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A range of fully automatic and compact Sleevers developed for the ready meals, fresh produce and chilled foods industries.
A range of end load cartoners with both semi-automatic and fully automatic product loading options.
Top load carton forming and closing machines for the confectionary, bakery and frozen food industries.
We also offer custom conveyor and product handling design and manufacturing services.
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BRAUBEVIALE 2026
An article By Roy Green, Harford Control Ltd.
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09 Penn Packaging The Heartbeat of Packaging 10 Minebea Intec presents their new approach to customised solutions ‘Engineered for you’ at PPMA 2026
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From Ambition to action: turning food system resilience into visible progress
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The Gym Kitchen Launches HighProtein Porridge
Loma Systems® to Showcase Complete Inspection and Service Support at PPMA 2026
High protein healthy meals challenger, The Gym Kitchen is expanding its breakfast offer with the brand’s first range of instant porridge pots, landing in Asda this week.
The two-strong range includes Golden Syrup porridge, boasting 21g protein per pot and Chocolate porridge providing 20g protein, both ready to eat in minutes with boiling water. Hitting shelves this week, The Gym Kitchen High Protein Porridge range has been developed to target morning occasions, with a convenient format that fits into busy, active daily routines. The porridge delivers significantly more protein than standard instant oat products, with a short and simple ingredient list. Neither variant carries red GDAs for fat, saturates, sugar or salt, and they are suitable for vegetarians. The launch is the part of an ambitious NPD stream from The Gym Kitchen, expanding the brand’s proposition into multiple categories, providing shoppers easy ways to add high-protein options to their daily diets. The Gym Kitchen Founder, Segun Akinwoleola, said: “Porridge is a natural fit for our proposition around high protein, taste, health and convenience, with an instant format that requires no refrigeration, no equipment and no preparation beyond a kettle. “We are incredibly excited to entering yet another new category and to expand our footprint in ASDA, supporting evolving modern eating habits.” The Gym Kitchen High Protein Golden Syrup Porridge 70g
£1.30
The Gym Kitchen High Protein Chocolate Porridge 70g
£1.30
Loma Systems®, a global manufacturer of inspection solutions for improving product safety and quality in the food and pharmaceutical industries, will exhibit at PPMA 2026, taking place from 22–24 September at the NEC Birmingham. Visitors can meet the Loma team on Stand D106, where the company will demonstrate inspection technologies spanning metal detection, X-ray inspection, checkweighers and combination systems, supported by its comprehensive UK service and training capabilities. Recognising that no single inspection technology is right for every product or production line, Loma will use the exhibition to help manufacturers understand the most appropriate solution for their individual application. Its stand will demonstrate how factors including product characteristics, packaging materials, production environment, hygiene requirements and quality objectives can all influence the choice of inspection system. The equipment on display will highlight the breadth of Loma’s offering, from compact systems for packaged products and hygienic combination solutions for demanding washdown environments, to X-ray equipment developed for pumped and free-flowing applications. Visitors considering X-ray inspection will be able to explore three different solutions from Loma’s X5 Series. These include the X5DE Space Saver, which uses Dual Energy technology and multi-level algorithms to improve the inspection of complex and mixed-density products; the X5C compact X-ray inspection system which is an accessible route into X-ray inspection for manufacturers working with restricted line space or seeking an alternative to metal detection, and finally the X5 Pipeline, designed for the inspection of pumped and free-flowing products such as poultry, meat, slurries and sauces. Together, the three systems demonstrate how X-ray technology can be configured for very different products and production formats. Ralph Mbanefo, UK & Export Sales & Service Director at Loma Systems, comments: “PPMA gives us an important opportunity to show that the right inspection solution starts with the application, rather than with a particular technology. Our customers are under increasing pressure to improve productivity, maintain food safety and reduce operating costs, and we can point out to visitors to our stand how the right combination of inspection technology and lifetime service support helps achieve all three. “Loma’s strength is our ability to support the complete production line with metal detection, checkweighing and combination systems, and then continue supporting that equipment throughout its working life.” Further information visit www.loma.com
02 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
News Network
General
Autopack Group’s Technosys helps leading pork scratchings producer rebuild production after fire Technosys – part of the Autopack Group – has helped a leading pork scratchings company to restart production following a devastating fire at its Midlands manufacturing facility. The business invested in three A200 vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) machines, with Technosys providing the packaging engineering expertise and project support needed to get the first line up and running within weeks. The fire hit the customer in December 2025 and Technosys was chosen not only because of its expertise in automating packaging lines, but also the ability to project manage during a crisis. The first line was up and running in a few weeks, enabling the customer to kick-start their business.
The A200 VFFS machine is a fully automatic intermittent with available in full electrical or electrical/pneumatic operation. Its robust construction and easy operation allow for increased efficiency and output whilst reducing costs and potential human error.This machine can produce a wide range of bag sizes from 50mm to 200m wide and 50mm to Producing pork scratchings, crackling and crunch in a variety of pack sizes and 300mm long in different pack styles and any heat sealable film. The flavours in FFS pillow packs style bags, the company also required lines capable machine is a stalwart of the production shop floor and Technosys of handling tubs. This made layout, integration and project management believes it is the most cost-effective UK-made VFFS in the market, with a critical to the recovery process. very low cost of ownership.
New Teknomek heavy-duty table design A Plessas Transport expands enables stable island workstations in Krone fleet with further container food production environments equipment investment Teknomek has revamped its heavy-duty table range with the introduction of a new centre tie-bar configuration, giving food manufacturers greater flexibility over how workstations are positioned and used within production environments. The new design addresses a common challenge in food processing facilities, where worktables positioned away from walls can require additional support. By incorporating a centre tie-bar beneath the work surface, stability is ensured while the table is also fully accessible from all sides. This enables food manufacturers to position tables in the centre of production areas as freestanding or island workstations, creating more flexible layouts and allowing operators to work around the entire table rather than being restricted to one side. Also delivering additional flexibility, the new heavy-duty tables can be repositioned in response to changing workflow patterns. The latest addition forms part of Teknomek’s heavy-duty tables range, which is designed to withstand the demands of busy food production environments where durability, hygiene and operational efficiency are essential. Stainless steel construction provides strength for daily use, while the new centre tie-bar option gives facilities greater freedom when designing or reconfiguring processing areas. Michelle Locke, product and marketing manager at Teknomek, comments: “Production environments are constantly evolving as manufacturers look for ways to improve efficiency, maximise available space and support changing workflows. Speaking to our customers, we identified a requirement for a table that could provide the stability needed for freestanding use without limiting access around the workstation.” The new configuration expands an already comprehensive range of heavyduty tables, which can be specified in a variety of sizes, support formats and material options. Manufactured from 304L grade stainless steel as standard, tables can also be manufactured using 316-L stainless steel for more demanding hygienic applications. As with all Teknomek furniture, the heavy-duty table range is manufactured in the UK and designed to deliver the combination of robust construction, hygienic performance and long-term reliability that customers have come to trust. For further information, visit www.teknomek.co.uk or call +(0)1603 361999.
