NBi FlexPack Solutions launches in Wisconsin

Amcor’s premium Matrix paper-based and paraffin-free cheese packaging receives a Silver award at the 2020 Packaging Innovation Awards sponsored by Dow. This innovation of providing the right breathable barrier for soft cheese while removing paraffin has transformed a non-recyclable packaging material into a cheese wrap that can be recycled in the paper stream. Michael Zacka, President Amcor Flexibles EMEA, said: “Matrix’s breakthrough paraffin-free technology brings soft cheese packaging into the circular economy and we are pleased it has been recognised with a prestigious Dow award. Matrix is another move in the right direction for sustainability combined with performance – offering cheese manufacturers improved flavour control and recyclability.”

Aptar – Food Protection has been granted the North American license to manufacture and distribute the Halopack Tray system, designed to enhance packaging sustainability for a wide variety of fresh, frozen, reheatable, grab-and-go and oven-able food applications. Called Aptar Halopack, the patented solution is produced with recycled* cardboard and a minimal amount of easily removable film, allowing the package to be recycled in existing cardboard streams once the film is removed.** Compared to conventional plastic-based trays, Halopack’s use of cardboard materials allows for up to a 90% reduction in plastic. More than one billion units have been sold in Europe by Halopack, the Netherlands-based company that invented the product. Aptar Halopack’s sustainability and versatility stems from its simplicity. The paperboard-based tray systems are easy to recycle and fold flat to save recycling bin space for consumers. Custom printing directly on the paperboard, both inside and outside the package, reduces or eliminates the need for additional labels and minimizes manufacturing steps associated with label placement. Additionally, trays are engineered to fit in existing top seal and skin pack equipment with minimal tooling conversion required.

O-I Glass, Inc. announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) business unit to Visy Industries (Visy), one of the world’s largest privately owned packaging and resource recovery companies. Gross proceeds on the sale and related sale-leaseback agreement with Charter Hall, a leading property management company, will approximate AUD $947 million. “The sale of our ANZ operations is consistent with our strategy to properly align our business with the interests of our global customer base, improve financial flexibility and maximize shareholder value. O-I will continue to develop its leading market positions across Europe and the Americas as well as the company’s interests in Asia. The sale of ANZ follows an in-depth strategic review of our global business portfolio and operating structure which is now substantially complete following this transaction. We received a full and fair price for ANZ, and this sale represents a significant milestone in our business transformation as we optimize our structure and prioritize debt reduction,” said Andres Lopez, CEO.