The push to reduce single-use plastics in packaging has gained momentum as companies respond to growing pressure from legislation, corporate sustainability goals, and shifting consumer preferences. Companies are largely moving towards alternatives like paper-based packaging, yet there are both benefits and challenges to this transition, particularly around recyclability. Governments and organizations worldwide are enacting legislation to reduce plastic waste, driven by the environmental impact of single-use plastics, which contribute to pollution, climate change, and harm to wildlife. For example, recent U.S. policies aim to limit plastic pollution, reflecting a broader trend of regulatory action against single-use plastics. The U.S. federal government is the largest buyer of consumer goods in the world. A report released by the administration in July detailed the administration’s plan to phase out federal purchases “of single-use plastics from food service operations, events, and packaging by 2027, and from all federal operations by 2035.” The report says this action could significantly impact the supply of plastic products, while the government seeks tougher regulations on plastics manufacturers.

Net sales in the third quarter were $3,074 million compared to $3,069 million in the third quarter of 2023 reflecting higher shipments of both global beverage cans and food cans in North America, offset by lower volumes in most other businesses and unfavorable foreign currency translation of $9 million. Income from operations was $444 million in the third quarter compared to $374 million in the third quarter of 2023. Segment income in the third quarter of 2024 was $472 million, up 10%, compared to the $430 million in the prior year third quarter driven by improved results in global beverage operations, partially offset by the impact of lower volumes in Transit Packaging and the beverage can equipment business. Commenting on the quarter, Timothy J. Donahue, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "The Company continued its strong 2024 performance during the third quarter, with results in each of its global beverage can businesses exceeding original expectations. Global beverage shipments improved 5% during the quarter, with Brazil, Europe, Mexico and the United States all recording increases of 5% or more. Segment income on a combined basis advanced 10% over the prior year third quarter, as the Company benefited from favorable manufacturing performance and exposure to a well-balanced portfolio of end markets. Transit Packaging performed in line with expectations while global manufacturing activity continues in contraction.

Huhtamaki is pleased to announce the commencement of smooth molded fiber (SMF) production at Huhtamaki’s existing molded fiber facility in Lurgan, Northern Ireland. This expansion marks an important step in Huhtamaki’s ongoing commitment to meeting the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions.  This investment will increase Huhtamaki's global capacity and footprint in SMF products, complementing our existing SMF production sites in Germany, Holland, and the USA, as well as capacity created together with our strategic partners in Asia.  Building on Huhtamaki’s 40-year of experience in fiber products, our in-house state-of-the-art SMF technology provides products with superior quality and competitiveness. All Huhtamaki fiber lids come with a patented and unique click-fit function to ensure the most secure lid closure. Huhtamaki fiber lids, like all other Huhtamaki SMF products, are home compostable and easy to recycle. 

The cutting-edge plastic film, designed to provide outstanding load stability, features 70% Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR*) content – a significant step toward circularity in transport packaging. By incorporating 70% PCR, the Stretch hood Loop70 demonstrates that sustainability and high performance can go together. Our customers can continue to rely on the same exceptional load stability and safety, ensuring protection for both goods and drivers, while significantly reducing the environmental footprint. The Stretch hood Loop70 is more than just another product – it represents our commitment to circularity and carbon reduction. At Trioworld, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of packaging innovation, combining circular solutions with industry-leading performance. By optimising film thickness and integrating recycled materials, we are setting new standards for tomorrow’s packaging solutions – making them available already today.

Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards, has developed a multipurpose, space-saving promotional packaging for HejBuddy, a Finnish cosmetics brand. Offering flexibility and luxury appeal, the new lightweight packaging is made of micro-flute corrugated board using Metsä Board’s white kraftliner. The new packaging is 50% lighter than a traditional rigid box made of recycled fibres. Traditionally, rigid boxes are imported from Asia as assembled packaging, which requires a lot of container space. The new packaging developed by Metsä Board requires minimal storage capacity as it can be easily folded into a box when necessary. Once the packaging has been used, it can be unfolded and recycled easily.

Silgan Holdings Inc. announced that it has completed its acquisition of Weener Plastics Holdings B.V., a leading producer of differentiated dispensing solutions for personal care, food and healthcare products. Weener operates a global network of 19 facilities predominantly in Europe and the Americas, with approximately 4,000 employees and proprietary manufacturing technologies including significant clean room capabilities. The Company funded the purchase price for this acquisition and related costs and expenses through term and revolving loan borrowings under its senior secured credit facility, including a €700 million incremental term loan. Silgan expects to realize operational cost synergies related to the acquisition of approximately €20 million within 18 months. The transaction is expected to be slightly accretive to adjusted earnings per share in 2024, with approximately 10% accretion once fully integrated and with synergies achieved. Silgan is a leading supplier of sustainable rigid packaging solutions for the world's essential consumer goods products with annual net sales of approximately $6.0 billion in 2023. Silgan operates 124 manufacturing facilities in North and South America, Europe and Asia.