Felixstowe-based operator adds Krone Box Liner FS10 chassis and eLT3-40 gooseneck frames as business continues to grow. A Plessas Transport has expanded its container transport capability with 18 Krone Box Liner FS10 sliding chassis trailers delivered over the past 12 months, alongside three Krone eLT3-40 gooseneck frames. A further three FS10 chassis are now on order. Based in Felixstowe, A Plessas Transport specialises in UK-wide container haulage from major ports including Felixstowe and London Gateway. “Our business has continued to grow, and as that happens, we need equipment that gives us the confidence to maintain the service levels our customers expect,” says Andreas Plessas, Director of A Plessas Transport. “We have been impressed with the performance of the Krone equipment. The FS10 chassis, including an additional genset specification, have provided the flexibility we need for a wide range of container movements, which is why we have continued to invest in further units.” The Krone Box Liner FS10 sliding chassis accommodates different container lengths and configurations, providing flexibility for intermodal operations. The eLT3-40 gooseneck frames provide an alternative configuration for different container movements. “The different types of chassis give us options depending on the requirements of each job,” adds Andreas. “Having the right equipment helps us plan effectively and respond quickly when customer requirements change. “Krone has shown a good understanding of what we need as a growing container operator. The quality of the equipment and the support we have received have given us confidence to continue investing in their products.” “Having reliable equipment is important because our customers depend on us to keep their supply chains moving,” concludes Andreas. “As we continue to grow, we need equipment and suppliers that can support that growth.”
foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 03
News Network
General
Croxsons Extends Commercial Team Croxsons, the 150 year-old B-Corp certified family-owned business that supplies glass packaging for the food and drink sector, has extended its commercial team with the appointment of Matthew Howarth as Customer Growth Manager. Matthew joins the company at an exciting time in its development, following the recent launch of its ‘Rightweight®’ glass packaging solution and of the British-made ‘Sovereign’ sparkling wine bottle. Matthew brings with him considerable commercial experience having worked previously in B2B and B2C software sales, and is looking forward to creating new business and growth opportunities through product development and strategic partnerships. “I’m very process-driven and enjoy identifying a problem, working through it and finding the best way forward,” said Matthew. “I’m looking forward to being part of the Croxsons team and helping the business grow at such an exciting stage of its development.”
Durham Box continues growth with senior operations appointment Leading packaging company, Durham Box, has appointed Dean Milburn as operations manager. The move highlights Durham Box’s commitment to operational excellence, continuous improvement and developing its people, while supporting continued business growth. Reporting to general manager Percy Sowden, Dean will lead the company’s operational strategy, with responsibility for safety, people, delivery, cost and continuous improvement across the business. Bringing more than 35 years of manufacturing and operational leadership experience across multiple sectors, Dean began his career in the automotive industry, spending a decade as a team leader before moving into production management with Filtrona, where he also led design operations. He later became a UK Lean Six Sigma manager at Intersnack, driving process improvement programmes, delivering cost savings and training operational teams through to black belt level. His career has since included senior manufacturing and operations leadership roles with Smurfit, an operations director position in the oil and gas sector, and, most recently, head of manufacturing development for UK & Ireland at VPK, where he worked with multiple sites to standardise operational best practices across the business. Commenting on his appointment, Dean said: “Durham Box presented a fantastic opportunity to join a successful local business that continues to grow year after year, while also benefiting from being part of a larger group. I already knew several members of the team, understood the ambition of the business and was impressed by the openness and honesty around where the company is today and where it wants to be. “I’m looking forward to sharing my experience, helping develop the people within the business and supporting Durham Box as it continues to grow and strengthen its operational performance.” Percy Sowden added: “Dean brings an exceptional breadth of operational experience and a proven track record of delivering continuous improvement across a range of manufacturing sectors. His expertise in operational excellence, Lean Six Sigma and developing high-performing teams will play an important role as we continue to invest in our people, processes and future growth. We’re delighted to welcome him to Durham Box.” For more information on Durham Box and its services, visit www.durhambox.co.uk
04 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
In his spare time, Matthew enjoys fly fishing, clay pigeon shooting and football. He is also a keen gym-goer, and is enjoying settling into life in the UK after relocating from South Africa. “We are delighted to welcome Matthew to the Croxsons team,” commented Josh Webster, Head of Brand. “His wealth of experience will be of great value as we move forward in our dedication to providing better packaging solutions for the food and drink sector.”
KM Packaging’s K-PEEL VPMe High Barrier Multi-Seal Recycle Ready Film Is The Last Piece of Recyclable Packaging Puzzle KM Packaging have launched K-Peel VPMe, a Recycle Ready polyolefin film that seals to PET trays and pots – offering the last piece of the recycling puzzle for the Australian market. KM Packaging have launched K-Peel VPMe, a Recycle Ready polyolefin film that seals to PET trays and pots – offering the last piece of the recycling puzzle for the Australian market. The film’s multi-seal properties mean it also seals to PET, PP and PE trays, offering efficiency and flexibility for producers who have a wide and varied product portfolio. The 55µm gauge film also offers a high barrier gives products greater protection for gases and water transfer. These features make it an ideal film for microwave meals, snack trays, and fresh protein. Tammy Spencer, Business Unit Manager – ANZ, KM Packaging, comments on the launch: “Solving packaging recycling in Australia right now can feel like a jigsaw puzzle. Luckily at KM Packaging, we’re really good at finding the right piece and K-Peel VMPe is that final piece of the recycling puzzle.” “It’s compatibility across PET trays makes it a great companion those rigid materials. The fact that it’s a multi-seal across different tray types makes it a versatile offering in companies with a wide product offering across the market.” “This is a great film for microwaveable meals, prepared food, snack pots, and even fresh protein. It’s got a high barrier which makes it a good choice for migration sensitive products as well.” The film offers a satisfying strong peel across the full range of tray types. Polyolefin materials like K-Peel VPMe can have the ‘Check Locally’ label can be returned to local collection points for processing. Our polyolefin films are designed to be kerbside recyclable, when the collection infrastructure is put in place. Tammy Spencer continues: “K-Peel VPMe fills a gap in the market as a multi-seal with barrier – it’s very versatile and can help producers hit their sustainability goals like ensuring the pack is completely recycle ready.” K-Peel VPMe is now available to producers in the ANZ region. Want to trial K-Peel VPMe? Get in touch with Tammy Spencer at: tammy@kmpackaging.com
Harford Control Ltd.
Full Factory MES An end-to-end MES delivering real-time factory intelligence to eliminate risk, improve efficiency and reduce cost.
QUALITY
COMPLIANCE
Right first time, every time
EFFICIENCY
YIELD
Built-in. Always.
Optimise performance. Every shift.
Reduce giveaway. Maximise output.
Paperless Quality
Autocoding
OEE
LIMS
Barcode Inspection
SIC
Weight & Volume Control
Traceability
Vision Inspection
Centrelining
Materials & Process Quality
Root Cause Incident Camera
Energy & Labour Monitoring
Consistent quality. Satisfy retailers’ requirements.
Protect your brand. Stay audit ready.
SPC Waste Reduction Recipe Tracking
Increase productivity. Drive continuous improvement
Reduce wastage. Improve your bottom line.
