineering and innovation, the company has established itself as an international provider of advanced labelling solutions for highly demanding production environments. A defining characteristic of Makro’s approach is the complete in-house development of its core technologies. Me-

chanical design, electronics, software and vision systems are engineered as part of a fully integrated platform, allowing every component to work together seamlessly. This philosophy provides greater process control, enhanced operational efficiency and the flexibility required to respond to evolving production needs. The MAK range includes Cold Glue, Self-Adhesive, Hot Melt and Roll Feed technologies, offering solutions capable of adapting to a wide variety of applications, packaging formats and production requirements. The objective is not simply to apply a label, but to contribute to a production process where accuracy, consistency and efficiency work together to deliver higher overall performance.

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As production standards continue to rise, quality assurance has become a strategic priority. Manufacturers increasingly require technologies capable of monitoring processes in real time, reducing waste and ensuring that every product leaving the line meets the expected quality standards.

technical support, the company works alongside customers to maximize equipment performance and minimize downtime. This approach is reinforced by an international network of distributors and technical partners, ensuring local support and rapid intervention across global markets.

Within this framework, vision systems play a central role. Makro has developed RAPTOR and ALICE, two proprietary solutions designed to improve process control and product verification throughout production. RAPTOR manages product orientation, ensuring correct positioning before labelling, while ALICE performs advanced quality inspections, helping identify potential deviations before they impact production performance.

As manufacturing continues to evolve, companies increasingly seek partners capable of combining technology, process expertise and long-term support within a single vision. This commitment to integration, innovation and customer care represents the essence of Makro Labelling.

The latest evolution of this technology is Alice 360, an innovative inspection system capable of analysing the entire circumference of a container using a single camera. By combining complete inspection coverage with a compact design, the system reduces machine complexity while improving quality control capabilities and operational efficiency. Technology, however, represents only part of the value delivered to customers. Long-term performance depends equally on the ability to provide effective support throughout the lifecycle of the equipment. For this reason, Makro has developed a customer care model focused on responsiveness, expertise and collaboration.

www.makrolabelling.it

SECTORS FOOD & BEVERAGE PACKAGING LABELLING

Through on-site and remote assistance, preventive maintenance programs, upgrade solutions and dedicated 60

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ELMACH HIGHLIGHTS WKH-100 INTERMITTENT CARTONER FOR PHARMACEUTICAL AND COSMETIC PACKAGING Compact, servo-driven system ensures precise, reliable, and GMP-compliant cartoning for bottles, blisters, and tubes

LMACH, a global provider of solid-dose packaging technologies, highlights the WKH-100 Intermittent Motion Horizontal Cartoner, engineered for reliable and versatile cartoning applications across the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Designed to accommodate a wide range of packaging needs, the WKH-100 combines servo-driven precision, modular construction, and user-friendly operation in a compact footprint that meets the rigorous demands of regulated production environments. The WKH-100 is equipped to handle bottles, blisters, tubes, and other solid-dose formats, providing manufacturers with high flexibility for diverse product portfolios. Its intelligent in built pre-breaking carton erection system ensures consistent carton opening, while mechanical transfer and product insertion guarantee stable operation and accurate placement at high speeds. A leaflet folding and insertion unit integrates seamlessly, supporting the strict informational requirements of pharmaceutical packaging.

traceability and regulatory compliance. Designed for secure downstream integration, it connects seamlessly with blister lines and other upstream equipment, allowing manufacturers to scale operations efficiently. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for facilities where floor space is at a premium, while its modular construction ensures adaptability for future upgrades and new product requirements. Engineered to meet the evolving needs of both pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, the WKH-100 delivers reliable performance, versatile product handling, and long-term production stability. To learn more about the WKH-100 Intermittent Motion Horizontal Cartoner, visit www.elmach.com/wkh-100.php

With a fully enclosed balcony-type design and GMP-compliant construction, the system ensures hygienic operation and straightforward cleaning. Operators benefit from a recipe-driven, touchscreen HMI that enables fast product changeovers, minimizes downtime, and reduces training time. Servo-based controls at critical workstations deliver precise motion control and repeatable performance, ensuring high-quality output while maintaining mechanical simplicity for ease of maintenance. The WKH-100 supports batch coding, embossing, and inkjet printing, enhancing 61

