Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), the largest supplier and technology leader for the folding carton market, expects the segment to grow worldwide by more than two percent annually over the next few years. According to a study by the US market research institute Smithers, the total value of folding carton production will reach 160 billion US dollars by 2026. For HEIDELBERG, folding carton represents a strategic growth segment and already accounts for nearly half of the company’s sales. An important driver in the market is the growing environmental awareness of consumers, who are increasing their preference for more sustainable paperboard packaging over plastic.

First Quarter 2023 Highlights: • Reported sales grew 2% and core sales increased 4% driven by demand in Pharma and Beauty • Aptar Pharma reported sales growth of 4% and core sales growth of 7% • Aptar Beauty reported sales growth of 6% and core sales growth of 9% • Reported earnings per share decreased 12% to $0.82, due to restructuring charges • Operating cash flow was $98 million, up from $92 million in 2022

First Quarter Overview: *EBITDA growth of 13% to €579 million with an EBITDA margin of 19.3% *ROCE of 21.6% *Net Debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.2x *Finalised exit from Russian business. Tony Smurfit, Group CEO, commented: “Smurfit Kappa is reporting another strong performance for the first quarter with EBITDA of €579 million, an EBITDA margin of 19.3%, a ROCE of 21.6% and a net debt to EBITDA of 1.2x. This performance reflects the continuing benefits of our integrated model, the effectiveness of our capital spend, our constant focus on innovation for customers and our geographic footprint.

Together with Nissha Metallizing Solutions, Koehler Paper has developed a premium product and is expanding its offerings in the NexPlus® group of innovative flexible packaging paper products. With its excellent oxygen, grease, and mineral oil barrier properties, the product is suitable for metallizing, making it perfect not only for packaging for food such as chips, energy bars, energy powders, and coffee, but also for non-food products such as cosmetics in powder or solid form. The extremely thin metallized vacuum coating ensures recyclability and contributes to a sustainable circular economy. The Paper is made 100% with virgin fiber pulp from certified sustainable forestry and controlled sources and that is designed to be recyclable in conformity with the latest testing methods. In comparison to conventional plastic packaging, the flexible packaging paper reduces carbon footprints significantly and contributes to a sustainable circular economy.

Mondi has created Protector Bag ExpandForm, a paperbag solution with an expandable feature to safely rollpack mattresses. Protector Bag ExpandForm replaces the current plastic packaging with a flexible and recyclable alternative. The solution is also customisable and can expand to different sizes while holding the mattress securely. The packaging is made with Mondi’s kraft paper, which is responsibly sourced and renewable, and can be recycled contributing to a circular economy. The paper bag is puncture resistant and suitable for printing, meaning brands can customise their deliveries with a high-quality finish. Unlike plastic, the paper layers are also breathable and can emit gas that can evaporate easily with this new packaging.

Leading global packaging solutions company, Huhtamaki has redefined the possible by using science to develop groundbreaking mono-material technology. Its innovative and sustainable flexible packaging, in Paper, PE and PP Retort, is transformational and meets the demands of both its customers and their consumers. Announcing its game-changing innovation, Dr. Marco Hilty, President of Flexible Packaging at Huhtamaki outlined its importance: “What we’ve done, quite simply, is to redesign the future of flexible packaging by setting new industry standards in mono-material solutions. These blueloopTM innovations are both unique to Huhtamaki and transformational. They simultaneously deliver recyclability, with no compromise in either product protection or affordability. This is the power of three. “These at-scale innovations will support our customers reach the commitments many of them have made, including to use only recyclable, compostable or reusable packaging by 2025 and align with the direction of future policy, both in the EU and globally."

Q1 2023 in brief • Net sales stable at EUR 1,047 million (EUR 1,050 million) • Comparable net sales growth was 2% at Group level and 0% in emerging markets • The impact of currency movements was EUR -0 million on the Group’s net sales and EUR 1 million on EBIT

January–March 2023 (compared to 1–3/2022) • Sales were EUR 542.1 million (582.0). • The comparable operating result was EUR 88.7 million 121.5), or 16.4% of sales (20.9). Operating result was EUR 88.4 million (140.7). • Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.19 (0.26), and earnings per share were EUR 0.19 (0.31). • Comparable return on capital employed was 13.9 % (21.1). • Net cash flow from operations was EUR 126.4 million (92.6).

