Sonoco announced that its Prepared and Specialty Foods Segment will raise prices for CPET (crystallized polyethylene terephthalate) and PP (polypropylene) thermoformed plastic trays and bowls by 8 percent. The increases will be applied individually, and depending on product category, effective for shipments beginning on February 22, 2021. “These price adjustments are critical to manage continued increases in cost across our business. Thus far, we have offset much of these increased input costs via manufacturing productivity initiatives and supply chain optimization activities, but with continued inflation, we must now pass this cost on to our customers,” said Rolfe Olsen, Segment Vice President – Prepared & Specialty Foods at Sonoco.

Solenis, a leading manufacturer of specialty chemicals, has signed a global partnership agreement with Diversey, a world leader in the hygiene, cleaning and infection prevention industry. With immediate effect, Diversey will become Solenis’ new distribution partner for its complete portfolio of water and process treatment chemicals to the food and beverage industry. “This partnership with Diversey represents another milestone in our history. The combination of Solenis’ extensive portfolio of water treatment chemistries, equipment and technical expertise with Diversey’s cleaning and sanitation solutions, in addition to the channel to market they offer, will be a great asset to the food and beverage industry,” said John Panichella, Chief Executive Officer, Solenis. “We look forward to strengthening our commitment and providing value through a holistic approach to our food and beverage customers globally.”

Metsä Board aims at strengthening its position as Europe’s leading producer of folding boxboard and plans to increase its production capacity. The company has started pre-engineering for increasing the annual production capacity of folding boxboard machine BM1 at the Husum mill in Sweden by approximately 200,000 tonnes. The pre-engineering phase includes also an evaluation of the mill port’s capacity for increased volumes of raw materials and finished goods. The planned investment would further strengthen Husum BM1’s position as the biggest folding boxboard machine in Europe. The final investment decision is subject to the results of the pre-engineering phase. The readiness to make the final investment decision is expected to be achieved in the summer of 2021 and the ramp-up of the additional capacity would start in 2023.

As a keynote sponsor of the 2021 International Dairy Forum, Amcor will demonstrate how it’s reshaping dairy packaging by offering more sustainable solutions and innovative design and delivery, extending shelf life for customers. In addition, Amcor will highlight the latest developments in sustainability and dairy packaging solutions during a webinar Feb. 16 at 1 p.m. EST. The webinar will be hosted by IDFA. “As consumer demands increase, brands know they need smarter and more sustainable packaging strategies in order to break from the pack and truly differentiate themselves,” said Carmen Becker, Vice President and General Manager, Amcor Rigid Packaging, Specialty Containers. “We offer the capabilities that are best suited to meet strong growth in key dairy segments through stellar design, one-of-a-kind preform technology, and industry-leading manufacturing.”

Huhtamaki is investing in a new manufacturing site in Malaysia. In order to better serve its customers and respond to future growth of the sector in Southeast Asia, the company is transferring its Malaysian manufacturing base from Penang to Port Klang, Selangor State, the capital region of Malaysia. The new site is expected to be fully operational by the end of the second quarter of 2021. “By investing in a world-class facility in Malaysia we are creating a platform for future growth in Southeast Asia. The new site is strategically located, it is close to our key customers and has easy access to neighboring countries. We will also use the relocation as an opportunity to modernize our equipment and increase automation to improve efficiency. Our initial focus will be on manufacturing paper cups, as in the existing facility, but the new site will also allow us to expand the product range and introduce new sustainable paper-based technologies as we grow, fully leveraging our global packaging expertise,” says Eric Le Lay, President, Fiber Foodservice EAO.

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has launched a new range of eBottle packaging solutions for the rapidly growing online beverage and liquids market. The new portfolio includes a variety of sustainable solutions for single and multi-pack products, including the Rollor bottle pack, BiPack, and Pop-up insert. The surge in e-commerce due to the Covid-19 pandemic is evident across all sectors and the beverage market has also seen a significant impact. In particular, online sales for alcoholic beverages has increased by 34% in Europe driving a demand for sustainable, durable and consumer friendly packaging that protects the product during shipment. Key challenges for the beverage e-commerce channel are product damage, sustainability, consumer experience and the ability to accelerate growth using the right packing processes. Consumer research carried out by Smurfit Kappa also shows consumers are continuing to push for higher standards.

Total Boxboard production in December increased five percent compared to December 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same 12 months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 93.8 percent, up 5.3 points from December 2019 and essentially flat (-0.2 pts.) year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in December increased three percent compared to December 2019. It was down four percent when compared to the same 12months of 2019. click read more for the rest of the statistics

At the beginning of January, the PM 7 of Grupo Gondi, one of Mexico's largest paper manufactures, was successfully commissioned at the new Papel y Empaques mill in Monterrey. The paper machine is set to produce 400,000 tons of high-performance light weight recycled containerboard annually with Voith's leading technology. Eduardo Posada, CEO of Grupo Gondi, says: “The plant is one of the most modern recycling board mills in Latin America. The start-up of PM 7 is an important step for us. Together with Voith, we will continue our efforts to increase our market position for high-performance lightweight recycled containerboard in Mexico and Latin America with innovative production solutions.”

H&M is the latest retailer to replace its plastic packaging with paper, joining an increasing number of brands that are adapting their packaging materials to reduce the amount of waste plastic that ends up being thrown away rather than recycled. The international fashion brand has introduced paper packaging to its e-commerce channels that serve millions of customers. Starting with the UK, the Netherlands, Sweden, China, Russia and Australia, H&M, the paper packaging will be rolled out to more countries in the coming year, helping the brand to reach its ‘circular strategy for packaging’. This strategy includes reducing packaging by 25% and designing reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging by 2025.

UPM Raflatac is strengthening its position in the fast-growing linerless labelstock market by scaling up its production capacity and building a new production line in Nowa Wieś, Poland. Direct Thermal (DT) linerless labeling is a cost-efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional label stock. Driven by sustainability trends and the need for increased efficiency, linerless has quickly gained ground alongside traditional labeling technologies. Boosted by growing demand in end-uses such as grocery labeling, logistics and quick service restaurants, the DT linerless market has seen approximately 15 percent year-on-year growth in recent years.

Total Containerboard production in December increased three percent compared to December 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same 12 months of 2019. December 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased 22 percent compared to the same month last year; it was up nine percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 93.7 percent, essentially flat (-0.1 pts.) from December 2019 and up 2.3 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of December increased 3,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 3,000 short tons compared to December 2019.

Total Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging shipments in December increased eight percent compared to December 2019. They were up five percent when compared to the same 12 months of 2019. The operating rate was 83.3 percent, up 0.6 points from December 2019 and essentially flat (-0.2 pts.) year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of December increased 2,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 3,000 short tons compared to December 2019.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, is launching two new paper-based bags for German pet food producer Interquell, delivering both consumer convenience and sustainability benefits. The pet food manufacturer asked Mondi to create two sizes of paper-based packaging bags with a functional plastic barrier for its sustainable premium Goood dog food. The innovative FlexiBags meet Interquell's goal to reduce the amount of plastic used while ensuring premium product protection and convenient handling for consumers.

Amcor – a global packaging leader – has for the first time reported against SASB’s standards, setting a new benchmark for the packaging industry by becoming the first global diversified packaging company to do so. SASB standards are recognized as best-in-class, enabling businesses around the world to offer greater transparency and improve risk management. This view is shared by the investor community, which has embraced the SASB standard as a means to allow informed decision making on sustainable investing. By reporting against SASB’s Containers & Packaging standard, Amcor is leading the industry with regard to benchmarking and transparency to drive more sustainable performance.

