Packaging Suppliers Global | Issue Five 2024 by Packaging Suppliers Global

AT THE CENTRE OF YOUR NEXT COMPLETE FLEXIBLE PACKAGING LINE

Let us answer your demands with an infinity of targeted technologies developed through the synergies within the IMA FLX HUB Our primary, secondary and end-of-line packaging solutions combine with each other to form tailored turnkey lines able to handle the broadest variety of flexible pack styles. Machines can be configured to process recyclable and sustainable materials, while digital features and connectivity maximise line efficiency.

For Food Pharma Wet Wipes and Pet markets IMA FLX HUB will place you at the centre of a neverending partnership.

ima.it/it/flexible-packaging-hub

Welcome to our final edition of the year!

As we wrap up an exciting 2024, this issue delves into the industry’s most significant events and game-changing trends.

We kick things off with a special look at Gulfood Manufacturing 2024, celebrating its 10th edition, and PACK EXPO International, where the future of packaging innovation was front and centre.

Our guest editorial, Ton’s Take, dives deep into what sustainable packaging truly means in today’s market. We also explore how AI is delivering tangible benefits now and laying the groundwork for tomorrow’s advancements. And don’t miss our coverage on how innovative solutions are driving progress towards a more circular economy.

From breakthrough technologies to thoughtprovoking insights, this issue is packed with everything you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of packaging.

Happy reading!

w: packagingsuppliersglobal.com

Gulfood Manufacturing 2024: Marking a decade of F&B innovation.

Real food, real business: A new era of packaging and processing.

Ton’s take: What sustainable packaging really means.

PACK EXPO International 2024: Showcasing the future of packaging innovation.

PMMI report: AI delivers benefits today and tomorrow, according to PMMI report.

e: info@packagingsuppliersglobal.com t: +44 (0)117 318 4321 6 20 26 31

In focus: Advancing the circular economy through innovation in packaging. 5 6 20 26 31 45

A DECADE OF POWERING PROGRESS

In 2024, Gulfood Manufacturing proudly marks a decade since opened its doors and grew into a pivotal platform for the F&B Manufacturing industry. The story extends far beyond this milestone.

Gulfood Manufacturing returns bigger than ever with a powerful presence of 2,500+ global companies spanning 72 countries across 19 halls. Expect to see groundbreaking innovations and the latest industry advancements, gain insights and visionary strategies from global experts, and build new business connections to achieve competitive advantage.

Marking a decade of F&B innovation: Gulfood Manufacturing’s landmark 10th edition

In 2024, Gulfood Manufacturing proudly marks a decade since opening its doors, whilst growing into a pivotal platform for the F&B manufacturing industry.

The story extends far beyond this milestone. Expect to see ground-breaking innovations in ingredients from food biofortification to AI driven ingredients, showcasing the latest industry advancements from nanotechnology in packaging to Industry 5.0, gain insights and visionary

strategies from global experts on risk and tech investment, and drive business growth to achieve competitive advantage in the industry.

This year, Gulfood Manufacturing returns bigger than ever with a powerful presence of over 2,500+ global companies spanning 72 countries across 19 halls. We invite you to be part of our landmark 10th anniversary edition, taking place from 5 - 7 November 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this milestone celebration and extend the legacy of this industry-leading event.

Registration is free for trade professionals. For more information and visitor registration visit the website: gulfoodmanufacturing.com

Real food, real business: A new era of packaging and processing

As Gulfood Manufacturing 2024 approaches, the theme of “Real Food, Real Business” serves as a powerful reflection of the current demands in the food and beverage (F&B) industry. At the heart of this message is the recognition that producing and delivering real, authentic food isn’t just about ingredients—it’s about creating efficient, sustainable, and resilient businesses that can thrive in a rapidly evolving global market. Central to this theme are four critical components: sustainability, resilience, agility, and efficiency, all of which are essential to the future of packaging and processing.

Sustainability: Shaping the future of packaging

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. Companies are under increasing pressure from both consumers and regulators to reduce their environmental footprint. Packaging plays a

pivotal role in this shift. Traditional materials like plastic are being scrutinised for their environmental impact, and companies are now looking toward alternatives such as biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable materials.

In this context, the circular economy is gaining momentum. Packaging solutions are moving from single-use designs toward materials that can be recycled, repurposed, or biodegraded. For instance, edible films made from natural sources and plantbased plastics are becoming viable alternatives. Additionally, lightweight packaging can reduce carbon emissions during transportation, further contributing to sustainability goals. The packaging industry is evolving to create materials that are not just good for the planet but also meet the high standards of food safety and quality.

Sustainability isn’t just about the materials; it’s also about reducing food waste. Packaging

innovations such as modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and vacuum sealing help extend the shelf life of products, ensuring that less food is spoiled before it reaches the consumer. This directly addresses both sustainability and the broader goal of reducing waste in the supply chain.

Resilience: Packaging and processing in an uncertain world

The global F&B industry has been exposed to unprecedented disruptions in recent years, from pandemics to geopolitical conflicts. As a result, resilience has become a key focus area for businesses. For packaging and processing, this means designing systems and materials that can withstand shocks while maintaining product integrity.

Resilience in packaging is about ensuring that food products are protected throughout their journey, from manufacturing to

the consumer’s table. Advanced packaging designs are now being developed with multi-layer barriers, offering protection against moisture, oxygen, and contamination. These packaging innovations ensure that food stays fresher for longer, even when exposed to unpredictable supply chain disruptions.

In terms of processing, resilience is about adopting automation and smart technology to safeguard operations. Automated systems can reduce dependency on manual labour and allow for more efficient production, even in the face of workforce shortages. These technologies enable businesses to quickly scale operations up or down in response to changing demands, ensuring they remain operational during crises.

Agility: Rapid responses to changing consumer demands

In a world where consumer preferences are constantly evolving, agility is essential for the F&B industry. Packaging and processing must adapt to shifts in dietary trends, regional regulations, and the increasing demand for personalised products. The concept of agility involves being flexible and responsive, ensuring businesses can innovate quickly and deliver solutions that meet both market and consumer needs.

Agile packaging designs focus on creating customisable and modular packaging solutions that can be adjusted for various product sizes or quantities, catering to different market segments. Additionally, smart packaging, which uses embedded sensors to provide real-time information about a product’s condition, is gaining traction. These innovations allow companies to respond quickly to fluctuations in demand and provide transparency to consumers, who are increasingly concerned about food safety and origin.

In the processing world, agility

is enhanced through the adoption of digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies enable real-time monitoring and adjustments to production lines, ensuring that operations remain efficient and responsive to changes. For example, AI-driven predictive maintenance can prevent equipment breakdowns, allowing for smoother and more flexible production processes.

Efficiency: Streamlining operations for profitability and sustainability

Efficiency has always been a core focus of the F&B industry, but in today’s competitive landscape, it’s more important than ever. For packaging and processing, this means reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and optimising supply chains to drive both profitability and sustainability.

In packaging, efficiency is achieved through the development of lightweight and space-efficient materials that reduce transportation costs and storage requirements. This not only saves money but also reduces the environmental impact of transporting goods. Moreover, the rise of smart packaging systems allows

companies to optimise inventory and reduce losses from expired or spoiled products, further improving overall efficiency.

On the processing side, efficiency is being driven by automation and robotics. Highspeed machinery, precision processing equipment, and AI-driven systems are enabling companies to produce more with fewer resources. These technologies help reduce labour costs and energy consumption, while also minimising errors and defects. The result is a more streamlined, costeffective production process that maintains high standards of quality and safety.

A holistic approach to real food and real business

Gulfood Manufacturing 2024’s focus on “Real Food, Real Business” highlights the complex interplay between sustainability, resilience, agility, and efficiency in today’s F&B industry. For businesses, success is no longer defined solely by the quality of their products but by their ability to integrate these principles into their operations. Packaging and processing play a crucial role in this transformation, enabling companies to deliver authentic food products while meeting the demands of a changing world.

IMA at Gulfood Manufacturing 2024

On show the entire range of solutions for the food industry.

IMA is pleased to announce its presence at Gulfood Manufacturing 2024 to present its latest processing, filling, dosing and packaging range of solutions for the Food market. Meet us at Hall S3 – Booth D36 and let our specialists introduce you to our range of solutions.

IMA in the FOOD market

IMA serves the international Food market with the best platforms available to satisfy any industry need. A full array of processing, filling and packaging technologies is available to cover the major industries: tea & herbs, coffee, confectionery, stock cubes and savoury, dairy and baby food, bakery, protein, produce and more.

Taking advantage of synergies and integrations with the Group companies, IMA offers fully engineered turn-key solutions delivering highly efficient packaging lines.

Gulfood Manufacturing will give us the chance to present a variety of specific solutions and innovations for the Tea & Coffee market, strong of a world leading position in the tea business and counting on the renowned knowhow and competence of the IMA Coffee Hub (processing and packaging solutions).

IMA FLX HUB companies (IMA Ilapak, IMA Eurosicma and IMA Record) will be presenting a choice of innovative horizontal and vertical solutions for the flow wrapping of food products while IMA Gima’s experts

for packaging technologies dedicated to the Confectionery industry will highlight new developments and solutions.