REAL-TIME FACTORY INTELLIGENCE FROM SHOP FLOOR TO TOP FLOOR Eliminate the Risk of Retailer Fines & Product Recalls Optimise Sitewide Performance Turn Factory Losses into Profit Margins
WHY HARFORD? The Ultimate Connected MES: The only system that delivers in-depth analysis across Quality, Efficiency, Compliance and Yield, fully integrated solutions. 60 Years of Experience
Trusted by Global Manufacturers
MEET US LIVE ON THE EXHIBITION FLOOR: PPMA 2026 22 - 24 Sept NEC Birmingham Stand B80
Anuga FoodTec 29 Sept - 1 Oct BEC Mumbai Stand F106
24/7 Onsite Service Support
Request A Demo +44 (0)1225 764461 info@harfordcontrol.com www.harfordcontrol.com foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 05
Specialist View
From Blame and Shame to Sustained Gain From Bridgewater to the Manufacturing Floor: How Wall Street’s Most Famous “Error Log” Can Improve Factory Performance An article By Roy Green, Harford Control Ltd. September 2026 Every manufacturing boardroom talks about continuous improvement, yet many plant managers struggle to get a true picture of what is actually happening on the factory floor. We see companies investing heavily in modern equipment, only to rely on paper check sheets, delayed spreadsheets, and lagging indicators to manage daily operations. Worse still, when targets are missed or quality issues slip through, the reaction is often to assign blame rather than fix the underlying process. To understand how to break this cycle, it helps to look outside manufacturing entirely and examine how one of the world’s most successful investment firms handled the exact same human challenge.
The $100,000 Mistake That Built a System In the early 1990s at Bridgewater Associates, a trader named Ross forgot to execute a trade for a client. The money sat idle in cash, and by the time anyone noticed, the mistake had cost the firm hundreds of thousands of dollars. Ray Dalio, Bridgewater’s founder, didn’t fire him. Dalio knew that mistakes happen all the time, and firing people for honest errors only encourages everyone else to hide
06 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
their slip-ups in the future, leading to even bigger, far more expensive disasters down the road. Instead, they wanted problems and disagreements brought straight to the surface. Ross and Ray built an “error log” in the trading department. From that point on, whenever a trade wasn’t executed properly or transaction costs spiked, the team logged it, investigated the root cause, and fixed the process.
Over time, that log turned their trade execution into a finely tuned machine. It was then that Dalio realised having a process that ensures problems are brought to the surface and their root cause diagnosed assures that continual improvement occurs. He also learned just how critical the right tools are in helping to reinforce desired behaviours across an organisation.
Harford Control Ltd.
Paper Records, Fear, and the Illusion of Perfection In manufacturing, we see the similar dynamic play out every day. The quality sheets show a row of clean “passes”, the reported OEE score looks great, but the reality on the line tells a very different story. Not long ago, at an industry exhibition, a manufacturer told us how their operators were weighing bottles and manually filling in spreadsheets by hand. When delays occurred, managers didn’t find out until days later because paper records offer zero real-time visibility. On top of that, human error on the line was inevitable. In factories with a strong blame culture, this gets even worse. Operators will mark everything as a “pass” just to avoid extra work, confrontation, or getting disciplined. When an issue finally explodes, people start pointing fingers, and whoever gets stuck holding the blame gets sacked. That doesn’t solve the issue; it just teaches everyone else to become better at hiding mistakes.
Turning Raw Data into Actionable Insights Having data alone isn’t enough if it’s delayed or just shows “fancy numbers” without revealing the actual root cause. To build discipline and encourage the right behaviours, operators need the right tools. This is where the Harford End-to-End MES comes in. Rather than leaving operators to fill in paper sheets after the fact, our system digitises the manufacturing process in real time, helping reduce human error, empower operators, and uncover true root causes.
Harford covers every perspective from raw material intake right through to finished product dispatch across four core pillars: • Quality (Right first time, every time): Replaces subjective manual logs with Paperless Quality Management, Laboratory Information Management System, Full Traceability, and rigorous checks across both materials and process quality, ensuring consistent output that satisfies strict retailer requirements. • Compliance (Built-in. Always.): Protects your brand reputation and keeps you audit-ready at all times through automated Autocoding, Barcode Inspection, Vision Inspection systems, and a root cause Incident Camera that captures operational issues as they happen. • Efficiency (Optimise performance. Every shift.): Drives continuous improvement and boosts productivity by tracking OEE, Short Interval Control (SIC), centrelining, and Energy & Labour Monitoring to expose true downtime drivers. • Yield (Reduce giveaway. Maximise output.): Directly improves your bottom line by reducing wastage through Weight & Volume control, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Recipe Tracking, and targeted Waste Reduction.
Every industry faces different day-to-day challenges, but human behaviour remains the same. That is why Bridgewater’s lesson on transparency is so relevant for food and drink manufacturers today.
Meet Us Live on the Exhibition Floor We will be exhibiting in the UK and in India this year to showcase how our End-to-End MES can help transform line visibility and drive genuine continuous improvement. We look forward to seeing you there.
PPMA Show 2026: NEC Birmingham | 22–24 September 2026 | Stand B80
Anuga FoodTec India 2026: Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC), Mumbai | 29 September – 1 October 2026 | Stand F106
Phone: +44 (0)1225 764461 Website: www.harfordcontrol.com Email: info@harfordcontrol.com
Hiding issues and sacking operators who make mistakes could not help a factory improve. Surfacing errors inevitably causes some initial discomfort, but it is the only way to tackle challenges at their root and build a truly efficient, high-yield operation.
foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 07
Krones
PPMA Show 2026
Meet Krones at PPMA Show 2026
The efficiency of a production process is often determined by its smallest components. At PPMA Show 2026, Krones and its subsidiaries Ampco Pumps, Evoguard and KIC Krones will demonstrate how pumps, valves and specialist consumables contribute to reliable, hygienic and efficient production operations. From 22nd to 24th September at the NEC Birmingham, visitors to Hall 5, Stand D86 will have the opportunity to explore a portfolio of solutions designed to support manufacturers in achieving higher levels of performance, product quality and operational reliability.
These presentations will demonstrate how pumps, valves, consumables and process expertise can be brought together within seamlessly integrated production concepts, creating value across the entire process chain.
A particular highlight on the stand will be Evoguard’s valve technology, developed to meet the demanding requirements of hygienic processing environments. Designed for applications across the food, beverage, dairy and pharmaceutical industries, Evoguard valves combine robust engineering with dependable process control, helping operators maintain smooth and efficient production while fulfilling stringent hygiene standards.
As production environments continue to face increasing demands for efficiency, sustainability and product quality, the importance of well-designed process components has never been greater. PPMA Show 2026 offers visitors the opportunity to discuss these challenges directly with specialists from Krones, Ampco Pumps, Evoguard and KIC Krones, and to discover practical solutions for both current and future requirements.
Complementing the valve portfolio, Ampco Pumps will showcase its range of pump technologies for a variety of processing applications. Known for their reliability, efficiency and ease of maintenance, Ampco solutions support manufacturers looking to optimise fluid handling while ensuring consistent process performance throughout the production process.
Visit Krones and its subsidiaries at PPMA Show 2026 in Hall 5, Stand D86, and discover how intelligent process technology helps turn complex production challenges into reliable results.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to learn more about KIC Krones’ portfolio of adhesives and consumables for a broad range of filling and packaging applications. Used in conjunction with Krones equipment, these products play an important role in ensuring reliable label application, consistent packaging quality and efficient production performance. By optimising adhesive performance and consumption, manufacturers can further enhance both operational efficiency and sustainability.
Krones UK Ltd. Westregen House Great Bank Road Wingates Ind. Park Westhoughton, Bolton,BL5 3XB
To provide a broader perspective on integrated process technology, displays on the stand will showcase selected Krones solutions.
