Category: Compostable

November 2023

Startup Snapshot: This Week in Packaging Innovation

Read more ›

Innovation Zone

ThePackHub Startup Snapshot

by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of ThePackHub.
I’m pleased to share a new initiative from ThePackHub where we focus on the exciting world of packaging startups.

Startups are the lifeblood of the packaging innovation industry and we believe are worthy of some extra attention here.

The Innovation Zone database platform is a reliable destination for keeping up-to-date with the latest global packaging initiatives. With a comprehensive collection of more than 7,800 packaging innovations worldwide, you can stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in packaging. Visit our platform today to learn more.

 

Don’t keep the latest in packaging innovation to yourself! Share the knowledge with your colleagues and friends by forwarding this newsletter to them.  They can click here to subscribe.

Innovation Zone – Startup of the week #1

Low cost temperature tracker needs no power supply

CleanTech & Beyond is a deep-tech university spin-off located at the centre of innovation district in Rayong, Thailand, that specialises in developing advanced materials for environmental sensing applications. The company’s DTI, or “Digital Temperature Indicator,” is an irreversible temperature indicator label that allows temperature-tracking at the item level and displays the status in both visual and digital formats when an item is exposed to temperatures outside of a specific threshold. The DTI’s core technology is based on patented thermoresponsive materials. The DTI is created to broaden the usage of passive RFID/NFC labels from just tracking items to include sensing and ensuring the quality of temperature-sensitive products. The DTI can constantly track the ambient temperature of an attached item without any external power sources – no need for batteries, with the cost of a DTI reported to be comparable to traditional RFID/NFC labels.

Via ThePackHub Innovation Zone.

The Startup Interview #3

In the third of a series of interviews with packaging startup founders and entrepreneurs, I chat with Alistair Ezzy, Sales Director of ecoMLR, a recent winner of ThePackHub’s Packaging Startup Awards.

You may also watch a couple of our most recent video interviews

Innovation Zone – Startup of the week #2

Estonian startup gets funding for wood-based alternative to bubble wrap

Raiku is an Estonian startup that has developed an innovative protective packaging product alternative to PE (polyethylene) bubblewrap. The company’s product is made from sustainable wooden ‘springs’. They have now announced that they have received funding of €8.8M (£7.7m), made up of a €5.65 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) and €3.15 million in investments from private sector investors, including Kaamos, Vestman, Little Green Fund, as well as numerous private investors from Estonia and Finland. The company’s primary objective with this new funding is to advance its chemical-free and compostable packaging material technology, establish its first factory, and expand production on a global scale. Raiku specialises in creating sustainable, protective, and entirely natural packaging materials with a low CO2 footprint to address the pressing issue of packaging waste ending up in landfills and nature.

Via ThePackHub Innovation Zone.

Available to donwload in seven days!

ThePackHub is excited to announce our very first Packaging Startup Report.

The report will provide you with valuable insights and ideas from 30 packaging startup founders. You’ll find out how they successfully brought their ideas to market. You’ll also discover what areas of packaging innovation they expect to thrive, moving forward. Plus, they will share what motivates them to innovate.

But that’s not all!The Packaging Startup Report will also provide you with more than 150 startup innovations, complete with images, detailed analysis from ThePackHub’s very own Paul Jenkins, and contact details.

With over 200 pages of useful information, The Packaging Startup Report is exactly what you need for 2024 and beyond. Take a look for yourself.  You can download a free sample of the report here.

The Packaging Startup Report will be available on Friday 1st December, as a downloadable PDF document.

Save now. Early Bird Rate £289 (€329 / $349) (Launch price £329 (€379, $399)).

So, order your copy now and get yourself a discount on this gold mine of commercially valuable information.

Extra discounts are available for Innovation Zone members, please Contact ThePackHub team for more information.

Act now and save with our Very Early Bird Discount.
Find out what’s in the report and order here.
Until next time. Happy innovating.

November 2023

The Award Goes To… A Sneak Peek at The Standout Nominees

Read more ›

Innovation Zone Snapshot from ThePackHub
View this email in your browser
Innovation Zone

ThePackHub Innovation Zone Snapshot

by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of ThePackHub.
I’m pleased to share our latest snapshot update, which provides a glimpse into the emerging trends fromThePackHub’s global packaging innovation platform – the Innovation Zone.

Today, I’m taking a special look at The Sustainability Awards.

The Innovation Zone database platform is a reliable destination for keeping up-to-date with the latest global packaging initiatives. With a comprehensive collection of more than 7,600 packaging innovations worldwide, you can stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in packaging. Visit our platform today to learn more.
Don’t keep the latest in packaging innovation to yourself! Share the knowledge with your colleagues and friends by forwarding this newsletter to them.  They can click here to subscribe.

