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2020 Compendium Combo

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Watch ThePackHub’s latest webinar   Packaging Networking Opportunities with ThePackHub and FuturePrint Networking  – Thursday 1st December We are co-hosting with our friends at FuturePrint a special virtual networking and insight event Packaging and Print ’21 on Tuesday 1st December at 3 pm UK / 4 pm CET. The aim of this event is to look ahead to next year and to discuss how 2021 may pan out for packaging and printing. We have 100 available places. If you are interested, then register now here. Thursday 10th December at 3 pm GMT All new innovations. FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 10th December at 3 pm GMT Book your free place now.   Coming soon – Save £250 with very early bird Everything you need to know the global packaging trends and more! ThePackHub’s Global Packaging Trends Compendium 2021 will be packed with vital trend information, analysis and insight from a world perspective. Find out which brands, retailers and suppliers are bringing packaging innovations to market. Find out more and save on a pre-order

Please forward to your friends and colleagues to stay up to date with the latest packaging innovation news.  They can click here to subscribe.

#1 Taste-altering spoon is the invention you never knew you needed

A taste-altering spoon is poised to bring fun and intrigue to the dining table and might just make up for that new recipe experiment that doesn’t quite hit the spot. SpoonTEK is a New York-based initiative actively generating funds for a rollout that promises to change the eating experience for consumers for a range of foods such as yoghurt, ice cream and soup. A built-in galvanic sensor is said to excite taste buds that result in enhanced flavours and heightened taste and can even change a product’s aftertaste. The advanced electronics behind SpoonTEK uses two electrodes (one on the handle and one in the bowl of the spoon) and uses a mild electric current to excite the tongue’s taste buds. Consumers hold SpoonTEK like a normal spoon and need to have their finger contacting the electrode on the handle. An LED light on the spoon handle will glow, which means the spoon system is working.  SpoonTEK works well on healthy foods with less sugar and salt but will operate on just about anything that can be eaten using a spoon. See also Glass tricks user into thinking they are drinking something else and Microencapsulation delivers flavour to water drinks.

#2 Anti-bacterial reusable cup lids reduces single-usage waste

Nottingham-based family-run packaging manufacturer Wilkins Group has helped bring an impactful and attention-grabbing new bottle for the festive season to life. The business has worked with UK retailer Marks & Spencer to create a light-up label to transform a range of gold leaf-infused Christmas Liqueurs into head-turning snow-globes. The project took six months to develop and can be seen on UK television screens as part of an advertising campaign to promote the distinctive new bottle. Wilkins group built the labels for the special ‘Light Snow Globe’ Gin Liqueurs. A gift-tag swing label connects around the bottle neck. A section on the base of the bottle contains both the integrated LED lights and a battery. Consumers just need to push the button on the base panel for four LEDs to emit light through the glass. The liqueur is available in rhubarb or clementine flavours and has sparkling flecks of edible gold leaf to create an illuminated ‘snow globe’ experience. Wilkins Group had initially explored the idea of a label for the illumination of Prosecco bottles, which never got beyond the early development stages.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Chocolate box transforms into a mini table for easy sharing

UK retailer Marks and Spencer has a reputation for distinctive seasonal introductions at this time of year. The retailer might just have outdone themselves with the introduction of a box of chocolates with a difference. The box containing the After Dinner Mint Chocolate Collection effectively doubles up as a mini table. It has apparently been designed to make sharing easier and no more leaning down to choose your next chocolate. Is might just be me but this would also be perfect for eating them in bed! Is this the standard for all chocolate boxes for the future? Time will tell. M&S After Dinner Mint Chocolate Collection is available in M&S stores as well as online via Ocado for £12. See also Roulette wheel chocolate box design is no gamble.

Watch our latest ThePackhub Expert Interview

CEO Neil Cashman discusses Snapsil’s range of easy to use packaging innovations for the pharmaceutical and medical markets. You can watch here. 

Packaging question of the week

With vaccines on the horizon, when do you anticipate that you will be attending face-to-face events, conferences and exhibitions again?  Vote and comment now. 