*First quarter net earnings (loss) of $172 million ($0.49 per diluted share) *Building a Better IP initiatives delivered $65 million of incremental year-over-year earnings benefit in the first quarter 2023 *First quarter cash provided by operations of $345 million; First quarter free cash flow of $4 million included a $193 million final payment to the IRS for the timber monetization restructuring settlement *Returned $319 million to shareholders through $157 million share repurchases and $162 million in dividends in the first quarter 2023

This report was prepared in reference to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Containers and Packaging 2018 Sustainability Accounting Standard. Recent achievements highlighted in the report include: *Reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 0.7% in 2022 excluding the acquisition of Sonoco Metal Packaging, and reducing emissions intensity (tCO2e / thousand $ revenue) by 20% *Joining the United Nations (UN) Global Compact to advance support for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and Ten Principles Compact *Discontinuing the use of virgin pulp in mill operations with the completion of Project Horizon; all mills now utilize 100% recycled fiber *Conducting water risk studies at 100% of our paper mills using the World Resource Institute (WRI) assessment; building future improvement plans based on findings *Investing in renewable energy through one completed and three additionally approved solar installations projects *Further expanding our Envirosense® portfolio of more sustainable packaging with new paper-based flexible packaging offerings, which supports our customers’ sustainability goals

Sealed Air and Koenig & Bauer AG announced they have signed a non-binding letter of intent to expand their strategic partnership for digital printing machines. The partnership aims to significantly improve packaging design capabilities by developing state-of-the art digital printing technology, equipment, and services. Solutions developed by SEE and Koenig & Bauer will scale and deliver digitally printed materials dramatically faster, enabling brand owners to promote products by connecting with consumers through a digitally enhanced package. The Koenig & Bauer RotaJET-series of digital printing presses will feature SEE’s prismiq™ intellectual property, software and hardware. By accelerating the digitalization of printing platforms, both companies will drive expansion of their portfolio of solutions. The partnership will expand market opportunities for both companies and result in co-branded digital printing presses.

With the packaging industry preparing to meet EU recyclability targets, the demand for innovative and sustainable solutions is growing fast. In a recent co-creation project with SN Maschinenbau GmbH, a leading manufacturer of horizontal pouch-packaging machines, UPM Specialty Papers tested a range of heat-sealable barrier papers on SN Maschinenbau’s packaging machines. The goal was to create a recyclable, renewable, fibre-based pouch ideal for dry, frozen, and greasy foods. The sample will be displayed at Interpack 2023. As a world-leading manufacturer of packaging machinery, SN Maschinenbau seeks to deliver the best pouch packaging technology to its customers. In the light of current trends, this includes the capability to produce and process the recyclable and renewable packaging materials that customers are looking for. Working closely with partners, SN Maschinenbau is searching for new types of materials that, at best, can be seamlessly integrated into existing pouch packaging machinery.

Cascades announces an important repositioning of its Tissue Papers platform to enhance the performance of the business. The Company will simplify operations by concentrating the majority of its tissue product operating activities at core, geographically well-positioned sites that offer opportunities for future development. These changes will reduce costs, create synergies and significantly improve the Tissue Group’s financial, operational and environmental performance. This decision will not affect the level of service Cascades provides to its customers. Beginning in July 2023, Cascades will progressively close its underperforming plants in Barnwell, South Carolina, and Scappoose, Oregon, as well as the virgin paper tissue machine at its St. Helens plant, also in Oregon. The equipment slated for closure, which have a combined total annual rated capacity of 92,000 short tons of tissue paper and 10 million cases of converted product, have been operating below capacity producing 56,000 short tons of tissue paper and 5 million cases of converted product in 2022, mostly on the West coast. A portion of this production will be absorbed by open capacity at our other facilities and by the increase in productivity at our sites, particularly in the United States. Cascades has the option to evaluate the possibility of redeploying the seven conversion lines impacted by this decision to other sites at a later date.

Net sales were $1.8 billion in the first quarter of 2023, up compared to $1.7 billion in the prior year period primarily due to higher selling prices. Sales volume (in tons) was down 8 percent which was partially offset by favorable change in mix. Approximately 3 to 4 percent of the volume decline was attributed to a challenging prior year comparison (up 6.4 percent) amid record low inventories and disruption from temporary external events impacted volumes around 2 percent. Overall, the company estimates underlying market demand was down approximately 2 to 3 percent primarily due to inventory destocking across the supply chain and softer consumer demand in a few markets given macroeconomic uncertainty. Earnings before income taxes were $270 million in the first quarter of 2023, up $100 million compared to the prior year quarter. Likewise, segment operating profit was $398 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $231 million in the prior year period.