Smurfit Westrock has worked with Nestlé to launch an innovative, paper-based tub for its iconic Quality Street sweets this Christmas. The beautifully designed pack is the first of its kind to hit supermarket shelves. Nestlé approached the packaging leader to create the trial pack as part of its ongoing initiative to reduce virgin plastic. The redesign also enables more boxes to fit on a pallet and has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions significantly. The introduction of the paper tub follows on from Nestlé switching to paper wrappers for the Quality Street sweets back in 2022, which diverted over 2 billion wrappers from landfill. Now, both the box itself and the wrappers can be put into household recycling at the end of use.

Mondi has recently completed a €95 million investment at its Świecie containerboard mill, which will increase kraftliner capacity by 55,000 tonnes. The upgrade comprises an extensive rebuild of paper machines PM2 and PM5, a new anaerobic treatment plant including an integrated cooling system, and upgrades to the pulp mill, the recycled fibre line and the energy recovery system. These improvements will allow the mill to meet growing customer demand for heavy-duty packaging for large and heavy products, enhance product quality, and bolster its environmental performance by decreasing water consumption and wastewater emissions and increasing energy efficiency. Since the project’s completion in June, Mondi Świecie has also expanded its ProVantage SmartKraft Brown portfolio with a broader range of grammage options.

International Paper is pleased to announce that it received the necessary shareholder approval for its pending acquisition of DS Smith. Earlier this week, DS Smith also received the necessary shareholder approval for the Combination. International Paper will report the final vote results of the special shareholder meeting in a Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). International Paper and DS Smith continue to expect the Combination to close late in the fourth quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory clearance and other customary closing conditions. "The overwhelming approval from both DS Smith and IP shareholders confirms the strong support of this combination," said Andy Silvernail, Chairman and CEO of International Paper. "Bringing the two companies together will create a true global leader of sustainable packaging solutions which will drive significant value for our employees, customers and shareholders."

Tredegar Surface Protection, a subsidiary of Tredegar Corporation (NYSE:TG) and a leader in high-quality masking films, is excited to announce the launch of Obsidian Automotive Protective Films. Designed to meet the evolving needs of the automotive industry, these innovative films offer unparalleled performance and protection. The Obsidian line includes a range of protective films tailored for various applications: AUTOMOTIVE INTERIOR: Automotive Displays; Augmented Reality Films – Optical film for AR use inside the HUD device; Automotive Glass and plastic cover – 2D/ 3D dashboard, center console and rear seat entertainment; Anti-glare, Anti-reflection, and Anti-fingerprint – Surface coating protection. AUTOMOTIVE EXTERIOR: Automotive Glass - Windshield for AR HUD; Automotive Camera - Surface Protection on camera; Automotive Plastic Sheeting – Body and specific components.

Novolex®, an industry leader in packaging choice, innovation and sustainability, is introducing new clear containers that keep food fresh and secure while giving consumers peace of mind. The new TamperFlagTM rigid containers, made by Novolex brand Waddington® NorthAmerica (WNA), feature a tamper-evident “flag” that pops up and stays raised once opened. The feature alerts consumers that the container has been unsealed. “Our new TamperFlag containers deliver a fresh solution to safeguarding food and reassuring consumers about the security of a product,” said Sachin Shah, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Waddington North America. “This is yet another groundbreaking innovation that truly makes a difference for our customers —something we strive for every day at Novolex.” The TamperFlag is activated automatically in a single step when the hinge container lid is closed, creating an efficient packing process. When opened, the TamperFlag pops up and is visible to consumers, ensuring they can see if the container has been opened or tampered with. The containers can also be made with post-consumer recycled content, supporting the sustainabilty goals of Novolex customers.

Through its Pregis Inspyre™ product line, the company has taken steps to make a difference in communities worldwide. As a proud brand member of 1% for the Planet, 1% of the Inspyre product line sales are donated to the Uzima Clean Water Mission, a nonprofit organization working to bring clean drinking water to communities vulnerable to waterborne illnesses. Access to clean water is a critical global issue, and Pregis is committed to supporting Uzima’s mission to improve health and quality of life for those in need. “We believe that businesses should be a force for good. Through our Pregis Inspyre purpose-driven product offering, we are empowering customers to make product choices that create benefit to their operation and fuel meaningful change,” said Daché Davidson, CMO of Pregis. “Our partnership with Uzima helps ensure that communities around the world have access to clean water, a basic human right that so many still lack. This is just one way we’re extending our purpose to ‘inspyre’ positive change for people and the planet.”

Visitors will be able to explore an innovative portfolio of fibre-based, recyclable packaging papers that help customers and brand owners bring power to their purpose. These include a number of new and exciting solutions co-created with customers and expert partners from across the packaging value network. Demand for sustainable packaging continues to experience rapid growth. These co-creation projects are leading to recyclable, fibre-based breakthroughs that support packaging sustainability goals of brands and packaging converters.