Sappi Europe will introduce new barrier coating technology for functional paper packaging at its speciality mill in Alfeld, Germany, strengthening its position as the leading global provider of sustainable paper packaging solutions. Explaining the decision, Berry Wiersum, CEO Sappi Europe stated: “Expanding the use of our proprietary barrier coating technology underpins Sappi Europe’s drive to maintain our leading position in barrier coated paper as well the commitment we have with our customers in developing innovative future focused packaging solutions which contribute towards a sustainable future” *Investment in sustainable barrier coating technology *Comprehensive expertise in future focused functional paper packaging *Where performance meets environmental accountability. The demand for paper and paperboard packaging continues to rise dramatically as consumers become increasingly mindful of the impact their buying choices have on the environment.

Effective with shipments on or after February 8,2021, WestRock Commercial Print will increase the price of PrintKote® C1S and all PrintKote® specialty SBS products by 3 to 5%.

Amcor announced the ‘Reducing CO2 Packaging’ Label from the Carbon Trust can now be printed on Amcor packaging to demonstrate significant carbon footprint reductions. It’s part of the company’s lifecycle assessment service, which enables brands to measure their packaging’s carbon footprint from raw materials through end-of-use. The announcement comes at a time when sustainability is an increasingly important factor in consumers’ purchasing decisions. Carbon labelling is a way for brands to demonstrate their contributions to a lower carbon economy. Amcor has been leading in the packaging industry in lifecycle assessment expertise since pioneering its ASSET™ lifecycle assessment service over 10 years ago. Detailed packaging lifecycle reports provide fact-based criteria to identify lower environmental footprint options, enabling brand owners to make informed packaging decisions. The company conducts over 1,000 packaging assessments for its customers each year.

The Mondi WorldStar Award winners are: ‘Transit’ category: EnvelopeMailer – by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Bupak, Czech Republic); FloralBox – by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Tire Kutsan, Turkey); SupremeBox – by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Warszawa, Poland); BrakeBooster for aPak AB – by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Ansbach, Germany); BrightBox for aPak AB – by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Ansbach, Germany) ‘Packaging materials & components’ category: Mono-material film for thermoforming for Hütthaler - by Mondi Consumer Flexibles; PerFORMing for REWE Austria – by Mondi Functional Paper and Films ‘Point of sale’ category: OnePiece –by Mondi Corrugated Solutions (Mondi Tire Kutsan, Turkey) Further details on the award-winning packaging innovations at: https://www.mondigroup.com/en/newsroom/press-release/2021/mondi-celebrates-eight-wins-at-the-2021-worldstar-packaging-awards/

Our resin suppliers are implementing their fifth increase for the year of 2020. The reasons for this increase are continued strong demand and the rising cost of feedstock. Subsequently, Houston Poly must increase prices by 6% effective on all orders placed on or after January 18, 2021. Houston Poly reserves the right to limit order quantities for immediate shipment.

New Packaging Facts Booklet Shares the Great Sustainability Story of Paper-based Packaging - The paper-based packaging industry has long been committed to continuous environmental performance improvement and to transparently conveying the environmental impacts of its operations and products. With growing consumer, business and political interest in packaging and its role in the transition to a more sustainable, circular economy, the opportunities to communicate the inherently sustainable benefits of paper-based packaging with straightforward, credible and relatable information are greater than ever before. Paper Packaging – The Natural Choice provides 7 powerful reasons why paper-based packaging is the natural choice for brands, retailers and consumers, and offers a wide range of supporting facts from credible third-party sources. By fostering a better understanding of the industry’s environmental credentials, Two Sides seeks to ensure that paper products, through their myriad uses, remain an essential part of everyday life.

Stora Enso’s design for eco-friendly pellet packaging was awarded with a prestigious Worldstar award. The renewable and recyclable packaging is designed for heavy use in transporting and warehousing of wood pellets for heating. The awarded packaging is a sustainable alternative to the standard plastic bag used in the pellet industry. In the packaging design work, special attention was paid to usability, recyclability and visual appearance. The 12 kg pellet box, which replaces a plastic bag, is easy to bring home from the store thanks to the carrying handle. The packaging is a collaboration between Finnish packaging designer Karoliina Pennanen and the Stora Enso Packaging Automation team.

Huhtamäki Oyj has signed a EUR 400 million syndicated multicurrency revolving credit facility loan agreement (“RCF”) with a maturity of three (3) years. The RCF refinances an existing EUR 400 million credit facility signed in January 2015 and will be used for general corporate purposes of the Group. The RCF has two one-year extension options and the interest margin is tied to three sustainability indicators: 1. Share of renewable or recycled material in products 2. Share of non-hazardous waste recycled 3. EcoVadis rating. “This new financing agreement speaks to how Huhtamaki is serious about its ESG ambitions. By directly linking sustainability to our financing, we are taking yet another step in embedding sustainability in everything we do,” says Thomas Geust, CFO of Huhtamaki.

Polyethylene resin producers are implementing a 5th price increase to the market on all grades of polyethylene effective December 1st, 2020. The polyethylene supply chain has had additional production disruptions with unplanned shutdowns in Texas and Mexico. These outages have tightened an already stressed supply chain for raw material as demand for PE products continues to remain strong. Consistent with this market change, effective with orders placed on or after February 6th, 2021 for immediate shipment (normal lead times), Heritage Bag will increase stock pricing on all can liner and food bag products by 6%. Non-guaranteed contracts will also be raised 6% on that date. We are unable to extend additional price protection or accept loading orders in advance of the price increase.

It has been nearly 3 years since our last increase and over that period of time we have experienced rising prices on paper and boxes 9% as well as other raw materials, components & labor rates. We are persistent in our efforts to improve our processes, however the price escalations have exceeded productivity gains. We must raise our prices 3-1/2% effective on all orders placed on or after 02/01/2021.

Industrial Packaging Corporation (IPC) has announced the addition of a new Kraft Paper Honeycomb panel line in Arcadia, WI, located 40 miles northwest of La Crosse, WI. This new equipment adds to IPC’s Honeycomb capacity, currently supplied from Wilton, IA. With two Honeycomb operations in the Upper Midwest, IPC will better service the states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Additionally, this will free up capacity restraints in the Wilton, IA facility to better serve Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois. IPC is a family owned and has been in business since 1989. In addition to Kraft Paper Honeycomb, IPC manufactures Build Up A-flute products of Angle Pads, U Channels, and Flat Pads, in Tomahawk, WI, Arcadia, WI and Fort Payne, AL.

Due to rapidly increasing feedstock and logistic costs coupled with continued strong demand for plastic products, Berry Global’s raw material suppliers have informed us the previously announced 5th polyethylene price increase will be implemented effective December 1, 2020. In addition, those same suppliers have announced an additional increase for January 1, 2021 which, should it go into effect, will be the subject of a future announcement. Because of the December 1st resin increase, Berry Global will implement a price increase of 6% - 8% (product line specific) on all Can Liners, Food Bags, Table Covers, Aprons, Bibs, Poly Boots and Poly Gloves. This increase will take effect with all orders placed on or after February 8, 2021. Berry Global reserves the right to limit the size of orders to historical quantities to better serve the anticipated demand of our customers. All orders must call for immediate delivery.