Packaging and speciality paper manufacturer Sappi Europe has invested a double-digit million euro sum in a new plant to produce innovative high-barrier papers – including an all-new type of barrier coating machine. Recently put into operation at the company’s Alfeld site in Germany, the in-house solution will produce high-barrier papers for recyclable packaging for food and non-food applications. Sappi draws on far-reaching expertise in paper-coating technology. For more than 10 years, the company has been producing a wide range of packaging papers that feature integrated barriers against oxygen, grease, water vapour, mineral oil and aromas, at the same time as providing excellent protection for packaged products. At a time when the packaging industry faces steadily increasing demand – from consumers, the retail sector and legislators – to offer sustainable materials and processes, Sappi’s long-standing commitment to paper-based, recyclable flexible packaging solutions meets this megatrend for more sustainable packaging solutions.

Mondi is investing in innovative technologies to increase FunctionalBarrier Paper capacity in order to meet the growing demand for sustainable paper-based packaging solutions. Mondi's range of FunctionalBarrier Paper offers tailored barrier properties that reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging, supporting the development of a circular economy. The range is being supported with an investment in a new extruder at Mondi Coating Štetí (Czech Republic). This will comprise the construction of a production building which will house state-of-the-art machinery such as an extrusion coater and a slitting machine. Production is expected to start in 2024.

Eco-Products® is launching its newest line of sustainable products, compostable cutlery made from Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC)® certified birch wood complete with a unique, user-friendly design. The new wooden spoons, forks and knives feature a ridge in the handle for a stronger grip and extra durability. The utensils have CMA-S (Substrate Acceptance) from the Composting Manufacturing Alliance (CMA). “This new wooden cutlery is a significant addition to our GreenStripe® line,” said Wendell Simonson, Director of Marketing for Eco-Products. “Fiber-only alternatives are becoming increasingly popular, and now there is an offering that doesn’t require foodservice operators to sacrifice on design or performance.” The wood cutlery includes 6.5-inch knives, forks and spoons that are perfect for both hot and cold foods. They’re now available bulk unwrapped as well as individually wrapped or wrapped as part of a kit.

Trayforma BarrPeel by Stora Enso is a new, easy-peeling board material for vacuum skin packs enabling packaging fresh food on recyclable paperboard trays. Trayforma BarrPeel supports brand owners’ sustainability ambitions by reducing plastic to less than 10% of the tray. Trayforma BarrPeel by Stora Enso is a sustainable barrier-coated paperboard material for pressed trays -- an ideal solution for vacuum packaging cold cuts, single portion meats, fish, and cheese. It consists of 90% renewable wood fibers, keeping plastic usage to a minimum and significantly reducing the packaging’s carbon footprint. Vacuum-sealed skin packaging extends the shelf life of fresh food, thus limiting environmental impact by preventing food waste.

In addition to various flexible packaging papers for the food sector, with Koehler NexPlus® Seal Pure Koehler Paper is offering a sustainable packaging option for products where no additional barriers are required: These include screws, electronic components and parts, processors, and LEDs—with Koehler NexPlus® Seal Pure in grammages of 35, 40, 45, 65 or 80 g/m², products are equipped with tear-resistant, sturdy, and sustainable packaging. Like all other Koehler NexPlus® paper, Koehler NexPlus® Seal Pure is also heat-sealable, and its strength properties make it very well suited for further processing on all commercially available packaging machines.

Packaging Corporation of America reported first quarter 2023 net income of $190 million, or $2.11 per share, and net income of $198 million, or $2.20 per share, excluding special items. First quarter net sales were $2.0 billion in 2023 and $2.1 billion in 2022. Reported earnings in the first quarter of 2023 include special items primarily for closure costs related to corrugated products facilities and design centers. Excluding special items, the ($.52) per share decrease in first quarter 2023 earnings compared to the first quarter of 2022 was driven primarily by lower volumes in the Packaging ($.95) and Paper ($.04) segments, higher operating costs ($.27), higher depreciation expense ($.11), higher freight and logistics expenses ($.04), higher non-operating pension expense ($.04), and higher converting costs ($.02).

