Packaging Suppliers Global Issue Two 2024

Leading digital content hub for the international packaging industry

- Embracing sustainability in pharmaceuticals: Navigating the path to a greener industry

- Pharmaceutical machinery market growth outpaces larger industries

- New recycling programme to reduce theatre waste

- The innovative journey to a smarter and all paper CR solution

- Secure packaging for critical products

CAPTURING THE VERY BEST OF INDUSTRIAL VISION AND IMAGING

Visitor registration is now open for the much-anticipated Machine Vision Conference, taking place on 18-19 June 2024 at the CBS Arena in Coventry. It is renowned for bringing together the machine vision industry, from leading brands showcasing cutting-edge solutions to industry experts sharing their vast knowledge. Plan your visit and register now for your free ticket!

Welcome to our second edition of the year, where we dive into the dynamic world of pharmaceutical packaging.

In this issue, we shine a spotlight on PHARMAP 2024, the premier event in Amsterdam that brought together industry luminaries to advance sustainable practices across the pharmaceutical value chain.

Explore the intricacies of pharmaceutical packaging, from its meaning and regulations to best practices, expertly detailed by PPMA Show. Plus, join Ton as he navigates the delicate balance between sustainability and safety regulations in pharma packaging.

Get ready for an insightful journey into the heart of pharmaceutical packaging.

Happy reading!

w: packagingsuppliersglobal.com

e: info@packagingsuppliersglobal.com

t: +44 (0)117 318 4321 4 7 13 20 29 48

Embracing sustainability in pharmaceuticals: Navigating the path to a greener industry

Ton’s take: Pharma packaging – sustainability vs safety regulations

PPMA Show: Pharmaceutical packaging (meaning, regulations, and best practices)

UCLH: New recycling programme to reduce theatre waste PMMI Survey: Pharmaceutical machinery market growth outpaces larger industries

Upcoming events: Global packaging events taking place in the coming months

4 7 13 20 39 48

Embracing sustainability in pharmaceuticals: Navigating the path to a greener industry

The pharmaceutical industry is facing growing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices, driven by increasing environmental concerns, consumer demand for ecofriendly products, and the growing recognition that sustainability is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic imperative for long-term success.

Sustainable production: Minimising environmental impact

In the pharmaceutical manufacturing process, significant strides are being made to reduce environmental impact. One notable trend is the adoption of continuous manufacturing, a process that eliminates the waste associated with batch production by producing drugs on a continuous basis. This technology offers numerous environmental benefits, including reduced energy

consumption, water usage, and waste generation.

Another area of focus is the use of sustainable raw materials and solvents. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly sourcing renewable and biodegradable materials, such as plant-based ingredients and recyclable solvents, to minimise their environmental footprint. Additionally, the use of energy-efficient equipment and water conservation practices is becoming more prevalent in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.

Sustainable packaging: Reducing waste and enabling circularity

Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting pharmaceutical products, but it also contributes significantly to the industry’s environmental footprint.

To address this challenge, pharmaceutical companies are adopting sustainable packaging

solutions that minimise waste and promote circularity.

One key trend is the increased use of recycled and recyclable materials in packaging. Companies are also exploring innovative packaging designs that reduce the amount of material used, such as lighterweight containers and multi-use packaging. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on using packaging that is biodegradable or compostable to minimise the environmental impact of product disposal.

Sustainable supply chain: Reducing emissions and traceability

The pharmaceutical supply chain, from raw material sourcing to distribution, also plays a critical role in the industry’s environmental performance. To address this, pharmaceutical companies are implementing sustainable supply chain practices that reduce emissions,

promote efficiency, and enhance transparency.

One key trend is the adoption of renewable energy sources in supply chain operations. Companies are also exploring innovative transportation methods, such as electric vehicles and multimodal transportation, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on optimising supply chain routes and reducing unnecessary transportation to minimise fuel consumption.

To further enhance sustainability, pharmaceutical companies are embracing digital technologies to improve supply chain visibility and traceability. This enables them to track the movement of products through the supply chain, identify areas for improvement, and optimise resource utilisation.

PHARMAP 2024: Fostering collaboration for sustainable practices

The PHARMAP 2024 Congress, which took place on 22-23 of April in Amsterdam, served as a pivotal platform for industry leaders to explore and implement sustainable practices across the pharmaceutical value chain.

The event’s “Roundtable 1: Advancing Sustainability in the Pharmaceutical Industry” brought together experts to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in sustainability, while the “Eco-packaging Exhibition Zone” showcased innovative packaging solutions that minimise environmental impact.

Be part of the movement that is driving sustainable change in the pharmaceutical industry. Join PHARMAP 2025 and together, let’s shape a more sustainable future for healthcare!

PHARMAP 2025

PHARMAP 2024 connected industry leaders to explore advancements in pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging for the future. The next edition of the Congress is going to take place in Berlin, Germany on 14-15 April and mark its 5th edition.

to celebrate the anniversary of PHARMAP!

Ton’s take: Pharma packaging – sustainability vs safety regulations

Dear Packaging Suppliers Global reader,

Thank you once again for taking the time to read my take on packaging issues!

It’s been quite interesting to go out of my comfort zone and

dive into a packaging category, which I normally like to avoid as consumer, unlike packaging for confectionery or food. Pharma and medicine are products you normally only use when you have to. I’ve always been rather intrigued by the complexity of opening an average pharma pack and also by the apparent lack of sustainable packaging materials.

So, what is it that makes pharma packaging different from most other packaging?

The simple answer would be safety, but that would be too easy. As if your cereal pack can be unsafe... Food safety is strict and everyone who’s ever been in a production plant where food is packed or where food packaging

is produced, knows what that implies.

However, you have a choice with what food you buy. You can go for brand A or brand B or you can try a supermarket’s brand. With medicine it’s different. When you’re ill or not feeling well, you get medication prescribed, and normally you don’t question that prescription and definitely don’t ask for a more sustainably packed alternative.

So why are most medicines still not packed as sustainably as your average food product?

One of the reasons I learned is that changing anything in pharma packaging, requires a new approval process, which not only takes a very long time, but also

costs a lot of money. I’ve been told that 5-7 years for getting a new approval is nothing special. That then corresponds with costs of between € 1-1.5M for this process. And that’s per product! This, and the fact that the pharma industry is risk-adverse 2.0, could be an explanation for the current lack of sustainable packaging for pharma products.

In order to find out a little bit more about this very specific market, I interviewed Mark van der Burgt, Chief Commercial Officer of Vetico, a large contract packaging/manufacturing company, working from the Netherlands.

Ton: “Mark, Vetico is one of the larger co-packers in Europe, with multiple activities. Can you shortly state what it is you’re doing?”

Mark: “We pack a wide range of packaging formats for quite a diverse variety of products: Food, Petfood, Confectionery, Home-, Body- and Personal Care and we recently started packing sterile medical appliances, which we also produce and assemble. To be more specific, medical tubing systems for heart-lung machines, organ transplants and bodily fluids (blood). For most of the markets we serve, we differentiate ourselves with ‘Customer Centric’ solutions. When there are no existing

solutions available in the market, we design our own packaging and production lines specially dedicated for a specific project. Good examples here are the famous champagne bottle with Celebrations confectionery, but also the well known Origami on the luxury gift sets for Rituals. We design these solutions in our Vetico Innovation Center Robot Cell Technology.”