Last time: 55% are recycling more at home in 2020.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

ThePackHub’s Refillable and Reusable Packaging Compendium 2020/21 is packed with vital trend information, analysis and insight from a global perspective. Everything you need to know about the fast-growing refillable and reusable packaging market and more! 175 innovations, 17 refill expert interviews, consumer research and more. Find out which brands, retailers and suppliers are bringing refillable and reusable innovations to market and what you need to do to succeed. Available for just £450 / $587 / €497* Find out more and order here.  Watch ThePackHub’s latest webinar   Packaging Networking Opportunities with ThePackHub and FuturePrint Networking  – Thursday 1st December We are co-hosting with our friends at FuturePrint a special virtual networking and insight event Packaging and Print ’21 on Tuesday 1st December at 3 pm UK / 4 pm CET. The aim of this event is to look ahead to next year and to discuss how 2021 may pan out for packaging and printing. We have 100 available places. If you are interested, then register now here.

Please forward to your friends and colleagues to stay up to date with the latest packaging innovation news.  They can click here to subscribe.

#1 Paper-based primary packaging for chocolate takes next development step

German chocolate brand Ritter Sport is continuing its paper packaging development journey with the rollout of an improved iteration in conjunction with Austrian supermarket chain partner Billa. Ritter Sport is now offering a limited edition in paper format following the first “In Papier” prototype launched earlier this year. See Paper-based chocolate wrapper prototypes ready for consumer testing. The company is taking the next step on the way to a full market paper-based primary packaging introduction. The Ritter Sport limited edition will help the chocolate brand improve market knowledge about how the paper packaging behaves during production, through the supply chain journey and on the supermarket shelf. The packaging material is similar to the first prototypes, but the paper weight is a high enough to ensure that it is robust. The renewable and recyclable raw material that also meets Ritter Sport’s high standards for packaging protection and safety. A limited-edition of 35,000 packs is now available through Billa outlets.

#2 Bottle redesign removes 202 tonnes of plastic per year

Sarasota, Florida-based flexible packaging converter and FFS machine manufacturer PPi Technologies Group has agreed a collaboration with PopPack to help bring the latter’s easy open innovation to market. The EasyPop innovation uses an air bubble which effectively works as a lever to open packs including pouches. The consumer needs to pop the bubble to open the pack. A satisfying popping sound is made with the pressing of the pack bubble. Littering and waste are reduced as there is no tear-off piece to be recovered upon opening. PPi Technologies are assessing new as well as existing customers to introduce the novel Easy Pop pack feature.  Packs can be opened with one hand, making it ideal for on-the-go consumption. EasyPop is suitable for products packed on vertical or horizontal form, fill and seal machines and can be combined with reclosing and self-closing features. PopPack has over 150 patents issued and pending. The solution has applications across food, beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and medical device applications.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Reusable mailing bags extend US reach

It is estimated that 165 billion packages are posted in the US every year and the market is only going one way and that is up. Clothing brand Eliou is aiming to make an environmental difference with their e-commerce packaging working with Finland-based reusable packaging service RePack to reduce single-use mailing packaging. Eliou customers can choose to have their products sent in a reusable pack. After use, shoppers fold up the empty pack and seal it with a provided label and return it to be cleaned and used again. Eliou is one of the first retailers in the US to work with RePack to replace single-use cardboard boxes and plastic bubble mailers. RePack’s recycled plastic mailers are made from a tough woven PP material. The mailers are designed to have a lower carbon footprint as soon as they have been reused once. The impact reduces further each time it goes through the system. When the packs wear out, RePack uses scraps of the material to make upcycled products like reusable shopping bags. Eliou charge $3 for the RePack mailiers. See also Reusable mailing bag test for German market.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Watch our latest ThePackhub Expert Interview

CEO Neil Cashman discusses Snapsil’s range of easy to use packaging innovations for the pharmaceutical and medical markets. You can watch here. 

Packaging question of the week

How has your household recycling changed in 2020?  Vote and comment now. 