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COA 2.0: MINI MOTOR REVOLUTIONIZES PACKAGING WITH WIRELESS FORMAT CHANGEOVER

CAN OVER AIR LOW LATENCY

he packaging market has established the competitive advantage that characterizes successful companies. Versatility has been the challenge of the last five years, and format changeover, the real star of new operational projects, has enabled the most responsive companies to move into a new operating scenario. In this sense, responsiveness is represented not only by the speed with which a line switches from one format to another, but also by the precision in the execution and replicability of the process. Research carried out by Mini Motor, based on real cases from its customers, has guided the reinterpretation of integrated drive brushless gearmotors, which were created as intelligent components and are now optimized to meet the changing needs of format changeover.

SECTORS INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION FORMAT CHANGEOVER

Solutions for format changeover The FC line incorporates the best features of the DBS integrated drive line, including a 32-bit multi-turn abso62

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er thanks to Mini Motor’s new proprietary wireless technology. Can Over Air 2.0 is a proprietary Mini Motor technology that allows servomotors to be controlled without the need for communication cables. The gateway, connected to the PLC via industrial fieldbuses, transfers communication to the motors, allowing multiple control units to be integrated. Designed to receive incoming signals via Ethernet or CAN, COA is a secure and noise-resistant protocol that can adapt to the needs of modern automated and interconnected industrial systems. In format change, this translates into greater ease of implementation of new components, with consequent advantages for scalability and line expansion.

lute encoder and communication with the main fieldbuses (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Powerlink, Modbus, and CANopen), but differs in its specificity for packaging lines thanks to its versions with orthogonal gearbox or linear actuator. The innovative design of the rotary version is designed to guarantee double the speed for the same size, halving the time required for format changeover. Available in four sizes: FC3, FC6, FC10, FC20 depending on the required ratio, they are ideal for automating manual parts, also opening up numerous revamping opportunities. The FCL line is available in the FCL100 and FCL200 variants, ideal for automating the movement of sides in linear format changes up to 200 mm. The FCLs are capable of delivering up to 200N and withstanding up to 5kg of axial load.

The logic is essential: a concentrator, a radio network, Mini Motor motors with integrated communication, and the result is a network without fieldbus cabling, where devices communicate in real time and the layout of the system is no longer dictated by the passage of a cable or the presence of collectors. CoA thus allows you to change the starting point and redesign the architecture of production lines with greater freedom and a wider design margin. All this without complications: commissioning is carried out via a Windows application from which you can monitor the status of the network. Mini Motor brings innovation to the service of work. Visit: www.minimotor.com

Format changeover goes wireless Automating procedures with the FC line is now even easi63

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COST-EFFECTIVE PALLETIZATION SOLUTIONS: HOW TO AUTOMATE WITH A SIMPLE ROBOT SYSTEM

ost-effective palletization is becoming a priority for businesses looking to improve efficiency without breaking the bank. Traditional fully automated palletizing systems with conveyors, pallet destackers, and complex infeed/outfeed mechanisms offer high throughput but come with significant costs and maintenance demands. What is Cost-Effective Palletization? Cost-effective palletization refers to a streamlined automation approach that uses a single palletizing robot with safety fencing but eliminates the need for expensive conveyors, pallet destackers, and motorized pallet handling systems. This setup provides a budget-friendly entry point to automation, especially for small to medium-sized operations or facilities with space limitations.

The Traditional Palletizing System: High Cost and Complexity Fully automated palletizing lines typically involve: •S tacked empty pallets stored in an organized manner. • Automated pallet destacking systems that separate and feed empty pallets into the palletizer. • Motorized conveyors to move empty pallets into the robotic cell.

• T he palletizing robot stacks products on pallets. • Motorized discharge conveyors remove full pallets from the safety zone. While these systems are compulsory and efficient for high-speed lines palletisation, they require a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance expenses due to the extensive conveyor and pallet handling hardware involved. How Cost-Effective Palletization Simplifies Automation Instead of investing in expensive conveyors and pallet destacking equipment, cost-effective palletization takes advantage of the fact that an operator is already present around the palletizing cell. This operator can simply handle the pallet feeding and discharge, which only requires a few quick interventions per hour (typically 4–5 times, depending on line speed). • Manual feeding of empty pallets: Using a hand lift, the operator places an empty pallet inside the robot cell when needed. •R obot palletizing: The robot efficiently stacks products on the pallet.