Net sales in the first quarter were $2,974 million compared to $3,162 million in the first quarter of 2022 reflecting higher beverage can volumes in Americas Beverage, offset by lower volumes across most other businesses, the pass through of approximately $100 million in lower steel and aluminum costs and unfavorable foreign currency translation of $36 million. Income from operations was $269 million in the first quarter compared to $344 million in the first quarter of 2022. Segment income in the first quarter of 2023 was $320 million compared to $383 million in the prior year first quarter as benefits from the contractual recovery of prior years' inflationary cost increases in European Beverage and cost reduction initiatives in Transit Packaging were offset by $60 million of year over year inventory impact of steel repricing in the Other segment and lower volumes.

The consolidated sales of the Group increased by EUR 61.7 million or 5.8% to EUR 1,122.1 million (Q1 2022: EUR 1,060.4 million). This growth is mainly due to the acquisition of the MM Packaging division. At EUR 61.6 million, the operating result was EUR 49.5 million below the comparative figure for the previous year (Q1 2022: EUR 111.1 million). This decline is mainly due to downtimes in the MM Board & Paper division due to market and remodeling and restructuring expenses of EUR 15.5 million in the packaging division. The Group's operating margin was therefore 5.5% (Q1 2022: 10.5%).

• Sales decreased by 3% to EUR 2,721 (2,798) million. • Operational EBIT decreased by 53% to EUR 234 (503) million. • Operational EBIT margin decreased to 8.6% (18.0%). • Operating profit (IFRS) decreased to EUR 258 (394) million. • Cash flow from operations amounted to EUR 254 (403) million. Cash flow after investing activities was EUR 1 (224) million. Key highlights: • The acquisition of the Dutch De Jong Packaging Group was completed on 6 January 2023. • The Paper division was discontinued as of 1 January • The plan to divest of the Beihai site in China is proceeding according to plan. • The consumer board investment at the Oulu site in Finland is moving ahead according to schedule. Construction estimated to start during 2024, start of production expected during 2025.

First quarter sales of $5.2 billion increased 2 percent, with organic sales up 5 percent, driven by a 10 percent increase in price and favorable product mix from ongoing revenue growth management programs offset by a 5 percent decrease in volume. In North America, sales increased 5 percent over last year, including increases of 2 percent in Personal Care, 5 percent in Consumer Tissue and 12 percent in K-C Professional. Outside North America, organic sales were up 4 percent in developing and emerging (D&E) markets and 10 percent in developed markets (Australia, South Korea and Western/Central Europe). Gross margin improved by 340 basis points to 33.2 percent, with higher net revenue realization and cost savings offsetting higher input costs of $160 million. First quarter operating profit was $787 million compared to $693 million last year, resulting in an operating margin of 15.1 percent, an increase of 150 basis points.

Michigan State University celebrated the opening of the newly renovated MSU School of Packaging building on April 20, following a fundraising campaign that raised more than $10 million. “This significant expansion of our facilities, enabled by the generosity of donors and stakeholders, will reinforce MSU’s longstanding leadership in packaging education,” said MSU Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D. “These improvements anchor our commitment to the excellence of our School of Packaging and will help us prepare the next generation of leaders in packaging science.” Established in 1952, the MSU School of Packaging was the first school of packaging in the United States and now is the largest packaging program in the country, with over 600 undergraduate and graduate students.

UPM Specialty Papers’ heat-sealable barrier papers have achieved excellent results in tests carried out with Koenig & Bauer's next generation of inkjet digital printing technology. This is good news for brand owners and converters interested in surpassing the limitations of conventional printing methods in order to accelerate time to market or to create more customized packaging. With the ability to change designs simply by updating a file, digital printing opens new possibilities for brand owners and converters – from accelerating time to market through to creating more customized packaging. The goal was to test and optimize the compatibility of digital printing for UPM Specialty Papers’ barrier papers for digital printing, as it would offer a powerful combination for transforming how flexibly even small batches of packages can be produced.

Georgia-Pacific is making significant investments, totaling more than $50 million, at its Port Hudson mill in Zachary, Louisiana. The investments will greatly enhance the company’s retail consumer towel business. Investments to the Port Hudson mill include upgrades to increase capacity and improve capability of existing converting equipment and enhance internal infrastructure. Construction has begun, with startup of the lines scheduled for some time in mid-2023. “This truly is an investment in our customers and consumers who value the quality of our products,” said Vivek Joshi, president of the retail tissue, towel and napkin business for Georgia-Pacific.