Five stand out innovations I spotted whilst judging The Sustainability Awards.

I was lucky to be once again part of the esteemed judging panel for this year’s Sustainable Packaging Awards. I was one of more than 50 judges tasked with assessing the many entries across two rounds. The winners will be announced in Amsterdam on Tuesday, 14th November (register here) as part of the Sustainable Packaging Summit.

Here are five stand-out initiatives with a great chance of award glory (in my humble opinion). I have no insider knowledge, of course, but these all caught my eye for their innovative and differentiated approaches.

Firstly, we have Plastiques Venthenat, in collaboration with Citeo, Olga, Amcor, CEDAP, and Synerlink, with their Fully Recyclable Ready Yogurt FFS pack. Yoghurt cup packaging made of single (98.5%) raw material polystyrene is a worldwide innovation. This new pack promises to optimise the efficiency of the whole recycling chain process, from sorting to new recycled material applications. It will allow yoghurt producers to claim their packaging is fully recyclable. This has been shortlisted in the pre-commercialized Recyclable Packaging category.

Next, Amcor’s Quantum technology offers a lightweight finish for PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) bottles, slashing more than 50% of the material and weight from the bottle’s finish. This results in cost-efficiency and a reduction in carbon emissions. It has been nominated in the pre-commercialized Climate category.

A collaboration between Chilean reusable packaging company Algramo, digital wallet providers MACH, and Coca Cola Andina is helping to promote packaging reuse in universities. In November of last year, Algramo, in partnership with the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and Coca-Cola Andina, launched the first pilot of its beverage container reuse project. The pilot managed to keep more than 800 containers in circulation, achieving a reuse of 72% and a positive reception. Following this success, the pilot will begin its second phase with MACH, with 22 vending machines on different university campuses in the Metropolitan Region.

Krysteline Technologies, another contender, offers global solutions for glass processing. Their systems handle various types of glass—from containers and flat glass to pharmaceutical borosilicate and photovoltaic cells—transforming them into ultra-low CO2 products for diverse markets, including Remelt. This initiative is shortlisted in the commercialized Best Practice category.

Finally, Rotomac’s ICEBREAKER 167 – CORELESS machine stands out for its revolutionary method of producing coreless aluminium foil rolls. Developed under the ROTOMAC brand by IMS TECHNOLOGIES, this technology dramatically cuts down on carbon emissions and paper usage, while offering substantial savings in stock and logistical expenses. It is nominated in the pre-commercialized Climate category.

The Sustainability Awards are part of a packed agenda at the Sustainable Packaging Summit. Come and join us! You can find out more and book here.

Leading brand owners, retailers, and packaging suppliers trust the Innovation Zone to stay ahead with the latest packaging innovations. Contact me to learn how membership can enhance your company’s understanding.
Until next time. Happy innovating.

September 2023

Packaging Startup Award winners announced

Read more ›

ThePackHub’s inaugural Packaging Startup Awards, sponsored by Ocado, culminated in a much-anticipated awards ceremony during London Packaging Week on Friday, 22nd September.

A distinguished panel of 15 judges, comprising brand owners and retailers with lots of packaging industry expertise, rigorously evaluated the submissions. This year’s competition attracted an impressive 94 entries from around the globe, spread across six categories.

 

Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of ThePackHub, and Laura Fernandez, Senior Packaging Sustainability Manager at Ocado Retail, had the honour of announcing the winners.

The packaging startups that took home the awards have each set a high bar in innovation, sustainability, and creative design. We are delighted to shine a spotlight on their commendable accomplishments.

And now, without further delay, let us unveil and celebrate this year’s distinguished winners:

Alternative Materials

Releaf Paper

Connected Packaging

Konvoy

Increased Functionality 

Choose Planet A (The Good Cup)

Online

Bulkify LImited (Moree)

Refill & Reuse

Dizzie

Waste Reduction

ecomlr

We will be featuring each winner in more detail soon.

https://packagingstartupawards.com/live/en/page/home 

 

 

Until next time. Happy innovating.

September 2023

Who will pick up the top prizes next week?

Read more ›

 

 

 

 

The moment we’ve been waiting for is here! We are thrilled to unveil the finalists for ThePackHub’s inaugural Packaging Startup Awards sponsored by Ocado!

The entries have been assessed by our 15-strong expert panel of judges who have brought their wealth of knowledge and experience to proceedings.

These outstanding startups have showcased innovation, sustainability, and creativity in the packaging industry, and we are proud to recognize their achievements. Each of these finalists brings something different to the table.

The winners will take the spotlight and receive their much-deserved accolades at the prestigious London Packaging Week on Friday, 22nd September. Make sure to mark your calendars – you won’t want to miss this!