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• Manual removal of full pallets: Once the pallet is complete, the operator uses the hand lift to remove it and replace it with a new empty pallet. These light tasks do not involve the physical strain of carrying boxes or manually stacking them, since the robot handles the heavy and repetitive palletizing work. With this setup, the robot remains at the center of the automation process, safely enclosed by fences, while the costly accessories that typically add complexity and expense are eliminated. Key Benefits of Cost-Effective Robotic Palletizing 1. Lower Initial Investment and Operational Costs Eliminating conveyors and automatic pallet handling reduces capital expenditures and lowers ongoing maintenance expenses. 2. Space-Saving Design Without long conveyor lines, the robotic cell requires less floor space—ideal for facilities with limited room or multiple production lines. 3. Faster ROI for Small to Medium Businesses By starting with a simplified robot palletizing system,

S E S N E IIIN Z A S Z G E A S A G N E A M Z IN M A S Z G E A A G IN A M Z M A S G E E A E IN R S M R Z E O O A S N M E I G M ZZ E A D IN D E EESS R A M N N R O G A A O A M G M E MM D R D N O N S S A A E M IN E Z D E ES IN IN IN A Z Z R N Z G A A A O A A S G G M G E A M E A D E M IN R M M R N Z O OAR A M IN M G Z D DM NAN M G A A A RREE O E E M R M O O SIN DER M N M ND AZ A EO D IN N E O A O M G M AAN ES D D MA ND N Z A A G A ORE R MM AND AND MORE

companies can automate faster and upgrade as their production grows. Conclusion: Is Cost-Effective Palletization Right for Your Facility? If you want to automate palletizing but your budget doesn’t allow for a full conveyor-based system, cost-effective palletization offers a practical solution. A robotic palletizer cell, combined with manual pallet feeding and discharge, can deliver improved efficiency, reduce repetitive strain injuries, and save significant capital and maintenance costs.

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This simplified robotic approach lets you gain the benefits of automation, optimize your labor resources, and scale your operation when ready—all while keeping your investment lean.

Ready to automate your palletizing operations without the complexity and high investment of traditional systems? Discover how MEPEQ can help you implement a smart, scalable robotic palletizing solution tailored to your production needs.

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EDITRICE ZEUS Via C.- Cantù, 16 - 20831 Seregno (MB), Italy tel. +39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 Publisher since 1981 Via C. C. Cantù, 16 -- 20831 20831 Seregno Seregno (MB), (MB),Italy Italy EDITRICE ZEUS Via Cantù, 16 tel. +39 0362 244.182 -1981 0362 244.186 Publisher since 1981 Publisher since 1981 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. Cantù, 16 - 20831 Seregno (MB),Italy Italy Via C.-Cantù, Cantù, 16 20831 Seregno (MB), 244.182 -Cantù, 0362 244.186 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. 16 -- 20831 Seregno (MB), tel. +39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 Publisher since 1981 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. 16 - 20831 Seregno (MB), Italy Italy Publisher since 1981 tel. +39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 244.182- --0362 0362 244.186 tel. +39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 tel. +39 0362 244.182 244.186 Via C. Cantù, Cantù, 16 -- 20831 20831 Seregno (MB),Italy Italy 19/10/22 13:56 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. Cantù, 16 - 16 20831 Seregno (MB),(MB), Italy EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. Seregno Publisher since 1981 Via C. Cantù, 16 20831 Seregno (MB), Italy EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. 16 20831 19/10/22 13:56 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C.-Cantù, Cantù, 16---244.186 20831Seregno Seregno(MB), (MB),Italy Italy tel. +39+39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 244.182 0362 244.186 Publisher since 1981 tel. 0362 244.182 -- 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 tel. +39 0362 244.182 0362 244.186 19/10/22 13:56 13:56 19/10/22 tel. +39 0362 244.182 - 0362 244.186

EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. Cantù, 16 - 20831 Seregno (MB), Italy