Ton: “So, with all your activities in Food, Petfood, etc., how did you end up in packing medical products?”

Mark: “It was a strategical decision to diversify further to be less vulnerable in times of recession or other external factors. We do want to grow with existing (large) customers, but we do not want to be dependent on them.”

Ton: “The demands for food packaging are very strict. Are they as strict as for medical/ pharma?”

Mark: “Food safety is very strict and regulated, but to be honest, the regulations for pharma and medical are much stricter. The reason for this is the transition from MDD (Medical Device Directive) to MDR (Medical Device Regulation). After the scandals with the breast implants, the legislation by the American FDA were tightened up, however the EU went even further. Unfortunately, all this is still in development and the authorities are still debating how to interpret the tightened legislation unequivocally. By the way, the costs associated with these certificates are a multiple of what we’re used to in the food and petfood industry.”

Ton: “Why does it seem as if sustainability with pharma and medical packaging plays second fiddle compared to food packaging. Surely the pharma industry must have sustainability targets?”

Mark: “That’s a tricky question, or perhaps tricky answer. Personally I think that in the

pharma sector, the patient safety argument is used quite easily. The additional legal requirements for any suggested changes can be prohibitive. The average consumer (patient) is less conscious, because they need this medical product to get well, which is not a matter of luxury or indulgence as with confectionery. In other words, the burden to make an adaptation is way more complicated than with food packaging. For the time being, the demands for safety and stability of the product are prioritized over sustainability.”

Ton: “Do you see any movements in the pharma industry to become more sustainable, or at least use more sustainable packaging materials? Are they looking at mono-materials or paper and cardboard for easier recycling for example?”

Mark: “I believe there is a clear trend that will see sustainability more in focus in pharma, but not all products can use these sustainable materials, because sometimes the stability of the packed medicine depends heavily on the existing packaging material. Furthermore I believe that the CO2 footprint (impact) of the packaging is even less with

Mark van der Burgt

pharma than with food products, where the rule of thumb says anywhere between 1 – 15% for the packaging part in the footprint.”

Ton: “What do you see as challenges for the co-packing industry with pharma and medical products?”

Mark: “As stated before, more stringent regulations, especially on safety, stability and traceability. Increasing of the shelf life, to avoid wastage of expensive medication. Last, but not least, also the pharma industry will have to come up with more sustainable products, including packaging.”

Ton: “Thank you for sharing your insights in the co-packing of such sensitive products as medical appliances, Mark.”

Ecobliss is a leader in innovative pharmaceutical packaging. They specialize in blister packaging and recently introduced the “Locked4kids wallet”, which is a child-resistant pack format, made out of cardboard for tablets. I spoke with Gianni Linsen, Business Development at Ecobliss, also working from the Netherlands.

Ton: “Gianni, why do you believe sustainability seems less important for pharma packaging compared to food packaging?”

Gianni: “There are several factors which play a role here. You’ve already mentioned strict regulations, but also it’s good to know that certain pharma products are sensitive to light, moisture and oxygen. The existing packaging has been carefully balanced to deliver the maximum protection for the products.”

Ton: “And what movements do you see in pharma packaging to use more sustainable materials, Gianni?”

Gianni: “Whilst the pharma industry recognizes the need for more sustainable packaging solutions, I agree with Mark that you need to keep a delicate balance between product safety and sustainability. Transparency and collaboration across the entire supply chain and the policymakers will prove crucial to make serious steps towards more sustainable pharma packaging.”

Ton: “Could you share some of the challenges the pharmaceutical industry faces especially with becoming more sustainable?”

Gianni: “On top of the already mentioned challenges, such as increasingly strict regulations, product protection, material availability, there is the cost implication. Contrary to what most people think, a very large portion of pharma products on the market are generic medicines, which often are sold at very low prices at the supermarket, the so called Overthe-Counter (OTC) medicines, so that limits the adoption of more expensive sustainable materials. Product integrity and the associated patient safety always prevails. Let’s not forget that pharma packaging is your 2nd physician (quote lent from Chakravarti AVPS), as the patient derives valuable instructions from it. Making packaging technically

recyclable is one thing, providing the necessary recycling infrastructure in all the markets where the product is sold is another.”

Ton: “What do you see as strategical milestones for the pharma industry to become more sustainable?”

Gianni: “There are several critical milestones to achieve, such as embracing sustainability as a core principle, which includes conducting lifecycle Assessments (LCA’s) to measure, setting an international industry standard, educate and engage stakeholders (i.e. patients, healthcare providers and policymakers) and don’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, but try and adapt existing solutions from other industries. It would be good to look at more patient-friendly packaging designs and smaller pack sizes and perhaps even refill models to reduce packaging materials.”

Ton: “Thank you Gianni for providing us with some important background information on innovations in pharma packaging.”

I hope that this little deep-dive into pharma packaging has provided some food for thought. If you have any comments or suggestions, please feel free to contact me through my regular mail address ton@ tkpackagingconsulting.com or find me on LinkedIn. See you at the next edition of Packaging Suppliers Global!

Gianni Linsen

The innovative journey to a smarter and all paper CR solution

In an era where children master tablets before they can read, designing childresistant packaging has become as much about innovation as it is about protection. The development of the all paper Locked4Kids Wallet Box is a story of modern challenges and inventive responses—a journey through trial and ingenuity.

Chapter one: A simple beginning

The first blueprint: Dual pushpoints

The Locked4Kids Wallet Box was marked by a combination of two existing products—the pharmaceutical cold seal wallet and Locked4Kids’ child-resistant technology. The testing journey began with a simple mechanism: two push points, one on each side. The user would need

to press both simultaneously to access the contents. The rationale was straightforward— requiring coordinated actions would surely be too complex for a child. However, in practicality, this proved to be a miscalculation. It underestimated the dexterity and problem-solving skills of children, who could outsmart the design with alarming ease. The children’s ability to bypass the mechanism sent the development team back to the drawing board.

Chapter two: Complexity increases

The second iteration: Diagonal dynamics

The team regrouped, brainstorming and reimagining the approach. The result was a design with push points placed diagonally across from one another, increasing the complexity of the opening action. This modification aimed to add an extra layer of security, hoping

to outpace children’s cognitive skills. Yet again, the revised design was put to the test—and again, it didn’t hold up. The resilience and intuition of children were once more underestimated, and the box failed to secure the desired certification.

Chapter three: Breakthrough

The third iteration: A threefold strategy

Innovation often thrives on the brink of frustration, and it was at this point that a breakthrough occurred. The third version was an entirely enclosed box with two diagonal push points and an added slide. This threepoint mechanism required a series of actions: push, hold, and slide—a combination that finally met the stringent criteria of child-resistance tests. Only after this combination did the box secure approval and certification, ensuring an extra layer of safety of the very young while marking a significant victory for the team.

Usability meets accessibility

A child-resistant design alone was not the end goal; the Wallet Box had to be something more. It needed to be user-friendly for all, including seniors. After the success of the third iteration, the team dedicated themselves to extensive testing with an older demographic. The result was both surprising and rewarding: a 100% success rate in senior accessibility. The Wallet Box now emphasized inclusivity, offering ease and safety across generations.