In research published in Advanced Science, investigators drew inspiration from the octopus to develop an adhesive that achieves strong attachment and controlled release on varied substrates in wet and underwater environments. The feat could have numerous applications in fields ranging from healthcare and underwater robotics to infrastructure repair. By studying the octopus’s suckers—specifically, the exposed disc-like portion called the infundibulum—the researchers designed an elastic, curved stalk with a membrane that can change its shape and adhere to multiple surfaces. Underwater, the octopus-inspired adhesive strongly attached to complex objects from lightweight shells to large rocks and soft gel beads with different roughness, curvature, and hardness. The adhesive could be rapidly attached to these objects over many cycles and over long times and then be quickly released on demand.

Novolex® is launching Power Prep™ bags and rolls for grab-and-go hot sandwiches and other premium to-go fare. Manufactured by Bagcraft®, a Novolex brand, the new multilayered bags and rolls keep foods at the height of flavor as they are wrapped, frozen, thawed, reheated and held under heat at the point of sale. The bags ensure customers can savor delicious hot sandwiches, bagels and other fare that were prepared, wrapped and frozen at another location. Designed for convenience stores, supermarkets and other foodservice operators, Power Prep bags and rolls help satisfy America's growing hunger for top-quality prepared food to-go. They join Power Prep wraps, introduced in 2023, as the latest innovation from Bagcraft to provide packaging choices for grab-and-go foods.

The facility is the largest and most advanced of its kind, marking a significant milestone in sustainable packaging technology. Production is set to begin in Q4 2024 after successful large-scale testing. The Skene production unit utilizes an innovative dry forming process to produce high-performance formed fiber products, such as cup lids, designed to replace traditional plastics in food and beverage packaging. Unlike conventional wet forming, the dry process reduces water and energy consumption significantly, thus offering an even more sustainable manufacturing method for fibre-based packaging. Additionally, any excess material is recaptured and reused, ensuring a circular process with minimal waste.

Mondi plc announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the German, Benelux and UK corrugated converting and solid board operations of Schumacher Packaging1(“the Acquisition”). This Acquisition will expand Mondi’s corrugated footprint in Western Europe and add complementary fibre-based products, focused on eCommerce and FMCG, to enhance its existing customer offering. The Acquisition comprises seven corrugated converting plants, two solid board mills and four solid board converting plants. These operations complement Mondi’s existing network of corrugated plants across Central and Eastern Europe, adding over 1 billion square meters of capacity when fully operational. Among the acquired sites are two state-of-the-art mega-box plants in Germany, located at Ebersdorf and Greven, which have best-in-class production speed and operational efficiency as well as a highly skilled workforce with a culture aligned with Mondi’s.

Governor Josh Shapiro announced a significant investment of $500,000 from the Commonwealth to support Flexopack USA Inc. in establishing its first American manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. This project will inject $33 million into the local economy and create at least 64 new, full-time jobs in Lebanon County. Based in Greece, Flexopack USA will construct a 107,000-square-foot, rail-served facility at 3010 Hanford Drive in North Lebanon Township, the first phase of a three-phase project. This initiative will expand the company’s packaging product manufacturing footprint into the United States, including its role as the primary packaging supplier for Pennsylvania-based poultry company Bell & Evans. "Pennsylvania is the best place in the country for businesses to grow, and I’m proud that Flexopack saw that when choosing the Commonwealth for its first U.S. manufacturing facility,” said Governor Shapiro. “I’m highly competitive, and I’m thrilled that our strong manufacturing and agriculture sectors helped us secure this project over Texas. We’re committed to making meaningful investments in our private sector to position Pennsylvania as an economic leader, create jobs, and bring manufacturing back to the United States.”

Stora Enso's innovative cartonboard solutions are transforming the packaging landscape and helping our customers reduce plastics in their products. Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica sought cartonboard that would mirror their customer’s sophisticated perfume with elevated and extraordinary packaging. By choosing Performa Brilliance™ as the packaging material, Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica was able to create an elegant packaging solution perfectly fit for the product. As a testament to this successful collaboration, Stora Enso and Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica were awarded Carton of the Year at the 2024 European Carton Excellence Awards. The European Carton Excellence Awards winner, the Origen Flor Natural cardboard case exemplifies sophisticated design by seamlessly blending elegant die-cutting with unmatched functionality -combining some of the innovative aspects that Stora Enso boards can offer. With Stora Enso material that is designed for high-end packaging applications, each carefully crafted detail enhances the unique consumer experience, reflecting the impeccable quality of the packaging.