Processing and packaging solutions for butter, margarine, cheese and stock cubes, will be unveiled by our experts of IMA Benhil and IMA Corazza, while IMA Erca, IMA Fillshape, IMA

Gasti, and IMA Hassia will highlight their most innovative fill & seal solutions for pre-formed cups as well as form, fill & seal solutions for the beverage and baby food, dressings & sauces markets.

No line would be turnkey without the necessary technologies to complete the packaging process.

The IMA END OF LINE hub (IMA BFB, IMA Ciemme, IMA Mespic, IMA Phoenix) and its experts are available to show the technologies developed to preserve the contents and containers while providing packaging solutions of all types: from display boxes to wrap around cases, trays with internal or external lids, RSC cases.

Machines on show

IMA Ilapak Vegatronic 2000 ML

The most innovative intermittent vertical bagging machine. High flexibility in terms of pack formats with an Open Frame structure that guarantees unique accessibility for cleaning and maintenance.

Capable of switching between heat sealing films and LPDE and between pillow packs and stand-up pouches with easy and tool-free changeovers, the Vegatronic 2000 ML intermittent motion vertical form, fill and seal machine is aimed at producers seeking a high level of flexibility.

Designed to meet the operator’s needs, this bagging machine has

a very simple film path, installed tutorial videos that will help with the normal procedures, and with the ability to retrofit the screen in a remote portable device

IMA Corazza PDP24: Highspeed press for bouillon cubes

The PDP24 is the latest in a long line of IMA Corazza solutions for the food industry. Like any cube, there are six sides to the story and the PDP24 boasts as many reasons for making it the number one choice. Equipped with just 24 punches, the PDP24 processes up to 3000 ppm, ensuring consistent quality and cube weight thanks to separate pre- and final compression stations. With a minimal footprint, it also guarantees excellent hygiene standards, keeping the production area segregated from the mechanical housing. Through a more efficient design, maintenance costs and requirements are much lower and punches and dies can be easily replaced. Able to adapt reliably to different powder types, the press allows for fast format changeovers between 4 and 13 grams as well as nonstandard sizes.

IMA’s Corporate commitment to sustainability

IMA OpenLab is the IMA Group’s network of technological laboratories and testing areas, dedicated to the research on sustainable materials, technologies and production optimisation processes.

OpenLab’s objective is to create partnerships, finding new sustainable materials, sharing competences and creating synergy with packaging manufacturers and customers. The Lab aims to maximise equipment’s efficiency, reduce waste whilst maintaining pack presentation and seal integrity, testing in advance new and more sustainable packaging materials.

IMA ZERO is the evolution of the IMA commitment to Sustainable Development. Its ultimate goal is minimizing environmental impact in industrial manufacturing and promoting a working habitat that always puts people at the center. During Gulfood Manufacturing 2024, the focus will be on IMA NOP (No Plastic program) and on the sustainable packaging solutions developed for the food industry.

Visit us in Dubai from November 5th to 7th, Hall S3 – Booth D36 and discover more! w: www.ima.it

YOUR EXPERT FOR PACKAGING SO LUTIONS

Dirk Wohlgemuth Head of Sales, IIC Packaging

„As packaging experts with over 30 years of experience, we offer you innovative, customised & creative packaging.

We consistently Convince in terms of quality, technology, costs and the environment.“ Request now

250 successful packaging concepts

Customised & innovative products and materials

Independent family business with branches in the UK & Germany

Supplier of rigid food packaging for the FMCG market

More than 30 years of experience

Hundreds of satisfied customers in 40 countries

We offer a competent, personalised & proactive customer approach

By your side for over 30 years

• Operator friendly to use

• Compatible with recyclable, biodegradable and compostable ﬁlms

• Gas tight packs for M.A.P

• Simple and fast product changeovers

• Minimal maintenance required / low cost to run

• Unique Fuji IH centre sealers, maintenance-free, 20% more e cient than traditional mould heaters with better sealing speed and integrity

• Patented Fuji Box Motionfastest hermetic end sealing in the world

Revolutionising food packaging: Paramount Packaging Systems and Fuji’s cutting-edge solutions

In today’s food packaging industry, efficiency, sustainability and quality are essential to stay competitive. Paramount Packaging Systems, the sole UK agent for Fuji Machinery Co., has long been a leader in providing stateof-the-art packaging solutions. Specialising in Fuji flow wrapping technology, Paramount offers the fastest and most reliable machines on the market, capable of producing various pack styles while reducing material usage and extending product shelf life.

Who we are

For over 30 years, Paramount Packaging Systems has

supplied innovative packaging machinery, focused on Fuji’s high-performance flow wrappers. These machines cater to a wide range of sectors, including fresh produce, meat, bakery and more, ensuring that companies achieve faster production speeds, improved product quality and reduced environmental impact.

Fast and reliable machines

Fuji’s flow wrappers, available through Paramount Packaging Systems, are known for their speed, precision and durability. The Fuji Alpha 8 series, for example, can produce up to 400 hermetically sealed packs per

minute, ensuring that products stay fresh for longer. These machines are ideal for Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), which extends product shelf life and improves product presentation.

Versatile packaging solutions

Fuji’s machines produce various pack styles, from simple pillow packs to more complex configurations like trays and punnets. They’re versatile enough to handle sustainable materials, such as mono-layer PE films, which can be recycled through returnto-store programmes, meeting sustainability goals without compromising efficiency.

Case study: Meat packaging revolution

Working with Aldi (Germany), Paramount Packaging Systems helped implement a new packaging infrastructure for fresh meat that reduces plastic usage by 70% and cuts transport costs by 80%. Fuji’s Alpha 8 flow wrappers were key to this transition, helping Aldi meet ambitious sustainability goals. The new packaging, using 100% recyclable film, also reduces CO2 emissions by 60%, making it a groundbreaking solution for the meat industry. Similar systems are now being rolled out across Europe and the UK.

Case study: Fast solutions for the bakery sector

Ming Foods, the UK’s leading supplier of Chinese pancakes and spring rolls, faced a production crisis during the busy holiday season. With orders soaring, they urgently needed an additional packaging machine. Paramount Packaging Systems acted quickly. Within a week, a customised Fuji Alpha 8 flow wrapper was delivered,

Case study: Transforming produce packaging

A major UK supermarket partnered with Paramount to eliminate PVC from their mushroom punnet packaging. After successful trials, Fuji’s Alpha 8 flow wrapper was installed, using fully recyclable mono-layer PE film. This switch removed 97 tonnes of PVC from the supply chain in the first year and cut costs by eliminating labels. The customer also experienced faster line speeds and improved product presentation. With more Fuji lines set to be installed, the supermarket expects to triple these reductions, further enhancing sustainability and operational efficiency.

Paramount Packaging Systems: Your partner for sustainable ackaging

At Paramount Packaging Systems, we deliver packaging solutions that combine speed, sustainability and precision.

Whether you’re in produce, meat or bakery sectors, Fuji’s flow wrapping machines offer the fastest, most reliable and ecofriendly packaging options on the market.

w:paramount-packaging.co.uk

Visit us at Gulfood on stand S-K20 to discover how Fuji’s cuttingedge technology can transform your packaging line!

Mr. Minh, founder of Ming Foods, praised Paramount for their swift action and the flow wrapper’s ability to handle highspeed production and easy product changeovers.

Greatview Aseptic Packaging: Your value partner

Greatview Aseptic Packaging Company, the world’s 3rd largest supplier of value-based, paper aseptic packaging solutions for the liquid food industry, sells over 24 billion packages annually.

We are proud to support your business with high-quality, competitive, and sustainable packaging solutions. An integral component of our end-to-end solution is our world-class filling and distribution equipment, straw applicators, reel trolleys, reel clamp and more.

Whether you are filling pure or flavored juice, nectars, or readyto-drink tea products, Greatview is there to help.

Our mission is to add significant value to liquid food producers by providing a high-quality, competitive, and sustainable packaging option. The company motto “Choice Creates Value” conveys our belief that competition delivers benefits to customer supply chains. Greatview owns five converting facilities, located in Germany, Italy and China as well as

several sales operation centres and R&D facilities.

Packaging variety for function and appearance

The diversity of eye-catching new products and consumers in your market means that it is no longer an option to simply stand still and expect consumers to pay attention to your offer. In order to help distinguish your brand from your competitors and to establish unique identities for different SKUs, Greatview provides you with a wide variety of packaging formats that are ideally suited to different types of your product.

We develop each product and format in response to market

demand, ensuring that we provide you with packaging materials that are desired by consumers. From 125, 180, 200 or 250mL portion packs for on the go to 1L packs for families, Greatview’s range of pack formats is designed with consumer convenience in mind.

At the same time, we strive to be flexible for you. We provide both roll-fed materials and also blank-fed formats, which are perfectly suited to filling liquid beverages that contain particles. Our packaging materials are compatible with industrystandard filling machines, providing a plug-and-play solution while maintaining low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

Greatview® Décor Effects

Crowded shelves and creative rival products can cause consumers to miss your brand as they search for products that stand out. That’s why Greatview has introduced an attractive range of décor effects to give your products the visual impact they need to stand out.