Sustainable from conception

From the beginning, sustainability was a non-negotiable aspect of the Wallet Box’s design. Compatible with a 95% of blister packs, it sets a precedent in ecoconscious packaging, providing an environmentally friendly solution without compromising on security or convenience.

Reflections and visions

The Locked4Kids Wallet Box’s journey from a basic sketch to a sophisticated product was neither linear nor predictable. It was marked by unexpected challenges and adaptation and a journey reflective of our times— where the digital skills of children demand smarter packaging, and where the conscious consumer calls for more sustainable choices.

www.locked4kids.com

Pharmaceutical packaging (meaning, regulations, and best practices)

Popular

pharmaceutical packaging methods

There are three levels of packaging in the pharmaceutical industry. All drugs will have to use all three in order to adhere to UK regulatory compliance.

What are the most common types of primary packaging?

The type of primary packaging that a product will use depends on the drug, its form, and relevant dosage. Some of the

most common examples include:

• Ampoules - Ampoule packs are useful for liquid drugs that are taken in a single dose. They are made up of glass or plastic.

• Blister packs - Blister packs are commonplace for solid drugs like capsules or tablets. These typically encase the drug in plastic whilst accompanied by an aluminium foil lid.

• Bottles - Bottled drugs use a light brown or orange colour to protect themselves from UV

light. They are manufactured by using either glass or plastic.

• Sachets - Sachet packages are small pouches that contain a single-dose powder. They are made from plastic and paper to ensure that they can be torn up easily.

• Vials - Vials are similar to ampoule containers. However, they are considerably larger, and are used to hold larger doses of drugs. They are usually made from glass and plastic.

Image courtesy of Automate UK

As research progresses, it is likely that new forms of primary pharmaceutical packaging will emerge. Discovering methods that reduce costs, increase life span, or reduce potential damage will change the way that packaging currently operates.

What are the most common types of secondary packaging?

Secondary packaging will depend on the type of drug it is holding. However, as it does not have any contact with the drug itself, due to the primary packaging encasing it, secondary packaging types vary much less.

The most common forms of secondary packaging include either cartons or paper boxes. This material allows companies to easily print product information on the packaging, alongside simple storage and transport.

To ensure maximum safety for the product, many designs include tuck or lock lids to keep the enclosed product safe.

Materials used in pharmaceutical packaging

Pharmaceutical packaging uses a wide range of materials to safely and efficiently transport drugs and other related products. The type of material that is best fit

for the drug will depend on the:

• drug state;

• dosage (and size) of the drug;

• required level of protection;

• cost; and

• convenience for the customer.

Therefore, the optimal material for a specific product’s packaging will need to best reflect all of these points, whilst still meeting the requirements of UK regulation.

Glass

Glass has been a staple of the packaging industry for many years and continues to offer great benefits. Being transparent allows for easy visual inspection from users, whilst its recyclability offers a great choice for sustainability. Moreover, the use of orange glass protects the liquid against various forms of light such as UV.

The main types of glass used in pharmaceutical packaging are ultra-resistant borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, and surface treated soda lime glass.

Aluminium foil

Aluminium foil is typically best used as a lidding material for packaging containing tablets or capsules. This foil makes it

difficult for any outside elements to affect the product, including light or oxygen.

Due to its lack of permeability, aluminium foil has always and will continue to be an excellent choice for small drugs in low dosages.

Plastic

Due to its versatility, plastic has uses across many different forms of pharmaceutical packaging. As it is light, flexible, and hard to break, it works well with any product regardless of shape or size.

One important consideration however is that plastic packaging does have some negative effects when coming into contact with certain drugs. Companies need to test beforehand to ensure they know whether plastic is the right choice.

How has pharmaceutical packaging evolved?

From what began as simpler containers, pharmaceutical packaging has changed rapidly over the years to effectively accommodate the delicate product it holds. Some of the key breakthroughs in pharmaceutical packaging included:

• Plastic packaging

• Blister packs

• Child-resistant packaging

• Unit-dose packaging

With these forms of packaging making major changes to the way pharmacy companies store and send their products, it now gives them greater control over the drugs they sell.

The future of pharmaceutical packaging

Researchers in the pharmaceutical industry have continued to look for new and improved ways at packaging. Present day drugs are easy and reliable to transport. Companies can move their products comfortably without fear of mass damage or tampering, whilst still adhering to safety regulations.

Because of this, researchers have turned their attention to other aspects of packaging, including:

• Sustainability and ecofriendliness - with the majority of the industry using the likes of plastic, the pharmaceutical industry is actively making the move towards ecofriendly options as we try to make a greener world. Exploring biodegradable and recyclable alternatives, alongside minimising packaging waste through new innovative designs, allows companies to make big steps

in securing a brighter future.

• Smart packagingDeveloping integrations between technology and packaging has allowed companies to monitor the likes of temperature and light exposure. By doing this, this updates the storage system to alert holders of any drugs that are compromised, expired, or nearing expiration date.

• Interactivity - Text is limited by the space of the packaging, meaning any way of providing more information without making the package bigger is great. Implementing QR codes or other forms of interactivity on pharmaceutical packaging gives users a better understanding of the product without giving them a physical manual to learn from.

Pharmaceutical packaging FAQ’s

What are the benefits of pharmaceutical packaging?

Pharmaceutical packaging has three main benefits:

• Product protection - ensures the product remains at the highest quality by protecting it from contamination or damage.

• Life preservation - keeps

the product at optimal temperatures and light levels to increase its longevity.

• Informing the consumer - tells the consumer all they need to know about the product, including dosage instructions, expiry dates, and potential side effects.

What are the ideal qualities of pharmaceutical packaging?

Pharmaceutical packaging should be light and simple to make. Moreover, it must be easy to understand, meaning opening, closing, and sealing the product should be simple for users to figure out.

What is labelling and packaging of drugs?

Drug labelling is the process of writing product information to stick on pharmaceutical packaging. This information needs to specifically state any instructions or warnings users must know before handling the product.

This article was originally published by PPMA Show, part of the leading trade association, Automate UK

We close loops and protect resources.

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Our high performance films offer maximum performance with minimal resource consumption. With our recyclable materials and our commitment to mechanical and chemical recycling, we make a significant contribution to closing the loop.

Our aim is to find the optimum film solution for your product ⎯ and thus contribute to the achievement of your sustainability goals.

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“Working towards sustainability benefits everybody!”

SÜDPACK MEDICA offers innovative solutions for the pharmaceutical industry

In many industries, responsible, sustainable business activity is already an integral part of corporate strategies. There is increasing pressure also on the pharmaceutical industry because suppliers and stakeholders alike face new requirements and legal regulations in the near future. Just some examples are the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, the EU’s Green Deal and the Supply Chain Duty of Care Act. One area that offers real potential for companies to improve their environmental impact today is product packaging.

Most global players on the market have already pledged to reduce their resource consumption, implement greener production technologies and cut packaging waste. Often, their declared goal is climate neutrality.

Both challenge and opportunity

Companies can take the first steps by implementing measures such as switching to renewable energies, embracing e-mobility and using smaller secondary packaging tailored

to their products. However, the pharmaceutical and life science industry is hampered by strict regulations and complicated approval and qualification procedures for their products. This also applies to product packaging, which makes changing to greener packaging concepts very costly and time consuming. However, for new approval procedures, companies have the opportunity to improve sustainability today without additional expense. They can choose a recyclable alternative for their primary packaging.