UPM Raflatac is pleased to announce the launch of its new Packaging Recyclability Guide, designed to help fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) stakeholders across the packaging value chain navigate the complexities of packaging design and recyclability. The new guide, which is available as a free e-book on the company’s website here or as a downloadable pdf here, offers practical information on the guidelines, definitions and criteria to help make informed label choices that will enhance recyclability. With the emergence of the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and the focus on packaging circularity at this present time, mastering the intricacies of packaging sustainability and fortifying packaging solutions for the future has never been more essential. Although many companies have already made voluntary commitments to targets, such as using 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging, deciding the best way to achieve these goals can be challenging.

Hurricane Helene has made a significant impact in the Southeastern United States, including in the Carolinas where we have several operations. Our facilities in the area did not sustain major damage and are still able to ship product. While we are restoring full operations, we will be temporarily shifting some orders to other sites in our network to ensure we continue to meet your needs. Depending on your location, some customers might experience delivery delays. Trucks will have to take alternate routes as two major interstates in the area are closed due to significant flooding and resulting landslides.

Wilhelm Wolff (46), MSc, has been appointed as Executive Vice President, Strategy and Business Development and a member of Global Executive Team at Huhtamaki as of January 13, 2025. He will report to President and CEO Charles Héaulmé and will be based in Espoo, Finland. Wilhelm joins Huhtamaki from Neste where he served as the Vice President, Feedstock & Asset Development. Neste is a leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and renewable feedstock solutions, headquartered in Finland. Before his current role, he served as Vice President, Corporate Strategy. Prior to joining Neste, he had a long career at UPM-Kymmene, a global forest industry company, where he worked in various leadership roles including Vice President, Strategy & Business development, UPM Biorefining.

Pregis® expands its EasyPack® on-demand paper systems portfolio with three curbside-recyclable solutions that will be featured at Pack Expo 2024. These additions strengthen the comprehensive Pregis paper systems portfolio, which supports a wide range of in-the-box applications such as block and brace, cushioning, void fill, and wrapping. The company’s continued investment in paper-based solutions reinforces a commitment to sustainability by offering versatile systems designed for a wide range of applications. The on-demand Paper portfolio includes FSC® certified options, ensuring packaging is sourced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Each system is engineered to enhance packer productivity with safe, ergonomic designs that require minimal training. EasyPack Quantum Pro Void-Fill System: Launched in early 2024, the Quantum Pro enhances the proven Quantum platform with bladeless auto-tear technology and increased throughput, ideal for high-volume environments. It maintains the trusted performance, safety, reliability, and ease of use that customers expect. EasyPack Bantam Void-Fill System: Engineered for simplicity and efficiency, Bantam optimizes the packaging process with a streamlined design and a precise paper-cutting mechanism. The adjustable head allows quick reorientation and effortless loading, ensuring seamless in-the-box fulfillment. EasyPack GeoTerra Auto Dispenser: Building on the success of the manual GeoTerra dispenser, the new automatic model delivers a faster, more efficient solution tailored for high-volume operations. GeoTerra wrappable paper offers light cushioning and interleaving protection, while its aesthetic design enhances the unboxing experience.

Stora Enso is preparing to sell approximately 12% of its total forest assets of 1.4 million hectares in Sweden. Stora Enso has therefore initiated steps to implement a new legal structure for its Swedish forest assets to facilitate the potential sale. A potential transaction would be subject to agreeing terms and conditions with investors, including a long-term wood supply and forest management agreement. A sale would reduce debt and further strengthen Stora Enso’s balance sheet, confirming the financial value of the Company’s forest holdings.

Mondi has co-founded an alliance to improve the circularity of used paper bags in the construction industry. The Spain-based alliance, called Paper Sacks Go Circular Spain comprises of 12 European companies from the full value chain including Mondi. In Spain, construction waste accounts for more than 30% of the total waste generated, with a recovery rate of only 48% according to the latest report from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE). Paper Sacks Go Circular Spain is an alliance of companies that share a common interest in closing the loop and building a circular economy for paper bags in Spain. Starting with paper bags for construction materials, the coalition will look for synergies with other construction and demolition waste streams to increase volumes and achieve economies of scale.

Mactac® Engineered Tapes & Laminates announces the launch of two Macbond® industrial tape product lines — Macbond® 481 Series Tapes and Macbond LS55 Series Tapes. Macbond 481 Series Tapes have a high-performance, high-strength, UL-recognized acrylic adhesive that delivers excellent shear and ultimate bond to medium or high surface energy materials. The series offers high temperature performance and layflat release liners for easy converting. Macbond 481 Tapes are available in transfer or double-sided (sheet or roll) format with a 1-mil, 3-mil or 5-mil PET carrier. Macbond LS55 Series Tapes feature a high-tack acrylic adhesive with excellent temperature resistance. The tapes are available as 2-mil or 4-mil transfer adhesives and are accompanied with a 60# PCK release liner. The Macbond LS55 Series stands out for its superior performance on low surface energy materials or other difficult-to-adhere-to substrates, including foam.