Amcor is proud to partner again with Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized global protein leader, to launch a more sustainable package for consumer products. The partnership of Amcor and Tyson Foods pairs two industry leaders in sustainability to innovate a first-to-market solution that provides a more sustainable package without compromise on performance. Tyson Foods’ Jimmy Dean® egg bites and frittatas are now packaged in Amcor’s AmPrima™ recycle ready forming/non-forming flexible film. The design and development of the package addresses more than sustainability needs; Amcor R&D led the development of a cost-efficient outcome that was achieved through customization of the film. Compared to a typical, less-sustainable film, Amcor’s AmPrima™ recycle ready forming/non-forming film delivers, when sent to landfill: 30%* reduction in non-renewable primary energy demands, 29%* reduction in carbon footprint, 42%* reduction in water consumption

DS Smith, the leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, today announced an ambitious upgrade program to its kraft paper mill in Viana, Portugal. A multiyear €145M package of investments will bring some of the most up to date paper-making machinery to Viana, rebuilding the mills paper machine and reducing CO2 emissions. Marking the company’s commitment to both growth and the circular economy in Portugal, the investment package will include the rebuild of the existing paper machine and a brand-new state of the art recovery boiler which will be one of the most modern in Europe. The boiler will improve environmental performance by enhancing steam efficiency at the mill by 25%, with steam from the boiler being recycled back into the mill. The start-up of the new boiler, provided by market leader Valmet, is expected to be in early 2025.

Tetra Pak has made new advancements in the area of recycled content, expanding its offering of packaging solutions using certified recycled polymers to cover new formats, product categories and geographies. The expansion is a key milestone in the company’s journey towards a circular portfolio, turning waste into new resources, and reducing the industry’s dependence on virgin, fossil-based materials. It comes at a pivotal moment, aligning with the recently released European Commission’s proposal for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.2 Fossil-based plastic production is set to increase by 10.8% between 2021 and 20253. At the same time, 86% of shoppers are concerned about the usage of plastic and its impact on the environment, and believe that using recycled plastic is one of the best ways to tackle this challenge4. They have also started to act on it, increasingly choosing to buy products or packages with recycled material in the last year.5

At Georgia-Pacific, we know that natural resources are entrusted to our care and we are proud to make products that customers and consumers need in a responsible and sustainable way. This Earth Day, we are highlighting our investments in one of our many innovative and sustainable solutions – recyclable padded mailers. The growing customer and consumer demand for sustainable and efficient packaging drove our innovation efforts for producing packaging that could be recycled. Our EarthKraft™ mailers are made from 100% legally and responsibly sourced wood and are a paper-based alternative to plastic poly and bubble-padded mailers. As of 2022, over half a billion mailers have successfully been shipped and are on track to reach over one billion in 2023. EarthKraft™ mailers are SFI ® Certified which means we follow forestry best management practices to protect the land, habitat, and drinking water. Not only do our mailers create less waste, they also have a 96% re-pulpability rate which means they can be turned into more mailers (or even boxes).

“In a world where customers want things faster, simpler, eco-friendly and with greater value, we have the solution – Industry leading high speed tool-less technology. Our high speed digital printing technology increases the ease, speed, and flexibility of executing high graphic programs, while using eco-friendly water based inks. Coupled with our state of the art laser cutting technology, we are delivering the industry’s fastest print to order platform. This production strategy eliminates pre-press and plate costs, greatly accelerates speed to market, and gives our customers a competitive marketplace advantage.” – Anthony Pratt, Global Executive Chairman, Pratt Industries. See video at: https://innovations.prattindustries.com/industry-leading-digital-print-technology

Do you find yourself ordering items online these days? We’ve got a sustainable packaging solution for that! In 60-seconds, see how we transform kraft paper into recyclable padded mailers that arrive at your door. Watch the video at: https://news.gp.com/2023/04/how-we-make-mailers

O-I Glass, Inc. broke ground for a state-of-the-art greenfield glass plant in Bowling Green, KY. The facility is the first O-I facility purpose-built to leverage the company’s MAGMA technology. The groundbreaking event, attended by O-I CEO, Andres Lopez, KY Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, and a host of company and regional dignitaries, marks the beginning of a multi-phase investment of up to $240 million to enable the continued development of the company’s revolutionary MAGMA technology, while providing an unprecedented level of service to our customers and local market. MAGMA technology is designed for flexible, modular glass production and can reduce the environmental footprint of glass production. Facilities built for MAGMA will feature a smaller melter and will be constructed using more sustainable methods and materials. MAGMA technology will enable advanced technologies, including ULTRA light-weighting potential, on-off capability, and can include feed-forward and feed-back control loops to promote premium quality glass.