As a proven partner to the healthcare industry for many years, SÜDPACK MEDICA has a profound understanding of these requirements. The company is one of the most innovative suppliers of high-performance films. At an early stage, its management recognized the complex challenge of combining product protection and sustainability in a single solution. Ever since, the company has been working intensively on developing more materialefficient, recyclable solutions for the pharmaceutical and medical goods industry that meet stakeholder requirements and also its own sustainability goals.

First concepts available on the market

PharmaGuard is one of these innovative concepts. The new blister solution from SÜDPACK MEDICA for both solid and liquid applications has been available since 2023. It is a recyclable alternative to conventional, non-recyclable packaging concepts. The polypropylenebased top and bottom webs are manufactured in a specially designed coextrusion process and, as a mono-material solution, they can be allocated to existing material streams after use. Thanks to the low PP density, the packaging system also achieves an excellent material efficiency. According to a life cycle assessment conducted by Sphera, PharmaGuard is associated with a greatly reduced climate impact (in CO2eq) as well as lower energy and water consumption compared to other popular blister solutions composed of PVC/PVdC and aluminum. Nevertheless, PharmaGuard is equally effective in terms of barrier functions and mechanical properties. For example, the concept provides an excellent watervapor barrier in compliance with pharmacopoeia requirements and also features high transparency.

Furthermore, the films can be efficiently processed on existing packaging lines with only minor

modifications. The strong sealing performance and excellent thermoforming properties of the material as well as the uniform molding characteristics of the base film guarantee maximum packaging quality and process reliability.

Continued development

With this groundbreaking solution, SÜDPACK MEDICA is sending a strong signal to the industry. Managing Director Thomas Freis considers the development of sustainable packaging concepts to be still in its infancy. However at trade shows such as CPHI in Barcelona and Pharmapack in Paris, PharmaGuard attracted exclusively positive interest. Furthermore, in fall 2023 the blister concept received the renowned German Packaging Award, followed in early 2024 by the World Star Packaging Award in the category “Sustainability/ Recyclability”.

“The upcoming PPWR (Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation) will massively tighten the requirements for aspects such as packaging design, recyclability and proportion of recycled materials in the manufacture of packagings based on synthetic materials. The regulation, which will be mandatory throughout the EU, initially does not apply to the packaging of medical and pharmaceutical goods, but at some time in the future it will be expanded to include this market. That’s why, as a key supplier, we are already moving in this direction.”

With PharmaGuard, SÜDPACK MEDICA has impressively demonstrated that a conventional blister packaging based on PVC/PVdC and aluminum can already be replaced by a resource-saving, recyclable alternative without compromising on packaging quality or product safety and process reliability.

“We need a holistic approach to sustainability!”

SÜDPACK MEDICA is going even further. The company is thinking bigger – and in greater dimensions. It recently implemented an LCA tool in the entire company group in order to holistically evaluate and optimize the environmental impact of packaging solutions. PharmaGuard was one of the first products to be analyzed by the LCA tool.

“We believe you can only achieve a robust analysis by looking at the real environmental impacts of a packaging, including its recyclability. Only then is it possible, based on the facts, to reach an intelligent decision on an optimal, sustainable packaging concept,” says Jürgen Bodenmüller, Head of the Development and Business Development division.

However, the tool is not only for use in the product development process, as it was for PharmaGuard. As from the end of 2023, it is also available to all SÜDPACK customers who want to check out their existing packaging solutions as well as examine more sustainable alternatives.

When designing the LCA tool …

SÜDPACK deliberately modeled various end-of-life scenarios in order to underpin customer consulting and product decisionmaking with hard facts. For example in the case of flexible films, roughly 15% of the carbon footprint (with an average recycling rate of 46% so far in

Germany and a thermal recycling rate of 54%) is generated in the phase after use, otherwise known as end-of-life. Using mechanical recycling as an alternative to thermal utilization, the carbon footprint can be reduced by up to 80%. In the case of chemical recycling, the difference compared to thermal utilization is around 50%.

According to Jürgen Bodenmüller, chemical recycling is “an exciting option especially for packaging waste involving various material structures, or for contaminated plastics which at present can’t be recycled. That’s because chemical recycling recovers hydrocarbons in virgin-grade quality, and we can reintroduce this valuable resource into the loop.”

Progress based on facts

A paradigm shift in industries, companies, and hearts and minds can only happen if fundamental questions are answered first: What is sustainable packaging? What sustainable alternatives are

suitable for pharmaceutical and medical goods packagings? What technologies and infrastructures are necessary to enable a cost-effective circular economy for currently nonrecyclable composite structures?

With its own material management system, comprehensive realignment of the portfolio towards resourcesaving, recyclable packaging

alternatives, and investment in mechanical and chemical recycling technologies, the SÜDPACK Group has in recent years already created facts on the ground. It has not only developed an effective circular economy for its products in its field, but can also support customers in diverse industries with solid expertise, groundbreaking product developments and well-founded sustainability analyses.

Pharmaceutical machinery market growth outpaces larger industries

Aforecasted expansion of the pharmaceutical machinery market is driven by enhancements in technology, automation, sustainability, and supply chain challenges, as highlighted in a recent infographic titled “Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The Future Ahead,” released by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. During late 2023 and early 2024, PMMI’s Business Intelligence surveyed pharmaceutical manufacturers to evaluate the industry’s progress since the release of the organization’s 2022 white paper with a similar title. The findings revealed an industry primed for growth yet confronted with various hurdles.

Establishing the foundation for the survey is the 2023 State of the Industry Report, also by PMMI. Per the report’s findings, in 2022, shipments of pharmaceutical machinery amounted to $1.1 billion, representing 11% of the packaging machinery market, with a forecasted compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% by 2027. This growth trajectory surpasses that of several larger sectors, including the food industry, which is projected to have a CAGR of 7.3%.

“The pharmaceutical sector has recently announced high levels of production expansion investments. A large portion of the biggest pharmaceutical

manufacturers have announced capacity expansion in the billions, with the majority of investment going toward expanding capacity in North Carolina,” says Rebecca Marquez, director, custom research, PMMI.

“This has pushed forecasted growth of packaging machine shipments to the pharmaceutical sector up for 2023 and 2024 compared to other industries.”

Marquez cites e-commerce and central pharmacies as reasons for this growth. As e-commerce continues to proliferate, there is a trend toward multi-client order fulfillment centers. This landscape will represent a significant growth opportunity for packaging machine

builders. Also driving growth in pharmaceutical machinery is the rise of central pharmacies, providing the ability for third parties to fill prescriptions within the U.S. Central pharmacies sit between the retail pharmacy and wholesaler and serve multiple pharmacies, sometimes of multiple entities.

Central pharmacies have been used by independent and chain pharmacies alike to control inventory costs of slowmoving drugs and to achieve cost reduction through scale. Increasingly, central pharmacies are being used to serve mailorder prescriptions in the growing e-commerce landscape.

Going into 2024, manufacturers identified reliability/repeatability (83%) as a top priority when evaluating and comparing machines and flexibility/faster changeover (76%) as a critical improvement for next-generation machines. The infographic also details the key trends affecting the pharmaceutical industry. Automating costs, labor, changing packaging formats due to sustainability requirements, and delays in acquiring parts were all identified as challenges for the industry in their respective categories. Finally, the latest data shows the top five ways OEMs and suppliers can best support pharmaceutical packaging operations, with equipment accuracy and reliability leading the way.