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19/10/2219/10/22 13:56 13:56 19/10/22 13:56 EDITRICE ZEUS Via C. Cantù, 16 - 20831 Seregno (MB), Italy 21/01/25 12:00 tel. +39 0362 244.182 - 0362 244.186 tel. +39 0362 244.182 - 0362 244.186 19/10/22 13:56

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PAPER-BASED PACKAGING: WHERE CONSUMER CHOICE MEETS CIRCULAR REGULATION By Winfried Mühling Director Marketing and Communications, Pro Carton

or many years, the packaging agenda has largely been shaped by legislation. Today, consumer expectations are proving to be an equally powerful force, reshaping markets and influencing brand decisions. Packaging is no longer judged solely by how well it protects a product. It has become an important driver of brand perception and purchasing decisions. The latest Pro Carton Consumer Perception Study confirms that paper and cartonboard remain the packaging materials consumers trust most. They understand how to recycle paper-based packaging, they trust the existing collection and recycling systems and they recognise its important role in a circular economy. The study also sends a clear message on transparency. Consumers increasingly see packaging as a reflection of a company’s values. Practices such as shrinkflation can quickly undermine trust when changes are not communicated openly. Packaging has become more than a container - it is a visible expression of brand credibility.

EXECUTIVE INSIGHT Europe’s fibre-based packaging recycling rate reaches 87%, supported by one of the world’s most mature collection and recycling systems. The industry set the target for 90% by 2030. This gives brand owners a proven platform for achieving ambitious circularity goals while reducing regulatory risk.

MM Group

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PPWR: From Compliance to Competitive Advantage While consumer demand is pulling the market forward, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) provides a clear framework for accelerating the transition to a circular economy. Forward-looking businesses should see PPWR as more than a compliance exercise. It is a catalyst for innovation, encouraging packaging that uses resources efficiently, is designed for circularity and keeps valuable materials in circulation. Companies investing today will be better prepared for tomorrow’s regulatory landscape while strengthening their competitive position. At the same time, a continuous dialogue between lawmakers and industry remains essential. Every regulation should undergo a practical feasibility check before it enters into force. Smart regulation and reduced bureaucracy foster innovation, strengthen competitiveness and encourage entrepreneurship and necessary investments. The Strategic Intersection Paper-based packaging sits at the intersection of these two powerful market drivers. Produced from renewable raw materials sourced from sustainably managed forests, paper and cartonboard benefit from Europe’s highly efficient collection and recycling infrastructure. At the same time, continuous innovation - including advanced renewable barrier technologies - is expanding paper-based packaging into increasingly demanding new applications. For brand owners, the strategic direction is becoming clear. The packaging consumers prefer, also happens to be the choice that sits well within upcoming regulation limits. Consumer expectations and European legislation are no longer moving in parallel - they are moving together. Both call for packaging that protects products, con67

serves resources and keeps valuable materials in circulation. Paper-based packaging already delivers on these expectations, combining proven functionality, consumer trust and regulatory readiness to support the next generation of sustainable packaging. www.procarton.com

SECTORS PACKAGING SUSTAINABILITY

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TRANSFORMING THE FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN: HOW TOSCA’S REUSABLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS TOUCH EVERY MEAL

n a world where supply chains are the invisible life- safety of assets, our model enables businesses to operline delivering food from farm to fork, the pressure ate more sustainably while enhancing their operational on companies to have a compliant, food safety fit- performance.” for-purpose solution, increase efficiency, cut waste and boost sustainability has never been greater. Tosca, a Safer, cleaner, smarter: packaging built for food global leader for 100% reusable and recyclable plastic integrity packaging and pooling solutions, plays a crucial role in Today’s consumers care not only about what they eat but reshaping the modern food supply chain, ensuring that also about how it gets to their table. Transparency, traceevery meal begins with smarter logistics and ends with ability and sustainability are no longer optional. satisfied, sustainability-conscious consumers. From Tosca’s technology-driven solutions support these goals producers and processors to distributors and retailers, by enabling clear traceability of products and reducing Tosca’s solutions touch every stage of the journey, sup- food waste through more stable and hygienic load carriers. porting safer handling, reducing waste, and Marco Gonzalez, Managing Director of Cenhelping businesses meet rising demands for tral Europe Downstream, notes: “Customers performance and responsibility. In today’s want to know that their food is safe and susfood supply chain, the right packaging choictainably sourced. Our reusable plastic pallets es are proving more essential than ever. and crates are not only more durable and hy“Tosca’s mission is to eliminate waste and gienic, but also designed to prevent damage unlock hidden value across the supply and contamination. That’s critical for preservchain,” says Jurgen Van Roy, Vice Presiing food safety and quality.” dent of Supply Chain. “From reducing packBy helping retailers eliminate food waste aging waste to increasing the durability and Jurgen Van Roy resulting from damaged packaging or spoil-