Berry Global Group, Inc. has begun expanding one of its leading stretch film manufacturing facilities in Lewisburg, Tennessee for completion by early 2024. The 25,000 square foot expansion will support the growing demand for Berry’s highest performing, sustainable stretch films by creating space for three new cast lines, upgrading the capacity of the facilities existing post-industrial resin (PIR) reprocessing system, and extending its rail spur for resin material handling. In coordination of the expansion, Berry will add ten new jobs in the Lewisburg facility. “The ability to access innovative, sustainable film solutions is critical for our customers as they work to drive progress toward a circular, net-zero economy,” said Phil Stolz, EVP and General Manager, Performance Materials for Berry. "Expanding our Lewisburg facility will allow us to optimize the facility to help our films customers deliver against their ambitious sustainability goals.” Through collaboration with its OEM supplier, Berry will complete the installation of one cast line to support 20 million pounds of added capacity for ultra-high-performance films.

Construction is scheduled to begin soon on a $91 million upgrade at Georgia-Pacific’s containerboard mill in Monticello, Mississippi. It's one of the company’s largest investments in the Lawrence County facility. The project consists of replacing the log line, which includes scales, cranes, a rechipper, unbinding racks and other critical equipment needed to safely unload trucks and prepare logs and chips for processing into pulp. “This project will create long-term value and improve our capabilities as we work to become the best manufacturer in the industry,” said Drexel Lambert, vice president for Georgia-Pacific containerboard operations.

Working closely with partners from across the food packaging value network, UPM Specialty Papers is co-creating transformative solutions that reimagine the future of sustainable packaging. A long-standing relationship with Henkel, a worldwide leader in industrial and consumer businesses, has now resulted in a recyclable, heat-sealable packaging material compatible with existing packaging lines. Pushing the performance of barrier papers to an unsurpassed level of grease resistance, it offers a tried and tested concept for converters. The plastic coating traditionally required for protection and heat-sealing renders the final product difficult to recycle. Inspired by a shared focus on creating sustainable alternatives, UPM Specialty Papers and Henkel have reinvented the concept to help brand owners and converters meet ever growing consumer and regulatory demands for easy to recycle packaging.

UPM Raflatac is expanding its wash-off portfolio with new paper label materials that enhance the recycling of PET and HDPE. The label materials have received European certifications of recyclability from Institut cyclos-HTP for PET and HDPE packaging, and they are part of UPM Raflatac’s SmartCircle™ portfolio. “We are determined to develop solutions for circularity. While plastics have remarkable features to keep valuable content safe until consumption, we also seek ways to increase the share of certified renewable materials in the packaging that go beyond fossils. Now, in addition to our multiple plastic wash-off solutions, we are excited to expand the offer into sustainably sourced paper labels. These innovations enable high-quality recycled PET and HDPE flakes to be used again as the label material separates cleanly in the recycling process,” says Sylwia Jurys, Vice President, Paper Laminates SBU EMEIA, UPM Raflatac.

Novolex®, a leader in packaging choice, innovation and sustainability, is introducing Power Prep™ wrap for grab-and-go hot sandwiches and other freshly made foods. Manufactured by Novolex brand Bagcraft®, the new wrap is laminated and insulated to keep food tasting fresh as it moves from the freezer to thawing and re-heating, and while it’s held under heat at the point of sale. This allows customers to enjoy a delicious hot sandwich that was made and wrapped off site. Power Prep wrap is ideal for convenience stores, supermarkets and other foodservice operators, catering to the growing demand for high-quality, freshly made offerings.

Amcor has placed its first commercial order of certified-circular polymers leveraging ExxonMobil’s ExxtendTM technology for advanced recycling for use in packaging for the Australian and New Zealand market. The order will make Amcor the first flexible packaging company to offer certified-circular plastics in this market, which supports partial displacement of fossil-based feedstock and meets growing consumer demand for plastic circularity. Using its ExxtendTM technology, ExxonMobil offers certified-circular polymers with the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS certification that are identical to polymers made from conventional fossil feedstock. The certified-circular polymers can be used in existing applications, that otherwise require the use of virgin resins.