We help you choose the best match for your product’s identity. By combining eyecatching décor effects with a wide range of innovative packaging shapes, we help your brand communicate a unique identity that sets itself apart.

Leading in the digital era

In an increasingly interconnected world, consumers demand beverage products that offer added value through interactive packaging. At the same time, pressure is building on beverage producers to bring their products to market as quickly and effectively as possible without compromising on excellent quality and affordability.

Consumers are also increasingly seeking out brands which display an identity and personality through the potential for brand-consumer interaction.

These trends have motivated us to develop Greatview® Smart Packaging, offering rich, realtime two-way communication between consumers and your brand with virtually unlimited potential for marketing activities, instant wins as well as granular product traceability for consumers.

The unique-per-pack QR codes reveal great potential to engage consumers with your brand through digital marketing activities, and also foster consumers’ trust and loyalty towards your brand with more transparency over the life of the product - from its origin to the consumer’s table.

Supporting your sustainable journey

Pursuing meaningful, longterm co-operations with liquid food customers, Greatview is acutely aware of the essential role that we have to play in protecting our planet for future generations. Social benefit and environmental sustainability are integral to our processes and our business, and Greatview is committed to benefitting the lives that we touch, aiming to support you across the supply chain in achieving your sustainable goals.

We promote sustainability practices that encompass

responsible raw material sourcing, green and energyefficient production, the development of more environmentally-friendly products, and active involvement in recycling initiatives. Our commitment to these practices ensures that we better support your journey in sustainable development within the paper-based composite packaging industry.

w: greatviewpack.com

Gulfood Manufacturing Dubai

Join Us at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai: 5th to 7th November 2024!

We’re thrilled to announce that Greatview Aseptic Packaging will be showcasing our innovative solutions at the Gulfood Manufacturing Exhibition in Dubai!

Mark your calendars for 5th to 7th November 2024, and come visit us at Shk Saeed Hall 1S1 F44.

We genuinely look forward to meeting you at our stand and discussing how Greatview can support your business needs.

Royal Apollo Elevates your Packaging Efficiency

Apollo Spiral Conveyors need less floor space than conventional incline conveyors and are faster and more reliable than any elevator or lift.

Who are we?

Royal APOLLO Group is a world leader in Vertical Transport Systems, providing tailored solutions to clients globally from our strategically located facilities across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Our core products include Spiral Conveyors and Bucket Elevators, designed to optimize material handling and streamline logistics across various industries.

APOLLO VTS Mexico

VTS Germany APOLLO VTS France

VTS India APOLLO VTS Thailand APOLLO VTS Spain

APOLLO VTS Italy APOLLO VTS China

Contact

ROYAL APOLLO GROUP

Ton’s take: What sustainable packaging really means

Dear Packaging Suppliers Global reader,

Those of you who have been following me for a little while or are connected with me via LinkedIn, know that I have been

quite vocal about the role that packaging plays in the whole sustainability debate.

I’ve worked with all kinds of packaging companies, with all sorts of materials and it’s safe to say that I’m material agnostic. No preference for paper, plastic or any other material for that matter.

I’ve been active in the packaging industry longer than I care to remember and I’ve seen quite a few changes over the last decades. The drive for more sustainable packaging is nothing new really, but this has been hindered by a lot of nonsense and all kinds of unsubstantiated

claims. Claims about how green or eco-friendly a new pack or material was, without proper evidence or sometimes even downright untrue. Sometimes, this was utter greenwashing! Unfortunately, the consumer has seen so many of these greenwashing claims, that they are left all confused. And as a packaging veteran, I can’t blame them. How can a consumer tell the difference between biobased and biodegradable. All they remember is bio and therefore they believe that biobased plastics are biodegradable. Something we as packaging experts all know is not the same. Or didn’t you?

So, where do we start with putting this right? What is sustainable packaging?

In my opinion sustainability is not:

• Simple lightweighting (done already by purchasing to meet their saving targets)

• Using avoidable laminates (simply because that’s what you used before)

• Paperization of packaging (avoid the pressure from marketing!)

• Confuse the consumer (with lots of pretentious ecologos and claims)

Oops, I hear you say, but what can I tell marketing is sustainable?

Packaging that is “Fit-forPurpose” with a realistic shelf-life and designed for recycling, is a great starting point. Ideal would be to have a reusable pack, but I appreciate that is a lot more challenging than some people sometimes make it sound. Providing a proper recycling infrastructure, which is transparent, logical and understandable for most consumers, will enable us to become more circular. With transparent, I also mean that the consumer should know what happens to their waste. In Japan I’ve seen some great examples of which we could all learn.

Earlier this year, I’ve learned that packaging isn’t the culprit some people make it out to be. With some of these people I’m not sure whether or not they’re simply ignorant and misinformed by social media where the famous turtle has been the personification of everything bad about plastic packaging. We should not allow NGO’s to put all the blame for pollution on us as packaging professionals. Simply not justified, as packaging protects products!

Sure, packaging litter is bad

and unnecessarily complex packaging is not OK either.

However, let’s not forget that this pictured Coca Cola bottle didn’t place itself on the beach and neither did this Pringles can eject itself into a forest. It was a consumer who couldn’t be bothered to dispose of it in the correct way. The same consumer who will tell you that it’s an outrage that we have so much plastic around a steak, because this is so bad for the environment.

Sometimes you’re at a party and people ask you what it is that you do for a living. When I then say that I work in packaging, most people have an opinion, a bit along the lines of what I

described above. When I feel like it, and I believe the audience is willing to listen and able to understand the necessary nuances, I’ll go into a debate and try and ‘peel off the onion’ layer by layer. If necessary, I do not hesitate confronting them with their own inconsistent behavior. I’m sure that this has happened to you as well.

Every now and then I run into someone near my local supermarket, who asks if I am also concerned about pollution, especially plastic waste. Sometimes I stop and ask what it is they mean. When they come up with the example of the poor turtle with the plastic straw or plastic bag, I know I’m dealing with a sales person of an NGO, trying to sell you a ‘subscription to their good cause’. They then often continue with arguments such as how bad plastic is and how good it is that their NGO is helping to fight this. They’re usually targeting shoppers with a bit of remorse about their own shopping behavior with loads of plastic packs and bags and offering a form of indulgence by

subscribing to their NGO. First I have a bit of a chuckle and then ask them what alternatives they have to protect food products. I then start with the example of a piece of steak in a plastic tray and tell them that cutting back on the plastic tray and film around that piece of steak usually makes things worse. The plastic provides protection against the steak going to waste. Modified atmosphere, where the oxygen is taken out of the tray and replaced by a protective gas requires the tray to be relatively gas tight. Without this plastic tray and film, the steak would have a much shorter shelf-life and this would have a seriously negative effect on the environment! Not only would the steak have been produced unnecessarily, but also that the rotting meat would cause avoidable Green House Gasses (GHG’s). When I then tell them that the CO2 footprint of the plastic tray and film are less than 1% of the total footprint of the packed piece of steak and that therefore the actual steak making up for the remaining 99%, they look bewildered! The average consumer honestly believes that packaging has the highest negative impact on the environment and causes all kinds of irreparable damages. In reality, the consumer who wants to positively contribute to the environment, should reduce their meat consumption, eat more seasonal produce (no strawberries in December!), consume what they purchase and dispose of the used packaging in the correct way, even if that requires walking a few steps further to the correct bin. By that time, this NGO sales person is completely panicking and desperately looking for a

new victim and a quick way to end this sales pitch.

So, we’ve talked about quite a few stakeholders in the sustainability debate already. But where does this leave the actual brand owner?

The brand owner who decides everything about their product; pack format, shelf-life and design.

For starters, their marketing should not be so afraid about frightening of the consumer with information about recycling. On the contrary, they should use this information as a USP and a demonstration of their commitment to a sustainable usage of their products! Gen Next will expect brand owners to have the same commitment to a sustainable future as they do. The average consumer expects to be treated as a grown-up and isn’t stupid. By remaining vague about what actually happens to collected waste, the consumer will ‘vote with their feet’ and looses interest in the good cause of recycling. Again, the examples from Japan are clear and will help get consumers on board, which is critical to the success of the circular economy.

Where does this leave the authorities, such as your local government or the powers higher up the food chain? Should they ‘throw everything over the fence’ and leave it to the market to sort out, like they’ve been doing for the last 2 – 3 decades, or should they take a more active role?

I believe that without a much more active role of the authorities, there will be a mess up of all sorts of contradicting and competing systems, which will lead to a disconnect with the consumer.