“We look at this survey as a pulse-check to see how pharmaceutical manufacturers were doing amid the growth. While growth is good, we did not want to ignore the many challenges and opportunities for the industry,” Marquez says.

“How pharmaceutical manufacturers handle this wave of growth can set many companies up for success. It’s all in how they meet the moment.”

This article was originally published by PMMI

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The Future Ahead

Pharmaceutical Machinery Shipments

Complete solutions for horizontal packaging in film and paper

HUGO BECK is a world leading specialist in horizontal film packaging machines, flowpack and paper packaging machines as well as automation solutions with the range of 3,000 to 18,000 cycles/hour. We provide a complete range of machine solutions for flowpacks, poly bags, and shrink packs as both primary and secondary packaging.

Our latest paper packaging solutions underline our commitment to the continued development of innovative machine technology and sustainable packaging solutions to help meet environmental objectives. Whether maximising production efficiencies and

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While relevant for all industries, HUGO BECK’s customised film packaging and automation solutions are particularly significant for the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors. The packaging systems used, most of which are designed as high-grade customer-specific installations,

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As the trend towards automation continues to increase, HUGO BECK also uses robotic systems as part of the packaging line and integrates various handling systems.

Safe and hygienic, airtight, and high-barrier packaging

The combination of air-tight, high barrier packaging and flexibility across different product sizes and bundles, makes HUGO BECK’s flowpack machines ideal for applications in this area. The equipment is designed to conform to the highest documentation and safety standards. In addition, by processing a range of substrate solutions, materials such as composite and barrier films of various thicknesses, polypropylene and polyethylene mono-material, as well as Tyvek® can all be used for flowrapped primary packaging.

With flowpack machines, it is also possible to switch to paperbased packaging with a minimal sealable coating, which means that the paper still remains recyclable.

Additional functionality, such as packing under modified atmosphere (MAP), automatic film-changing devices, or the dispensing of leaflet inserts are only a few examples of userspecified options.

Upon request, all HUGO BECK packaging machines are available in stainless steel or hygienic design to meet the stringent requirements for packaging in this sector.

As an alternative to flowpack machines, we offer film packaging machines for poly bags and shrink packs. Here, the focus is more on product protection and transport, implemented as primary or secondary packaging. All types of film can be processed, including PE/PO/PP monomaterial and bio films.

www.hugobeck.com

How

COMPLETE SOLUTIONS FOR HORIZONTAL PACKAGING

IN FILM AND PAPER

HUGO BECK is a world leading specialist in horizontal film packaging machines, flowpack and paper packaging machines as well as automation solutions with the range of 3,000 to 18,000 cycleper-hour. Our comprehensive machine range handles flowpacks, bags and shrink packs, as both primary and secondary packaging. HUGO BECK machines are used worldwide across many different sectors, including pharmaceutical & medical technology, confectionery, e-commerce, household goods, wood & long parts.

In developing innovative machine technology we aim to make packaging as resource-efficient as possible. From extremely tight packaging that minimizes the use of film and paper to flexible machine solutions, which allow the production of film and paper packaging on just one machine or pure paper packaging machinery – we have all sustainability needs covered.

State-of-the-art, in-house project planning and manufacturing processes ensure we can react to virtually all our customers’ needs.

BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR PHARMACEUTICAL & MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

n High-grade customized installations

n Validation and qualification services, GMP certification

n Safe and hygienic, airtight and high-barrier packaging

n Meeting clean room specifications

n Track & Trace capability

SUSTAINABLE FILM AND PAPER PACKAGING SOLUTIONS FOR E-COMMERCE, MAIL ORDER, LOGISTICS & MORE

n Minimal film and paper use across the packaging process

n Automatic adaptation of the shipping bag size to varying product dimensions in length and width

n Optimized user-friendliness and accessibility

CONFECTIONERY & MORE: PERFECT PACKAGING APPEARANCE AND PRODUCT PRESENTATION

n High quality, extremely tight packaging with minimum use of resources

n Maximum machine uptime

n High packaging speeds of up to 18,000 cycles/h

n Wide range of packaging types and films processed

NPP – We package peace of mind

Secure packaging for critical products

In the highly regulated pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, packaging plays a crucial role. Adhering to stringent regulatory standards, NPP prioritizes quality assurance and safety at every stage, providing customers with peace of mind and confidence in their production operations. We supply some of the largest pharmaceutical and medical device companies worldwide. Our expertise covers cleanroom packaging, anti-static packaging and FIBC’s along with validated machinery, specifically for use in this sector.

At NPP, we recognize that every manufacturer is unique, with specific requirements and challenges. That’s why we offer personalized support and consultation services to help you identify the most suitable packaging and machinery

solutions for your needs. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring a smooth implementation process and ongoing technical support to maximize the performance and efficiency of your packaging and equipment.

Collaboration is key to our success at NPP. We partner closely with our customers to understand their evolving needs and challenges, driving continuous innovation in our solutions. By leveraging our collective expertise and industry insights, we strive to empower our customers with cutting-edge technologies that drive efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness in the marketplace.

Transform your pharmaceutical and medical packaging with NPP and experience the difference in efficiency, precision, and quality. Explore our range of packaging and

machinery solutions today to unlock new levels of productivity and success for your business. Visit our website to learn more or

NPP – We complete

At NPP we combine best in class packaging, and systems along with a partnership packaging

contact us directly to schedule a packaging consultation with our experts.

Let’s shape progress together

At NPP, we are committed to reducing the impact of our activities on the environment and assisting our customers in their efforts to address their sustainability concerns. We offer on-site packaging audits, where all aspects of your packaging process are analysed. This in turn can potentially uncover inefficiencies and areas of improvement that can have a significant impact on your business productivity (and potentially reduce costs too).

A small change in materials often can have a significant impact on the environment. By assessing your packaging materials and processes, we may be able to offer recommendations that will reduce environmental impact whilst maintaining or improving product performance.

www.npp.ie

complete the package packaging, high performance machinery partnership approach to offer you a complete packaging solution.

About NPP

NPP combines best in class packaging, high performance machinery and systems along with a partnership approach to offer a complete packaging solution. The packaging specialists have over 40 years of experience in the industry and are a trusted partner for businesses in the UK and Ireland across a wide range of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, agriculture and industrial.

The company offers a range of packaging machinery, systems and materials from bespoke flexible films, cleanroom bags and anti-static packaging to sealing machinery and case handling systems. NPP goes beyond merely supplying equipment and materials; they offer strategic advice on transforming your packaging operations. Equally important, their team of engineers will be there to service and maintain your machines whenever the need arises.

Let’s work together

Let’s work together to find creative solutions to help your organization succeed today, tomorrow, and into the future.

We package peace of mind

At NPP we combine best in class packaging, high performance machinery and systems along with a partnership approach to offer you a complete packaging solution.

Cleanroom & Anti-Static Packaging

Validatable Sealing & Bagging Machinery

Service & Engineering Support Bags, Liners & Continuous Tubing

New recycling programme to reduce theatre waste

An exciting new project to recycle packaging from single-use items is projected to reduce the waste being incinerated from UCLH theatres by around 215kg a year.