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age, Tosca plays a crucial role in meeting ESG goals and reinforcing consumer trust. Whether it’s meat, dairy, produce, or packaged goods, Tosca provides customisable solutions that are aligned with each product’s unique needs and handling requirements.

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fewer surprises, and more strategic planning. From passive RFID tracking to active IoT monitoring, Tosca’s asset tracking capabilities are designed to evolve with customer needs. The company continues to invest in these technologies as part of its broader commitment to smarter, more responsive supply chains.

Driving efficiency from the ground up Food supply chains are complex, spanning thousands of Sustainability through circularity: Tosca’s closedkilometres and involving multiple stakeholders. At every loop approach link, Tosca’s packaging solutions provide an infrastruc- Reusable packaging is inherently sustainable, but Tosca ture that is both standardised and flexible, allowing retail- takes it a step further by embedding circular economy ers and producers to scale without compromising quality. principles into every layer of its business. Instead of reOne of the clearest benefits of Tosca’s approach is its lying on single-use packaging that ends up in landfills impact on logistics. By using foldable, stackable, and and drains resources, Tosca’s plastic-based assets are standardised assets, customers can significantly reduce designed for durability, and when they reach the end of transportation costs and maximise the use of truck space. their usable life, they are recycled and reborn. More impressively, Tosca’s pooling system slashes “empty “Our entire model is circular,” says Jurgen Van Roy. “We miles” – trips where trucks return with unused capacity. collect assets, inspect them, repair if needed, and clean Vincent Nagels, Managing Director of Upstream, points them thoroughly with food-approved detergents. If an asto a real-world case: “We had a customer in Denmark set is beyond repair, it’s recycled and reintroduced into the sending pallets to Spain, and instead of returning those system. No plastic is wasted, and the loop is fully closed.” pallets empty, we now collect them locally and deliver This closed-loop approach results in tangible environmenthem to another customer in Spain. This simple switch tal benefits. Tosca’s pooling model reduces packaging has led to a huge reduction in carbon emissions and waste, cuts down carbon emissions, and helps customtransport costs.” ers comply with evolving legislation across Europe, such as the upcoming Packaging Tosca’s customers also benefit from imand Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). proved asset visibility and inventory control. In markets such as Central Europe, where A powerful, complete solution across Tosca’s RFID and IoT technologies are althe supply chain ready in place, customers have access to real-time tracking data that enhances pool What sets Tosca apart is its ability to apply this circular approach across the entire transparency and reduces the need for buffsupply chain, offering a complete, reusable er stock, lowering working capital requirements. This leads to greater predictability, Vincent Nagels packaging solution from producer to retailer 69

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that delivers both operational value and environmental benefits. As Vincent Nagels explains, Tosca is vertically integrated, which means it manages all the value contributors across the entire supply chain. “We are uniquely able to combine our upstream and downstream products to create a powerful, effective returnable packaging for our customers, ranging from smallmedium companies to one of the largest European FMCGs and retailers.”