SCA will increase the price of White and Brown Kraftliner by €50 per tonne. The new price is valid for deliveries from February 1, 2021. “The market is characterized by a very strong demand for Kraftliner” says Mikael Frölander, Vice President Sales & Marketing Containerboard.

E-commerce may be booming, but the packaging that items come in has become a concern for consumers. What can designers do to make packaging affordable, reliable and eco-friendly? Delivery services and e-commerce have seen a jump in demand as more people than ever are working, learning and socialising from home. This increase in online shopping has a downside, however – a corresponding rise in waste. These interrelated trends have shone a spotlight on the role of packaging. How a product looks – and ships – plays an essential role in the decision to buy an item, the process by which it arrives at a home and the way it eventually leaves. With the at-home economy likely to continue at least in the near future, increasing the sustainability of packaging will be key to reducing the carbon footprint of e-commerce.

Please be advised that KODIAKOOLER® will generally increase prices on all products effective January 31st, 2021. This decision did not come lightly as many factors contributed to the necessary change including: Increase costs of our raw materials; Increases in freight from our shippers and logistics; Increase cost and demand brought on by COVID-19; Increase costs of labor. Please be assured that KODIAKOOLER has made every effort to keep this increase to a minimum and will continue to monitor current situations that could affect future price structures.

ePac Flexible Packaging is excited to announce the opening of ePac Seoul, Ltd., its first location in South Korea. ePac Seoul is now open to take orders and will be located about 90 minutes outside of Seoul at 3F, Building C, 195-20, Jayumuyeok-gil, Baeksan-myeon, Gimje-si, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea 54325. The new location will be managed by ePac Holdings Asia in partnership with ePac Holdings and CC Labs, a South Korean company. ePac Seoul’s managing director is Mr. Kim Min-Choel. According to Mr. Kim: “With small and medium-sized businesses accounting for 99% of all South Korean enterprises, 89% of employment, and strong government support, we’re excited to enter this market.

Mondi has agreed to acquire 90.38% of the outstanding shares in Olmuksan International Paper Ambalaj Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş from International Paper for a total consideration of €66 million. The implied enterprise value on a 100% basis would amount to around €88 million. Olmuksan is a leading and well-established corrugated packaging player in Turkey, listed on the Istanbul stock exchange. Its network of five plants provides a diverse customer base with high-quality sustainable packaging for food, beverage, agriculture and industrial applications. For the twelve months ended 30 September 2020, the Company produced 256 thousand tonnes of corrugated packaging and generated revenues of TRY1,093 million (€150 million). Mondi has operated successfully in Turkey for many years and has developed a strong understanding of the market and its long-term opportunities. Our current Turkish footprint includes four corrugated packaging plants and a recycled containerboard paper mill, as well as three flexible packaging sites. Leveraging our expertise and experience in this market, together with our global virgin and recycled containerboard portfolio, we expect to generate significant operational improvements and paper integration upside.

International Paper has entered into an agreement to sell its 90.38% ownership interest in Olmuksan International Paper to Mondi Group for approximately €66 million. The Olmuksan business includes corrugated packaging facilities in Turkey with an approximate annual revenue of TRY1,093 million (€150 million). The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2021, subject to certain closing conditions and regulatory approvals. This action is in line with International Paper's strategy to serve markets from an advantaged position. Corrugated packaging remains a strategic business for International Paper in EMEA.

For families stuck indoors and desperate for entertainment, a cardboard box can transform into a makeshift playground for the kids or a refuge for the cats. Day to day, though, they have been a crucial if often overlooked link in the nation’s supply chain. But now boxes are piling up in homes across the country because of the explosive growth in e-commerce this year. That’s left the corrugated packaging industry dependent on consumers to recycle the products to support its financial and environmental needs. Corrugated box shipments grew 9 percent in March from the year-ago period, industry data shows, despite a brief dip in revenue when the pandemic’s initial shock froze up the supply chain. But shipments were again soon boosted by retailers’ overstocking of food, cleaning supplies and toilet paper amid the panic buying so prevalent in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. Shipments continued to climb through the fall, peaking in October, and box makers are on pace to end the year with record production to meet this year’s skyrocketing demand. Click read more below for the rest of the article.

Diversified Labeling Solutions is expanding its Auto ID product offering to include RAIN RFID labels. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) labels utilize an embedded UHF inlay to transmit data via radio waves to an RFID encoder. They are used in a wide variety of industries including supply chain and distribution, retail, consumer goods and healthcare to increase speed and accuracy of data collection. RAIN RFID is a global alliance promoting the universal adoption of UHF RFID technology. DLS has long been a leading supplier of Auto ID labels, including traditional 1D and 2D barcodes. Adding RAIN RFID labels to their portfolio allows distributors to provide comprehensive Auto ID and smart label solutions to their customers. With access to a huge array of inlays and face sheet materials, DLS can support almost any RFID label construction for stock or custom-printed RFID labels. DLS will also serve as the genuine OEM supplier for TSC Printronix Auto ID labels.

E-commerce has forever changed the way people shop, and now recycled containerboard will change the way products are delivered. While online shopping is always popular during the holiday season, it has increased even more this year, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. With millions opting to avoid in-person shopping, research firm Forrester expects that online retail sales will grow 24 percent in the United States this holiday season, compared to a year ago. At the same time, shoppers are seeking responsibly packaged products. A report on 2020 U.S. packaging preferences from Two Sides North America Inc. showed consumers prefer paper-based packaging for its environmental attributes, such as recyclability and composability, as well as practical factors like ease of storage. The report also found that consumers are willing to pay more for a sustainably packaged product and will deliberately avoid those that aren’t. click read more below for the rest of the story

How do you build strong brand relationships with consumers in an increasingly complex e-commerce landscape? That is the topic for the first of a series of digital events where we invite you to join us as we explore the latest culture and technology trends together with leading brand owners and industry experts. Starting on January 20, 2021, Iggesund Paperboard launches Unbox, a new series of digital events designed to explore the challenges and opportunities brands face today and in the future. The first Unbox focuses on changes in consumer behaviour and how brands can create engaging experiences through digital channels. And how this puts new demands for purposeful packaging solutions. register at: https://www.iggesund.com/inspiration/unbox-digital-event-series/unbox/?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=103951613&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8rq0cI_Jz8faKcCJholUOjn4M7F784cPJSFROiiMandNA5_Tdf9FENfHQ__Smkat4G4Em2erzcJkXvqfylPXj84WIVBZfYXWELcjA1JtmzAiXaVmA&utm_content=103951613&utm_source=hs_email

Novolex®, an industry leader in packaging choice, innovation and sustainability, announced it has acquired the business of B&H Bag Company, a leading manufacturer of paper bags and other products. The B&H business will be a part of the Novolex Duro Bag® business, strengthening Duro‘s customer service through increased production capacity. The family-owned company has one manufacturing plant, located outside of Houston, Texas. “We are pleased to welcome the B&H team into the Novolex family,” said Stan Bikulege, Chairman and CEO of Novolex. “B&H brings a strong line of products and a tradition of customer service excellence that we are proud to add to our organization. The talented and dedicated B&H team will be a great addition to our Duro Bag business.”