Historically, packaging from single-use surgical items can be difficult to recycle through standard recycling routes due to the packaging being made of mixed materials – in this case plastic and metal.

The new recycling programme, delivered in conjunction with suppliers Johnson & Johnson MedTech and their partners,

MYGroup and Resourcify, will enable both metal and plastic components from suture foil packaging to be collected, sorted, and repurposed into new products. This will be an NHS first.

Special recycling bins made from recycled plastics will be installed in theatres initially at Westmoreland Street, followed by University College Hospital,

The Grafton Way Building and at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. These have been designed especially for this packaging, to reduce the potential for further contamination.

Waste management and recycling company, MYGroup, will collect and take the waste items back to its state-of-the-art facilities, where they will be

shredded and fed through an electrostatic machine to separate the metal from the plastic. MYGroup will convert the separated plastic into its innovative ‘MYBoard™’ – a material similar in consistency to plywood – used for construction, shop fitting and joinery, as well as a wide range of products, from chairs and tables to storage boxes. Any metal components will be smelted back into aluminium for recycling into new products.

The project has been overseen by the UCLH sustainability team with the backing of infection prevention and control.

UCLH sustainability lead, Joe Burton, said: “This is a great way for UCLH to reclaim valuable materials such as metals as well as giving plastics a new lease of life, whilst generating CO2 savings compared to incineration or taking items to landfil.

“Whilst only a small change, this project is a fantastic example of one of our suppliers taking responsibility for its waste. We hope this sets a precedent for others to follow suit as well as opening conversations amongst our staff.”

Steve Carrie, Director, MYGroup, said: “This initiative, in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson, will deliver a significant and lasting contribution to the NHS’ waste targets –particularly in diverting a large proportion of plastic from incineration – and our work will demonstrate the art of the possible: that there is no such thing as ‘unrecyclable’ waste, even from the most complex operating environments.”

This article was originally published by University College London Hospitals

Innovation in screw caps for product, brand and customer protection

The usage of screw caps varies greatly by region. The majority of liquids for consumption in Western Europe are packed in glass or plastic bottles sealed with screw caps. In other regions, the proportion of single-use packaging such as beverage cans is significantly higher.

In North America, many medications are sold in jars with screw caps. This makes screw caps an important component of the packaging of various forms of preparations, since they securely seal powders, pastes, liquids, and other contents.

The advantages of screw caps are evident. Their tightnessthe low permeability to gases, vapors, and aromas - which is maintained even after resealing, is unmatched.

Choosing injection molded plastic results in high quality caps. With plastic injection molding, design freedom is a key factor. After the initial investment in an injection molding tool, the processor has great flexibility in terms of plastic and color selection. Identical items in several different colors can be produced from one tool without much effort. Additionally, the plastics can theoretically be different for each production run. This is an important aspect when various regulatory requirements must be met. Depending on the application of the screw cap, for example, a batch can be made from a particularly temperatureresistant plastic, or additives can be added to optimize light opacity, UV resistance, or barrier properties.

Nowadays, packaging must be more than just an adequate

component that protects the contents from spoilage. Innovative brand owners have been focusing on primary packaging with additional benefits for consumers, patients, or fillers. Additional benefits may include consumer information, customer loyalty, or data generation for marketing purposes.

As a primary packaging component, the screw cap can meet additional requirements, especially since it is now standard for the closure to also prevent tampering and counterfeiting of the contents by third parties.

The WHO estimates that 1 in 10 medical products or drugs in lowand middle-income countries are counterfeit or of low quality. Steadily growing online trade

contributes to the global spread of such counterfeits.

Counterfeiting and tampering can take various forms. Unlike lifestyle items such as sunglasses and wristwatches, the packaging of the medicine is the most important indicator for authenticity checks. The packaging is often the only thing that laypeople, including users and patients, can use to check authenticity.

Due to the lack of options to apply counterfeit protection directly to the contents, the primary packaging must take on this enormously important task. There are documented cases where the original packaging of cancer drugs was retained after administration to the patient and reintroduced to the market with ineffective contents through criminal channels. An intact original package also allows expired medications to be repackaged or for products originally intended for a different target market to be circulated.

There are various ways in which the screw cap, as a primary packaging component, can contribute not just to the protection of contents but also individualization. Such variants can also serve to protect the products.

Product protection is not only about protecting the product from

tampering, but also encompasses protecting the consumer from counterfeit products. Producers, distributors, pharmacists and anyone else that comes into contact with the product, are also protected by adequate packaging. Tamperevident packaging can protect against unjustified exchanges. Unique and unambiguous packaging can also protect against unjustified compensation claims and reveal where in the supply chain manipulation has occurred.

For more information and advice on the best way to improve your packaging, contact KISICO, a German manufacturer of plastic screw caps for the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and laboratory industries.

www.kisico.com

Secure solutions – Viscose pharmaceutical security seals

Plastic-free self-shrink seals and traditional heat-shrink sleeves that preserve a sterile environment, protect against counterfeiting/tampering and prevent cross contamination…

Viscose is a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of tamper evident packaging including shrink sleeves and closures, serving the nutraceutical, microbiology and pharmaceutical industries. We are proud to work with NHS & private trusts, hospitals, clinical testing facilities, co-packers and globally recognised pharmaceutical brands.

Tamper evident packaging is recognised by pharmaceutical providers and specialists as a vital, cost-effective and secure

solution to protecting the contents in containers such as vials, petri dishes, sample bottles, eye dropper bottles, tinctures, as well as medical & laboratory testing equipment.

Why use shrink sleeves/ seals?

Preserve a sterile clean environment – Once you seal your container with a shrink sleeve the contents within are protected from contamination ensuring they are sterile until opened.

Visual tamper evidence – By sealing your container with a sleeve you provide assurance to the end user that the container hasn’t been tampered with, if the seal is missing or broken it lets the user know the contents are no longer safe to use.

Anti-counterfeit – The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, and you want to ensure your brand is protected from dangerous or substandard copycat products. Our shrink sleeves provide reassurance to the consumer that the product

they are using is a genuine quality product. Sleeves can be printed with your logo or messaging of your choice to make them more unique and difficult to replicate.

Protection against breakages – A secondary seal contains potentially harmful contents from spreading if the container is dropped or broken. A full body sleeve will hold the contents within restricting the spillage and allowing for easier clean up. Increased security – For particularly harmful or hazardous contents an additional layer of protection provides peace of mind against breakage, damage during transit and general concern from retailers/users.

Introducing our solutions for the pharmaceutical industry

Plastic-free

self shrinking

sleeves – A unique solution

Our unique plastic-free selfshrink sleeves are made from sustainable wood pulp. They are biodegradable, home compostable as well as being plastic-free, making them an ecofriendly packaging solution.

Perfect for heat sensitive contents the sleeves self-shrink at room temperature within an hour, no heat required and no energy bills to worry about. The sleeves are also hand applied meaning there is no need to invest in bulky, heavy or expensive equipment, just apply and let them dry.

Looking for a branded sleeve? No problem these sleeves can be printed with your choice of wording / logo in 2 colours for a completely bespoke finish.