Last time: 90% thought that a Joe Biden presidential win would be good for sustainable packaging.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

ThePackHub’s Refillable and Reusable Packaging Compendium 2020/21 is packed with vital trend information, analysis and insight from a global perspective. Everything you need to know about the fast-growing refillable and reusable packaging market and more! 175 innovations, 17 refill expert interviews, consumer research and more. Find out which brands, retailers and suppliers are bringing refillable and reusable innovations to market and what you need to do to succeed. Available for just £450 / $587 / €497* Find out more and order here.  This week – Book Your Place at Our Next Webinar Thursday 12th November at 3 pm GMT All new innovations. FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest Single-serve food packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. We will also be joined by EcoTensil who will be discussing their latest innovations. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 12th November at 3 pm GMT Book your free place now.   ThePackHub Event Participation on Refill Packaging Opportunities Both events on Wednesday 11th November. More info here: PAC and Environmental Summit.

#1 Cardboard-based beverage can multipack with rounded corners aims to replace plastic

The migration from plastic to paper-based beverage can multipack collations continues. There have been numerous examples introduced in the market in recent times. Another example has been introduced that uses shape as a product differentiator. The corrugated cardboard multipack solution has been introduced by SCA incorporating their patented Arcwise technology. The new concept for beverage cans called Arcwise Multipack is based on SCA’s Arcwise technology, which makes it possible to manufacture corrugated packaging with rounded shapes. See Round shaped pack sets beer brand apart. The new multipack concept is the result of an 18-month development project. Arcwise Multipack is available in several different shapes with 3, 4 or 6 cans in each multipack. The concept also includes a corrugated tray with rounded corners that can be filled with several multipacks. Both the corrugated cardboard tray and the individual multipacks can be delivered with product branding. Arcwise has a lightweighting potential, which can help to reduce overall carbon footprint.

#2 Translucent barrier paper has array of food applications

A new way to pack two products into one pack has been developed to offer convenience for consumers as well as a product point of differentiation. The new design by Duet Innovation is a unique offering that facilitates the storage of two products in one constructed pack. What looks like a single container consists of two units that assemble and disassemble through a simple and engaging twist and lock mechanism. The patented bottle and container combination is called One2. The first market introduction sees the USA’s best selling automotive glass cleaner Invisible Glass has created a new Clear Plastic Cleaner in a larger 426 ml outer bottle combined with a smaller 113 ml bottle of hand sanitizer inside. Both products are in a single pack that is easy to use as well as store. Invisible Glass is now working on dual-use concepts for its Stoner Car Care brand. Duet Innovation is offering licensing use for several market applications. For example, you could have red and white wine combined in two bottles in one. There is also the potential for powdered baby formula inside a baby bottle. Combinations of laundry detergent and fabric softener, as well as shampoo with conditioner, are also possible.  Alcoholic spirits could also be combined with one of the many mixers that can accompany the drink. See also Interlocking bottles allow stacking of different assortments.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Confectionery brand is first to switch to new wood-based material

Leading Finnish food company Fazer has made a commitment to build a more sustainable future for their business. This includes a strong focus on the introduction of new packaging solutions where it is working on recyclable, reusable and renewable packaging material initiatives. The brand has announced that their Moomin brand chocolate drops will be the first-ever foodstuff to be packed in wood-based Paptic Gavia material. The material is made with a minimum of 80% raw materials from renewable sources. Moomin chocolate drops will be available across Finland in the K Group’s grocery stores as well as via Fazer’s e-commerce channel. Conventionally, chocolate drops have been packed in plastic bags or carton boxes.  The packaging can be recycled.  To make sorting easier and consumer communication better, Fazer have introduced clear recycling markings on the packaging. Fazer has the exclusive right to use the material in confectionery packages in the Nordic and Baltic countries for a time-limited period. The Innovation Zone first wrote about Paptic here: Fibre-based packaging touted as in-between paper, plastic and textile.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Watch our latest ThePackhub Expert Interview

CEO Neil Cashman discusses Snapsil’s range of easy to use packaging innovations for the pharmaceutical and medical markets. You can watch here. 

Packaging question of the week

Will a Joe Biden presidential win be good for sustainable packaging?  Vote and comment now. 