You can register for London Packaging Week here. 

Without further ado, let’s celebrate our finalists…

Alternative Materials

Kelp Industries Ltd, one.five, Pulpex, Releaf Paper

Connected Packaging

Aura, Bulkify Limited, Konvoy, PiQR

Increased Functionality 

Choose Planet A, Folia Materials, Nexshift Inc, Recover Packaging,

Online

Beans Coffee Club, Bulkify LImited,  Spudos,

Refill & Reuse

Bower Collective, Cauli, circolution, Good Club (Dizzie)

Waste Reduction

Choose Planet A, ecomlr, Magnomer, Papair

Until next time. Happy innovating.

February 2023

Trend Tracking: switching to paper-based packs is showing no signs of slowing

Read more ›

Innovation Zone

ThePackHub Innovation Zone Snapshot

by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of ThePackHub.
I am delighted to bring you my personal Innovation Zone snapshot update, a peek at the emerging trends from ThePackHub’s 6,800-strong global packaging innovation platform.
I might be a bit biased (!) but The Innovation Zone database platform is THE go-to destination to keep up to speed with all the latest global packaging initiatives.

 

Don’t keep the latest in packaging innovation to yourself! Share the knowledge with your colleagues and friends by forwarding this newsletter to them.  Click here to subscribe.

Trend Tracking: switching to paper-based packs is showing no signs of slowing.

 

This week, I’m taking a deep dive into paper-based packaging.

The number of paper-based packaging examples posted to our Innovation Zone platform is on the up. In fact, we’re tracking more examples than ever and have already posted 18 since the start of 2023. The Nestle switch to paper-based KitKat packs in Australia is probably the most head-turning of them this year.

A study by Two Sides states that 55% of UK consumers prefer paper packaging as being better for the environment, 51% for being easier to recycle and 77% for being home compostable.

Brands and retailers are increasingly switching to paper-based packaging due to consistent demand from consumers for non-plastic packaging alternatives.  The move can often help meet recyclability objectives and assist to reduce plastic waste. Paper-based packaging is, as well as being recyclable, also biodegradable and compostable. Technological advances have made paper-based packaging more versatile, formable and durable, and it can be printed with high-quality graphics, enhancing the product’s branding and consumer appeal.

Not every change is seen positively, with comments about greenwashing and appeasing consumers being made for some initiatives, particularly when they are not supported by LCAs or carbon footprint reduction claims.

Many of the developments we’re tracking are in market launches and this change is predicted by us to continue for some time yet.

GIVE ME FIVE!

Here are five new paper-based initiatives we think you should know about recently posted to the Innovation Zone.

1 – Enova Pack by Evopak is a flexible packaging material made from adaptive polymers and paper that is recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, and safe for marine and wildlife. It has high barrier properties and puncture resistance, while remaining flexible and water-resistant. The material runs on form fill & seal machines and has been successfully used to package vegan lentil chips.

2 – nucao, a vegan chocolate maker in Germany, has switched to primary packaging made from NexPlus Advanced paper by Koehler Paper, citing its excellent barrier properties and printability. The packaging is 100% recyclable, reduces CO2 footprint, and aligns with consumers’ preference for eco-friendly options.

3 – Toppan, a Japanese provider of advanced printing and communication technology, has developed an NFC tag label that uses paper as the substrate for the antenna instead of PET film. The new label is designed to break if removed, preventing fraudulent use, and is 30% thinner than previous products. With increasing demand for sustainable materials, the use of paper in place of plastic aligns with current environmental initiatives.

4 – Mitsubishi HiTec Paper, a German paper manufacturer, has introduced a new product called PACK, aimed at sustainable packaging of toys and small items. The FSC and PEFC certified paper, made from virgin fibres and available in 75gsm weight, offers excellent heat-sealability, making it ideal for pouch packaging. It has been tested successfully on leading packaging machines and is a sustainable alternative to plastic film composites.

5 – Chocal Packaging Solutions provides an alternative to conventional plastic packaging with their Chocal Paper Fibre technology. This formable and printable packaging is produced using coated paper-based materials, making it food-safe, highly stable, and eco-friendly. The biopolymer coating provides water, odour, and fat barrier properties, and the trays can be customized to various depths and printed with colour and text. All CPF variants are compostable or recyclable.

In summary, the demand for non-plastic packaging alternatives is driving an increase in paper-based packaging, with brands and retailers switching to meet recyclability objectives and reduce plastic waste. Consumers have shown a preference for paper packaging, with many citing its environmental benefits and recyclability. Technological advances have made paper-based packaging more versatile and durable, and it can also be printed with high-quality graphics to enhance branding and consumer appeal. However, not all changes are viewed as the best route to take, with concerns about greenwashing and the need for evidence-based claims to support sustainability initiatives.