In some European countries, tariff differentiation has been implemented. That means lower waste rates for recyclable materials and higher rates for non-recyclable materials. Simple and effective. In my home country of the Netherlands, a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) has been introduced recently. It’s fair to say that this has come with a few startup challenges up to the point that the consumer is completely lost and retailers are dragging their feet. The Green Deal coming out of Brussels at least has provided some great initiatives, but with the current political head winds in Europe, I’m not so sure if the individual governments will apply these in their own countries. We, as packaging passionates need to take our responsibility and take back the initiative in this debate. There are no simple solutions to complex problems unfortunately and we need politicians with the cojones to deliver this message to the public. The same public who shouldn’t be looking for strawberries at Christmas, unless you live south of the equator.

I probably dropped a few little bombshells here and I kindly invite everyone who disagrees to reach out and have a debate. Only that way we can fix these problems.

Cheers, Ton.

Smart Dispensing. Sustainable Impact.

EXPLORE JOMA’s range of high-viscosity dispensers in multiple sizes and find the perfect fit for your product!

Revolutionize Your Dispenser Pump Assortment with the Joma Dispensing System

At 1-Pack America, we are proud to announce our strategic partnership with Joma Packaging to bring a revolutionary solution to the American market in the field of vacuum dispensers: the Joma high viscose dispensing system. This system, manufactured in Austria and North America, represents a significant advancement in dispensing technology for highviscosity products, and we are excited to introduce it to our customers in the Americas.

1-Pack America: Your partner in High-Performance packaging solutions

We are manufacturers and distributors of high-quality packaging solutions, with over 95 % of our products originating from Europe and North America. Our company has established itself as stocking manufacturer in both Europe and America, enabling us to provide products quickly and efficiently to our customers. Since 2019, we have strengthened our presence in the airless dispenser market, with products available from both our European and American locations aimed at the health and beauty sectors.

Discover European Innovation with

Joma Packaging

Joma Packaging, a European company renowned for its excellence in dispensing solutions, has been a leader in developing advanced technologies for high-viscosity creams, gels, and ointment. The collaboration between 1-Pack and Joma in this sector reinforces our commitment to delivering products that combine innovation, quality, and efficiency, tailored to the needs of our most demanding customers.

Use Case: Transforming Efficiency for a US Professional Personal Care Brand

A leading personal care brand in the US recently switched to our innovative dispenser system, achieving remarkable results. With our dispenser, the brand saw 30 % more product usage, eliminating residual content and significantly enhancing customer satisfaction by ensuring every drop of their premium creams was utilized.

The dispenser’s adjustable settings (3ml, 5ml, 7ml) allowed for customized dosage, reducing waste according to application needs. Customers appreciated the efficiency, as our dispenser required only 3 strokes compared to the 12 strokes needed with their previous pumps, resulting in fewer complaints and a smoother user experience.

In addition to these operational benefits, the brand enjoyed substantial cost-efficiency by switching to refill packs. This not only reduced packaging costs but also cut their packaging footprint by up to 41 %, aligning with their sustainability goals. The system’s tamper-evident design and self-closing cap ensured product quality and safety throughout use, further solidifying customer trust. By adopting our dispenser, the brand achieved a perfect balance of increased efficiency, cost savings and reduced environmental impact.

Precision, Sustainability and Value: The Joma System.

The Joma high viscose dispensing system is designed to offer precise dosage control, making it an ideal choice for the professional personal care and pharmaceutical sectors, where quality, longevity, and cost control are essential. These dispensers also feature tamperproof security and cost-efficient refill options, adding significant value to our customers‘ investments

A Promising Future: 1-Pack America and Joma Packaging Partnership

The partnership between 1-Pack and Joma Packaging will not only bring top-tier European products to the American market but will also enable us to further localize production to North America.

Personal Care:

See how our system enhances efficiency and satisfaction in massage studios and spots therapists.

Personal Care:

See

The partnership between 1-Pack and Joma Packaging will not only bring top-tier European products to the American market but will also enable us to further localize production to North America. This will enhance our ability to provide innovative, customized, and high-quality solutions, ensuring our customers receive the best in packaging and dispensing technology.

This will enhance our ability to provide innovative, customized, and high-quality solutions, ensuring our customers receive the best in packaging and dispensing technology.

With the Joma system, we are confident that industry professionals will find a cost-effective and efficient solution for their high-viscosity product needs, backed by 1-Pack America’s first-class service.

Professional B2B Segment:

Pharmaceutical Dermatology Care:

Segment:

Discover its implementation in a costefficient and sustainable refill concept for barbers and hairdressers, potentially saving up to 42 % in emissions.

Discover

Explore how our dispenser is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of the pharmaceutical OTC market, especially in dermatological applications.

especially

PACK EXPO International 2024: Showcasing the future of packaging innovation

The global packaging industry is gearing up for PACK EXPO International 2024, set to take place from November 3-6 at McCormick Place, Chicago. This highly anticipated event is expected to bring together thousands of professionals, exhibitors, and innovators from across the world, making it a must-attend for businesses looking to stay at the forefront of packaging advancements.

A hub for innovation and solutions

As the largest packaging event in North America, PACK

EXPO International consistently delivers cutting-edge solutions for sectors including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, e-commerce, and more. The 2024 edition promises to exceed expectations with more than 2,000 exhibitors and a wide array of technological demonstrations aimed at addressing challenges such as sustainability, automation, and digital transformation.

From flexible packaging solutions and advanced robotics to smart packaging and sustainable materials, attendees will be able to explore the newest

trends driving the industry forward. Notably, PACK EXPO International will continue to feature live demonstrations, giving visitors a hands-on experience with breakthrough machinery, robotics, and equipment in action.

Spotlight on sustainability

One of the defining themes for PACK EXPO 2024 is sustainability. With global pressure to reduce packaging waste and improve recyclability, companies across industries are looking for innovative ways to create more eco-friendly

solutions. The event will feature a dedicated Sustainability Central hub, where participants can learn about the latest sustainable packaging technologies, materials, and practices.

Leading voices in the packaging sector will also be hosting a range of educational sessions focused on creating circular economies, reducing carbon footprints, and optimising the lifecycle of packaging materials.

Packaging insights and industry trends

PACK EXPO International isn’t just an exhibition space; it’s an opportunity to gain insights into the future of packaging. The event’s extensive Innovation Stage sessions will offer industry-specific educational programmes. These sessions, led by subject-matter experts, will cover topics such as automation, supply chain optimisation, regulatory developments, and the integration of digital tools like artificial intelligence into the packaging process.

Attendees can look forward to discussions on how companies can future-proof their operations, address evolving consumer demands, and adapt to global packaging regulations, especially in light of changing sustainability standards.

Focus on emerging technologies

The PACK to the Future exhibit, a relatively new feature of the event, will continue to highlight breakthrough technologies reshaping the packaging landscape. The exhibit aims to take a futuristic approach to packaging, spotlighting advancements such as smart packaging, track-and-trace solutions, 3D printing, and the use of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies that enhance product security and consumer engagement.

For those looking to invest in automation, The Robotics Zone will be a prime destination. This

interactive area showcases the latest in packaging robotics, from picking and placing to advanced palletising systems, with experts on hand to discuss the role of robotics in increasing efficiency and reducing human error on production lines.

Networking and business opportunities

Beyond the technology, PACK EXPO International 2024 will offer countless opportunities for networking and business development. Professionals from across industries will come together to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and explore potential collaborations.

The event will also feature the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast, focusing on fostering inclusivity and diversity in the packaging workforce. This breakfast will provide a platform for professionals to discuss career advancement and challenges in a traditionally male-dominated industry, encouraging growth and support for women leaders.

Meanwhile, the Pavilions— including the Healthcare Packaging Pavilion and the Recycling Pavilion—will create specialised spaces for focused business meetings and connections with suppliers, allowing attendees to find solutions tailored specifically to their operational needs.

Looking ahead

With over 45,000 attendees expected, PACK EXPO International 2024 promises to be the epicentre of innovation for the packaging industry. Whether you’re a business looking to modernise its packaging processes, a professional eager to discover new technologies, or an industry leader seeking sustainability solutions, PACK EXPO 2024 is poised to deliver transformative ideas and solutions.

To ensure you don’t miss out on this premier event, register today and prepare to be part of the conversation that will shape the future of packaging.

Discover more at packexpointernational.com

Carlton Packaging is set to make its debut at PACK EXPO, bringing 30 years of innovation and expertise to the U.S. market. Find out more on pages 38-39!

Interroll: Energy-efficient and hygienic conveying for the food industry

Swiss material-handling equipment supplier Interroll offers a Special Hygienic Conveyor (SHC), a conveyor platform consistently designed in accordance with hygienic product design guidelines. The modular SHC platform, manufactured on the basis of a stainless steel construction, enables zero-pressure accumulation and energy-efficient transport of items in the food sector.

With the Special Hygienic Conveyor, Interroll is taking on the responsibility as a technological leader in the material-handling sector.

In doing so, it is pushing ahead to advance the Group-wide platform strategy. The platform’s modularity means that it can be flexibly put together from proven products and expanded as a plug-and-play solution based on the LEGO principle. System integrators can use it to handle both simple and highly

demanding tasks in the automatic conveying of packaged food or other hygiene-sensitive products. The SHC platform includes both roller and belt conveyors that transport all kinds of packed food.