Norske Skog Skogn is proud to announce that the company’s major conversion project from recycled paper to pure wood fiber is now yielding concrete results. As part of this initiative, Norske Skog Skogn is launching a new packaging product made from 100% fresh wood fiber. The product is certified for direct food contact and represents an important milestone in Norske Skog Skogn’s transformation toward sustainable solutions. “The launch of this new packaging product marks a major step in our sustainability strategy and our ability to adapt to market demands,” says Håvard Busklein, Managing Director of Norske Skog Skogn. “The use of pure, Nordic spruce fiber without plastic or chemical coatings gives us a competitive advantage, especially in a market increasingly demanding safer and more environmentally friendly options for food packaging.”

Aptar celebrated the capacity extension at its Congers, New York facility. This expansion supports the growing prescription and consumer healthcare customer demand for proprietary drug delivery systems in North America. Stephan Tanda, Aptar President and CEO, along with members of Aptar’s executive committee, welcomed Aptar employees, customers, government representatives and officials attending the ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the expansion of the state-of-the-art manufacturing site, which first began manufacturing in 2002. The building extension enhances warehousing, cleanroom and manufacturing capabilities onsite and adds an additional 28,500 sq. ft. of manufacturing footprint. The 160,000 square foot Congers facility employs approximately 350 people, supports 14 injection presses and 25 machines as well as eight ISO certified clean rooms.

Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards, has partnered with Finnish confectionery maker Kouvolan Lakritsi to create a new, reclosable liquorice mug made of fresh fibre paperboard. Inspired by paperboard cups, Metsä Board’s packaging design team developed the new paperboard mug with a heat-sealed transparent plastic film that keeps the liquorice fresh. Once opened, the reclosable paperboard cover effectively preserves the liquorice. The result is a durable, recyclable container that keeps Kouvolan Lakritsi’s famous liquorice fresh while making a strong visual impression on store shelves. The new packaging also addresses common consumer complaints about traditional plastic sweet pouches, such as easy tearing and stickiness, while reducing the use of plastic.

Pregis® has expanded its AirSpeed® Renew™ PCR portfolio made from 80% post-consumer recycled content in North America. The two new on-demand inflatable solutions underscore the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable, performance-driven packaging that supports the circular economy. By incorporating 80% PCR content the product line’s carbon footprint is reduced by over 40% compared to the same packaging made from virgin resin as measured by an internally conducted life cycle assessment. The AirSpeed® Renew™ PCR portfolio featuring 80% PCR expanded to include: *New AirSpeed® Double Cushion Renew™ PCR: Ideal for flexible void-fill applications, providing top, side and corner protection. Its compact double-cushion design fits tight spaces, delivering reliable protection without compromising durability. *New AirSpeed® Quilt Renew™ PCR: Featuring low-profile air transfer technology, this moldable solution is perfect for wrapping and void-fill, conforming to various shapes and sizes for secure product protection. *AirSpeed® Hybrid Cushioning (HC) Renew™ PCR: Launched in 2023, HC Renew PCR provides high-performance cushioning featuring a proprietary square-pattern design for enhanced shock absorption during transit.

Diversey, a Solenis company, has announced a strategic partnership with Synexis LLC to distribute Synexis’ cutting-edge Dry Hydrogen Peroxide (DHP®) technology to customers in the healthcare sector across the United States and Canada. Synexis’ patented DHP technology continuously reduces viruses, bacteria, mold and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in occupied spaces, providing a proactive approach to improving indoor air and surface quality. This innovative solution operates 24/7, offering continuous microbial reduction in real time.

With options for an ultimate adhesive bond to low, medium or high surface energy materials, the latest tape innovations feature ideal blends of adhesive properties to meet a variety of customer needs. “Mactac is committed to offering a diverse product portfolio to support our customers across all market segments,” said Janet Page, Business Unit Manager, Mactac Engineered Tapes & Laminates. “Our asset base and technologies allow us to offer a wider range of industrial tapes — making Mactac a true one-stop shop.” Macbond 481 Series Tapes have a high-performance, high-strength, UL-recognized acrylic adhesive that delivers excellent shear and ultimate bond to medium or high surface energy materials. The series offers high temperature performance and layflat release liners for easy converting. Macbond 481 Tapes are available in transfer or double-sided (sheet or roll) format with a 1-mil, 3-mil or 5-mil PET carrier. Macbond LS55 Series Tapes feature a high-tack acrylic adhesive with excellent temperature resistance. The tapes are available as 2-mil or 4-mil transfer adhesives and are accompanied with a 60# PCK release liner. The Macbond LS55 Series stands out for its superior performance on low surface energy materials or other difficult-to-adhere-to substrates, including foam.