This paper-based trend is expected to continue in the foreseeable future.

Leading brand owners, retailers, and packaging suppliers trust the Innovation Zone to stay ahead with the latest packaging innovations. Contact me to learn how membership can enhance your company’s understanding.

ThePackHub’s Refillable & Reusable Packaging Compendium Volume 2 is out now. The most comprehensive reuse packaging trend summary available. Find out more and order here.

This week
Plastic Packaging Innovations Webinar

Join us for a FREE one-hour webinar and discover the cutting-edge advancements in plastic packaging innovation. Get a comprehensive overview of the latest initiatives and in-market developments that will inspire and inform you.

Hear from industry expert David Rimmer, Managing Director at Unette, as he shares insights on how his business is driving sustainable solutions and delivering easy-open, lightweighted plastic packaging.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and learn from industry leaders. Sign up now!

Register here.

ThePackHub’s latest webinar was broadcast this week and you can now watch it (again) in full.

Don’t miss out on the latest e-commerce packaging trends! Watch ThePackHub’s recent webinar now for a comprehensive look at innovation in the industry. Discover inspiring in-market and developmental examples, and hear from Ian Beresford of Essentra Tapes on the crucial role packaging plays in creating a positive first impression and shaping consumer perceptions of sustainability.

Click here to access this informative one-hour session.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about our range of packaging innovation services.
Until next time. Happy innovating.

January 2023

Innovation Zone Snapshot – supermarket moves to recycled coastal plastic for chilled fish trays

Read more ›

Innovation Zone

ThePackHub Innovation Zone Snapshot

Welcome to ThePackHub’s Innovation Zone, where we bring you the latest and greatest in packaging innovation.

With 6,775 searchable initiatives from leading companies around the globe, including recent updates from Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, UK and USA, we’re your go-to source for staying ahead in the packaging industry.

Each month, we collate over 100 new packaging innovations for our platform, and today we’re excited to share four new ideas with you. But why stop there? Upgrade to 25 new innovations a week by visiting https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/ and discover all the latest packaging innovations.

Our next webinar is later today, and it is not too late to book. Please see more details and book below.

Don’t keep the latest in packaging innovation to yourself! Share the wealth of knowledge with your colleagues and friends by forwarding this newsletter to them. Encourage them to stay ahead of the game by subscribing to our updates.
Click here to subscribe and stay up to date with the latest packaging innovation news.

3pm TODAY – Book on our next free webinar

FREE one-hour webinar. Catch up on the latest e-commerce 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 Ian Beresford, Head of Marketing & Development at Essentra Tapes, who will be discussing how packaging can create that vital first impression of an E-commerce business for customers and therefore plays a crucial role in consumer perceptions of their sustainability status.

Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director of ThePackHub.

Register here.

We are excited to unveil the “Exhibition Stories” report service, brought to you by industry leaders Ariane Van Mancius of Now New Next B.V. and Paul Jenkins of ThePackHub.

This service recognizes that not everyone has the ability to attend every packaging exhibition but still wants to stay informed on the latest trends and innovations in their field. “Exhibition Stories” offers reports on Europe’s largest and smallest packaging trade fairs from experts in trends and packaging, NowNewNext and ThePackHub.

Kicking off with LuxePack, held in Monaco for its 35th year, bringing together the entire world of luxury packaging. Upcoming “Exhibition Stories” will cover the Dutch catering trade fair Horecava in Amsterdam in January 2023 and Empack Netherlands in April of next year.

The first Exhibition Story is available free of charge and can be downloaded for free here:
https://lnkd.in/d6J3DzkF

ThePackHub’s Refillable & Reusable Packaging Compendium Volume 2 is out now. The most comprehensive reuse packaging trend summary available. Find out more and order here.

JUST LISTED – Plastic Packaging Innovations Webinar
Join us for a FREE one-hour webinar and discover the cutting-edge advancements in plastic packaging innovation. Get a comprehensive overview of the latest initiatives and in-market developments that will inspire and inform you.

Hear from industry expert David Rimmer, Managing Director at Unette, as he shares insights on how his business is driving sustainable solutions and delivering easy-open, lightweighted plastic packaging.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and learn from industry leaders. Sign up now!

Register here.