The use of face masks during the recent pandemic has justifiably grown to hundreds of millions worldwide. However, masks can easily end up littering public places or natural sites. Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, partnered up with a packaging design agency Futupack and corrugated board converter Capertum to manufacture a corrugated mask bin for the specific disposal of face masks. The design of the bins paid special attention to the materials used to produce the bin and the usability and disposability of the bin. Futupack is a Finnish company that designs and implements sustainable packaging solutions. “We wanted the mask bin to be as aesthetic as possible so that it could be placed easily into any indoor environment. The mask bin is delivered flat, and can be quickly assembled. In addition, full instructions on assembly for the consumers are printed on to the bin itself. When the mask bin is full, it is easy to close the lid, and the entire bin can be safely and hygienically disposed of with the incinerated waste,” says Jani Mäkipää, Lead Packaging Engineer at Futupack.

Sonoco-Alcore S.a.r.l. announced it will raise prices for paper-based tubes and cores by 7%. The increases will be applied individually and depending on product category, effective from shipments beginning on 18th, January 2021. “These adjustments are critical to manage continued increases in cost across the business. To date, we have absorbed these costs by further manufacturing footprint optimisation and supply chain activities, but with continued inflation, we must now pass this on to our customers. To secure materials, we must act quickly so we can maintain the strong supply chain our customers need and value from Sonoco,” said Karsten Kemmerling, Director of Sales and Marketing – Tubes and Cores, Europe.

Mondi has launched a new paper EcoWicketBag for Drylock Technologies’ baby diaper ranges, bringing sustainable paper-based packaging to the hygiene market globally. The global hygiene products manufacturer approached Mondi to create a more sustainable alternative to its existing plastic diaper packaging that would travel well, have strong shelf-appeal, and protect the product - while also using renewable resources and significantly reducing its CO2 footprint. “We approached Mondi because of their expertise in paper packaging and their extensive knowledge of the global hygiene market. Consumers are looking for more sustainable packaging that is kinder to the planet without compromising on the integrity of the product. With the EcoWicketBag, consumers can be confident of product quality and packaging sustainability,” said Werner Van Ingelgem, R&D director at Drylock Technologies.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its agreement with its longtime supplier, Repsol, to supply circular resins. Spanish multi-energy global company Repsol will supply Berry with ISCC Plus certified circular polyolefins from its Repsol Reciclex® range. These polyolefins are obtained by advanced recycling, enabled by the adoption of new chemical recycling technologies, of post-consumer plastic waste not suitable for traditional recycling. As a result of the agreement, Berry will procure food-grade polypropylene for food and healthcare packaging. Berry will initially use the materials in manufacturing at its European packaging facilities. Repsol has certified all its petrochemical complexes to produce circular polyolefins under the ISCC PLUS certification. This certification guarantees the traceability of the plastic waste used at the source. At the same time, Repsol, applies the latest and innovative technology to ensure that the circular polyolefins have the same quality and functionality as virgin polyolefins

Sealed Air Corporation announced its participation in the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP)’s Innovation Accelerator, an initiative that convenes the brightest minds in science and technology to develop and scale high-potential solutions for ending hunger worldwide. Sealed Air has partnered with World Food Program USA since 2017 in support of its mandate to reach zero hunger and respond to critical needs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through relentless innovation, Sealed Air is developing the next generation of sustainable packaging solutions to address some of society’s most pressing challenges including food safety, eliminating waste, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. “We’re on a mission to leave the world better than we found it,” said Steve Garland, Sealed Air’s Chief Innovation Officer. “Now more than ever, collaboration is needed to help communities around the world fight hunger. We value the opportunity to contribute Sealed Air’s expertise in science, engineering, research, and development and technological innovation to the World Food Programme.”

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has launched a new company called Recycling Dual GmbH to help German manufacturers and retail businesses reduce costs and improve their sustainability efforts, in line with updated legislation. Recycling Dual offers an innovative and integrated holistic solution to track the entire life cycle of paper, cardboard and carton packaging. The unique solution highlights duplication which can be removed from the supply chain and reduce costs. For the first time Recycling Dual guarantees to close the full loop for paper-based packaging for its customers. The service provides them with a holistic solution to ensure packaging from their products is recycled through a nationwide collection system. From 2021, Recycling Dual will be the only company in the market with the ability to track the life cycle of paper, cardboard and carton packaging from production through to being recycled. The company was set up in response to a federal law which was enacted last year requiring stricter recycling requirements for all manufacturers and retailers who use consumer packaging as part of their supply chain, especially for e-commerce companies with e-commerce packaging. The law requires businesses to buy licences for the packaging they use, and with costs expected to increase by up to 30% in 2021, this has led to a greater responsibility being placed on businesses to increase their recycling rates. Additionally, failure to comply can result in significant fines.

Packaging graphics create a first and lasting impression in the minds of consumers when making purchasing decisions. To help our customers maximize this important opportunity, we have amassed deep graphic design and printing expertise, commercialized a robust portfolio of innovative inks and finishes and opened multiple beverage can reprographics studios around the world to help our customers take designs from an initial concept to production-ready artwork. We get great enjoyment from collaborating with our customers to achieve extraordinary results and appreciate that our work continues to be recognized by the industry at large. Here are just a few of the honors we received this year:

E-commerce is booming and this year several sources predict records for the Christmas online shopping. A recent research commissioned by DS Smith reveals that extra 224 million of us will be purchasing our Christmas presents online this year, resulting in 350 thousand tonnes of unnecessary packaging. This could incur in real environmental, reputational and business risks for brands, which is why it is important for brands and retailers to optimize the packaging. At DS Smith, sustainability sits at the heart of our business model and is core to our Purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World. And for that we aim to provide the best service to our customers thinking about the impact on the environment and future generations. L’Oréal shares those views too, and few months ago, we were approached by their team with the challenge of redesigning the E-commerce packaging for their luxury products range.

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has joined forces with KHS, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of filling and packaging systems for the beverage and liquid food industries, to roll out its sustainable TopClip multipack product for bundling canned beverages. The partnership brings to the market an end to end solution for beverage companies, including a combined unique and innovative packaging solution and high speed, efficient packaging machines. Launched last year at Smurfit Kappa’s global Better Planet Packaging Day, TopClip is a recyclable solution that replaces the need for shrink wrap, therefore providing an option for substituting plastic with sustainably sourced paper-based packaging. TopClip is free from additional glue, meaning it is 100% plastic free, also allowing for a greater ease to remove or pull apart the cans. The patented product addresses the needs of consumers who are looking to retailers and brands to provide more environmentally friendly packaging. TopClip fully covers the top of can multi-packs, protecting them from contamination and providing excellent consumer handling and branding opportunities. Moreover, the product’s sustainability credentials are further boosted with a 30% lower carbon footprint compared to a shrink wrap consumer pack.

Total Boxboard production in November decreased two percent compared to November 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 91.3 percent, down 1.4 points from November 2019 and down 0.7 points year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in November increased four percent compared to November 2019. It was down five percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in November decreased four percent compared to November 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in November decreased seven percent compared to November 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019.

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) released its November 2020 Containerboard Monthly report. Total Containerboard production in November increased two percent compared to November 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019. November 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased six percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 13 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 93.3 percent, essentially flat (-0.4 pts.) from November 2019 and up 2.5 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of November increased 39,000 short tons from the previous month and were down 2,000 short tons compared to November 2019.