Automated flow of goods can be controlled flexibly

Automation is crucial for further improving productivity in the food industry. With the IP 55

MultiControl, a multiprotocol control system from Interroll, the flow of goods on conveyors can be controlled flexibly and as required. A further advantage is that sensors and the drives, such as the proven RollerDrive, can be integrated directly into the field bus level, without need for an additional sensor/actuator level with extra gateways. In addition, the solution enables precise positioning of transported goods on the conveyor. This important feature enables the easy integration of labeling

machines, for example, into the automatic flow of goods after packing without complex sensor installations.

Energy savings of up to 50 percent

The drive concept of the SHC is a decisive factor in achieving the highest possible energy efficiency. Unlike a central drive concept for zero-pressure accumulation with 400V drives operating continuously with additional pneumatics technology for zone control, Interroll’s compact low-voltage drives - the 24/48V RollerDrive - offer energy savings of up to 50 percent. The reason for this savings is that the decentralized drives only activate the conveyor zones in which goods need to be moved.

Cleanability is key

Cleanability is one key criterion for hygienic applications. You need to ensure that everything that can have an influence on safety and quality of food can be cleaned effectively and efficiently to prevent microbiological contamination. That’s why the SHC platform for the food industry was developed from the beginning according to the

principles of hygienic product design. Therefore, one of its distinguishing features is that the SHC has been structurally designed for unobstructed drainage of cleaning liquids.

All available components of this plug-and-play conveyor, which include electrical products such as RollerDrive, i.e. motorized rollers, and corresponding controls (IP 55 MultiControl), are certified to at least IP 55 and protected against splashing water. This allows simple cleaning procedures with low water pressure to be carried out. In addition, liquid residues— which can compromise function and hygiene—are prevented from remaining in the conveyor afterward.

Easy connection to existing conveyors

Thanks to a special transition module (transfer), which is characterized by an extremely small deflection radius, the SHC can also be connected to existing conveyor systems without any major technical adaptation effort. With the Interroll Layouter, system integrators are able to design, plan and virtually commission

complete system concepts on the computer. Presentations and decision-making processes for end users will become more meaningful and significantly easier. At the same time, preparation for smooth installation and commissioning of the solution is improved. Depending on customer requirements, conveyors based on this platform are driven by stainless steel drum motors or RollerDrive. At the same time, the SHC improves the working environment by generating less noise and reduces wear when conveying food items or plastic crates.

Special Hygienic Conveyor (SHC)

Enjoy your meal

At PACK EXPO 2024, we will be unveiling our extensive product portfolio tailored for food and pharmaceutical applications. Alongside our renowned global Drum Motor featuring a hygienic design, we will also be showcasing the Special Hygienic Conveyor (SHC)—a stainless steel conveyor platform known for its unparalleled flexibility and cleanliness, designed specifically for packaged food applications.

Simplicity: easy interfaces to existing applications

Modularity: modular stainless steel platform

Water proof: all components are at least IPX5 certified Energy savings up to 50% possible with Zero Pressure Accumulation

Visit interroll.com for more information

Make sure to visit our booth. Our experts look forward to getting in touch with you.

3-6 November Booth LU-7737

AI delivers benefits today and tomorrow, according to PMMI report

AI innovations will be on display at PACK

EXPO International 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform the packaging and processing industry. Early adopters are already reaping benefits from AI, and it will deliver an even greater impact in the future, according to a new report, The AI Advantage in Equipment: Boosting Performance and Bridging Skills Gaps, published by PMMI Business Intelligence, a division of PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

The report, prepared in conjunction with Interact Analysis, a global research specialist in the automation value chain, examines benefits, barriers, and

tactics for the deployment of three AI technologies, machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI. It also discusses the five applications most likely to provide the greatest impact on the packaging and processing industry, including AI assistants, machine vision, predictive maintenance, digital twins, and connected worker platforms.

Case studies describe how automation vendors and OEMs are using AI technologies and their ability to improve the production of packaging and consumer packaged goods.

Benefits of AI include more efficient machine performance,

especially when random inputs and outputs are involved; increased worker productivity due to support of time-consuming tasks such as data entry and coding; and mitigating skills gaps and labour issues by enabling optimised and personalised training. But, more importantly, the benefits of AI are not finite, improvement is continuous. The report explains that’s because “… the longer these technologies are used and the more data they process, the better the outputs become. … [the] systems learn over time.”

Although AI is expected to offer substantial benefits, implementation must

Cardinal robot © Amazon

Proteus robot © Amazon Sparrow robot © Amazon

overcome barriers related to cybersecurity, data collection and storage, resistance to change, fears about job loss, and the possibility that the information AI generates is incorrect. To overcome these hurdles, technology adopters should seek expert assistance to help identify where AI will deliver the greatest benefits, define a clear goal, start small, obtain buy-in from stakeholders, collect and store relevant data, and confirm the correctness of the AI-generated information.

The report concludes, “By addressing concerns and following best practices, companies can successfully integrate AI and reap its longterm benefits.” Highlights from the report are discussed by Sean Riley of PMMI Media Group and George Blunt of Interact Analysis in PMMI’s UnPACKed Podcast, published on Aug. 28, 2024. The report itself may be downloaded for free at PMMI’s website, here

AI capabilities will be on display at PACK EXPO International (Nov. 3–6; McCormick Place, Chicago) and wellrepresented in the show’s educational sessions. As the world’s largest packaging and processing event, PACK EXPO International brings together professionals from across 40+ vertical markets, features 2,600 exhibitors, draws more than 45,000 attendees from around the globe, and provides an unparalleled platform for innovation, connection, and education.

Register today and prepare to discover the latest innovations, network with industry leaders, and gain the insights necessary to stay ahead of the curve. For more information and to register, visit packexpointernational.com

This article was originally published by PMMI.

IMA at PACK EXPO 2024: Discover the IMA EverEvolving System

At Pack Expo 2024, IMA presents itself as an everevolving system — integrated, technological, and innovative — bringing together all its production entities in a single, unified stand.

“Growth, diversification, tradition, innovation, sustainability, the world of work, teamwork, the centrality of people, the virtuous local area, university and training, harmony with the territory, reliability, and quality in customer service. These are the pillars of the IMA system,” says Alberto Vacchi, IMA Chairman and CEO

The IMA EVER-EVOLVING SYSTEM at Pack Expo 2024 unites IMA production entities,

creating a technological and innovative environment for our processing and packaging solutions through to the end of line, in the Pharmaceutical, Medical Devices, Food, Personal Care, and E-Commerce industries.

The booth’s design will reflect the Group’s development philosophy, emphasizing the key role of sustainability in process and product design — a fundamental combination for IMA: respect for the environment and advanced technology.

We will showcase solutions for the markets in which the Group traditionally operates, as well as those in newly entered markets. Space will be given to new acquisitions, cross-company

synergies, and the latest innovations:

• Pharma: IMA Pharma is a world leader in the design and manufacture of automatic machines and complete lines for the processing and packaging of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products thanks to a high technological profile and the ability to offer tailor-made solutions to satisfy the most sophisticated requests of the market, thanks to its highly specialised divisions: IMA Active (Solid Dose Solutions), IMA Life (Aseptic Processing and Freezedrying Solutions) and IMA Safe (Packaging Solutions).

• Medical Devices Assembly: IMA AUTOMATION, a division of the IMA Group and a

market leader in the design and manufacture of advanced technological lines for the handling and assembly of parts for various application fields, announces the creation of IMA MED-TECH, a new Business Unit entirely dedicated to medical assembly technologies. This represents a significant step forward in the IMA Group’s strategy to consolidate and enhance its presence in the MedTech sector.

• Food: Tea & Coffee, Savoury, Preserves & Condiments, Beverage & Baby Food, Dairy & Cheese, Meat & Poultry, Produce, Bakery & Biscuits, Chocolate, Confectionery & Snacks, Dressings & Sauces

• Personal Care: Thanks to the numerous specialized companies within the Personal Care hub, IMA offers complete lines for any type of product required in the sector. IMA provides comprehensive technologies for processing liquids, creams, powders, and solids, aligning with trends towards sustainable products with reduced water and packaging use. The portfolio includes converting technologies for facial masks and wet wipes, advanced filling and sealing machines for tubes, jars and bottles, as well as flow wrappers and forming, filling, and sealing solutions for sachets and stand-up pouches. IMA’s automation technologies enable the assembly of caps and multipart devices, while the secondary packaging range includes flexible cartoning machines for any product shape and size, single and multiple item wrappers, and final case packers and palletizers. Labelling systems designed for all surfaces and package types complete the packaging solutions, supported by a professional worldwide service network.

• E-Commerce Packaging Solutions

The booth will also feature the Digital Hub, dedicated to the IMA Digital project, and an

area focused on the Group’s sustainability initiatives. IMA END OF LINE personnel will be present at the show to discuss customized strategies and provide expert insights on optimizing packaging processes. At the IMA EOL HUB, we specialize in comprehensive solutions for the secondary and end-of-line stages of product packaging across industries such as pharmaceuticals, personal care, food, and home care. Every product is handled with precision, and tailored approaches are developed to meet the specific needs of each project while maintaining the highest performance standards.