Heat-shrink sleeves

Heat-shrink sleeves are made from thermo-films and are available in a variety of sustainable films including recyclable PET, 30% recycled content rPET and industrially compostable PLA. They are available in a variety of formats to suit your production capability: reel-fed, pre-cut sleeves, pre-

formed sleeves and open top capsules. These shrink sleeves are great for branding/ messaging, we use multi-colour gravure printing which is high quality, durable and prevents scuffing.

Both of our shrink sleeve options are flexible, meaning they can shrink onto even the most uniquely shaped containers forming a tight secure seal.

Why should you choose Viscose?

We are a UK manufacturer based in Swansea with over 100 years experience in product security.

Our factory and equipment are of the highest standard and conforms to ISO:9001, ISO:14001 and has achieved BRC AA+ status, you can rely on us to provide quality products that are right first time, on time.

We have a loyal customer base with the majority of our relationships spanning decades and our service is second to none.

For more information, please contact us on 01792796393 or at sales@viscose.co.uk Visit our website at www.viscoseclosures.com

Still unsure? Here’s what our customers have to say!

“Viscose’s speedy and quality communication make for a very easy process and enjoyable to work with. They cater and deliver our requirements with excellence!”

- THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC

“Very happy with the service Viscose provide, communication is excellent, lead times are always met, prices are always made to be correct at the point of order which makes payment and the whole process so easy and simple, simply a brilliant service.”

- HUDDERSFIELD PHARMACY

SPECIALS

“We appreciate the personalized and outstanding customer service from Viscose, they are always responsive and helpful. They are willing to work with us to find the best solutions, we trust them to meet all of our needs.”

- VISITEC PTE. LTD

“ “ ON TIME DELIVERIES, IN-FULL, MEETING CUSTOMER QUALITY EXPECTATIONS IN THE SHORTEST LEAD-TIMES...

Gerard Harford, MD

Medication Packaging Holdco (MPH) is a revolutionary company that is changing the game in the packaging industry. With dual-site operations based in Central and Southern United Kingdom, MPH is an expert in the Well-being market, serving a range of industries from Pharmaceutical to Beauty.

Are you looking for a reliable carton converter for Pharmaceuticals or a foil block finish for a luxury make-up range? Medica and Curtis Packaging have the expert industry knowledge

INKS MIXED IN-HOUSE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS

Using an offset Lithographic Print method guarantees consistent colour and quality time after time. With a longstanding, experienced workforce to match, the possibilities are endless.

that you need. They are committed to delivering consistent quality, regardless of the order volume, making them a trusted supplier in the well-being market.

So, let’s take a closer look at what makes Medica and Curtis Packaging stand out as the best UK independents in the field. They offer a wide range of innovative packaging solutions, from custom designs to sustainable materials, which they tailor to meet the specific needs of each client.

Medica Packaging boasts over 100 years of experience in the print industry, shown in every print.

ACCREDITATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

MPH are the only dual-site operation in England to run 2 PS9000 accredited sites. Cementing their disaster recovery capabilities and ensuring only the highest standard for each of their clients. In addition to this, their Curtis Packaging site holds a B-Corp status, awarded for a commitment to the environment that goes above and beyond.

Both sites also hold FSC and ISO 14001 accreditations, showing that their materials come from responsibly managed forests and that they have implemented and maintained an environmental management system to enhance environmental performance.

UNMATCHED OUTPUT

Across there 2 UK sites, MPH produce many carton and leaflet styles, as well as finishes to ensure products aren’t only protected but also stand out in the Well-being marketplace. Being able to cater to your carton requirements, they support a full range of carton designs. From Crash lock, tuck-end, RTE, ATE, Skillet, 4 Corner tray and turn over end trays, this is to only mention a few. If this does not fit your product requirements, both sites CAD teams can tailor your carton to your products needs. Their leaflets and booklets, produced exclusively at the Medica site, are available in half, roll, Z and cross folds. All designs can be finished with luxury touches like hot foil, lamination, window patching, embossing and Braille.

CAPABLE OF ANYTHING

Both sites are equipped with state-ofthe-art equipment, meaning orders are completed in record time without compromising on quality. And the best part? Their printing and finishing equipment is so well invested that the possibilities for packaging are practically endless!

MPH’s market leading turn-around times (without the fast-track charges!) are supported by a robust supply chain securing every order, so they can boast 100% OTIF orders and the customer satisfaction to match. With over 275 team members and a cando culture, there is nothing to slow orders down.

Everything MPH do has the customers at the heart, from sustainability to a solid DRP, they are really excelling in the carton market.

GET IN TOUCH

Need to discuss your next packaging project? Contact MPH today!

Medica: info@medicapackaging.com or 01270 253777 Curtis: sales@curtispackaging.co.uk or 01737 647000

EMBACO: Expanding horizons in healthcare packaging solutions

AtEMBACO, we understand the critical role that healthcare packaging plays in safeguarding medical products. That’s why we’re proud to introduce our evergrowing range of PET and rPET bottles and jars with matching closures and dispensers, for the healthcare market.

PET Pharma Sirop and Veral Bottles

Our Sirop and Veral Bottles are the most iconic shape in the Pharma industry. Made from PET, which is lightweight and shatterproof, they make an

excellent alternative to glass. These are typically used for liquid products including supplements, suspensions, elixirs & syrups

• Sizes from 30ml-1000ml available.

• All with PP28mm necks – one cap fits all!

• Tamper evident (tethered and non-tethered) and child resistant closures available.

• Available in Clear, Amber and White as standard. Custom colours available on request.

PET Packers

Our PET Packer Jars are our most recently developed

range, following demand from the market. These are conventionally used for tablets, gummies, vitamins, minerals and supplements.

• Sizes from 60ml-950ml available.

• Screw neck and snap neck options in the range.

• Closures available with EPE Liners, PS Liners and IHS Liners.

• Child Resistant closures also offered.

• Clear, Amber, White, Black, Blue & Green colours are standard. Custom colours available on request.

PET Vials

For products that require a smaller packaging solution, we have a range of PET Vials to offer. These are commonly used for diagnostics, testing kits, health shots & liquid supplements.

• Sizes from 10ml-60ml available.

• Tethered screw caps available to match.

• Available in Clear, Amber, Black & White as standard. Custom colours available on request.

Dosing Devices

Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to accuracy with our vast range of dosing devices. Whether you’re dispensing liquid medication, oral syrups, creams or gels, our solutions give peace of mind and confidence in administration. We have the following options available:

• Measuring Cups

• Pipettes

• Dropper Inserts

• Pourer Inserts

• Spoons

• Scoops

• Pumps

• Sprayers

• Flip Top Caps

• Disc Top Caps

• Nozzles

Why Choose EMBACO?

Choosing us ensures you’re selecting a partner committed to excellence, innovation and reliability. Here’s why EMBACO stands out:

Industry Expertise

EMBACO have a team that boast decades of experience and expertise in the healthcare packaging industry. Our team consists of seasoned professionals who understand the unique challenges and requirements of packaging healthcare products, ensuring that your needs are met with precision and efficiency.

Quality Assurance

Quality is our top priority at EMBACO. You can trust that your pharmaceutical products are protected with uncompromising quality assurance.

Customisation Options

We understand that every pharmaceutical product is unique, which is why we offer customisable packaging solutions to meet your specific requirements. Whether you need specialised designs, branding options or compliance features, our team will work closely with you to develop tailored solutions that align with your vision and objectives.