Total Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging shipments in November increased nine percent compared to November 2019. They were up four percent when compared to the same 11 months of 2019. The operating rate was 85.5 percent, up 1.0 points from November 2019 and essentially flat (-0.3 pts.) year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of November remained essentially flat (-514 short tons) from the previous month and were up 13,000 short tons compared to November 2019.

Cascades Inc. announced that its 86.3% owned subsidiary, Greenpac Mill, LLC ("Greenpac") has entered into an agreement to amend and restate its existing term loan and revolving credit facility that were scheduled to mature in May 2021. The amended credit facilities will mature in December 2023. Greenpac operates a state-of-the-art lightweight containerboard mill, located in Niagara Falls, New York, which manufactures lightweight linerboard made with 100% recycled fibres. The mill has an annual production capacity of 540,000 short tons and employs 168 people.

Cascades is pleased to continue supporting efforts to fight effects of the pandemic. In addition to providing essential products on a daily basis that help meet the needs of Cascades' customers and consumers, the Company has donated more than 150,000 boxes over the course of 2020 to non-profit organizations that are working to respond to the needs of people who are most vulnerable during the COVID-19 emergency. "Cascades has always been committed to helping and being involved in the communities where we do business. The difficult times we are all experiencing have only made this commitment more important," said Mario Plourde, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cascades. "Every year, Cascades provides over 50,000 cardboard boxes to food banks, community organizations and other aid initiatives. Given the current situation, we have tripled these donations to help with the even greater need for transport, storage and delivery of essential food supplies to individuals who are most affected by the crisis. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Cascades has donated more than 150,000 boxes to approximately one hundred community organizations primarily involved in emergency food assistance."

Sonoco is pleased to announce its partnership with the Digital Watermarks Initiative Holy Grail 2.0, an initiative facilitated by AIM, the European Brands Initiative, to prove the viability of digital watermarking for sorting packaging waste and the business case at scale. The Holy Grail 2.0 initiative has the goal of assessing whether digital technology can enable better sorting and higher-quality recycling rates for packaging in the EU. Today, more than 85 partners across the value chain are working together to refine and commercialize this concept.

Stora Enso has decided to invest in centralising and modernising the wood handling capacity at its Imatra mills in Finland. The investment of EUR 80 million will enhance Stora Enso’s production capabilities for premium packaging board. The investment supports the Group’s strategy of sustainable profitable growth through packaging in strong customer segments. The investment is planned to start in Q1 2021 and to be completed in Q3 2022. The Imatra mills produce premium packaging boards for food, beverage and luxury packaging. The purpose of the investment is to modernise the wood handling process in Imatra and centralise it in one of the existing wood yards. The project includes the installation of a new, third debarking line, improvements to chip handling systems, and modifications to the existing wood yard infrastructure. The centralised and modernised wood handling capacity will improve the stability and efficiency of the process. In addition, the new, more efficient debarking line will reduce water consumption of the process and lower the environmental impact.

Huhtamaki is investing for further growth in Russia. In order to respond to the fast development of the retail business and egg packaging industry in Eastern and Central parts of Russia, the company is setting up a new fiber packaging manufacturing plant at its existing site in Alabuga, Tatarstan. Preparatory work on the site is under way and production of fiber packaging is expected to begin during the first quarter of 2022. “Russia is one of our key growth markets,” says Eric Le Lay, President for the newly integrated Fiber and Foodservice Europe-Asia-Oceania business segment. “This additional capacity for molded fiber egg packaging enables further profitable growth for us in Russia. The location in Alabuga, Tatarstan, allows us to better serve our customers operating in the fast-developing Central and Eastern parts of Russia,” he continues.

Mars Food announced it will begin to use recyclable mono-polypropylene plastic (PP) for its microwavable rice pouches in 2021. The project will bring to market the industry’s first food-safe, mono-material microwavable rice pouch. Launching with an initial pilot in the first half of 2021, the business has ambitions to further scale the technology across its portfolio beginning at the back half of the year. The use of high performing mono-PP material will allow Mars Food to retain the shape, shelf life, functionality and high safety standards needed for its brands’ packaging, while ensuring pouches can be mechanically and chemically recycled where infrastructure exists, and designed for future recycling where it doesn’t yet. The breakthrough is a result of a three-year partnership between Mars Food and Amcor.

Sonoco announced it is increasing prices for all rigid paper containers and closures sold in North America by 5 percent, effective with shipments on, and after, January 15, 2021. According to Ernest Haynes, Division Vice President and General Manager, Rigid Paper and Closures, North America, this price increase is necessary to recover rapidly rising costs for raw materials used to produce rigid paper containers. “Due to the rising cost of both steel and recovered paper, we are experiencing input cost pressures that simply cannot be absorbed,” Haynes said. “Our operational cost increases have been compounded by the on-going COVID-19 pandemic as it impacts labor, the build-up of inventory and associated carrying costs, which is all connected to ensuring the continuity of supply for our customers. As an essential supplier during these challenging times, our primary focus entails doing everything we can to protect our customers from business related disruptions. We take the challenge seriously in that regard and have embraced extraordinary measures to maintain continuity of supply to meet our customers’ most critical needs.”

Financial Highlights • Half-year profitability shaped by Covid-19 • Volumes building progressively throughout H1 ◦ -4.7% May, +3% October, overall H1 -1.0% ◦ November >+5% • Significant customer wins in Europe and North America driving market share gain • Q1 profitability affected by negative volumes, deflation and Covid related costs • Q2 good rebound in profitability – improving volumes and average Q2 RoS 9.5% • US showing good momentum driven by Indiana plant progress • Strong organic free cash flow +16%

Fourth Quarter Highlights Include (all results compared to the fourth quarter 2019 unless otherwise noted): Net income of $44.4 million or $0.74 per diluted Class A share decreased compared to net income of $65.0 million or $1.09 per diluted Class A share. Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $5.0 million to $200.4 million. Adjusted free cash flow(3) increased by $23.7 million to $173.9 million. Awarded a Gold Rating in sustainability performance for the third consecutive year by EcoVadis. Fiscal Year Highlights Include (all results compared to the fiscal year 2019 unless otherwise noted): Net income of $108.8 million or $1.83 per diluted Class A share decreased compared to net income of $171.0 million or $2.89 per diluted Class A share. Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $65.2 million to $454.7 million. Adjusted free cash flow increased by $78.4 million to $346.2 million.

The Mayr-Melnhof Group has reached an agreement to acquire Kotkamills Group Oyj from the previous owners for an enterprise value of around EUR 425 million; this corresponds to approximately 7.8 times the EBITDA of the last twelve months. With the takeover of Kotkamills, MM Karton will expand its position in the attractive market for virgin fiber board (FBB) and Food Service Board (FSB) and complement its established market position in recycled cardboard. The planned transaction will have an immediate impact on earnings. Kotkamills operates two cardboard/paper machines at the integrated location in Kotka (southern Finland): one FBB / FSB cardboard machine, which was commissioned in 2016 after an investment of more than 180 million EUR, with a current sales volume of around 260,000 t and one planned capacity of 400,000 t; a machine for Saturated Kraft Paper / impregnation paper with a capacity of 170,000 t, which makes the company one of the world's leading suppliers. Kotkamills employs around 500 people and in the last twelve months achieved an EBITDA of around EUR 55 million on sales of around EUR 380 million.