Tel: +44 1942 845000 Email: sales@krones.co.uk
www.krones.com
08 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
www.evoguard.com
www.ampcopumps.com
www.kic-krones.com
Penn Packaging
PPMA Show 2026
Premium Pouch packaging machines for snacks and confectionery Economical, flexible, and safe
Who doesn’t know them – the little treats we enjoy between meals or as evening snacks? Sweets come in all forms: fruity or salty gums, chocolate with cookies or fruit, and countless flavour combinations. But to keep these popular snacks consistently available in shops, reliable primary packaging – ideally pouches – is essential.
imised, while soft items like fruit gums need dosing systems that prevent sticking.
This packaging must combine low costs with strong product protection. For cookies, breakage during filling must be min-
Contact us for more information on 01473 893990 or email@penn-packaging.co.uk
We aim to produce perfect pouches at the lowest unit costs and reliably over the entire service lifetime of the machine.
Stand: A22
Designed to make the difference!
sn-packaging.com foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 09
Minebea Intec
PPMA Show 2026
Minebea Intec presents their new approach to customised solutions ‘Engineered for you’ at PPMA 2026 Minebea Intec, a leading global manufacturer of industrial weighing and inspection technologies, will be showcasing its manufacturing expertise from 22-24th September. The focus will not only be on individual products but also on the journey from individual customer requirements to the technically and economically optimal solution. The company supports its customers individually and in partnership from the initial idea through engineering to implementation, with the aim of creating measurable added value. “Engineered for you” is Minebea Intec’s motto for PPMA 2026 and sums up this commitment. The process begins with a thorough analysis of the processes, environmental conditions and regulatory requirements. Building on this, a bespoke concept is developed that combines technical precision with economic efficiency. The result is weighing and inspection solutions that enhance process reliability, make operations more efficient in the long term and reduce downtime.
Engineering rather than ‘off-the-shelf’ Whether it’s a new plant, a line extension or a retrofit – every production environment has its own specific requirements. At PPMA 2026, Minebea Intec will focus on more of its weighing and inspection solutions that can be specifically adapted to these requirements. “The theme is that as a manufacturer we have many years of experience that we can call on to give our customers the exact solution for their process,” says Peter Walker, Country Manager UK & Ireland, who will also be on hand to answer questions at the trade fair. “Visitors to our stand will be able to discuss how Minebea Intec can provide integrated solutions along the entire production line.” One example of this is the Flexus® Combi checkweigher for dynamic weight control. It not only checks product weight and completeness, thereby helping to optimise filling processes but also reliably detects metallic foreign bodies – including ferrous and non-ferrous metals and even non-magnetic stainless steels. “With our Combi checkweighers, our customers benefit from multiple inspection functions in a single system, thereby saving space and costs,” explains Walker. “The Flexus® Combi comes in a standard form but also many modified forms for specific applications, from a checkweigher which fits in just 360mm of space to a Combi for 5Kg bags or a multilane for multiple product streams. It is the ultimate Engineered for you machine. The Flexus Combi also impresses with high throughput rates of up to 600 items per minute, as well as its hygienic design, which facilitates easy cleaning.”
Experience the Red Dot Award-winning Blue HMI user interface live The modern user interface combines intuitive user guidance, ergonomic design and intelligent functions into a user interface that efficiently supports processes, particularly in sectors such as food, beverages, pharmaceutical and chemical – both today and in the future.
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“With Blue HMI, we have created a user interface that is at the latest technological edge whilst reflecting our vision of efficiency, clarity and user-friendliness,” says Dr Thorsten Vollborn, Manager of Product Management Inspection & Academy. “Winning the Red Dot Award 2025 is impressive confirmation that our development team has successfully combined functionality and design – whilst also developing a solution that supports a wide variety of Applications worldwide.”
MiNexx® bench and floor scales: precision, ease of use and cybersecurity for stable weighing processes The MiNexx® bench scales offer high precision for small to medium load ranges. The MiNexx®floor scales on the other hand, are designed for demanding heavy-duty applications and offer high resolution for loads of up to 6 t. Together, they help to maintain process stability, reduce incorrect batches and material losses and make production processes more efficient and sustainable.
Focus on personal exchange Digitalisation creates transparency – but real solutions emerge through dialogue. At PPMA 2026, Minebea Intec invites visitors to analyse specific challenges together with experts on site. The focus is on individual applications – with the aim of developing technically and economically optimal concepts rather than standard solutions. The result of this collaborative approach: tailor-made weighing and inspection solutions with measurable added value. Precise weighing reduces being overfilled and saves raw materials, whilst intelligent inspection systems minimise waste and recalls. Well designed system concepts increase plant availability and reduce downtime – a key contribution to efficient, sustainable production processes. Anyone wishing to see how specific requirements are turned into tailor-made solutions is warmly welcome to visit PPMA 2026 in Birmingham. In Hall 5, Stand B52, Minebea Intec will demonstrate how engineering expertise works throughout the entire value chain – from the initial idea to successful implementation. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to use the nearby showroom at Birmingham Business Park for product testing or training.
London Packaging Week
Exhibitions
Packaging enters a new economic era as regulation reshapes competitive advantage Smithers, in partnership with London Packaging Week 2026, reveals how PPWR, EPR and circularity are transforming packaging into a source of competitive advantage. The packaging industry is entering a new economic era, where decisions once driven by design, functionality and sustainability will determine cost, competitiveness and long-term profitability, according to a major new report from Smithers, produced in association with London Packaging Week 2026. The report, The New Economics of Packaging: How PPWR, EPR and Circularity Will Redefine Competitive Advantage Through 2031, argues that European packaging has reached a tipping point. As the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) begins to apply from 12 August 2026, packaging will become an increasingly important source of competitive advantage. The choices businesses make around materials, recyclability, recycled content, and packaging efficiency will influence margins and environmental outcomes. Eco-modulated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is changing the economics of packaging. Under the new framework, packaging that is lightweight, easily recyclable, mono-material and compatible with existing recycling infrastructure will attract lower producer fees, while difficult-torecycle formats become progressively more expensive to place on the market. For the first time, many packaging decisions will carry an immediate financial consequence, strengthening the commercial case for designing with circularity in mind. One of the greatest commercial challenges identified by Smithers is securing a sufficient supply of recycled content. PPWR introduces recycled-content requirements of up to 30% across certain plastic packaging categories by 2030, but the supply of highquality recycled plastic is struggling to keep pace. Post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic already costs around one-third more than virgin polymer, while European recycling-capacity growth has slowed from 17% to 6% between 2021 and 2023. Businesses that secure resilient PCR supply chains today are likely to compete from a position of strength as demand accelerates over the remainder of the decade.
