Drivers for change - the increasing role of aluminium

SPN invited CCT’s president Brandon Bach for his vision concerning the drivers for change in sustainable packaging and the growing role of aluminium in the global circular economy. Here are his answers to our questions.

How ‘sustainability-aware’ would you say your company is and what recent measures have you taken to improve your overall contribution to the circular economy?

Consumer Convenience Technologies (CCT) created our aluminum lug EEASY Lid after eight years of R&D. Aluminum is easily and infinitely recyclable without a significant reduction in the integrity of the material, helping to promote a circular economy.

In relation to sustainability, what would you say have been your most important milestones?

While traditional jar lids are made of steel, the EEASY Lid is the world’s first aluminum lug lid, setting a new precedent for sustainability in the industry. We recently expanded our capabilities to include manufacturing line assessments for brands looking to accommodate the EEASY Lid, helping companies across the globe become more sustainable.

What do you consider to be the most promising market opportunities for your company at this time?

CCT is currently in talks with major grocers, brands and manufacturers across the globe, looking to expand EEASY Lid availability. In October, Boyer’s Food Markets became the first supermarket chain in the U.S. to use the EEASY Lid on its new in-house pasta sauce line. The EEASY Lid boosted Boyer’s pasta sauce sales by 104%.

What are the key drivers for change in your industry sector and how much is the on-going pressure for greater sustainability and recycling affecting your productivity?

The key driver for change in our industry is consumer demand. A recent survey by Retail Insight found that 67% of consumers believe retailers have more work to do to boost their sustainability credentials. Inclusivity is also huge – consumers of all ages/abilities benefit from enhanced designs that allow them to use products without assistance.

As we are keen to understand more about the latest trends shaping the packaging industry in your sector, what do you consider to be the most significant developments recently?

Sustainable and inclusive packaging innovations are all around us. Kraft is testing the brand’s first recyclable fiberbased cup for its Mac & Cheese and paper bottles for its ketchup. Olay recently unveiled an easy open winged lid for people with disabilities. Rare Beauty uses rounded tops on products for those with limited upper limb mobility.

Can you describe your product portfolio and its sustainability credentials?

The demand for sustainable packaging continues to rise. Aligned with brand strategies aimed at improving product packaging and shifting to greener packaging, our innovative EEASY Lid made of recyclable aluminum protects the environment and enhances consumer experience one jar lid at a time.

Are you planning the launch of any new products in the foreseeable future that you can tell us about?

As of right now, CCT offers the EEASY Lid in the 63 mm size, which is the size of an average pasta sauce jar. We eventually would like to produce additional jar lid sizes for other food products. Our goal is to have as many consumers as possible experience the benefits of the EEASY Lid on whatever jarred product they like.

How has the Covid 19 pandemic affected your production and manufacturing capabilities?

Soaring inflation has led us, and other companies, to focus on lightweight packaging materials to create cost efficiencies in the supply chain and decrease waste. For example, 63 mm aluminum lids weigh 57% less than traditional steel lids. The lower weight of aluminum can decrease fuel consumption and emissions, vehicle maintenance and road repair.

How do you see the future evolving in your sector?

The start of 2023 marks another year that grocers and retailers must find ways to make themselves competitive and attract customers. Companies can do this by elevating their product packaging to include the EEASY Lid, making the product more accessible. Future product packaging will evolve to be more sustainable, inclusive and innovative.

The success that CCT has enjoyed since the launch of its EESYLID device, has added significantly to the packaging sector’s move towards growth in the use of aluminium closures in the food industry. SPN applauds the contribution made by CCT towards increased sustainability and the circular economy.

Ahlstrom