Metsä Group’s innovation company Metsä Spring and Valmet begin construction of the 3D fibre product pilot plant in Äänekoski, Finland. The pilot plant enables testing and further development of the novel process for producing of a new type of packaging solution.The greenfield building will host the pilot line, which converts wood fibre into ready-to-use 3D fibre products, which, in turn, can replace similar packaging solutions made from plastic and aluminium. The goal of the pilot plant project is to develop a new competitive product and the supporting production process and equipment. “Our project is a good example of our role as a pioneering company. We have an ambitious goal to build a significant business based on the top-class know-how of Metsä Group, Valmet and several other companies. We use familiar, sustainably-produced wood fibre as our main raw material and strive to process it into first-class packages while minimising the environmental impact. The pilot plant is developing and testing many new innovations that support, for example, our goal to replace plastic in various packaging solutions,” says Jarkko Tuominen, Project Lead at Metsä Spring.

Amcor, in partnership with thirty-five leading companies in the consumer goods industry, has today announced measures to significantly reduce plastic waste. Amcor and its partners in this coalition – which have a collective turnover of 1 trillion euros - will be enforcing two new design rules to deliver packaging that is easier and more cost-effective to recycle. The first design rule is expected to improve the economic viability of PET bottle recycling by removing colouring pigments and labelling that impact recycling rates. The second design rule will remove materials that are problematic for recyclers from all forms of plastic packaging. By implementing these rules, recycling will become easier, cheaper, more efficient and can scale faster - which will result in less waste leaking into the environment.

Amcor has launched Eco-Tite® R in Europe, the first designed to be recycled, PVDC-free shrink bag for fresh and processed meat, poultry and some cheeses. Amcor Eco-Tite® R is designed to maximise shelf-life, maintain food safety, reduce food waste and can be recycled in existing polyethylene (PE) plastic recycling streams.* This means that more consumers will be able to recycle their meat, poultry and cheese packaging, while enjoying the benefits of longer lasting food. “Through our packaging expertise and commitment to sustainability, the team has overcome a challenge for the industry; developing a high performance shrink bag that’s PVDC-free and recyclable, while maintaining food safety. This is a great step-forward for consumers and an example of how the removal of problematic materials from packaging – something the industry is increasingly focussed on delivering – can provide us with safe, secure and recyclable packaging,” said Rosalia Rosalinova, Marketing Manager for Meat and Fresh Produce at Amcor. Amcor Eco-Tite® R is a multi-layer, mono-PE packaging which maintains a high barrier to oxygen and water vapour even when exposed to high-moisture environments, such as cooler cases and refrigerators.

Corrugated board is traditionally used for packaging to protect berries and fruit throughout the production chain. However, the added value it can give to sales recognition and branding goes even further. Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, and DS Smith have implemented a modern and top-quality berry box together with their partner network. The packaging is printed using process colour and Full HD technology, which has reduced ink consumption while enabling exceptionally high image quality and bright colours.“The design of the packaging did not use vector graphics commonly used in berry boxes, instead a photo-based multicolour print was printed on the corrugated board. This process was extremely demanding, and required a high-quality coated white kraftliner,” says Ville Laiho from DS Smith, the packaging producer. The EB-flute corrugated board packaging was made using MetsäBoard Pro WKL 175 g/m² as topliner. The berry box is safe for direct contact with food thanks to material made of fresh fibres. In addition, a package made of fresh fibres withstands humid conditions better than a package made of recycled fibres. On the way from the field to the consumer, the moisture conditions can vary considerably, the packaging must therefore protect the product throughout the chain. After use, the corrugated box is also easy to recycle.

Amcor has developed a new hot-fill polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle for Colombia’s Nutrea/Frudelca’s breakthrough Frupro protein juice. The new beverage is the latest in a growing category that blends the benefits of natural juice with protein to appeal to health-conscious consumers. “We relied on Amcor as an important partner to deliver an innovative packaging solution that meets the performance test of this new functional beverage,” said Alejandor Gaviria, General Manager of Frudelca. Nutrea/Frudelca is a joint venture between Frudelca, a leading juice supplier, and Nutrea, a food and beverage company. Amcor is a pioneer in the development of PET heat-set technology, which allows beverages to be filled at temperatures up to 185°F (85°C) to ensure product quality and extended shelf life.

While there is no evidence of virus transfer from cardboard, the easily identifiable touch-safe zones can be applied at scale across a range of industries and applications meaning the anti-viral and anti-bacterial packaging provides an additional layer of protection as consumers and workers throughout the supply chain remain wary. Not surprisingly, the importance of products ‘packaged in hygienic packaging’ among consumers with more than half (57%) saying they wash their hands thoroughly after touching e-commerce packaged products and 30% throw packaging away more quickly. DS Smith’s research, conducted with Ipsos MORI, suggests packaging hygiene will continue to be a priority in years to come. The new patented technology is effective across a range of bacteria and viruses including envelope viruses, of which COVID-19 is a member[1].

"This is the largest investment that the MM Group has ever made in Austria", describes MM CEO MMag. Peter Oswald describes the comprehensive renovation and expansion program for the Austrian MM Karton mill in Frohnleiten in the years 2021-2022 Million euros are invested in sustainability, digitization and capacity expansion to secure the future using the latest technologies. Innovative, fully digitized processes will significantly increase the efficiency of waste paper processing and at the same time reduce the specific consumption of energy and water. The latest production technologies in cardboard manufacture increase product quality and capacities as a prerequisite for further uses of recycled cardboard, for example as a substitute for plastic. Highly automated logistics will significantly accelerate the movement of goods.

ePac is excited to announce the creation of their newest location in Ghana. ePac Ghana is now taking orders and will have all orders fulfilled by ePac UK Silverstone while the Ghana location is being built. “We are fortunate to have a partner in Ghana with all the qualifications we look for when opening a new ePac location. Victor brings a multitude of talents to ePac, cares deeply about the community, and is committed to helping local brands grow. This is precisely ePac’s mission across the globe”, commented Jack Knott, ePac’s CEO.

BASF and the Swedish packaging material manufacturer BillerudKorsnäs have developed a unique home-compostable paper laminate for flexible packaging. It can be used to produce wraps with individually adjusted barrier properties e.g. for cookies, ice cream, cereal bars and dairy items as well as wrappers for fish, meat and cheese freshly sold in supermarkets. And it is a solution that meets today’s requirement for sustainability by being organically recyclable. The multi-layer laminate consists of three basic components: BillerudKorsnäs‘ paper ConFlex® Silk, a sealing layer made of BASF’s certified home compostable and partly bio-based biopolymer ecovio® and BASF’s water-based adhesive Epotal® Eco 3675 X. All components are certified home-compostable according to official European certification schemes for home-composting. The laminate contains a high share of renewables and extends the end-of-life options for multi-layer flexible packaging by being organically recyclable. The new home-compostable solution has the same performance features as conventional multi-layer packaging: it is puncture resistant, shows a good printability, excellent heat-seal properties and can be processed on standard packaging machines.

At Lecta, we are reaffirming our commitment to sustainability by moving towards developing innovative solutions that contribute to reducing our environmental impact and encouraging the circular economy. For this reason, we have substituted the polyethylene film layer with a functional protective barrier, resulting in a 100% plastic-free soft-wrap paper guaranteed to protect the product in optimum condition thereby ensuring the correct storage of Adestor self-adhesive products. With this action, we contribute to an annual reduction of 27 tons of consumed plastic and its equivalent 94,5 tons in CO2 emissions, according to official carbon footprint calculations defined by www.ciel.org (Center for International Environmental Law). Lecta's new soft-wrap paper is 100% recyclable and meets the current EN:13430 standard for recoverable containers and packaging. Moreover, the new soft-wrap paper for Adestor ream-wrapped sheets is FSC® C011032 certified, guaranteeing that our paper is manufactured with cellulose from responsibly managed forests.