Machines on show

Machines on show for the pharmaceutical sector:

• DYNAMICAContinuous motion cartoner

DYNAMICA Series multipurpose continuous motion cartoner is available in different versions, according to the product specifications, carton dimension sizes and speed. It grants the maximum versatility in terms of applications, infeed systems and carton sizes

• UNILINE - Integrated counting system

UNILINE is a conveying, filling and capping system that flexibly integrates the functions required to form a complete counting line: container loading, desiccant insertion, counting and filling, cotton insertion, capping, rejection.

• BETA – Vertical intermittent motion sachet machine

BETA Series ensures high performances thanks to the advanced technology developed. Benefit from the maximum flexibility in terms of configurations and production outputs to find the best solution for your goals.

• HYPER - Labelling machine for vials and bottles

HYPER is the ultimate labelling solution created to achieve the impossible. Fully modular and implementing the latest technologies for high-speed labelling, it handles all container materials and shapes.

Machines on show for the food sector:

• PETRONCINI TTA25 – Coffee Roaster

With the same technical features of industrial drum roasters, the TTA25 is a unique fusion between full process reproducibility and customisation of the roasting profiles, even for small productions. The TTA25 roaster is available for trials at IMA Coffee’s ShowLAB, the laboratory

showroom set up at IMA North America production site.

• DOYTRONIC 120 – High speed stand-up pouch machine

Innovative Pouch FFS machinery with unrivalled compact design thanks to vertical intermittent bag forming and horizontal filling stations with hybrid movement.

• PEREGRINE and CARRERA 1500 - Line composed of Pouch feeder and Flow wrapper

The Peregrine Platform is a range of unscrambling, singulating and feeding solutions for a wide variety of products including pre-packaged items that need taking from bulk and delivering correctly orientated and pitched to a downstream piece of equipment or process. At the

show the system will be feeding a Carrera 1500 flow wrapper, which responds to the budget, build quality and flexibility requirements of mid-range food operations.

• VISION 3000 - Vision based counting solution

By means of a combination of laser and line scan cameras, Vision 3000 guarantees accurate checking and counting operations to verify product height, length, width and surface.

• F600 - F600 – Vertical Forming, filling and sealing of sachets

The vertical form, fill & seal machine F600 for sachets guarantees easy-to-use packaging for liquid and pasty products such as dressings

& sauces. It offers the perfect solution for convenience packaging.

Machines on show for the E-Commerce sector, displayed on booth S-2814 owned by our partner Intertape Polymer Group® Inc (IPG). Together with IPG, we showcase a complete and effective E-Fulfillment line, including packaging technologies and protective solutions:

• E-CO Flex Forming –Automated Case Erector and Former

The E-CO Flex Forming is a standalone machine designed to automatically pick, erect, and form right-sized cases for products to be packed. Case

selection is based on information retrieved from the customer’s Warehouse Management System (WMS). The E-CO Flex Forming accommodates a wide range of case footprints, handling up to 12 different sizes.

• E-CO Flex SealMaticAutomatic Random Case Sealer

The E-CO Flex SealMatic is a fully automatic machine designed to process FEFCO 201 and SIOC cases. The machine automatically tapes the bottom of the case, while the top is closed and sealed with water-activated tape. SIOC cases are automatically detected and bypassed by the machine.

Machines on show for the Medical Devices sector:

• X-PEN – Advanced Injectables Assembly Solutions

X-PEN is the new modular platform designed by IMA MED-TECH for the assembly of injectables, based on a standard concept for pens, autoinjectors and needle safety devices final assembly systems.

Green

soul, digital brain

Sustainability and digital transformation are now interconnected, each playing a vital role in driving positive outcomes for both businesses and the environment.

About Digitalization on Show

At the Show, cutting-edge digital technologies for industrial production will be showcased, with a focus on artificial intelligence (both traditional and generative) to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Predictive AI models will provide insights into connected machines via dedicated dashboards, reducing downtime, improving product quality, and optimizing resources.

A highlight will be the industrial metaverse, a virtual space where production plants can be tested in advance and operators trained remotely through VR, streamlining processes and cutting costs.

In addition to AI and the metaverse, the Show will feature advanced platforms for plant management, continuous performance monitoring, and digital training tools. The synergy between sustainability and digitalization, including virtual reality, will drive IMA’s innovation, leading to a more efficient and responsible future.

About Sustainability on Show

The technologies showcased will include machines from the LOW (Low emissions) and NOP (No Plastic) projects, dedicated respectively to reducing energy consumption and researching ecofriendly and recyclable packaging materials.

Additionally, IMA will present a portion of its OPENLab at the show — a scaled-down laboratory illustrating the analysis and research on packaging materials conducted by the IMA Group’s worldwide network of laboratories. Thanks to our Experts in the OPENLab on display, customers can bring their own packs or materials for comprehensive consulting and analysis.

Zero waste. Zero liner. Zero complexity. Zero downtime.

I am Zero: The ultimate Print&Apply solution designed by IMA Phoenix Innovation Center to provide a renewed hi-tech experience during Direct Thermal (DT) Linerless Labeling. The red passion for labeling solutions meets the green attitude of a “zero” use of silicon liner. Zero offers clear print, extraordinary adhesion, and clean cut with the past.

The Future is Zero!

Redefining packaging with moisture control

WiseSorbent Technology-AHP Division

Wisesorbent has long been dedicated to innovative research in the active adsorption packaging industry, providing reliable packaging solutions for pharmaceuticals, health supplements, diagnostic reagents, and food products. As a leader in the industry and a pioneer in product categories, Wisesorbent offers solutions tailored to the four major demand areas: pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, healthcare products, and medical devices.

For the AHP (Active Healthcare Packaging) sector, Wisesorbent offers five main product categories: Drop-in Desiccants, Fit-in Desiccants, Flexible Films, Hard Films, and Containers.

Among these, Drop-in Desiccants are designed to be placed inside or outside traditional packaging to control internal moisture and help extend the shelf life of products. Wisesorbent’s drop-in desiccant products include the WiseMini, WiseCan, and WiseTab series, made from various adsorption materials like silica gel, molecular sieves, and activated carbon. These desiccants, humidity controllers, deodorants, and oxygen absorbers are provided in small pouches, strips, containers, or tablets.

Widely used in pharmaceutical and other moisture-sensitive product packaging, they effectively absorb moisture to extend shelf life and maintain product stability.

WiseCan® I Desiccant Capsules

WiseCan I desiccant capsules are specifically designed to be placed either under the lid of container products or directly inside the packaging, offering versatile moisture control solutions. The unique rollededge design ensures that the capsules remain securely in place, preventing any risk of leakage or breakage.

These capsules contain colorchanging silica gel, which absorbs moisture and shifts from orange to white, providing an intuitive visual humidity indicator. This makes monitoring moisture levels inside the packaging simple and efficient.

Compared to traditional desiccant pouches, WiseCan I offers several advantages. Its small cylinder shape with a rolled edge enhances its durability and resistance to cracking, making it a superior alternative. Additionally, its compact design allows for easy integration into various packaging forms, especially bottled products that require reliable moisture protection. These capsules are widely used across industries for products such as pharmaceuticals, OTC drugs, and diagnostic reagents, ensuring extended product shelf life and stability in a costeffective manner.

WiseCan® II Desiccant Canisters

The WiseCan II desiccant canisters take moisture protection a step further with their innovative sealed-lid design. Using silica gel as the absorbent, these canisters provide exceptional moisture control for a range of sensitive products. One of their standout features is the unique mesh plastic lid and base, which, combined with a tightly fitted closure system, ensures the canister remains sealed even under pressure. This helps effectively prevent dust and leakage issues that could compromise the integrity of the packaged product.

WiseCan II canisters are particularly well-suited for long-distance pharmaceutical transportation, where products are exposed to varying environmental conditions. The desiccant’s outer shell is

highly durable and resistant to damage, while the use of laser engraving instead of traditional ink printing ensures that the canisters are completely inkfree, providing an extra layer of safety for medical and healthcare products. These canisters are commonly used for packaging pharmaceuticals, healthcare supplements, and diagnostic reagents, offering a reliable, safe, and efficient solution for maintaining product integrity during storage and transport.

WisePac® Canister Dispenser

To streamline operations and enhance productivity, Wisesorbent has developed the WisePac® Canister Dispenser, an advanced automated dispensing machine designed specifically for the WiseCan II desiccant canisters. Like the WiseMini desiccant series, WiseCan II supports fully automated dispensing, reducing the need for manual labor and significantly increasing production efficiency. The WisePac® Canister Dispenser ensures precise, high-speed dispensing of desiccants, allowing manufacturers to keep up with demand while optimizing cost-effectiveness.

Additionally, the machine comes with a material shortage alarm, ensuring that any supply issues are immediately addressed to avoid production downtime.