sights. Whether it’s reducing costs, increasing food safety or adapting to new legislation, we work hand-in-hand to find the best way forward,” says Vincent Nagels Laurent Le Mercier, EMEA President, concludes: “We value long-term relationships with everyone in the supply chain – from carriers and retailers to third-party wash centres and recyclers. It’s only through close Laurent Le Mercier partnerships that we can continuously improve and evolve together.” As the pressures on the global food supply chain grow, Innovation that never stops Tosca’s reusable packaging solutions become vital and Innovation is at the heart of Tosca’s identity. With a dedi- transformative. cated team focused on product design, material science and digital technologies, the company continues to push About Tosca the boundaries of what reusable packaging can achieve. Tosca is a global leader in reusable plastic packaging “We’re not just reacting to change; we’re anticipating it,” and performance pooling solutions. Committed to drivsays Jurgen Van Roy. “Our innovation team looks at how ing sustainability and innovation across industries, Tosca to improve the strength and durability of assets, how to focuses on supplying innovative packaging solutions for make materials more sustainable, how to embed tech- a wide variety of industries. nology like tracking to create smarter, more responsive Tosca’s end-to-end pooling capabilities offer a smart and systems.” sustainable solution for growers, suppliers, and retailAutomation is another area where Tosca is anticipating ers. By utilising reusable containers and pallets, Tosca evolving needs. As warehouses become increasingly au- not only reduces costs but also enhances supply chain tomated, the consistency and reliability of plastic pallets performance. become critical. As Marco Gonzalez explains, “plastic load carriers are much more suitable because they main- For further information about TOSCA, visit tain their shape, weight, and integrity across multiple www.toscaltd.com uses, which is essential for reliable handling by machines and AI systems.” A trusted partner in transformation Tosca’s value extends beyond products. At its core, the company operates as a strategic partner, working closely with customers to assess their needs, identify opportunities for efficiency, and develop long-term solutions. This collaborative approach sets Tosca apart in a crowded marketplace. “Customers approach us because they see us as experts in reusable plastic packaging. They come to us for our in-

SECTORS POOLING AUTOMATION PACKAGING

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FIORINI INTERNATIONAL: THE PARTNER FOR SUSTAINABLE PAPER PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

iorini International produces small and medium paper bags for international customers in the human food and pet food industry, agriculture, chemical industry, hygiene and personal care segments and for global leaders in large-scale distribution: a range of products and finishes that supplies a flexible solution to every need. Achieving excellence by focusing on the continuous improvement of quality of products, services and processes and designing a sustainable production model to ensure environmental and human respect are the main values that drive the definition of the strategies and everyday actions. A constant consolidation of the market share and the new challenging opportunities in the packaging industry have been the main drivers for Fiorini International to become a strategic partner in the Drive to Paper process and in the design of sustainable packaging solutions, fully and easily recyclable, compliant with existing filling technologies, according to the European directives. In order to measure and evaluate sustainability and performance and design the path for a sustainable de-velopment, Fiorini International has started its sustainability performance assessment with a series of activities focused on minimising environmental impact and to creating awareness of sustainability culture, offering solutions

and answers to the community and engaging the entire company network, supporting by a strategic scientific partner Università Milano Bicocca and Toroto, a leading environmental company. The company commitment to sustainability development has been awarded with the Leader in Sustainability 2023 award: the important acknowledgement is the result of a research by Il Sole 24 Ore and Statista that examined about 1,500 Italian companies based on 45 key sustainability environmental, social and economic indicators. The continuous analysis of trends and consumer habits, and the ongoing research into technological solutions and innovative materials have aided an organic and rapid growth in the packaging industry, leading the company to successfully diversify production, while firmly maintaining the eco-friendly commitment to the exclusive use of paper, FSC certified in compliance with the forest chain of custody and ecosystem. Made up of 2 manufacturing companies, located in Italy and the Czech Republic, and 2 trading companies operating in France and China, Fiorini International stands out as a worldwide production, commercial and logistic network. www.fiorinint.com

packaging

PAPER SUSTAINABLE

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WOODBERRY PACKAGING ACQUIRES MEDICA AND CURTIS, STRENGTHENING ITS POSITION IN PHARMACEUTICAL AND PERSONAL CARE PACKAGING

oodberry Packaging, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading independent packaging groups, has acquired Medica Packaging (“Medica”) and F.G. Curtis (“Curtis”), two longestablished British packaging manufacturers, in a deal that almost doubles the size of the group. Both businesses will continue to operate under their existing brands and management, with their teams remaining and customer and supplier relationships maintained. • The acquisition almost doubles the size of the Woodberry group, to around 650 people from around 350. • Medica, in Crewe, is the UK’s largest independent pharmaceutical carton converter; Curtis, in Redhill, is the UK’s first B Corp-certified carton manufacturer, specialising in cosmetics and personal care. • The deal broadens the group’s capability in pharmaceutical, healthcare and personal care packaging and positions it for growth across Europe. The acquisition strengthens Woodberry’s position across Europe and broadens its capability across pharmaceutical, healthcare and personal care packaging. The enlarged group employs around 650 people across the UK and Ireland and has a combined turnover in excess of €120 million. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Woodberry Packaging is backed by Dublin-based Woodberry Capital and has built its group by acquisition across