Mondi is investing in innovative technologies to increase FunctionalBarrier Paper capacity in order to meet the growing demand for sustainable paper-based packaging solutions. Mondi's range of FunctionalBarrier Paper offers tailored barrier properties that reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging, supporting the development of a circular economy. The range is being supported with an investment in a new extruder at Mondi Coating Štĕtí (Czech Republic). This will comprise the construction of a production building which will house state-of-the-art machinery such as an extrusion coater and a slitting machine. Production is expected to start in 2024. In addition, investment is currently underway at Mondi Jülich (Germany) with the rebuild of an existing coater. Two new dispersion coating stations will improve barrier properties by ensuring good coverage on the base paper.

Pregis proudly showcased its packaging innovations to 50,000 industry professionals at ProMat 2023, the largest material handling, logistics, and supply chain show in the world. Coming out of the event, three critical packaging trends will add tremendous value to company fulfillment operations. Automation - E-commerce demand is raising volumes in warehouses, and to keep up, companies have no choice but to implement automation. This technology is being integrated more often, and the runway for an ROI is shorter than ever. Recyclability and Recycled Content - Protective packaging is being truly engineered with the environment in mind. Businesses, and their customers, are increasingly supporting a circular economy. Customer Experience - Protecting goods from the rigors of shipping continues to be a main proponent of customer experience, but as the world continues to lean towards direct-to-consumer offerings, companies are looking for more ways to stand out.

UPM Specialty Papers is excited to announce that the breakthrough oneBARRIER FibreCycle structure will be on display at Interpack 2023. This innovative high-barrier packaging provides a sustainable, recyclable, paper-based alternative to the multi-laminate plastic structures commonly used for long shelf-life products. Just as importantly, it can be recycled in existing fibre recycling streams. oneBARRIER FiberCycle represents the kind of packaging the world needs right now, enabling brand owners to reduce their reliance on fossil-based or non-recyclable materials, increase their use of renewable materials, and meet their sustainability targets. Working closely with leading experts across the world, UPM Specialty Papers is co-creating a more sustainable future through fibre-based, recyclable packaging materials. oneBARRIER FiberCycle is the result of a multi-year project in partnership with BOBST, one of the leading suppliers of substrate processing, printing and converting machinery, and Michelman, a developer of high barrier water-based coatings for packaging applications. By uniting their expertise from across the food packaging value chain, the group set out to create a recyclable paper-based packaging solution for foods with a long shelf-life. UPM Solide LucentTM offered an ideal basis for the development work. As a dense, smooth, and strong base paper, it is ideal for lightweight and uniform coatings. BOBST supplied the AluBond technology – an aluminium coating one-thousandth the thickness of a human hair and Michelman was responsible for the integrated coating system that provides priming, barrier properties and heat seal. Together these solutions have proved to be a powerful combination, resulting in a transformative approach to safeguarding food products with a long shelf-life, such as coffee, instant soup and sauce powder packets, spices, or milk powders.

Cushioning is an essential part of protecting fragile goods from shock and vibration. That’s why for many decades, plastic foams have been used as a versatile and cost-effective solution. However plastic based foams are problematic. If they leak out to nature the material is inert and will not degrade. Furthermore, plastic foams are generally made from finite sources, mainly crude oil, which leads to a release of fossil carbon at its end of life. To turn these challenges into a thing of the past, Stora Enso has developed a lightweight, paper-based foam for protection and cushioning in packaging. Here are three key reasons why Papira® by Stora Enso is better than conventional plastic foams. 1. A bio-based product - Plastic foams used in cushioning today are mainly made of crude oil, resulting in a product with a high carbon footprint over its lifetime and other environmental issues. 2. Recyclable in the paper stream - Even though plastic foams such as expanded polystyrene or polyethylene foams are lightweight and handy, recycling them is difficult. Paper-based Papira® by Stora Enso is designed for recycling in paper or carton streams. 3. Biodegradable and compostable - As a material, Papira® is designed to be biodegradable. Therefore, it does not become waste or pollution even if not recycled properly.

In connection with the start-up last week of containerboard production at Norske Skog Bruck, we invite press, investors and other interested parties to the official opening ceremony of our new containerboard machine at the Bruck industrial site on 22 June. Norske Skog Bruck started its containerboard production last week, introducing 210 000 tonnes of competitive testliner and fluting capacity to meet the growing demand for renewable packaging. The production is based 100% on recycled fibre and will use steam from the new waste-to-energy plant, which opened in April 2022. Norske Skog Bruck will start to deliver containerboard to customers in the second quarter. Full production utilisation of 95% is expected in the second half of 2025.