Exceptional Customer Service

At EMBACO, we prioritise customer satisfaction above all else. Our dedicated team is committed to providing a responsive and personalised service from initial consultation to post-sales support. We value open communication, collaboration and transparency, ensuring a positive experience for every client.

Sustainability Initiatives

EMBACO is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. We strive to minimise our environmental footprint by using eco-friendly materials, optimising manufacturing processes and implementing sustainable practices throughout our operations. With EMBACO, you can align your packaging needs with your sustainability goals.

Elevate your healthcare packaging standards with EMBACO’s innovative solutions. Trust in our expertise, commitment to quality, customisation options, exceptional service and sustainability initiatives to meet your packaging needs with precision and excellence.

EMBACO – Rigid Packaging, Flexible Solutions. Where style, flexibility and unbeatable quality team up, pointing the way to a future where premium packaging and top-notch standards just click.

Get in touch with your enquiry today… Tel.: 01403 586 075

Email: UK@embaco.com

Website: www.embaco.com

Scan the QR code

Your specialist in Pharmaceutical packaging

You work on the development, composition and packaging of medicines. Whether this involves measuring precisely, testing comprehensively or packaging suitably: the aim is to control the quality. Our specialists are happy to help you with this.

Our products protect what is valuable, 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, palletboxes or other packaging, we have the expertise and experience to provide you with the right solutions.

We care. We do. We fulfill.

Packaging that protects: Houweling Group’s pharmaceutical solutions

Houweling Group is a familyowned company from The Netherlands which has been protecting product, plant and people since 1925. We operate in 30 countries and have more than 3,000 satisfied customers in all parts of the world. In several warehouses in the Netherlands, we store our 180,000 different types of products in 90,000m2 of storage space.

In 1925, Cor Houweling Senior developed a product that could be applied to greenhouses to protect crop from sunlight and heat. With this product and the accompanying cleaning product, Cor and his son Jan conquered the Dutch market.

Plastic packaging material was used to mix and transport our products. In 1980, the company expanded by selling packaging materials and recycling used packaging materials. In the process, son Cor Houweling junior also followed in his father’s footsteps.

Personal protective equipment, such as dust masks and gloves, was increasingly used in all business activities. In 1993, the company expanded to include a complete specialized branch in protective clothing and personal protective equipment. Protecting product, plant and people became a total package. From then on, we had a second business-location in the Netherlands.

In 2005, we expanded with a location in Belgium. In The Netherlands we found our permanent base in Bleiswijk after a number of relocations. A major renovation was carried out at this location in 2018 and 2019. With a new office and our roofs full of solar panels, Houweling Group’s headquarters is ready for the future. We also have locations in Romania and Canada.

Our products and services protect what is of value, reduce risks and ensure a safe environment. We are protectors by nature. That’s why we do what we do here at Houweling Group. With packaging that protects products and their environment and clothing that lets the wearer work safely and

with services that save fossil resources and products that stimulate plant growth. And we have been doing so for almost 100 years.

We offer solutions for multiple industries. Our solutions for the pharmaceutical industry reduces risks, promotes hygienic working and pack safely. We offer a wide range of products and services.

Products

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.

Services

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

Quality control

You work on the development, composition and packaging of medicines on a daily basis. Whether it involves precise measurement, extensive testing or appropriate packaging: the aim is to control quality. Houweling Group is happy to help!

Hygienic and safe

The industry demands certainties.

Our standardized packaging, cleaners and disposables prevent contamination. Risks are further reduced by proper storage methods for hazardous substances and appropriate personal protective equipment. These include respiratory protection, protective clothing, hearing protection and safety shoes.

Careful and accurate

The pharmaceutical industry requires professional work. Our packaging protects against external influences. Small packs and sample packs combined with nozzles and drop caps ensure precision. Hygiene products such as overalls, soap and masks protect against contamination.

We strive for sustainable growth for future generations. By developing circular products ourselves and selling them, we contribute to conserving valuable resources, reducing the use of fossil resources and reducing waste. Many of our products we sell are endorsed as sustainable. This helps our customers choose a better alternative. We also reduce our own CO2 emissions by generating energy with our

solar panels and choosing trucks with Euro 6 engines. We also collect rainwater to save drinking water.

We are an internationally operating family business spread over several branches, but we work as one team and would like to get to know you. We care. We do. We fulfill.

Houweling Group - Packaging Solutions

Houweling Group advises and develops. We are a guarantor of growth and a guardian of quality. We wholesale and produce packaging that protects products and their environment, recycle used packaging or recondition packaging to keep it in the environmental loop, since 1925. Contact Frank Houweling Sales & Export frank.houweling@houweling.nl +31 6 55 14 86 67 www.houweling.com

Boots launches blister pack recycling pilot with customer rewards

Boots has launched a blister pack recycling pilot programme across over 100 stores in London and the South East of England. With plans for expansion to more locations across the UK in the coming year, this initiative marks a significant step forward in Boots’ commitment to sustainability.

The blister pack recycling scheme builds upon the success of the Recycle at Boots initiative, which encourages customers to bring empty health and beauty products that are not recyclable

at home to designated collection bins at Boots stores.

Customers in proximity to participating stores now have the opportunity to drop off their used blister packs for recycling in specially designated collection bins and receive rewards for their contribution.

As part of the programme, Boots Advantage Card holders can earn 150 Boots Advantage Card points when they recycle 15 empty blister packs and make a purchase of £10 or more in-store.

Blister packs, commonly composed of plastic and foil and often used for packaging vitamins and medicines, typically cannot be recycled through standard household kerbside collections.

Natalie Gourlay, Head of ESG at Boots, said: At Boots we want to make it easy for our customers to make sustainable choices for a healthy planet – from the products they buy to how they dispose of the packaging once they have used them. Customers can now simply drop off their

Image courtesy of The Boots Company PLC

empty blister packs at Boots with the assurance that the materials will be given a second life and get rewarded for it too just like they can when they drop off other hard-to-recycle empties through Recycle at Boots. We will be taking the learnings of this initial pilot on board as we look to roll the scheme out more widely within the next year.

By introducing this innovative initiative, Boots aims to facilitate the recycling of millions of used blister packs, diverting them from landfill and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Walgreens Boots Alliance highlights sustainable packaging progress

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), which owns the retail pharmacy chains Walgreens in the US and Boots in the UK, continues to address concerns regarding packaging waste within the industry.

WBA has made substantial progress in reducing singleuse plastic components in packaging by adopting alternative materials whenever possible. These efforts encompass product design enhancements, industry collaborations, customer education, and improved supplier data collection.

Throughout fiscal 2023, WBA’s owned brands have continued to advance towards their sustainability goals.

WBA mandates compliance with regulatory requirements for ingredient labelling on owned brand products. New and refreshed WBA-owned brand items carry How2Recycle™ labels for U.S. products or OnPack Recycling Labels (OPRL) for UK products. Additionally, Boots and No7 Beauty Company enforce “Do Not Flush” labelling on products with a high risk of being inappropriately flushed.

Image courtesy of Walgreens Boots Alliance

Sustainable pharmaceutical packaging solutions

PVC-free Mono-Blisters offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional packaging materials, reducing ecological impact while maintaining product integrity.

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