Metsä Board has on 1 December 2020 signed an agreement to sell a 30 percent stake in its Husum pulp mill in Sweden. The buyer is the Swedish forest owners’ cooperative (ekonomisk förening) Norra Skog, with whom Metsä Forest Sverige, responsible for Metsä Board’s wood procurement in Sweden, has simultaneously entered into a long-term wood supply agreement. The amendment to the environmental permit for the Husum mill has been approved, and Metsä Board has made the final investment decision on the first phase of the pulp mill renewal. The first phase of the investment includes a new recovery boiler and turbine and its total value is approximately EUR 320 million. Expected start-up for the new recovery boiler and turbine will be in H1 2022. The valuation of the Husum pulp mill (enterprise value) to be applied in the transaction at the time of closing is approximately EUR 875 million, including the completion of the ongoing recovery boiler and turbine investment. The valuation corresponds to a value of approximately EUR 1.2 billion after the completion of the second phase of the pulp mill renewal, i.e. the new fibre line. The transaction will decrease Metsä Board’s net debt by approximately EUR 260 million at the time of closing, and additionally reduce Metsä Board’s financial contribution in the second phase of the pulp mill renewal by approximately EUR 100 million. The closing of the transaction is expected to be in January 2021.

Sonoco announced it has completed the divestiture of its Europe contract packaging business to a subsidiary of Prairie Industries Holdings, a Wisconsin-based contract packaging and contract manufacturing firm backed by The Halifax Group, a Washington, D.C.-based global investment firm, for $120 million in cash. Sonoco’s Europe contract packaging business produced net sales of approximately $300 million in 2019 and provides full-service custom packaging and supply chain management solutions to global consumer product goods companies through six contract packaging facilities in three locations and a warehouse all in Poland. The business has been part of Sonoco’s Display and Packaging segment and has approximately 2,600 employees. The divestiture is part of Sonoco efforts to simplify its operating structure to focus on growing its core Consumer and Industrial packaging businesses.

Mondi will open its new state-of-the-art paper bags plant in Cartagena, Colombia in January 2021. It will be Mondi’s first operation in South America, reinforcing the group’s strength as a global paper bags supplier with a wide local footprint. The new plant will enable Mondi to improve and grow its services to better serve customers in the region. South America is home to more than 250 cement plants requiring up to two billion cement bags per year. Cartagena is a strong location for the new plant, set up in a free-trade zone with good access to ports in Panama, the east coast of the United States, the Gulf of Mexico and other Caribbean ports. "Our global network already includes 39 plants across 22 countries. We are excited to be expanding our footprint to Colombia, helping us to provide innovative, sustainable and customer-focused paper packaging solutions to customers in South America who share our commitment to quality." Claudio Fedalto, Chief Operating Officer Paper Bags, Mondi

Finnish food and beverage company Paulig is testing UPM BioVerno naphtha, made from tall oil, as a raw material for its packaging. The first test batch with Paulig Café New York has been successfully packed and released to market. UPM BioVerno is produced from tall oil, a residue of pulp making, in the UPM Lappeenranta Biorefinery. In the new laminate tested over the half of the material used in the Paulig coffee packs is tall oil-based. “We are committed to replacing fossil-based raw materials with renewable ones. Paulig’s initiative to use our wood-based UPM BioVerno as a raw material in the laminates of their coffee packs is a further step towards creating more circular and sustainable packaging,” says Panu Routasalo, Vice President of UPM Biofuels.

DS Smith supports the first virtual tree-planting initiative in the country. DS Smith has engaged with the Romanian association “Viitor Plus – Asociația pentru dezvoltare durabilă” to donate 1,500 boxes made of recycled cardboard. The boxes are used for shipment of planting kits for the local ‘Adopt a tree’ initiative. As part of the this initiative tree-planting kits are distributed and delivered at the doorstep of each donor. Each delivered kit will include seven trees, planting instructions and access to a Facebook community organized by the association that is focused on the protection of natural resources. The donors will decide where to plant the trees and will share their experience on social media.

Inteplast Engineered Films (IEF) has launched InteGreen, a revolutionary family of durable and sustainable films incorporating post-consumer resin, bio-based materials, compostability, and recycle-ready properties. IEF President Bob Stein said, “The IEF team is very excited about officially launching our growing product line under the umbrella of the InteGreen brand. We know how important it is to be responsible to our environment and to provide sustainable product choices as there is no monolithic solution to protecting our ecosystem. Behind our marketing sustainable products under the InteGreen brand are our deep technical, operational, and selling resources that bring answers to customers seeking sustainable solutions.” The InteGreen film line comprises four types: *Film made with PCR (FDA-LNO for food or non-FDA for industrial use) *Film made with bio-based starch for produce, agricultural, and industrial applications *Recycle ready films *Compostable films

E-Commerce mailer bags made from BillerudKorsnäs’ Xpression E-com paper have 50 percent lower fossil emissions than virgin plastic mailer bags and using this leads to the removal of biogenic carbon from the atmosphere. This is proven by a new independent study that compares the environmental impact of different types of e-commerce packaging. The global E-commerce market was already growing faster than other traditional channels prior to Covid-19, but the pandemic has boosted the move from brick and mortar stores to online purchasing. This transition is driving demand for packaging and increasing the stress on the planet from packaging waste. Retailers are currently stocking up for the Black Friday purchasing frenzy, the one-day event that has long been considered the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season. E-commerce mailer bags made of Xpression E-com paper is one opportunity to meet the customer’s increasing demand for sustainability and will reduce the environmental impact of this surge in shopping. “ BillerudKorsnäs’ mission to challenge conventional packaging for a sustainable future clearly sets out why we exist how we view our role in society. Xpression E-com is a classic example of how we think outside the box when fighting climate change and reducing plastic waste”, says Malin Ljung Eiborn, Director of Sustainability at BillerudKorsnäs.

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has joined forces with KHS, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of filling and packaging systems for the beverage and liquid food industries, to roll out its sustainable TopClip multipack product for bundling canned beverages. The partnership brings to the market an end to end solution for beverage companies, including a combined unique and innovative packaging solution and high speed, efficient packaging machines. Launched last year at Smurfit Kappa’s global Better Planet Packaging Day, TopClip is a recyclable solution that replaces the need for shrink wrap, therefore providing an option for substituting plastic with sustainably sourced paper-based packaging. TopClip is free from additional glue, meaning it is 100% plastic free, also allowing for a greater ease to remove or pull apart the cans. The patented product addresses the needs of consumers who are looking to retailers and brands to provide more environmentally friendly packaging.

Sonoco Protective Solutions announced the addition of two new paper-based packaging options for heavy and high-value products to its EnviroSense® line of more sustainable packaging: the EnviroSense FiberMax™ Bulk Box and the EnviroSense FiberMax™ Master Roll package. FiberMax Bulk Box packaging is designed to help companies with products weighing thousands of pounds protect their items, maximize transportation efficiency, reduce storage space, increase stacking strength and make it easy for their customers to recycle the packaging at the end of its useful life. Similarly, EnviroSense FiberMax Master Roll packaging helps manufacturers of equally heavy, high-value materials in roll form such as films, foils and laminates avoid damage, reduce costs, improve storage utilization and simplify recycling after use.