For metal packaging, carbon is becoming as commercially important as recyclability. The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is introducing entirely new cost considerations into European steel and aluminium supply chains. For producers, sourcing decisions are becoming as much about managing future regulatory exposure as controlling material costs. Empty space inside a box is also becoming a commercial liability. PPWR introduces a maximum 50% empty space limit for transport and e-commerce packaging, while driving greater reuse, harmonised labelling, and future Digital Product Passport requirements. Together, these changes represent far more than another layer of regulation. They signal a shift towards packaging systems designed to minimise waste, maximise recovery and deliver value throughout their lifecycle. Josh Brooks, Divisional Director – Packaging at Easyfairs, said: “For a long time, businesses viewed packaging as something that supported commercial success. Increasingly, packaging is becoming one of the things that determines it. That’s a profound shift, and its changing conversations in boardrooms just as much as it is in design studios. “Decisions around materials, recyclability and circularity now influence far more than environmental performance. They affect producer fees, supply-chain resilience, access to recycled materials, regulatory exposure and ultimately long-term competitiveness. The organisations that recognise those connections first will be best positioned to succeed. “This report doesn’t simply explain how regulation is changing the packaging landscape. It shows how those changes are reshaping the economics of packaging, helping businesses understand where the greatest risks lie, where the biggest opportunities are emerging and how today’s packaging decisions will influence tomorrow’s commercial performance.” Smithers will be exhibiting at London Packaging Week 2026, where visitors can explore the research with its market intelligence specialists and discuss the wider trends reshaping packaging, from circularity and recycled-content markets to regulation, materials and long-term industry forecasting. Taking place on 16 & 17 September at Excel London, London Packaging Week brings together more than 220 exhibitors, over 90 expert speakers and 5,700 packaging professionals from across luxury, beauty, premium drinks and FMCG. As packaging moves from an operational consideration to a boardroom priority, London Packaging Week provides the opportunity to understand what that shift means and how businesses can respond. foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 11
International Exhibition for Process Operations
YOUR DESTINATION FOR PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY. 29.9. – 1.1O.2O26 | NUREMBERG, GERMANY Experience firsthand the latest trends and technologies for processing powders, solids and liquids! Take advantage of cross-industry know-how and network for your business success. Where industry professionals shape the future together.
powtech-technopharm.com
Honorary sponsors
Powtech Technopharm 2026
Exhibitions
POWTECH TECHNOPHARM 2026: Student Day and Startup-Area connect young talent with industry and showcase innovations The shortage of skilled workers is putting pressure on the process industry. POWTECH TECHNOPHARM 2026 (29 Sept–1 Oct in Nuremberg) addresses this with its Student Day and Startup Area. As the process industry is under enormous pressure to recruit the next generation of skilled professionals, companies and young talent need to find new ways of finding one another. POWTECH TECHNOPHARM, which takes place in Nuremberg from 29 September to 1 October 2026, is addressing this precise challenge through its Student Day and Startup Area, which offer guidance, opportunities for direct networking, guided tours, presentations, and a subsidised platform for startups. This makes the trade fair a key gathering place where young people can learn about career pathways and employers can forge contacts with emerging skilled professionals at an early stage. The shortage of young talent and skilled workers is exerting considerable pressure on the process industry: “There are basically two key challenges at play here. First, many experienced skilled workers will leave the job market as they reach retirement age. Second, the next generation of workers will face increasing demands as the workplace continues to evolve due to factors such as digitisation, automation, sustainability requirements, and new production technologies,” says Daniel Puschmann, Manager Customer Success at POWTECH TECHNOPHARM. “These two factors help explain why more than 71,000 jobs in occupations relevant to the chemical-pharmaceutical industry cannot currently be filled by suitably qualified skilled professionals.” Companies often do not have appropriate access to young talent, while many students and early-career professionals struggle to get off to the right start in what is a complex professional field. Heightened competition for talent Companies are facing tougher competition for technical and academic talent. Demand is particularly high in engineering, maintenance, and production – areas where young talent is already in short supply. As a result, employers need to establish visibility early. According to Puschmann, the two key hurdles when trying to recruit the next generation are “fiercer competition for STEM talent and technical professionals, and the difficulties in gaining early visibility for your company and employer brand”. “The Student Day on the third day of the fair is geared towards anyone who is still a student, just starting in their career, or simply curious about the world of process technology,” explains Puschmann. “Whether they are still completing their degree, have just graduated, or are starting out as young professionals – POWTECH TECHNOPHARM will give them interesting insights, valuable contacts, and a wealth of inspiration for their career path.”
Focus on direct contacts and connecting theory and practice The Student Day bridges the gap between theory and practice and fosters face-to-face encounters. Visitors can connect with companies, discover opportunities for internships, working student positions, or entry-level jobs, join guided tours, and attend presentations. The programme includes dedicated tours focusing on entry-level pathways, business areas, technologies, and typical applications, as well as presentations on the theme “Career Journeys in Process Engineering”. The VDI network for creative young process engineers (kjVI) will also be part of the Student Day. Aishe Grotjohann, co-chair of the kjVI, regards the event as an important source of career guidance: “The Student Day offers school and university students a good opportunity to gain an overview of this professional field and meet company representatives. This is helpful when making career choices and provides insights into the wide range of activities involved in being a (process) engineer, which is often more extensive than students think. This is why the Student Day is the highlight of POWTECH TECHNOPHARM for the kjVI,” says Grotjohann, adding: “Of course because that’s the day we host our programme, but also because, as an organisation for young process engineers, we are especially interested in events that get students excited about process engineering.” Get ready to launch at the startup pavilion As well as the Student Day, the trade fair also features a Startup Area geared towards innovative companies. The subsidised Young Innovators Pavilion enables startups and young companies to introduce themselves to the audience of industry professionals at POWTECH TECHNOPHARM and showcase their product innovations. This allows them to meet with industry experts and customers and forge valuable contacts. Eligible companies can also benefit from a pro-rata reimbursement of costs via the funding programme. foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 13
BrauBeviale 2026
Time for opportunities: why Nuremberg matters to British brewers this November British brewers hardly need reminding that the drinks market is changing. The more useful question is where that change genuinely warrants investment. The development of alcohol-free beer offers a useful indication of both the pace of change and the decisions it creates for producers. According to Statista Market Insights data cited by BrauBeviale, per-capita consumption in Great Britain rose by 72 per cent between 2018 and 2025, reaching 1.07 litres. Yet this remains well below the 2.7 litres per capita recorded across Europe. The figures point to clear
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momentum, but a growing category does not automatically make for a sound business case. For breweries assessing where the next opportunity might lie, the bigger questions concern production: what can be achieved with existing assets, what requires meaningful technical adaptation and where does the potential return justify the investment?
Exhibitions Making existing assets work harder This is one of the questions BrauBeviale is placing at the centre of its 2026 edition. Organiser YONTEX says it is seeing beverage manufacturers looking for ways to broaden their portfolios, preferably using equipment they already have. Its new positioning, “All Beverages. One Future.”, reflects a wider focus on production across beverage categories while maintaining the event’s traditional brewing base. For brewers, that potentially opens opportunities beyond simply adding another beer style to the range, although moving into an adjacent category is not necessarily a matter of putting a different liquid through the same line. The technical demands associated with functional beverages demonstrate how quickly diversification can become more complex. Ingredients such as proteins, vitamins or minerals can introduce different requirements around pH, temperature, stability and shelf life. BrauBeviale’s recent technical analysis of functional ingredients highlights how formulation and processing conditions interact, making diversification as much a process question as a product-development one. The most useful conversation, then, may not be about which category is growing fastest, but how flexibly existing brewery infrastructure can respond to changing demand without disproportionate capital expenditure. Looking beyond the product portfolio Making better use of existing assets does not necessarily mean expanding the drinks range; it can also involve finding greater value in what currently leaves the brewery. BrauBeviale’s new Pilot Area will include Eat Beer Biotech, which is developing a modular, container-based system to convert brewery by-products into food ingredients and bio-based products using data-driven process control. The stated aim is flexible, scalable and circular production. A similar focus on extracting more value from existing operations can be seen in energy use. Fraunhofer UMSICHT’s ISSDEMO project is developing high-temperature thermal storage capable of supplying process steam from renewable energy sources, with a demonstration plant being built and tested at Bitburger Brewery Group. For breweries looking to improve energy and resource efficiency, projects such as these raise practical questions about where further efficiencies and additional value can be found within the production process.