#1 British supermarket moves to recycled coastal plastic for chilled fish trays

UK supermarket chain Tesco has formed a partnership with international independent organisation Keep Sea Blue, which will mean that the plastic packaging for its fish products will contain a minimum of 30% Recycled Seaside Plastic (RSP).This is recycled coastal plastic collected from beaches, coastlines, and coastal communities within 10km of the Mediterranean Sea. A network of collectors across the region, including local authorities, non-profits, volunteer groups, and the private sector, collects the plastic, at which point the PET (polyethylene terephthalate) packaging will be sorted, ground, washed, and recycled to be utilised in food-grade packaging materials. The recycled PET will be used in trays to pack Tesco’s salmon, haddock, cod, and sea bass lines. A spokesperson for Tesco said that where they can, they are reducing the amount of virgin plastic they use in their business.

 

#2 Ice cream container is made from sustainable EPS

Italian packaging company Imballaggi Alimentari is using BASF’s EPS (expanded polystyrene) Styrofoam Ccycled for ice cream containers. Called the Remaxigel box, the manufacturing process starts from pyrolysis oil, obtained by chemically recycling various types of plastic waste that would otherwise have been used to generate energy or dumped. BASF says that compared to conventional Styrofoam, the production of packaging made of Styrofoam Ccycled produces around 50% less CO2, with no loss of functional quality. The recycled content is mathematically assigned to the end product using the so-called mass balance approach. Remaxigel is one of the seven winners of the Ecodesign Award for Circular Creativity, awarded by the Italian National Packaging Consortium Conai. Imballaggi Alimentari is working with BASF on an even more sustainable Remaxigel box version with a new inner shell made of recycled material, which will meet the strict requirements of the food industry.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#3 Fast food giant offers reusable cups in German restaurants

Fast food giant Burger King has formed a partnership with reusable cup company Recup to supply their reusable cups in German restaurants. From the start of 2023, customers in all 750 Burger King restaurants have been able to order drinks, milkshakes and ice cream in reusable cups. The move follows a successful trial in selected restaurants in the Cologne area as part of a reusable pilot project. The pilot project has provided important insights for the nationwide launch of an attractive reusable system that guests can easily use. A deposit of €1 (£0.88) is paid for Recup cups and lids, which means a deposit of €2 for a drink with a lid. The return is possible in every Burger King restaurant and at over 16,500 Recup partners throughout Germany. After being returned, the cups are cleaned in the catering dishwashers like normal tableware and then returned to the cycle.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Dairy offers customers reusable lids for yoghurt pots

UK organic dairy Yeo Valley is offering its customers the opportunity to obtain reusable lids for its 350g and 450g yoghurt tubs. Consumers can go to the Yeo Valley website and exchange ‘Yeokens’ which can be earned by redeeming codes from Yeo Valley packaging, to obtain their own lid, which is set to replace the previous clip-lid design. Yeo Valley have made the decision to remove the clip-lids previously used, following successful trials on their Greek yoghurt pots. Removing the clip-lids will save an estimated 145 tonnes of plastic a year. Yeo Valley Organic’s 350g and 450g yoghurts are currently sold in Greiner Packaging’s K3 cardboard-plastic cups, which are recyclable, made from 100% recycled PET, and wrapped in cardboard made from FSC-certified material. The packaging can be cleaned and separated into the plastics and cardboard recycling streams, respectively.

 
Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about our range of packaging innovation services.
Until next time. Happy innovating.

September 2021

Innovation Zone Snapshot – Special edition ketchup label incorporates plantable tomato seeds

Read more ›

Innovation Zone ThePackHub - thepackhub.com

 

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database.

We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

This week – Book on our next webinar

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest recyclable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

We will be joined by Marika Knorr, Head of Sustainability and Communication at CCL Label.

Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub.

Book here.


ThePackHub’s latest Sustainable Packaging Innovations webinar on Thursday 2nd September is now available to watch online.

You can watch it here.

Any questions or enquiries to John Williams of Aquapak as follows:

Email: jwilliams@aquapakpolymers.com
Telephone: +44(0)7946 799416

Any questions about the innovations discussed or the Innovation Zone, please contact paul.jenkins@thepackhub.com.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database. We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

 

 

You can join more than 9,600 others and stay up to speed on the latest packaging news from ThePackHub by following us on LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/company/thepackhub

 


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 Special edition ketchup label incorporates plantable tomato seeds

 

Kraft Heinz has announced the introduction of a special edition ketchup bottle designed to promote the core tomato product ingredient. The new bottle for the Brazilian market incorporates a plantable label that consumers can then grow their own tomatoes. The goal of the “First Tomato” activity is to highlight the ketchup’s main ingredient. The brand originated the activity following consumer insight that many still don’t believe that Heinz Ketchup is essentially made from tomatoes. The campaign has been developed by the São Paulo headquartered Africa Agency. The brand wanted to show that the quality of its product comes from the naturalness of the ingredients hence encouraging consumers to plant their Heinz tomatoes at home.  Consumers who buy 55 reais (£7.50) or more in Heinz products at Pão de Açúcar’s e-commerce channel can win the Heinz Ketchup complete with the plantable label.