Constructed with high-quality stainless steel and integrated with top-tier electrical components, the WisePac® Canister Dispenser is built for durability and longevity. The use of internationally recognized pneumatic components guarantees that the entire machine runs smoothly and efficiently. With a maximum dispensing speed of up to 180 canisters per minute, it is ideal for high-speed production environments, offering a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solution for businesses that require precision and speed in their packaging processes.

This state-of-the-art dispenser is equipped with several key features that ensure continuous, reliable operation on the production line. It includes a vibration feeding system that ensures steady and even feeding of the canisters, as well as an automatic feeding and lifting mechanism for smooth, uninterrupted processing.

Carlton Packaging debuts at PACK EXPO

Bringing 30 years of innovation and expertise to the U.S. market

Carlton Packaging is set to make a splash at Pack Expo Chicago, where they will be showcasing their latest packaging innovations. Celebrating 30 years as leaders in the packaging industry, Carlton Packaging will bring a wealth of expertise to the show.

The team, with representatives from both the U.S. and U.K., will be on hand to share their knowledge of global fulfilment packaging challenges and introduce groundbreaking products. Key attendees include Brad Markham, Regional Director for North America and Alan Magee, Global Commercial Director.

In line with their growing presence in the U.S., Carlton Packaging has recently expanded their warehouse network to include five strategically located bases across the country. This expansion allows for faster delivery and improved service to customers nationwide, ensuring swift access to their innovative packaging solutions, no matter the location.

One of the standout innovations Carlton will showcase is wrapX, a revolutionary pallet wrapping system.

WrapX is redefining pallet wrapping globally, enabling loads to be secured faster with

less material, reducing costs and boosting productivity.

Weighing just over 400 grams, the lightweight, carbon fibre dispenser features magnetic mounts, fast roll change release and an adjustable locking tension mechanism. This ensures effective tension on the film during wrapping, with ease and no strain on the operator. By letting the dispenser do the work, wrapX guarantees total film optimisation for every pallet wrapped.

The wrapX Elite film is their latest in advanced stretch wrap innovation. Designed for use with the wrapX system, it significantly improves pallet

wrapping efficiency by reducing the amount of film needed by up to 65%. Unlike traditional manual films, wrapX reduces roll changes and boasts a strong blend, advanced puncture resistance and guaranteed quality.

The wrapX system hosts several benefits including:

Safer wrapping with reduced operator fatigue

WrapX overcomes the limitations of traditional manual wrapping equipment. Its ergonomic design reduces the need for operators to bend and strain, preventing musculoskeletal injuries. The carbon fibre frame allows operators to wrap while walking forwards without risking repetitive strain. The tension system eliminates the need to ‘tug’ or ‘stretch’ the film, enabling comfortable one-handed use.

Guaranteed

wrapping consistency

Manual wrapping often results in insufficient and inconsistent tension, leading to excessive film usage and unstable loads. WrapX’s adjustable locking tension mechanism allows operators to set and lock the ideal tension, maximising roll yield and load stability. This ensures total consistency regardless of operator technique, accommodating all load types from heavy engineering parts to lightweight parcels. The 212-wrap technique securely wraps pallets in just five revolutions.

Minimise wrap yield through a unique wrapX blend

WrapX is a high-performance stretch film produced with advanced blending technology and raw material components. Designed to maximise load stability while minimising film usage, wrapX is developed by

leading technicians as the next generation of film wrapping.

Always on hand in any busy operation; reducing waste and increasing efficiency

Film wastage is common in many fulfilment operations due to rolls becoming damaged, misplaced or discarded. WrapX features magnetic location mounts and a low-profile floor stand, ensuring the wrap is always safely on hand. It can be mounted in various locations, such as metal racking, pack stations and PPTs/ FLTs.

Find out more about wrapX here: https://carltonpackaging.com/ uk/smarter-products/wrapx/

Carlton Packaging’s presence at Pack Expo Chicago marks a significant milestone, and the team is eager to showcase their innovative solutions and engage with industry professionals.

To find out more about wrapX or other packaging solutions on offer from Carlton Packaging contact the team.

e: sales.na@ carltonpackaging.com

t: +1 888 514 2699

UK / EU

e: sales@ carltonpackaging.com

t: +44 (0)1908 277181

w: carltonpackaging.com

AmbaFlex: Your partner for spiral solutions

Come visit us at Pack Expo in Booth N5143! AmbaFlex has a complete set of spiral conveyor solutions to help resolve your manufacturing and packaging challenges using our SpiralVeyor, AccuVeyor and AmbaVeyor product lines.

Our SpiralVeyor SV is the allpurpose spiral conveyor for medium to large sized products, and is often used to transport packed products, totes, shrink packs, bags, and cartons up and/or down in the smallest footprint possible. It is the perfect solution for situations involving unstable products and high production speeds, and you can see it in-person at the show. We also have machines primarily used in bottling and canning applications, our SpiralVeyor SVs and SpiralVeyor SVm. The SpiralVeyor SVs has the smallest footprint out of all the solutions we provide and is for single-file applications. Alternately, the SpiralVeyor SVm is designed for mass flow applications, and will be exhibited in booth N5143.

We continue to develop our AccuVeyor line, a set of machines created for accumulation applications. Our AccuVeyor AVh are dynamic accumulators that increase line efficiency and output, eliminate micro-stops, reduce product waste, save operator time, and reduce operational costs. You can observe this unique solution in action at the show. The AccuVeyor AVs provides first-infirst-out time-delay or buffering for single-file conveying, bringing the products up to the top of the machine and back down in a single, compact footprint.

Our AmbaVeyor series represents an economical and low-cost solution for conveying products from A to B with a minimum of transfers and drives. It is a modular and flexible conveyor system that can run long distances, and include curves, straights, and inclines with just one drive that fit almost any job. AmbaVeyor Curved Solutions can be integrated into traditional conveyor lines to resolve complex conveying issues, like providing a quick turn using the Helix configuration

to elongate a conveyor line in a confined space.

In addition to these 3 product lines, we have value-added features which enhance your AmbaFlex experience. Features like our Portal Configuration allow our customers to create walkways or access points to other parts of their line while maintaining line movement, and you can also visit it at booth N5143. Another space-saving configuration that our customers find appealing is our X-configuration that is

designed to transport packed items in multiple tracks, useful in modern packaging systems which are often dual or triple lanes.

If you’d like to learn more about AmbaFlex and our spiral solutions before the show, please visit our website at www.ambaflex.com

We look forward to seeing you at Pack Expo in Booth N5143!

Advancing the circular economy through innovation in packaging

AtPACK EXPO International 2024, the focus on

“Advancing the Circular Economy Through Innovation” speaks directly to the growing need for sustainable practices in packaging. This theme highlights how the packaging industry must not only meet consumer demand for eco-friendly materials but also push forward innovative solutions that reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote environmental responsibility.

Rethinking packaging materials

The transition from traditional, single-use materials to sustainable alternatives is

central to the circular economy. Biodegradable materials, recyclable plastics, and plantbased packaging solutions are gaining prominence. Companies are innovating with materials like mushroom-based packaging, compostable films, and fully recyclable paper-based options. These alternatives are designed to minimise their environmental footprint by either breaking down naturally or re-entering the production cycle through recycling.

Brands are also revisiting their design philosophies, creating packaging that uses less material while maintaining durability and protection. Lightweighting strategies, for

example, reduce the amount of plastic or paper used without compromising product safety, directly contributing to reduced waste and energy use in both manufacturing and transportation.

Machinery innovations for sustainability

Advancements in packaging machinery play a vital role in supporting circular economy goals. Modern machinery is being designed to minimise material waste during production by improving precision and efficiency. Equipment that can handle thinner, more flexible packaging materials or machinery with zero-waste

Innovative drone tech targets plastic waste in Canada’s Great Lakes. Photo credit: CNW Group/The Coca-Cola Company

capabilities are in high demand. Additionally, there is a growing focus on multi-functional machines that support modular and flexible designs, allowing manufacturers to switch between sustainable packaging formats without the need for extensive retooling.

Automated machinery that optimises production lines to prevent overuse of materials also contributes to reduced resource consumption. For example, systems that integrate AI to monitor packaging lines for precision reduce excess material usage and energy expenditure, further closing the loop in a circular economy model.

Closing the loop: Reusability and recycling

A key pillar of the circular economy is ensuring packaging doesn’t end up as waste. Innovators are increasingly focusing on creating packaging that is either fully reusable or easily recyclable. Closed-loop systems, where packaging can be returned and reused or materials recovered and fed back into production, are gaining traction. Refillable packaging for personal care products and returnable containers for groceries are two examples of how brands are integrating this model.

In addition, the use of smart packaging equipped with QR codes or RFID tags allows

consumers to track the recyclability of materials, promoting better waste segregation and ensuring higher recycling rates. This data-driven approach not only empowers consumers but also provides valuable insights for brands to improve the lifecycle of their packaging.

Collaboration for a circular future

As the packaging industry embraces the circular economy, collaboration between manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators is crucial. Innovations in packaging materials and machinery must align with legislative standards, such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations, which require companies to take accountability for the entire lifecycle of their products. Public-private partnerships and

collaborations with environmental organisations will be key to scaling up these solutions.