Packaging designs crafted from Metsä Board’s paperboard have won three Gold Awards at the European Carton Excellence Awards 2024. The awards, hosted by Pro Carton and the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA), were announced on 19 September in Berlin, Germany. In addition to the Gold Awards, two entries made of Metsä Board paperboard were recognized for the Innovation and Public Award categories. “Producing highly challenging print and structures demands exceptional material quality, and the winning packaging concepts clearly demonstrate the versatility and premium quality of Metsä Board's folding boxboard grades,” says Neil Fox, VP Sales FBB EMEA at Metsä Board. “On behalf of Metsä Board, I’d like to congratulate all winners and recipients of the European Carton Excellence Awards 2024.”

Tetra Pak has collaborated with a leading company in the European juices, nectars and soft drinks markets to launch the new Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge beverage carton. This innovative portion package stands out on the shelf, with its distinct look and ergonomic design catering to the preference of modern consumers for taller, slimmer packaging. Research1 shows that, with buyers rethinking discretionary spending, a ‘less is more’ design approach is gaining in popularity, characterised by pared back simplicity. Designed for ease of use, the shape of the new paper-based carton package also makes it more comfortable to hold, particularly for smaller hands. Its wide opening ensures a steady flow for easy drinking, while its compact size makes it convenient for on-the-go consumption. Product wastage is minimised by combining the slanted top of the Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge carton with a DreamCap™ 26 Pro tethered closure. This helps to prevent litter too, as the cap stays attached to the package; therefore, it can be collected alongside the carton once consumers have enjoyed their drink and put the container in the correct bin for recycling.

Koehler Paper will be shining a spotlight on the circular economy at this year’s Fachpack trade fair in Nuremberg on September 24–26, 2024. Using its “NexFlex®” flexible packaging paper and “greenium” recycling paper as examples, the company will be demonstrating how it is already applying circular economy principles for the paper packaging sector at stand 310 in Hall 3A. In doing so, Koehler Paper is making a vital contribution to conserving resources. One priority when developing “NexFlex®” flexible packaging paper is to make sure that it is recyclable and offers outstanding product protection. The paper can then be recycled as part of a standard paper recycling process or reused. This is also certified by the Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS, Paper Technology Foundation) and environmental service provider Interzero. “With our flexible packaging paper for food and non-food applications, we offer future-proof products that are made from renewable raw materials and are well suited for recycling after use,” explains Christoph Wachter, Director of Flexible Packaging Paper at Koehler Paper.

Over the last three years, we’ve released a Sustainability Report that highlights the Sustainability Program’s initiatives, goals, and progress of Atlantic and A New Earth Project. It has become clear that our journey toward environmental sustainability is closely tied to health: planetary health of course, but also our health as humans. The oceans, lakes, and rivers we fight to keep clean are the same waters that sustain us. Our search for new and better materials for packaging has just as much to do with protecting human health as it does protecting the environment. For that reason, as we roll out our 2023-2024 report, we’re excited to expand it from being just a sustainability report to our first Healthy People, Healthy Planet Report. It covers environmental sustainability alongside our ever-growing Wellness Program that has become a cornerstone of our culture. It also covers the critical intersection of sustainability, wellness, and the initiatives we’re taking to weave these principles together.

Koehler Paper has launched a new high-quality product range specially for tea packaging, offering the perfect solution to high demand for organic tea and sustainable packaging alternatives on the tea market. The different types of flexible packaging paper cover a broad range of requirements—from good knurling and heat-sealing properties with or without a barrier function, for instance for high aroma pro-tection, to teabag wrapping and flow packs. Koehler Paper is showcasing the range at the Fachpack trade fair in Nuremberg from September 24–26, 2024 at stand 310 in Hall 3a. “Our flexible packaging paper has a lot of advantages: It is recyclable, offers top product protection, complies with food standards, and is highly compatible with tea packaging machines, offering the same efficiency and speed as plastic film,” explains Christoph Wachter, Director of Flexible Packaging Paper at Koehler Paper.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in August increased 12% compared to August 2023. They were up 12% when compared to the same 8 months of 2023. The operating rate for unbleached packaging papers was 90.7%, up 10.2 points from August 2023 and up 6.3 points year-to-date. Shipments of the biggest subgrade in bleached packaging papers - food wrapping - were 25,300 short tons for the month of August, down 0.5% from the same month last year and essentially flat year-to-date.

Pregis® invests in additional capacity with state-of-the-art, blown film lines across its facilities. This expansion enables Pregis to grow its sustainable, barrier and non-barrier film offerings to meet the growing demands from rigid to flexible packaging in food and consumer packaged goods (CPG). As the market continues to shift, it accelerates the need for flexible solutions that not only provide performance but support the circular economy. The Pregis Renew™ brand of sustainable sealant and print films provides optimal physical properties while also incorporating aspects such as recyclability and recycled content. Flexible solutions, compared to rigid alternatives, inherently create the potential to utilize fewer materials, which can contribute to lower material costs and require less space—both on and off the shelf. “We are constantly seeking ways to develop innovative, high-quality films that align with critical business and environmental goals,” said Bob Gargione, President at Pregis Performance Flexibles. “This investment will allow us to build on our vision of helping customers choose the responsible solution for both their company and the environment.”