#2 Wood fibre-based material looks like plastic or glass

Premium paperboard company Holmen Iggesund has announced the introduction of a new wood material that can be used as a replacement for glass or plastic.  The aim of the Conic prototype is to help brands achieve their sustainability goals whilst also supporting shelf and in-the-hand pack impact. The new wood fibre-based and malleable material looks like plastic or glass and uses an emerging technology developed by Holmen Iggesund, which makes it possible to replace plastic with natural materials in malleable products. The solution is seen as having the most likely initial applications for the cosmetics industry, which has many products in plastic formats that can now be made of these durable wood fibre materials. The first prototype conceived is a conically shaped filling cup and a transparent container, which can be used for creams or liquid soaps. The product is packed in an outer box incorporating Holmen Iggesund’s multi-layered Solid Bleached Board Invercote carton. The pre-launch prototype requires further development work including the conception of an industrial demonstration plant.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#3 Prototype rPET water bottle developed that uses no and low-value plastics

Danone-owned leading water brand Evian has announced the culmination of a four-year collaboration with Canada-based recycling technology developers Loop Industries. The fruits of the development partnership is a ground-breaking prototype rPET bottle that utilises no and low-value plastics. These materials might otherwise go to waste. The technology can utilise PET plastic waste from a range of sources including plastic collected from the ocean as well as coloured and opaque plastics. The process involves breaking down plastic waste into monomers, which are purified and then repolymerised into virgin quality Loop PET plastic. The aim of the rPET prototypes is to enable more plastics to be kept in use and lessen the reliance on fossil fuel sourced plastics. Evian has vowed to switch to 100% recycled plastics for all of its plastic bottles by 2025. The new Loop plastic recycling technology will be rolled out across all markets.

 

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#4 Smaller gravy drums save 40 tonnes of paper per year

Premier Foods, the owners of the UK’s favourite gravy brand, Bisto, has announced that it has made the drums that their gravy granules are sold in smaller in height by 8mm. The move to the shallower tub is reported to save 40 tonnes of paper per annum. Bisto is manufactured at Premier’s plant in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, which required significant changes to the production lines. This included new sensors to be able to detect the shorter tubs, and alterations to sealing and capping equipment. The new pack will contain an extra 20g of product, the equivalent of six servings, but the price per serving will remain the same. The move will be across the range of flavours, which includes Beef, Chicken, Turkey, Onion and Vegetable. The Worksop site produces 50 million tubs of granules annually. They are also currently investigating alternative materials for their recyclable plastic lid.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


Packaging question of the week

How does your recycling change when you are on holiday/vacation? Vote and comment now. 

Last week, 59% will be attending a face-to-face packaging trade show, exhibition or conference before the end of the year.


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.


September 2021

Innovation Zone Snapshot – Chocolate range gets recyclable overhaul

Read more ›

Innovation Zone ThePackHub - thepackhub.com

 

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database.

We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

Next week – Book on our next webinar

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest recyclable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

We will be joined by Marika Knorr, Head of Sustainability and Communication at CCL Label.

Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub.

Book here.


ThePackHub’s latest Sustainable Packaging Innovations webinar on Thursday 2nd September is now available to watch online.

You can watch it here.

Any questions or enquiries to John Williams of Aquapak as follows:

Email: jwilliams@aquapakpolymers.com
Telephone: +44(0)7946 799416

Any questions about the innovations discussed or the Innovation Zone, please contact paul.jenkins@thepackhub.com.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database. We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

 

 

You can join more than 9,600 others and stay up to speed on the latest packaging news from ThePackHub by following us on LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/company/thepackhub

 


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 Chocolate range gets recyclable overhaul

 

Confectionary giants The Ferrero Group has announced that its iconic Ferrero Rocher range will switch to a more recyclable box with reduced materials use. The packaging has been criticised by some in the past for its lack of recyclability. The “new eco-designed boxes” are the outcome of a partnership between Ferrero Group’s R&D department and materials science experts Milliken. The transition to a recyclable box apparently saw the development of more than 29 different plastic resins iterations. The final design is made from PP, which is easier to recycle across markets around the world. The new design will use 40% less plastic for its 16-piece box and 38% less plastic for its 30-piece box. The company further calculates that approximately 2,000 tonnes of plastic globally will be saved in the first year of rollout and will have at least a 30% lower carbon footprint. The box will maintain its transparency and will see a phased roll-out in markets across the globe.  The initiative is part of Ferrero’s commitment to making 100% of its packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.