At PACK EXPO 2024, the industry’s leaders are showcasing how a circular economy can be both profitable and sustainable. By advancing innovation in materials, machinery, and recycling technologies, the packaging industry is moving closer to a future where waste is minimised, resources are conserved, and sustainability is at the forefront of every decision.

“Advancing the Circular Economy Through Innovation” reflects the future of packaging, where every part of the supply chain works together to close the loop on waste. Through sustainable materials, smart machinery, and collaborative efforts, the packaging industry is poised to lead the way in building a more circular and environmentally conscious world.

A start-up based in Oban is working on sustainable packaging solutions using onion skins. Photo credit: HUID

Available at various retailers across the U.S., this refill option allows customers to replenish their existing bottles or containers for personal and home use. Photo credit: Dr. Bronner’s

Your

specialist in packaging!

Our products protect that which has value, limit the risks, and ensure a safe environment. Whether you are looking for can packaging, bottles, pots, drums, containers, buckets, jerrycans, IBC containers, crates, trays, pallet boxes or other packaging , we have the expertise and experience to provide the right solution. We care. We do. We fulfill.

Houweling Group: Pioneering circular packaging and protective solutions

Family-owned company

On 30 December 1925, Cor Houweling senior from Oudekerk aan den IJssel registered his business with the Chamber of Commerce. He developed a product that could be applied to greenhouses to protect crops from sunlight and heat. With this shading agent and the associated cleaning product, Cor Houweling and his son Jan conquered the Dutch market from the late 1960s. In the meantime, space constraints led them to move to an industrial site in Bergschenhoek.

We care. We do. We fulfill.

Our products and services protect what is valuable, reduce risks, and create a safe environment. We are protectors by nature. That is why we do what we do at Houweling Group. From packaging that protects products and their surroundings to clothing that ensures workers can operate safely. From services that save fossil resources to products that stimulate plant growth. And we’ve been doing this since 1925.

In terms of products, you can think of packaging materials

such as buckets, bottles, jars, drums, and jerrycans. We also offer clothing, footwear, and other personal protective equipment.

In addition to our products, we can also offer you a wide range of services. These services include breathing air technology, clothing management, storage, personalizing packaging, and transport.

Recycled packaging from our own factory

Houweling Group is taking an extra step in circular packaging.

By establishing Houweling Production BV, we produce our own recycled packaging. This allows us to enhance our knowledge, services, and wide assortment of rPP and R-HDPE packaging.

At the Houweling facility in Bleiswijk, a factory was set up specifically for the production of packaging made from postconsumer and post-industrial recycled plastic (PCR and PIR). “We are now less dependent on external producers,” says Commercial Director Fred van Beek.

“With our own factory, we have more opportunities for testing. For example, we produced a jerrycan with a sight stripe, fully made from recycled plastic. Even the cap is made from R-HDPE. It’s a sustainable factory with solar panels and 100% electric machines. The machines run on green energy, and residual heat is used for heating our new office, while we produce products made from 100% recycled plastic.”

Bottles made from 100% R-HDPE

In 2016, we were the first to develop a series of bottles entirely made from recycled plastic. These bottles are made from 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE, providing a 75% CO2 reduction compared to virgin material and a 95% saving in fossil resource use.

After successfully producing bottles entirely from recycled plastic, we aimed to do the same with buckets. This led to the production of 100% rPP buckets in 2017.

World first: Jerrycan of 100% plastic waste from ‘The Ocean Cleanup’

A world first! Houweling Group has succeeded in producing a fullfledged jerrycan from ‘The Ocean Cleanup’. A major achievement. It is the world’s first blow molding product made from ocean waste.

Based on the thought ‘It doesn’t stop with collecting plastic from the ocean; something has to be done with it’, Houweling Group collaborated to give a new, useful life to this material.

The 5-liter jerrycan consists of 100% Ocean Cleanup, made in our own factory in Bleiswijk. An innovation that we are proud of given the difficulty of turning lowgrade waste into a high-quality product. With this we prove that it is possible and that plastic is an excellent raw material that lends itself perfectly to a circular economy. Even if it has been discarded. How we deal with it makes the difference. w: houweling.com

Packaging Innovations 2025: The must-attend destination for discovering packaging’s future in 2025

Packaging Innovations Organisers Easyfairs unveils 2025’s premier event for driving creativity in the packaging industry.

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 has officially opened for registrations, with Easyfairs calling on industry professionals to collaborate with forward-thinking leaders and pioneers driving innovative, future-proof packaging solutions.

The UK’s largest annual packaging spotlight returns to NEC Birmingham next year with a packed programme covering the trends and technologies shaping the future of packaging. With more than 460 exhibitors and 7,000 visitors expected to join the event from 12 & 13 February, the highly anticipated gathering promises to be the best yet.

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 offers an unparalleled platform for cutting-edge packaging design, materials, machinery, and technology solutions. The annual event sees the entire packaging supply chain converge to connect, innovate, and exchange ideas.

“2025 is rapidly approaching, and like every new year in the packaging industry, it is sure to bring new trends and challenges,” said Naomi Stewart, Marketing Manager at Easyfairs. “Thankfully, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 allows brands to get ahead of issues like new regulations and the ongoing

demand for sustainability by discovering the innovations shaping the sector’s future.

Attending Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is a fantastic way for brands to learn, connect, and get inspired, joining a dynamic showcase of packaging’s best and brightest to position themselves at the forefront of ongoing changes. With three distinct stages and over 50 expert speakers to discover, as well as the Innovation Gallery and Future Trailblazer Awards honouring outstanding creativity, the 360-degree event again promises to mark an essential date in the packaging industry’s calendar.”

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 connects thousands of visitors, including CEOs, R&D leaders, procurement managers and marketing professionals, hoping to identify industry trends and explore emerging technologies. Whether it’s smart packaging, sustainable materials, or advancements in labelling and printing, the event covers all facets of the packaging sector.

“It’s one of those shows where you meet all your old friends,” said Nikki Grainge, Packaging Development Manager at Waitrose. “There’s a great network here, and hopefully, you come across one or two new innovative things you’ve been looking for. The importance of these shows is all about connecting and establishing those connections, finding something new or different that you can take away and work with. These shows bring everyone together under one roof, and it’s the place to come. It has become known as the packaging exhibition at which all our suppliers want to be.”

Emma Bourne, DirectorResources & Waste, Defra, said:

“It brings together businesses from across the packaging industry to support and learn from different perspectives to

drive the future. Whether you’re speaking to trade associations, small and large businesses, startups, or established organisations representing various materials – there’s always a real diversity of perspectives in the room.”

One of the key highlights of Packaging Innovations 2025 is the introduction of the Smart Packaging Zone, where the future of packaging will be on full display. Featuring NFC chips, RFID tags, and augmented reality (AR) solutions, this new zone is designed to showcase the potential of interactive packaging, offering customers and brands a futuristic, immersive experience. The event also brings back its ever-popular Foodservice Packaging Zone, which is expected to attract key figures from the UK’s top retailers and food-to-go outlets, the Label

& Print Zone will be a hub for those looking to streamline their production processes, connecting labelling, corrugated packaging suppliers, and print finishing with decision-makers from brands like Unilever and Marks & Spencer, while the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone is not to be missed for businesses looking to outsource packing and fulfilment services.

“We must have shows like this because they bring the packaging into the physical world,” said Steve Lister, Sustainability Consultant to Global Brands & Retailers. “We can all get sent PDFs or watch a video online, but there’s no substitute for coming to a show, picking something up, speaking with an expert, taking away a sample and then working and collaborating on a product before taking it to market.”

The two-day showcase will also host the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone, powered by BCMPA, the UK’s only dedicated event for outsourced packaging services. This area allows brand owners and retailers to discover trusted partners in co-packing, gift packing, and e-commerce fulfilment.

Register your attendance at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 now and be part of the future of packaging! Don’t miss your chance to connect with industry leaders, discover cuttingedge technologies, and explore over 460 suppliers displaying the latest sustainable and interactive packaging trends.

UPCOMING

PPMA Total Show 2025

23 - 25 September 2025, NEC, Birmingham, UK

The PPMA Show is the largest processing and packaging machinery exhibition in the UK

PACK EXPO Int. 2024

03 - 06 November, Chicago, United States

Experience the unparalleled scale and excitement of PACK EXPO, the premier event in the packaging and processing industry

PHARMAP 2025

14 - 15 April, Berlin, Germany

In 2025, Pharmaceutical Manufact Packaging Congress celebrates th Anniversary.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025

12-13 February 2025, NEC, Birmingham, UK

Get ready for the biggest Packaging Innovations & Empack yet in 2025!

UKPackExpo 2025

03 - 04 September 2025, Manchester, UK

UKPackExpo 2025 is your gateway to the latest packaging trends in innovation, sustainability, and business solutions

turing & e 5th

Gulfood Manufacturing 2024

05 - 07 November 2024, DWTC, Dubai

Gulfood Manufacturing, a pivotal platform for the F&B manufacturing industry, proudly marks a decade since opening its doors