We are excited to announce that our groundbreaking food packaging solution has been selected for the Cepi Bioeconomy Lab – an exhibition dedicated to showcase bio-based products that represent the future of sustainable, climate-friendly alternatives. The event gathers Europe’s most forward-thinking innovations, driving the transition to a circular bioeconomy. As the demand for convenience and ready-to-eat food increases, so does the need for environmentally responsible packaging. Our wood pulp-based trays, Nature by Rottneros, is sourced from sustainably managed Nordic forests, and offers a cutting-edge solution to reducing plastic in food packaging. With a barrier layer comprising less than 10% of the packaging’s total weight, we meet essential requirements while aligning with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Consumers can easily separate the fiber tray from the barrier liner, ensuring proper recycling.

Mondi is partnering with Welton, Bibby and Baron, a leading packaging supplier to the UK food and FMCG markets, to introduce recyclable paper-based bread bags to retail shelves. WBB is converting Mondi’s FunctionalBarrier Paper Reduce to create brown and white paper bags for different pre-packed fresh bread products. Mondi is producing the strong base kraft paper from responsibly sourced fibres and coats it in-house to ensure the final packaging’s essential barrier properties. FunctionalBarrier Paper Reduce is the thinnest paper possible in Mondi’s barrier paper range, offering the strength needed for higher filling weights while delivering superb food compliant protection against water vapour, grease and moisture. The final packaging keeps the bread fresh, soft and moist, while offering a recyclable alternative to the previous unrecyclable packaging.

Mid South Extrusion, a flexible film and bag manufacturer, announced it is investing $17 million at its facility in Ouachita Parish to install two new state-of-the-art blown film extrusion lines to support growing demand from customers. “Mid South Extrusion has driven economic activity and created opportunity in northeast Louisiana for nearly 40 years, and we are proud that they continue to grow in Louisiana,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “I thank MSE for its continued reinvestment and commitment to our state and best-in-class manufacturing workforce.” The additional lines will allow the company to increase production of polyethylene film, the thin, lightweight plastic sheeting that is used to seal and protect a wide variety of packaged industrial and consumer products. MSE serves customers in a wide array of sectors, including agriculture, consumer products, food and beverage, e-commerce and industrial applications.

Solenis, a leading producer of specialty chemicals, is collaborating with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, an innovative technology company with a leading position in the global printing industry, to advance a more cost-effective way of integrating barrier coatings for paper packaging directly within the existing flexographic printing process. Barrier coatings are used to repel hot and cold liquids, oils, greases, and water vapor in paper packaging. With this innovation, packaging producers can use the HEIDELBERG portfolio of flexographic machines to print-apply Solenis’ barrier coatings. This expands the possibilities for flat sheet paper and inline web-fed flexo applications with improved product performance and better production efficiency.

Inspired by the promise of responsible packaging for a brilliant future, Amcor’s flexibles and rigids businesses will come together to display packaging for retail, food service, healthcare, and industrial applications. Visitors will find Amcor in South Hall, booth #3705, at McCormick Place. Guided by Amcor’s packaging experts, visitors will experience innovation driven by operational efficiencies and consumer trends, such as convenience, generational preferences, and shelf appeal. Brands focused on improving their sustainability will find drop-in solutions for over 85% of Amcor’s product portfolio, ready to run today and meeting the performance needs that customers’ production environments demand.

Among the Trioworld trade fair highlights are a new packaging product development for wet wipes made from beverage carton recycling waste and PCR LDPE as well as hard-wearing with 70% recycled content. Trioworld acquired Wentus GmbH earlier this year, expanding the Trioworld product offering in the consumer and food packaging range and the company will have completed the official company name change to Trioworld Höxter GmbH in time for FACHPACK in Nuremberg on September 24-26 this year. The films under the brand name WENTOPRO® includes examples of how to save resources in the packaging process. These include, for example, the SkinTight® range of premium skin films for various applications such as fresh meat, fish or poultry. Overall, the films stand for lower energy consumption thanks to lower processing temperatures and less plastic used for the overall packaging.

Koehler Paper has added “Koehler NexPlus® Seal WVB” to its portfolio of innovative flexible packaging paper in the NexPlus® product line. “Koehler NexPlus® Seal WVB” is a heat-sealable paper which boasts a vapor barrier as its functional layer, thereby offering optimal product protection. The barrier paper is used as primary and secondary packaging and is suitable for a variety of food and non-food products. These include household items like dishwasher tabs, washing powder and bath tabs. “Koehler NexPlus® Seal WVB” is produced with a grammage of 75 gsm. Thanks to its outstanding strength properties, excellent sealability, and optimal runnability “Koehler NexPlus® Seal WVB” is ideally suited for processing on all conventional converting and packaging machines—particularly for gravure and flexographic printing. The barrier paper is made from 100-percent certified virgin fiber pulp, which means it is equally suitable for direct contact with food.