#2 Refillable packaging scheme moves in-store

Market-leading UK supermarket chain Tesco is now offering a range of reusable packaging for some of the major brands in trial stores to reduce the use of single-use packaging. The retailer has previously worked with Loop with an online refill offering with the next phase of the programme to move to in-store availability. When customers visit the Loop display within 10 selected English stores, they can expect to see more than 80 brands in refillable packaging. When they are finished with the contents of the packs, they can return to the Tesco store where it will be cleaned and restocked to be sold again. A deposit of £0.20 is paid per product and will be refunded through the use of an app upon return to the Loop display within the Tesco store.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#3 Rainbow recyclable packaging for chocolate brand

UK-based multinational packaging giants DS Smith are collaborating with Dutch chocolate company Tony’s Chocolonely to launch a six-pack of chocolate with fully recyclable packaging. The distinctive ane impactful multipack has a viewing window on both sides, allowing the shopper to see the “rainbow range” of chocolate. The bottom of the pack folds inwards and secures, so the chocolate can be easily packaged and closed. The mono-material pack, which incorporates a useful carry handle, is made from 100% corrugated cardboard, allowing for the easy recycling of the pack in standard paper waste streams across markets. This pack has been delivered in accordance with DS Smith’s goal to produce only reusable or recyclable packaging by 2023.

 

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#4 PaperLock technology keeps potatoes fresh as well as reducing plastic use

Tasteful Selections has announced the launch of plastic-free potato packaging. The introduction of the recyclable and compostable packaging is in line with a fruit and veg sector industry trend to switch out of plastic-based materials. This new paper packaging with ‘PaperLock’ technology offers both light protection and absorption properties that protect the produce as well as reduce the amount of plastic used. The new packaging has been in development for a long time which has seen improvements in fibre strength and packaging integrity to make the item more comparable with plastic

More info in The Innovation Zone.


Packaging question of the week

Will you be attending a face-to-face packaging trade show, exhibition or conference before the end of the year? Vote and comment now. 

Last week, 89% think that consumers need more incentives to increase their recycling.


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.


September 2021

Innovation Zone Snapshot – Yoghurt cup made with 80% paperboard reduces plastic usage

Read more ›

Innovation Zone ThePackHub - thepackhub.com

 

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database.

We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

New webinars coming next month.
Book now.

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

Book here.


 

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest recyclable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

Book here.


 

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database. We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

 

 

You can join more than 9,600 others and stay up to speed on the latest packaging news from ThePackHub by following us on LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/company/thepackhub

 


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 Yoghurt cup made with 80% paperboard reduces plastic usage

 

US yoghurt brand Chobani has introduced a new paper-based cup with the objective of reducing the amount of plastic used. The cup is 80% paperboard and has a plastic lining to create a barrier. The paperboard is made from responsibly sourced and renewable material. The move is a first for a national dairy brand in the US market. The cups are not yet widely recyclable due to the current infrastructure of the US recycling industry. The aim is to reduce the amount of plastic used compared with regular plastic yoghurt cups.  Chobani worked closely with its packaging supplier to ensure that an airtight seal and the same shelf-life were achieved. The new packs will have ‘new paper-based cup’ on the pack. The initiative demanded almost two years to develop and Chobani aim to roll this out across their wider portfolio in due course.


#2 Beer handle pack diminishes plastic use by 70%

The beer multipack collation market is undergoing a lot of change with many changes coming to market that primarily focus on reducing or eradicating plastic use. No specific new format appears to be dominating with several constructions coming to our attention at the Innovation Zone.  Skol beer brand has announced the commencement of a new packaging format pilot that promised to reduce the amount of plastic used by 70% for their beer packs. The Snap Pack replaces the previously used shrink film. The new solution wraps around the cans with a useful handle attached directly to the top of the packaging. The cans are fixed together with the use of glue dots. The new beer packs will be tested in Ribeirão Preto. The product is in line with Ambev’s intention of zero plastic pollution by 2025.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#3 Gas-tight coating helps to extend fizziness of drinks

Researchers at the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) in Germany have found a way of extending the fizziness of cola for much longer than is normally achieved. Thanks to a process called Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition (PEVCD), an extremely thin gas-tight coating of a few nanometers thick can be applied to the inside of a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottle. This reduces the escape of gas by 20-100 times, thereby extending the shelf life of fizzy drinks from four weeks to around a year. The coating is very environmentally friendly too, as the amount of coating used is negligible. The process could be of interest to other areas of the food industry, such as milk production and for extending the shelf life of other foodstuffs. It could also have some applications for medicines and microelectronics.