Sonoco announces that the high barrier paper-based structure, EnviroFlex® Paper Ultimate (ULT) 1.0, has received How2Recycle® pre-qualification and has met all requirements of the Fibre Box Association’s Voluntary Standard for Repulping and Recycling. This pre-qualification comes as a result of Sonoco’s ongoing efforts to develop innovative, sustainable packaging solutions. EnviroFlex Paper ULT 1.0 is a superior oxygen, moisture, and grease barrier packaging solution available in various formats, including rollstock, heat/cold seal, sachets, and pre-made pouches. EnviroFlex Paper ULT 1.0 provides exceptional protection and preservation for perishable items, such as baked goods, confections, pet treats, salty snacks and powdered beverages, while being curbside recyclable. Sonoco understands the importance of providing safe and non-toxic materials in convenient formats. Therefore, the company has gone above and beyond to develop EnviroFlex Paper ULT 1.0 and a host of other paper-based structures without the use of chemicals of concern, such as PFAS and PVDC.

Ox Industries is increasing efficiency and production capacity with a $5 million investment in new high-speed converting lines across multiple facilities. This sophisticated technology will positively impact the productivity of Ox Industries’ vertically integrated tube and core and protective packaging plants and seamlessly merge with current operations and Ox-owned URB (uncoated recycled paperboard) mill network. Each converting line will have the most innovative automatic roll handling and finished product packaging technology to improve ergonomics, decrease on-the-job injuries, increase productivity, and enhance quality control. “We embrace continuous investment that pairs with our efficiency and employee safety values. This equipment will highlight our recent acquisitions while giving us a broader footprint to serve our customers,” said Ox Industries CEO Kevin Hayward.

Amcor announced that it has earned a Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) Silver Achievement Award for its AmPrima™ PE Plus recycle-ready pouch for Lahli™ Morning Protein Bites. The pouch features Amcor’s AmPrima™ PE Plus recycle-ready film: *AmPrima™ solutions employ a variety of technologies, including proprietary techniques unavailable elsewhere, to deliver recycle-ready alternatives with no compromise on performance. *The AmPrima™ PE Plus material matches the clarity, stiffness, heat resistance, surface energy and abuse resistance of the unrecyclable incumbent film. *To aid recycling efforts, the pouch carries a How2Recycle® label for the PE stream, clearly communicating store drop-off recycling instructions.

TC Transcontinental Packaging is pleased to announce that it has been recognized with the prestigious Gold award in the Shelf Impact category for manufacturing the Procter & Gamble’s Gillette Slate Resealable Razor Pouches at the 2023 Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards. Additionally, TC Transcontinental Packaging took home two Silver awards; one in the Shelf Impact category for the San Pellegrino Essenza Sparkling Water 24-case collation shrink film which includes 33% of PCR (post post-consumer recycled) content, and one in the Printing category for the Whole Foods Baking Mix Flat Bottom Pouches. “We are proud to win FPA’s “Shelf Impact” and “Printing” awards and to be recognized by the industry for our team’s technical expertise,” said Thomas Morin, President Transcontinental Packaging. “At TC Transcontinental Packaging we value the trust our customers place in us, and every TC employee strives to deliver flexible packaging solutions especially for them. We acknowledge the critical role our packaging plays in annunciating their brand message and connecting with the consumer. To do so we bring high-end technology, sustainable solutions, expertise, and passion to support our customer’s success in the market today.”

In the movement to create more eco-friendly packaging, brand owners are seeking additional assurances their suppliers are providing safe and sustainable solutions that meet both packaging and consumer demands. To exceed these expectations, Ahlstrom is pleased to announce Cristal® Transparent Packaging Papers have met ChemFORWARD’s rigorous evaluation of human and environmental criteria for safer alternatives through the organization’s SAFER™ program. Cristal® transparent papers are ideal alternatives to non-renewable materials, from replacing a plastic or film in a package to creating a fully fiber-based end-use structure. “The use of transparent paper in packaging enables the food and ecommerce industries to effectively convey a value of trust in customers’ minds,” explained Guillaume Latourrette, Global Vice President of Food Packaging for Ahlstrom. “The strong sustainable attributes Cristal® already addressed as a natural, compostable, and recyclable packaging solution are now amplified by achieving SAFER™ status.”