From opportunity to production reality Taken together, these questions help explain why Nuremberg is particularly relevant for brewers this November. BrauBeviale returns from 10 to 12 November, bringing together suppliers across raw materials, process technology, filling, packaging and the wider beverage production chain. Its Main Stage programme is being developed under the theme “Time for Opportunities”, with an emphasis on resource efficiency, product development and technologies with practical applications. One of the keynote sessions in the current programme preview encapsulates the challenge particularly neatly. Charles Nouwen of Peer to Beer will ask “Going Beyond Beer or Taking Beer Beyond?”, considering how beer can respond to a wider choice of beverages while building on its approachability, sessionability and affordability. For British brewers, that may be a more useful starting point than simply chasing the next trend. Can existing equipment accommodate a broader portfolio? Which innovations require genuine process changes? Could side streams generate greater value? Where might new energy technology alter the economics of production? Not every opportunity will suit every brewery. The value of Nuremberg this November may therefore be less about discovering what is new and more about examining what it would actually take to make the right opportunity work. BrauBeviale takes place from 10 to 12 November 2026 at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, Germany.
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ACI Group
Protein is no longer the industry’s biggest challenge – formulation is
By Gareth Clark
For much of the last decade, conversations around protein focused on growth. New protein sources were identified, investment centred on developing alternative proteins, and manufacturers raced to satisfy growing consumer demand for products that supported health, wellness and more sustainable lifestyles. Priority protein The nutritional argument for protein is straightforward, and consumers understand its role in promoting satiety, muscle maintenance, active lifestyles and healthy ageing. The rapid growth of GLP-1 medications is increasing consumer interest in nutrient-dense foods. As people eat smaller portions, manufacturers face greater pressure to deliver meaningful levels of protein and nutrition in more compact formats. This development has significant implications for product development. The industry is beginning to see growing demand for products capable of delivering higher levels of protein within smaller serving sizes and more convenient consumption formats.
Whether the discussion centred on plant-based foods, sports nutrition, functional beverages or healthy ageing, the underlying assumption was largely the same: consumers wanted more protein, and the industry’s challenge was finding effective ways to deliver it. Although the protein market has matured, headlines focus on slow growth in certain categories such as plant-based meat, which risks obscuring more significant shifts across the wider food and beverage industry: Consumers have not fallen out of love with protein. They have fallen out of love with protein products that do not taste good. Consumers continue to prioritise protein in modern diets, but they are no longer willing to compromise on taste, texture or overall eating experience. As protein moves beyond specialist nutrition into mainstream food and beverage categories, the challenge is not to add protein but to formulate products that deliver meaningful nutrition while maintaining the sensory qualities consumers expect. 16 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
Functional beverages, snack bars, bakery products, meal replacement solutions and on-the-go nutrition formats are all being asked to provide greater nutritional value within compact eating occasions. Yet while nutritional expectations are increasing, consumer expectations around taste, texture and enjoyment remain unchanged. It is at this point that new product development becomes considerably more complex.
Complex formulation challenges For many years, products high in protein had a niche positioning, and consumers were often willing to compromise on taste or texture as long as the functional benefit was clear. But as high protein moves into everyday food and beverage categories, these compromises are no longer acceptable. Today’s consumers are not comparing protein-enriched products with the sports nutrition products of a decade ago, but with the best products available in each category. A protein cookie has to compete with premium bakery products, fortified beverages must hold their own next to café-quality drinks, while high-protein snacks must deliver on overall eating pleasure. Although nutritional benefits may encourage a consumer to try a product for the first time, repeat purchase behaviour is still driven overwhelmingly by sensory experience.
Food Science & Innovation
No longer a differentiator The consequence is that protein alone is no longer a differentiator. Great taste coupled with protein is. However, adding protein ingredients can introduce technical challenges that actively work against a great eating experience. Protein is nutritionally valuable but also disruptive. In beverages, higher protein inclusion can create viscosity challenges, chalky mouthfeel, sedimentation issues and flavour imbalances. In baked goods, protein can influence structure development, moisture retention and dough softness throughout shelf life. In snacks and bars, protein interactions can affect texture stability, resulting in products that become progressively harder or less appealing over time. Plant proteins can also introduce grassy, bitter or beany flavour notes, while some dairy proteins contribute a dry mouthfeel - diminishing overall enjoyment. These challenges become even more pronounced as manufacturers attempt to balance multiple consumer demands simultaneously. Today’s consumers are looking for products that are high in protein, formulated with recognisable ingredients, commercially affordable, stable throughout shelf life and enjoyable to eat. Each of these objectives influences formulation decisions as improvements in one area can create compromises elsewhere. Protein innovation is therefore less about higher protein content but more about solving the formulation challenges in a final product.
the supply chain as manufacturers look to partners that can solve formulation challenges rather than simply supplying ingredients. Future innovation will rely on advanced solutions for texture optimisation, flavour modulation, moisture management, process efficiency and shelf-life performance. Here, high-quality ingredient suppliers such as IFF and GoodMills Innovation play an important role, offering significant application expertise and ingredient technologies to overcome sensory and technical hurdles associated with protein fortification. Whether through texture systems, flavour solutions, functional cereal ingredients or application-specific formulation support, the objective is the same: higher nutritional performance without compromising consumer acceptance.
Connecting manufacturing & formulation expertise For ACI Group, this is changing how value is delivered to customers. Access to ingredients remains essential, but so is the ability to connect manufacturers with technical expertise, formulation support and application knowledge. To create a competitive advantage, manufacturers need partners to steer them through the growing complexity of higher nutritional ambitions.
As a result, the food and beverage industry is moving away from individual ingredients and towards complete ingredient systems and formulation expertise.
Recent developments in the protein market appear less like signs of slowing demand and more like evidence of a category reaching maturity. The challenge is delivering protein in ways that feel effortless, enjoyable and seamlessly integrated into everyday eating occasions.
Success depends on understanding how proteins interact with fibres, starches, hydrocolloids, enzymes, flavour systems and processing conditions to achieve both nutritional and sensory objectives.
The brands that succeed will be those that deliver better nutrition while maintaining the taste and texture consumers already enjoy. Achieving that balance requires more than ingredients alone. It requires formulation expertise.
The aim is to integrate protein so effectively that consumers barely notice its presence. This requires technical expertise throughout
For more information on ACI’s supplier partners or to speak to a formulation expert, contact www.acigroup.com
Complete ingredient systems
foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 17
Innovation & Technology
Dow Schofield Watts Tax Advisory
Food manufacturing’s best kept secret is its own innovation By Shenal Wijetunge, Partner, Dow Schofield Watts Tax Advisory Ask the owner or finance director of a food manufacturer whether their business is doing anything innovative and the answer is often surprisingly modest: “Not really, we just make food.”
Speak to the technical, production and engineering teams and a very different picture emerges.
The consumer, of course, still expected exactly the same product.