 

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#4 Soap in refillable corrugated board pack reduces plastic use

California-based Lab Clean, a manufacturer of environmentally conscious health and beauty soaps for personal care, has announced the launch of a foaming soap product that comes in a refillable corrugated board pack. The product, launched under the Bayes brand, consists of a plastic pouch with a spout at its base inside a corrugated box, reducing plastic use by around 70%. The internal pouch is said to comprise only 25% of the overall packaging weight. The product comes in four different fragrances, Lavender, Lemon Basil, Rosemary Mint and Eucalyptus Lavender, and the pouches contain 2 litres (67 fl oz). Lab Clean has produced Bayes Foaming Hand Soap using plant-derived ingredients, which is confirmed by the USDA as ‘Biobased Certified.’ The Bayes Eco Refill box is available for purchase on Amazon.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


Packaging question of the week

Do you use in-store soft plastic recycling schemes? Vote and comment now. 

Last week, 27% have home composting


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.


August 2021

Innovation Zone Snapshot – Scottish brand uses aluminium cans for coffee beans

Read more ›

Innovation Zone ThePackHub - thepackhub.com

 

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub.

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database.

We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

New webinars coming next month.
Book now.

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

Book here.


 

FREE one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest recyclable packaging innovation trends with this tour of the latest initiatives.

Book here.


 

ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database. We have selected four new initiatives for you today.

More information on our Innovation Zone packaging database – https://www.thepackhub.com/the-innovation-zone/

 

 

You can join more than 9,600 others and stay up to speed on the latest packaging news from ThePackHub by following us on LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/company/thepackhub

 


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 Scottish brand uses aluminium cans for coffee beans

 

ThePackHub’s Innovation Zone have been documenting several occurrences of aluminium drinks cans being used for products outside of the beverage industry. See for example Cakes in aluminium cans appeal to on-the-go consumersAnother example of a brand doing this is a new innovation from Manifesto Coffee, based in Perth, Scotland. The innovation centres around the typical waste generated from coffee, and how the founder of Manifesto disliked the lack of perceived sustainability created. The brand has launched coffee beans in drinks cans, allowing coffee packaging to be fully recycled as well as creating a distinctive point of difference in store.


#2 Alternative fast food packaging starts German trial

Chilean circular economy company Algramo facilitates consumers to purchase affordable, refillable containers as part of a circular and sustainable model. The model began in Santiago with packs being refilled in mobile units close to consumers’ homes. Following an injection of $8.5 million, they are now looking to expand further within Chile, as well as starting pilot schemes in Mexico, Colombia and the United Kingdom. Using point of sale dispensing displays, consumers use their purchased reusable packaging to refill with any one of a range of products, including dry products such as rice, chickpeas, lentils, sugar and pet food, and also wet products such as laundry detergents and conditioners. An online site, along with a mobile app and reusable smart packaging are combined with a digitally verified top-up option known as PaaW (Packaging as a Wallet). Unilever and Purina are currently on board, and advanced talks are in progress with Colgate Palmolive and Walmart.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#3 Process to recycle black plastic in development

Global manufacturer of personal, home care, and foods products, Unilever has announced that they have patented a process whereby products made from coloured PCR (post-consumer resin) can be successfully recycled. Black plastic packaging has been problematic for recycling systems using NIR (near infra-red) sorting, but by using a new multilayer format, Unilever’s new process allows these to be successfully recycled. The outer layer is made up of black coloured 95% PCR HDPE (high density polyethylene). A NIR coloured masterbatch enabled a more intense colour to be achieved. A thinner outer layer of the N-PCR (natural plastic recyclate) is then combined with a thicker inner layer of at least 50% coloured plastic waste (J-PCR). In order to avoid malodours associated with J-PCR, an additional inner layer of N-PCR can be added. Both materials are readily available, N-PCR being derived from milk and dairy bottles, and J-PCR from coloured bottles used in other consumer applications.

 

More info in The Innovation Zone.


#4 Plastic and recycled board combination blister pack launched

German thermoforming machinery manufacturer Illig have brought to market a plastic and recycled board combination blister pack as an alternative to conventional all plastic structures. The new solution, called I-Pack, reduces plastic content by over 50%. Illig’s HSU 35b system is suitable for blister packs that are a combination of board/plastic/board, known as a double card blister, or solid board, suitable for non-food items. It is available in a number of blister heights and can be configured with 3, 6, 8, 10 or 12 cavities. The board sections of the pack are easily separated for ease of recycling, while a large sealing edge allows for an airtight closure. A number of equipment options are available such as automatic product feed, carton blister fixation, brochure inserts, marking and coding systems. The system is modular, allowing flexibility and efficiency for owners and co-packers.

More info in The Innovation Zone.


Packaging question of the week

Do you have home composting? Vote and comment now. 

Last week, 61% do not find it easy to recycle on the go.


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 Ltd Albany House, 14 Shute End, Wokingham, Berks, RG40 1BJ. Tel: 0118 963 9990 . Email us >