Ireland and the UK. The acquisition of Medica and Curtis is a significant step in that growth, adding two of the most respected names in their respective markets. Medica adds a leading position in pharmaceutical and healthcare cartons, while Curtis adds recognised expertise in cosmetics and personal care, together with one of the strongest environmental records in the sector. Combined with the group’s existing Reelvision site, the acquisition gives Woodberry three PS 9000-accredited carton sites in the UK, the pharmaceutical industry’s quality standard, with its Irish business Colorman working toward the same accreditation. For customers, the enlarged group offers a single accredited partner with the security of supply that regulated markets increasingly require. Medica, based in Crewe, has a heritage in pharmaceutical printing dating back to 1922, when its site formed part of the Wellcome Foundation. Today it is the UK’s largest independent converter of folding cartons and leaflets for pharmaceutical, healthcare and medical device customers, and was named Pharma Packaging Partner of the Year in 2021. Curtis, based in Redhill, Surrey, was founded in 1937 and manufactures cartons for the cosmetics and personal care markets, with additional capability in healthcare. It was the first UK carton manufacturer to become a certified B Corporation and the first UK company to achieve World Land Trust carbon-balanced packaging.

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Peter Santo, Chief Executive of Woodberry Packaging Group, said: “The acquisition of Medica and Curtis is a major step in building our group across Europe. This is part of a clear, long-term strategy of bringing high-quality businesses together and integrating them well to create a stronger whole. Medica is the UK’s largest independent pharmaceutical carton converter, and Curtis is one of the most respected

SECTORS PHARMACEUTICAL COSMETICS PACKAGING

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names in cosmetics packaging. We want to learn from both teams, invest in their businesses and create opportunities none of us could achieve alone. We are one group and we are stronger together, and we are delighted to welcome both teams.”

James Williams, Managing Director of Curtis, said: “Becoming part of Woodberry Packaging is a natural step for Curtis. We have built a strong reputation in cosmetics and personal care packaging, and we are one of the most sustainable carton manufacturers in the country. Joining the wider Woodberry group gives us the scale and investment to build on that, while keeping the service and standards our customers value.” www.woodberrycapital.com

Gerard Harford, Managing Director of Medica, said: “Joining Woodberry Packaging is an exciting step for Medica. We have built our business on the quality, compliance and security of supply that pharmaceutical customers depend on, and becoming part of a larger group gives us greater scale and investment to do more for them. Our customers will work with the same team, to the same standards, now with a wider group behind them.”

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THE FUTURE OF PHARMACEUTICAL PACKAGING: BETWEEN SUSTAINABILITY, HIGH TECH AND GLOBAL MARKET PRESSURE

he pharmaceutical industry is one of the most innovative and biggest-selling sectors in the world. In 2024, the European pharmaceutical market generated sales of around 280 billion US dollars. In Germany alone, sales in the first quarter of 2025 totalled around 16.6 billion euros, making the country the largest pharmaceutical market in Europe and the fourth largest in the world. Alongside this, packaging technology is becoming more important: it is not only a means of safely storing and transporting medicines, but is also a key issue where sustainability is concerned. When it comes to packaging, regulation plays a central role in the pharmaceutical industry; the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is going to concern the pharmaceutical and medical technology sector, too, in the long term. Although the regulation does not initially apply to the packaging of medical products and pharmaceuticals – transitional periods apply here until 2035 and 2040, respectively – the industry needs to take action now. The intensity with which it is already working on solutions will also be evident at interpack 2026 – from recyclable blister materials to digitalised production lines. Recyclable materials for pharmaceutical products More attention is therefore being paid to sustainability. Some solutions – such as reusable and refillable packaging – will be difficult to realise for pharmaceuticals, as will the use of recyclates, which is subject to strict regulatory limits. In the area of primary packaging, however, packaging and film manufacturers have already developed a range of sustainable alternatives in recent years, for example for standard blister packs made of PVC and aluminium. Initial solutions are already on the market: moulded film and lidding film 76