They may have spent months reformulating a product to reduce sugar or salt without compromising taste, texture or shelf life. They may have adapted an automated line because standard equipment could not handle the product or hygiene requirements. Or developed new traceability systems to give greater visibility across increasingly complex supply chains.
Looking more closely at the problem uncovered a wider programme of technical development across the business.
This is highly complex technical problem-solving, often hidden within the day-to-day operation of a food business. Having previously worked as a Process Development Engineer in the food industry, including at Heinz, I saw first-hand how much development can sit behind even the most familiar products. Take something as established as a can of tomato soup. Ingredients, nutritional requirements, processing conditions, equipment and packaging can all change. Manufacturers have to adapt while ensuring the consumer still gets the taste, texture and quality they expect.
The activity contributed to more than £600,000 of benefit through R&D tax relief. A patentable element within specialist packaging technology was also identified, contributing to more than £1 million in corporation tax savings through Patent Box, while the crop-quality work supported an application for sectorspecific innovation funding. None of this had originally been described internally as innovation. It was simply the work required to solve problems and keep production moving. That pattern is repeated across food manufacturing.
Food manufacturing is also a demanding environment for innovation. Changes can have implications for safety, consistency, shelf life, traceability and production efficiency, meaning seemingly routine problems can require significant technical development.
Reformulation can require repeated trials to maintain shelf life and sensory characteristics. Automation may involve adapting machinery or controls because standard systems cannot cope with a particular product. Traceability projects can mean connecting software and production systems never designed to work together.
NPD teams, development kitchens and production trials are obvious places to look, but some of the most interesting innovation begins with an unexpected operational problem.
Very few of these projects begin with someone saying: “Let’s innovate.” More often, they begin with: “We have a problem. How do we solve it?”
When a difficult crop uncovered a bigger opportunity
For leadership teams, that’s the important question. Where have products or processes had to change? Where have technical teams encountered problems without an obvious solution? Where has the business had to experiment, test and adapt?
One major UK food manufacturer experienced this following an exceptionally hot and dry summer, which changed the characteristics of the wheat entering its production process. Initially, it was viewed as a supply issue. But the wheat began behaving differently during manufacturing. Technical teams had to understand what had changed, run trials and adapt processing conditions while maintaining throughput, quality and production volumes. 18 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
Those questions can reveal where innovation is happening and the value being created as a result. That value might be realised through R&D tax relief, Patent Box, grant funding or other innovation support. But the bigger opportunity is recognising the innovation already taking place and using it to support future investment and growth.
Inspection & Detection
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foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 19
ChinaBrandPath
Packaging
Put a Storage-Space Price on New Pack Formats Before Approval By Yinghang Wu A lower price per pack can become an expensive decision when the delivered format consumes more warehouse and line-side space than the buyer expected.
Food and drink businesses usually compare packaging supplies through unit price, minimum order and lead time. Those measures matter, but they say little about the physical work created after delivery. A new outer may contain fewer units, arrive on a less stable pallet or leave more part-used cases beside the line. The product can be commercially attractive and still require extra storage positions, moves and replenishment trips every week. The comparison should therefore begin with one normal receipt. Record the finished outer dimensions, units per outer and handling units delivered. Then note how much arrives ready for ordinary put-away. Capture whether the load fits an existing pallet location, whether outers can be stacked as planned and whether opening one case immediately creates a second storage footprint. Supplier specifications are useful, but the approval decision should use the production pack that will actually enter the building. Next, follow the material to its usual point of use. Count each move, temporary staging location and opened outer. Watch what happens at the end of a run: can the remainder return to a standard location, or does it become a partly used pack that needs its own space and identification? Repeat the same observation for the incumbent format under comparable operating conditions.
depends on permanent overflow space or exceptional handling that nobody has priced or agreed to own. The purpose is not to make compactness the only buying criterion. A larger format may protect the material better, reduce damage or support a valuable production requirement. Those benefits should remain in the decision. The important step is to make the space trade-off visible before the new pack becomes normal stock.
This is enough to expose the commercial difference without inventing a universal warehouse formula. The buyer can estimate how many storage positions the intended order will occupy, how often replenishment is likely to occur and whether line-side staging remains within the normal footprint. Staff time, internal movement and recurring exceptions can then sit beside the purchase price rather than appearing later as invisible operational effort.
Unit price tells a buyer what the supplier charges. A storagespace review shows what the business must repeatedly accommodate. Comparing both gives a packaging decision a stronger basis than the quotation alone.
The result should lead to one of three decisions. Approve the format when its delivered configuration fits routine receipt, storage and replenishment. Ask the supplier to revise the outer quantity, nesting or pallet arrangement when the item works but its handling pattern does not. Stop the rollout when ordinary use
Yinghang Wu is the founder of ChinaBrandPath, where he writes for importers, distributors and business buyers about supplier evaluation, controlled trials and the evidence needed before repeat orders and wider commercial commitments. His work is available at https://chinabrandpath.com/.
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Author bio
Sustainability
Tetra Pak
From ambition to action: turning food system resilience into visible progress By Martin Scott, Executive Vice President Sustainability & Communications, Tetra Pak Food security is becoming one of the defining challenges of our time. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations warns that progress towards ending hunger continues to fall short.1 While enough food is produced globally, inefficiencies across value chains undermine availability and affordability, exacerbated by climate extremes, energy insecurity and geopolitical disruption. International economic analysis shows that supply chains are increasingly exposed to systemic shocks2, underlining the need to strengthen resilience rather than relying on efficiency.
Refocusing immediate priorities for long-term resilience Food system resilience starts with companies identifying risks and opportunities across their value chain, focusing action where they can make the biggest difference. As geopolitical and environmental conditions shift, sustainability approaches must continually evolve to reflect new evidence and priorities. Tetra Pak recently carried out a climate and nature risk and opportunity assessment across our value chain, allowing us to focus resources where they matter most.
Impact through investment Amid volatility and constrained resources, smarter investment has never been more important. One of the most overlooked opportunities lies in food processing, storage, logistics and packaging, the so-called “hidden middle” of the value chain. These stages attract less attention than farming or retail, but are where inefficiencies, waste and emissions concentrate. Many production facilities operate with fragmented systems and limited data visibility. These challenges can be addressed through technology upgrades, including digitalisation and automation, alongside more efficient processing solutions. The impact of such investment is clear. In Brazil, fruit producer Tial adopted a two-stream aseptic blending solution, resulting in a 92 per cent reduction in product losses and annual savings of 190,000 litres of concentrate. It is these gains that strengthen both business resilience and food availability. 1
SMEs and start-ups are critical Near‑term progress cannot be delivered by large companies alone. This is particularly true in the hidden middle, where SMEs play a critical operational role yet face structural barriers to acting at scale. Addressing these is essential for regional resilience, innovation and the development of new food sources to help feed a growing population sustainably. Tetra Pak works with organisations such as the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to help SMEs in the hidden middle enhance their capabilities, reduce risk and unlock finance. Industry initiatives, such as those offered by EIT Food3, support start-ups tackling food system challenges like waste and shelf life. Similarly, Tetra Pak’s Biotech Heights hub in Lund, Sweden, offers a collaborative platform for start-ups, researchers and partners to scale innovations in new food and efficient processing.