International Paper announced that its board of directors elected Andy Silvernail as Chairman of the International Paper Board of Directors in addition to his role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 1, 2024. Mark Sutton, who has continued to serve in the role of Chairman of the Board since retiring as CEO in May, will retire from the Board on September 30, 2024. International Paper Lead Director Chris Connor said, "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I'd like to thank Mark for his many years of service to IP and for his leadership as Chairman and CEO. During his tenure, he strengthened the company's balance sheet and focused the portfolio. He leaves behind a strong legacy, and we wish him and his family all the best."

Aptar Pharma announced that it has entered into an exclusive collaboration agreement with PULMOTREE to lead the development and promotion of their Kolibri™ Non-Propellant Liquid Inhaler (NPLI) platform. As part of the agreement, Aptar Pharma will provide PULMOTREE with their full support to accelerate growth, be the main point of contact for customers, and have the ability to complement the Kolibri™ NPLI Platform Technology with Aptar’s suite of comprehensive services. Non-Propellant Liquid Inhalers encompass nebulizers and soft-mist inhalers, and are being developed as an alternative to propellant-based systems. PULMOTREE’s Kolibri™ utilizes a robust breath-triggered Vibrating Mesh aerosolization engine with unique breath-guidance capabilities to enhance targeted lung deposition. The Kolibri™ technology is award-winning and incorporates advanced connectivity features.

Fred Stephan, previously President, Amcor Flexibles North America, has been appointed to the newly introduced role of Chief Operating Officer. Fred will report to the Chief Executive Officer and will be responsible for enhancing the Company’s ability to leverage and accelerate profitable growth opportunities across the global flexible packaging businesses, ensuring coordinated execution between business operations and commercial teams. David Clark, previously Amcor Vice President, Sustainability, has been appointed to the new Chief Sustainability Officer role. In this role David will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and have responsibility for Amcor’s sustainability strategies and policies, overseeing their implementation across the Company.

Mactac® will highlight its commitment to environmentally responsible innovation at Labelexpo Americas 2024, showcasing its Simply Sustainable® solutions. As a pressure-sensitive label industry leader, Mactac continues to push the boundaries of material design, manufacturing and reprocessing throughout the product life cycle. Attendees are invited to booth #143 to discover the latest recyclable plastic container labels, thinner release liners and post-consumer waste (PCW) labels that simplify recycling and enhance packaging sustainability. Among the Simply Sustainable® items Mactac will feature are: *APR®-recognized container labels *Thinner release liners *Post-Consumer Waste labelstocks

Pregis® launches the Pregis EasyPack® GeoTerra® Auto Dispenser to the North American Market. Engineered with a packer-centric focus, this new dispenser for GeoTerra paper-based packaging boosts productivity for businesses seeking efficient, wrappable solutions that support curbside recyclability. Building on the success of the manual GeoTerra dispenser launched in 2022, the new auto dispenser offers a faster, more streamlined solution for high-volume operations. GeoTerra paper continues to provide light-cushioning and interleaving protection, combined with an aesthetic design that elevates the unboxing experience. This makes it an ideal choice for e-commerce, home goods, beauty, nutraceuticals, and other consumer-product brands where product protection and presentation are paramount.

“We are excited to highlight our breadth of capabilities that enable us to collaborate, innovate, and most importantly, support our customers’ customers,” said Shae Hinman, Director of Sales, Americas, Mativ. “This collective display is a tremendous opportunity for us to show customers how our suite of solutions helps to connect, protect, and purify our world.” Mativ’s label solutions are aligned under the brands of Indafor, Itasa and Neenah and support a wide range of applications, including high performance labels that stand up to the harshest environments, disposable and efficient food rotation labels, premium image wine and spirit labels, and a broad array of release liner products that serve end markets such as hygiene, industrials and composites.

Sonoco Products Company announced that it has initiated a review of strategic alternatives for the Company’s Thermoformed & Flexible Packaging (“TFP”) business, a part of the Company’s Consumer Packaging segment. Exploring alternatives for the TFP business is expected to accelerate Sonoco’s portfolio simplification strategy, improve pro forma leverage and further increase shareholder value. Sonoco’s TFP is a market leading thermoformed and flexible packaging business serving a wide range of customers in food, retail and medical markets. TFP provides a variety of complex packaging to value-added categories including snacks, condiments, healthcare, prepared meals, fresh products and coffee and pet. On a pro forma standalone basis, TFP had revenue of $1.3 billion in 2023.