are made of PET or PP, or even paper-based materials with a barrier. In a joint project, four packaging companies have developed a polypropylene pharmaceutical blister pack that meets the strict requirements of the pharmaceutical industry. The material from PP blister film manufacturer Etimex was tested and optimised for practical suitability under realistic conditions on a modern blister machine from interpack exhibitor Uhlmann Pac-Systeme. Many machine manufacturers have been busy focussing on the processing of sustainable packaging materials. Romaco produces blister packs made of recyclable PET monomaterial on its new Noack N 760 plate sealing machine. It achieves a maximum output of up to 150 blisters per minute when producing PET/PET blisters in four-lane operation. The universally applicable intermittent blister machine is suitable for packaging a very wide range of products, from solid dosage forms, ampoules and medical products through to semi-solid forms.

Four packaging companies, including Uhlmann Pac-Systeme, have jointly developed sustainable pharmaceutical blister packaging made from monomaterial. (Image: Etimex)

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Steriline combines robotics with a 3D vision system. (Image: Steriline)

Digitalisation and robotics in the pharmaceutical process The latest machine developments are characterised by modularity, automation and robotics. Many of these technologies were first presented to a wide audience of professionals at interpack and have been shaping production processes ever since. Steriline technology ensures safe primary packaging for sensitive medicines. The company combines robotics with a 3D vision system (3D CPS) to reduce particle emissions and enable flexible, low-contamination production processes. The system recognises objects in the work area and adjusts its movements in real time, allowing for the replacement of conventional feeding systems such as hoppers or vibrating bowls. The 3D CPS was developed together with ISS – Innovative Security Solutions, a spin-off of the Politecnico di Milano. With this collaboration, the two companies aim to combine pharmaceutical process expertise with state-of-the-art robotics and image processing.

SynTiso enables rapid aseptic transportation. (Image: Syntegon)

Christ Packing Systems is also focussing on innovation. The Ottobeuren-based company has been granted a patent for a new type of sealing unit developed specifically for the requirements of the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. Unlike conventional machines, which seal from below, the FilmTeq 250 seals from above. According to the manufacturer, this means that the sealing table remains unheated, which prevents the product from heating up and reduces the amount of cooling required. The top-down process also enables a more compact machine design with a smaller footprint. Mechanical engineering companies such as Syntegon benefit greatly from the dynamics of the pharmaceutical market. In 2024, the company achieved record results driven by the increasing demand for complete aseptic solutions. This year, the system provider presented a new line concept for liquid pharmaceuticals, which was developed together with two partners from the pharmaceutical industry. SynTiso ensures faster aseptic transportation and up to 50 per cent shorter batch changes in a smaller space. With 100 per cent in-process control, up to 600 syringes, vials or cartridges can be processed per minute – a speed never before seen on the market, according to Syntegon. This is an important factor in vaccine production, among other manufacturing processes. The system is also suitable for filling ready-to-use (RTU) containers.

The patented FilmTeq sealing system seals gently from above. (Image: Christ Packing System) 77

Smart packaging: from NFC to functional labels In addition to the ecological dimension, digital and functional added value continue to take centre stage. Packaging is increasingly being equipped with RFID chips, NFC labels and battery-free Bluetooth sensors to ob-

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Paper-based VOID labels offer tamper protection and are recyclable. (Image: Securikett)

and sustainable tamper protection. In addition to tamper protection, they can be recycled together with the folding box they seal. Using electronic package leaflets not only saves paper, but also makes it easier for consumers to access information. interpack 2026 will once again showcase customised solutions and innovative concepts along the entire pharmaceutical packaging value chain.

tain real-time data on the location, temperature or condition of the packaging. Smart blisters can do even more: their sensors register the removal of individual tablets and thus record the dosing times. Security labels such as Securikett’s paper-based VOID labels offer important

One thing is certain: companies that invest in research, a digital infrastructure and recyclable materials today will secure competitive advantages in the long term. In future, it will be less about the active ingredient itself and more about how safely, sustainably and intelligently a medicine reaches the patient.

Recyclable packaging materials are still not available for many pharmaceutical products. (Image: AI-generated)

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