Turning commitment into momentum Food system resilience requires more than long‑term commitments. It depends on a clear understanding of where resilience needs to be constrained or strengthened. Businesses must identify and prioritise where impact can be created and scaled across the value chain, while working closely with policymakers and financial institutions to turn sustainability from ambition into visible progress.
FAO, ‘The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World’, 2026, https://www.fao.org/publications/fao-flagship-publications/the-state-of-food-security-and-nutrition-in-the-world/en 2. World Economic Forum, ‘Global Supply Chains Enter Era of Structural Volatility, World Economic Forum Report Finds’, 2026, https://www.weforum.org/press/2026/01/global-supply-chains-enter-era-of-structural-volatility-world-economic-forum-report-finds/ 3
EIT Food, ‘Entrepreneurship’, accessed 07.2026, https://www.eitfood.eu/entrepreneurship
foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 21
Food Safety, Quality & Compliance
Smart Food Safe
Why Global Food Expansion Is Making Label Management More Challenging Expanding into international markets opens new opportunities for food and beverage manufacturers, but it also introduces one of the most underestimated operational challenges: label management. A product label is no longer just a marketing asset, it is a regulated document that must accurately reflect local legal requirements, ingredient declarations, allergen statements, nutritional information, language rules, and packaging specifications. As businesses enter multiple markets, maintaining label accuracy becomes increasingly difficult, and even a minor oversight can lead to costly product withdrawals, customs delays, or reputational damage.
One of the biggest challenges is managing country-specific regulatory requirements. Labeling regulations differ significantly between regions, with authorities such as the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA), the European Union, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) each enforcing distinct requirements. While a product formulation may remain unchanged, mandatory allergen declarations, nutritional formats, ingredient naming conventions, or language requirements often vary. Maintaining separate label versions without a structured review process increases the likelihood of errors.
approvals. Connecting product development, quality, regulatory and labeling activities creates a more reliable and transparent process. Version control presents another growing challenge for organizations operating multiple production sites or contract manufacturers. Without centralized control, obsolete label files can remain accessible, resulting in incorrect artwork reaching production. This issue becomes increasingly difficult to manage as businesses expand across regions and facilities.
A practical approach is to establish standardized label governance. Instead of creating and managing labels independently for each market, manufacturers should maintain region-specific controlled templates supported by standardized approval workflows. This enables regulatory changes to be implemented consistently across all relevant product variants, reducing manual effort, minimizing version control issues, and lowering the risk of market-specific labeling errors.
Key practices that strengthen label governance include: • Maintaining a single controlled repository for approved label artwork and specifications. • Applying version control with documented approval histories. • Restricting access to obsolete or superseded label files. • Conducting periodic reviews to verify labels remain aligned with current regulations and product specifications.
Another common issue arises during product reformulation and supplier changes. Ingredient substitutions, new suppliers, or updated specifications often trigger changes that extend well beyond procurement. If label updates are not linked to these operational changes, businesses risk distributing products with outdated ingredient lists or allergen declarations. Many recalls worldwide continue to be associated with undeclared allergens, highlighting the importance of synchronizing product changes with labeling updates. To reduce this risk, manufacturers should adopt formal change management processes where formulation updates automatically initiate label reviews, document revisions and cross-functional
Finally, successful global expansion requires viewing label management as part of a broader quality management strategy rather than an isolated packaging task. Labels are closely connected to product specifications, supplier information, change control, document management, traceability, and regulatory compliance. Organizations that integrate these processes improve consistency, reduce compliance risks, and respond more effectively to evolving market requirements. As international food trade becomes more complex, disciplined label governance is no longer simply a regulatory obligation, it is a critical capability for protecting both consumers and brand reputation.
Author Credits : 1. Prasant Prusty (Founder & CEO, Smart Food Safe) 2. Mahmad Aseef (Digital Marketing Analyst, Smart Food Safe )
22 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
Pallet Trucks UK
Health & Safety
Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Risk Puts Warehouse Charging Practices Under the Spotlight UK warehouses using electric handling equipment are being urged to review their battery charging procedures and ensure they are complying with manufacturer guidelines following new figures showing lithium-ion battery fires are becoming an increasingly frequent challenge for fire and rescue services.
According to new research published by insurer QBE, UK fire brigades now attend a lithium-ion battery fire approximately every five hours. The data also shows that recorded incidents have increased by 147% since 2022, prompting growing attention from insurers and safety professionals alike. While much of the public focus has centred on e-bikes and e-scooters, Pallet Trucks UK says the findings are a timely reminder that businesses using battery-powered warehouse equipment should also ensure they are following good charging and maintenance practices. Electric pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables have become increasingly popular as warehouses look to reduce operator fatigue, improve efficiency and lower maintenance requirements compared with older technologies. Modern lithium battery systems also offer faster charging, longer service life and reduced upkeep. However, like any industrial battery system, they require appropriate handling and storage. Pallet Trucks UK says businesses should ensure batteries are charged using the correct manufacturer-approved chargers, in well-ventilated areas that are free from combustible materials. Batteries should be inspected regularly for signs of damage, overheating or swelling, while charging points should remain
unobstructed and included within routine safety inspections. Staff should also receive basic training on safe charging procedures and know how to respond if a battery shows signs of failure. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, “Electric pallet trucks have transformed material handling for many businesses and, when used correctly, lithium battery technology is both reliable and extremely effective. The important thing is recognising that batteries are an industrial asset which deserves the same level of attention as any other piece of warehouse equipment. “Most battery-related incidents can be significantly reduced through straightforward precautions such as using the correct charger, avoiding damaged batteries, keeping charging areas tidy and following the manufacturer’s guidance. Good housekeeping isn’t just about protecting equipment and staff; it can also demonstrate to insurers that sensible risk management procedures are in place.” The increasing adoption of electric handling equipment should not be seen as a cause for concern, but rather as an opportunity to strengthen warehouse safety procedures as technology evolves.
For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk. | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk | 23
Food Machinery Auctions
Industrial Auctions
A smarter, faster and more sustainable way to acquire machinery
Looking to expand your production capacity without the long lead times and significant investment required to buy new equipment? Industrial Auctions offers quality food and beverage processing machinery through online auctions across Europe and the UK, much of it immediately available. The selection changes every week, featuring exciting auctions across a wide range of products for the food and beverage industry. This month, the following auctions will be available: Meat Explore a wide range of machinery from leading meat processors, including Esro Vlees B.V. Available equipment includes a deboning line for cattle heads, a weighing and strapping line, a plate freezing installation, grinding, separating and mixing lines, as well as a variety of individual machines. Fruit, Vegetables & Potatoes Discover a broad selection of fresh produce processing machinery, including a complete bunker installation, weighing and packaging line for potatoes from Pieperline Holland, as well as potato and vegetable processing equipment from MarktFrisch. Dairy Take advantage of the auction of the former cheese spread production facility of Savencia Fromage & Dairy, alongside an upcoming auction featuring machinery for dairy processing. Bakery From mixers, ovens and slicers to complete production equipment, the auction in Eindhoven offers solutions for both large-scale manufacturers and local bakeries. Beverage A complete lemonade packaging line is also available through auction, featuring machinery for bottle filling, capping, closing, labelling, packaging, wrapping and much more! Browse the latest auctions today and discover how Industrial Auctions can help your business grow with reliable, cost-effective and sustainable machinery.
24 | foodanddrinknetwork-uk.co.uk
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24-07-2025 09:59
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