Last time: 80% thought that ‘carbon neutral’ and ‘carbon negative’ will be used more as a sustainable packaging point of difference in the future.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

ThePackHub’s Refillable and Reusable Packaging Compendium 2020/21 is packed with vital trend information, analysis and insight from a global perspective. Everything you need to know about the fast-growing refillable and reusable packaging market and more! 175 innovations, 17 refill expert interviews, consumer research and more. Find out which brands, retailers and suppliers are bringing refillable and reusable innovations to market and what you need to do to succeed. Available for just £450 / $587 / €497* Find out more and order here.  Book Your Place at Our Next Webinar Thursday 12th November at 3 pm GMT All new innovations. FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest Single-serve food packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. We will also be joined by EcoTensil who will be discussing their latest innovations. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 12th November at 3 pm GMT Book your free place now.

#1 Plastic-free and multi-functional single-use cutlery for food packaging

Founded 10 years ago, California-based global pioneer in sustainable paperboard utensils, Ecotensil has announced the European launch of its plastic-free single-use cutlery for food packaging.  The range of folding multi-functional paper utensils was developed to replace small plastic spoons and sporks found in grab-and-go products such as pot lids and trays.  Addressing the upcoming EU ban on single-use plastics, EcoTensil brings its paperboard solutions to Europe through its warehouse distribution centre in Rotterdam.  EcoTensil has supplied the smooth and sturdy alternatives to plastic cutlery across North America, UK, EU, Australia and New Zealand, including for Swiss milk processor Emmi, Costco, and General Mills. The EcoTensil utensils have a more pleasing “mouth-feel” than that of rough wooden spoons and forks. The sturdy EcoSpoon is formed with one simple “bend to touch dots” fold, easy enough for young and old. EcoTensil supplies its utensils formatted ready to be easily fitted into existing packaging, or can be customised as needed. All EcoTensil products are made from materials from well-managed FSC-certified forests and use up to 80% less material than plastic, bio-plastic or wood cutlery alternatives. The pre-folded TabLock EcoSpoon4 functions effectively as a spoon, spork and spreader for most foods that are scoopable or easy to cut. EcoTensil has numerous patents both in the US and internationally.

#2 Australia’s first refillable beauty retail outlet launched

Burger King is aiming to ensure that all its packaging is recycled by 2025. This very stretching objective is shaping how the business develops new packaging. The restaurant chain in the US alongside Tim Horton’s in Canada is joining the reusable packaging movement with launches for burgers, soft drinks and hot drinks packaging. The two North American foodservice chains are partnering with TerraCycle’s zero-waste Loop delivery platform in a bid to cut down on waste. The Burger King packs will be tested first in outlets in New York and Portland as well as Tokyo. Customers can select the reusable packaging while paying a deposit, which will be refunded when the packaging is returned to the restaurant for cleaning. Burger King has plans to add the option at more locations in different cities. The reusable cups and food containers are professionally cleaned and sanitized by Loop so they can be reused again. It’s anticipated that the Loop platform will have more drop-off locations to improve consumer convenience. The Tim Horton pilot test is expected to start in 2021 at selected Toronto-based restaurants. McDonald’s is also partnering with Loop to develop reusable coffee cups to begin testing in the United Kingdom. See Reusable cup model for hot drinks aims to reduce waste. 

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Plastic bottle in development created by carbon capture process

L’Oréal plans to launch what is being called a carbon-capture plastic bottle by 2024. The Paris-based leading beauty brand is working with carbon recycling technology business LanzaTech and major energy player Total. The three companies are striving to develop a circular economy for plastics and each has a specific role in bringing the new packaging to market. LanzaTech is able to capture industrial carbon emissions and convert them through a biological process into ethanol. Total converts the ethanol into ethylene before polymerizing it into a PE to create the same technical and functional characte­ristics as virgin-oil based plastics. L’Oréal will use the new PE that can reduce the carbon footprint of packaging by converting the carbon emissions.  L’Oréal has the ambition to use the new material in their bottles of shampoo and conditioner by 2024. The collaboration partners now plan to continue working collectively on scaling production.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Watch our latest ThePackhub Expert Interview

CEO Neil Cashman discusses Snapsil’s range of easy to use packaging innovations for the pharmaceutical and medical markets. You can watch here. 

Packaging question of the week

Will ‘carbon neutral’ and ‘carbon negative’ be used more as a sustainable packaging point of difference in the future?  Vote and comment now. 

Last time: 23% planned to attend 3 or more webinars last week

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.