Total Boxboard production in October decreased two percent compared to October 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 93.6 percent, up 0.8 points from October 2019 and down 0.6 points year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in October increased one percent compared to October 2019. It was down six percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in October decreased five percent compared to October 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in October decreased three percent compared to October 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019.

Total Containerboard production in October increased three percent compared to October 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. October 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased 13 percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 15 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 98.1%, up 3.6 points from October 2019 and up 2.8 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of October decreased six thousand short tons from the previous month, and were up 42 thousand short tons compared to October 2019.

Drive down almost any street in America and you’re bound to see them— brown shipping boxes (many made by Georgia-Pacific). They’re stacked up in apartment complex offices; slung on front porches and lining the back doors of many businesses. Ecommerce demand has tended to be more seasonal because of holiday shopping, but the last several years the seasonality has flattened somewhat as online purchasing has become more common throughout the rest of the year. The pandemic is also having an impact on demand. In fact, COVID-19 has created approximately a 30-40 percent increase in demand for boxes, as many are ordering online to decrease in-person shopping trips. Unlike the grocery store, there is no “paper or plastic” option in your online cart. These days, almost everyone gets a box (or a shipping envelope) and those home deliveries are expected to continue. Georgia-Pacific has 40 operations in the U.S. dedicated to making brown paper (called containerboard) and converting that paper into boxes of all kinds. Watch this 1-minute video for some behind the scenes “How It’s Made” footage.

Over the past few years, recycled paper made from 100% secondary fibers has turned the Koehler Paper Group into the premium provider of creative board. A firm favorite of the crafting and office segments, this product has recently established itself in the packaging industry and has even gained traction in the high-end segment. While Koehler Paper Group's plant in Thuringia impresses with its "Blue Angel" eco-label, the brilliant colors of its paper products are the real highlight. The newest addition to the range is called "EcoBlack". Udo Hollbach, managing director of Koehler Greiz GmbH & Co. KG has this to say about the new product: "EcoBlack is an extraordinarily high-quality paper that captivates with a deep, rich black and was specially developed for high-quality packaging. It is the next logical step for our range of vibrantly colored recycled paper. With this product, we are catering to our customers' wish that a product avoids doing harm to human health or the environment, without having to sacrifice its aesthetics. EcoBlack is lightfast, resistant to bleeding, color migration and wear." For the product developers at Koehler, it goes without saying that all its paper is ideally suited to further processing. Since EcoBlack is produced completely carbon-free, it lends itself particularly well to embellishment through foil stamping.

Cascades is the winner of two 2020 CTAQ Food Innovation Awards for its unique product in North America: a 100% recycled and recyclable thermoformed cardboard tray. This packaging solution took the honours in the Packaging and Technology and Productivity categories. This Cascades FreshTM product was launched in September 2020 with the goal of packaging fresh food in an efficient, environmentally friendly way. Its design has been rigorously tested to adapt to automated equipment without impacting their performance. This thermoformed tray delivers a unique innovative food packaging solution that was developed entirely using a circular economy approach and ecodesign principles. The tray is composed of 100% recycled fibres, mostly sourced from post-consumer sources certified "Recycled" under the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) standard.1 In addition, it is designed with a SurfSHIELDTM water-based coating that protects it from moisture without compromising the recyclability of the cardboard. Unlike traditional containers coated with a thin layer of plastic or other non-recyclable coatings, this food tray is easily recyclable and can be placed in the recycling bin.

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced that it has published its 2019 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report. With this report, the Company has provided additional disclosures using the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) reporting framework and has committed to a broader set of environmental, social and governance initiatives. "Our sustainability reporting continues to exhibit transparency on topics that matter most to investors, customers, employees and other stakeholders," said Michael Doss, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Customers, suppliers, investors, employees and the communities where Graphic Packaging conducts business have helped shape the Company's sustainability vision. We are pleased to disclose the significant progress we have made and our resolve for continued improvement on topics that are most impactful and important to these stakeholders." Graphic Packaging is working diligently toward meeting its Vision 2025 sustainability goals, and accomplished early achievement of two goals in 2019: 100 percent of global folding carton/cup manufacturing facilities are now engaged in a waste diversion program; 100 percent of global folding carton/cup manufacturing facilities and paperboard mills comply with Graphic Packaging's forest and fiber certification requirements.

People are shopping online at a rate never before seen. As of September 2020, e-commerce sales increased 43% year over year, now reaching $60.4 billion in revenue, according to Adobe Analytics. As more people receive deliveries, consumers have become savvier with packaging solutions, developing a greater understanding of what makes an unboxing experience memorable. A curated unboxing experience is no longer a brand differentiator — it’s a must-have, according to BigCommerce. Aesthetics and customer experience aside, a recent study by California Polytechnic State University, in partnership with Pregis LLC, determined that a negative unboxing experience, such as one with excessive packaging, might hurt a company’s bottom line in the long run, particularly among Gen Z consumers. Here’s what you need to know:

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in October increased four percent compared to October 2019. They were up four percent when compared to the same 10 months of 2019. The operating rate was 86.1 percent, down 2.5 points from October 2019 and essentially flat (-0.4 pts.) year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of October remained essentially flat (-765 short tons) from the previous month, and were up 17,000 short tons compared to October 2019.

Fourth Quarter Highlights (all comparisons made to the September 2019 quarter): *Net sales of $3 billion with 4 percent organic volume growth *Operating income of $349 million *Operating EBITDA up 18 percent to $586 million *Net income per diluted share of $1.44. Fiscal Year Highlights (all comparisons made to fiscal year 2019): *Net sales of $11.7 billion with 2 percent organic volume growth *Operating income up 21 percent to $1.2 billion *Operating EBITDA up 41 percent to $2.2 billion *Net income per diluted share up 38 percent to $4.14 *RPC Group Plc (“RPC”) integration and synergy realization progressing better than plan *Exceeded guidance for both cash flow from operations and free cash flow, recording $1.5 billion and $947 million, respectively.

In 2020, Amcor – a leading packaging company - received a rating of AA (on a scale of AAACCC) in the MSCI ESG Ratings assessment. This rating is the highest in the packaging industry and is the second highest rating available. 2020 is the 4th year in a row that Amcor has achieved an AA rating - MSCI describes AA rated companies as ‘a company leading its industry in managing the most significant ESG risks and opportunities’. This rating is announced following the release of Amcor’s Sustainability Report and Sustainability Review – both of which outline progress towards the company’s 2025 commitment to make all of its packaging recyclable or reusable and which track progress against a range of other metrics including use of recycled content and CO2 reductions.

Evergreen Packaging Equipment will debut its NEW servo-driven EH-84 gable top packaging machine at the upcoming Virtual Pack Expo Show, November 9-13. Designed to meet the needs of the dairy, juice, and liquid food markets, the EH-84 can handle fill volumes of 40 ounces up to 2 liters, at speeds up to 8,400 cph (cartons per hour). Allen-Bradley PLC controls and servo-driven technology provide repeatable package performance and automatically control fill volumes and profiles based on product and carton size. Infinite fill capability allows for less downtime with quick and easy changes in carton size or product.

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has joined forces with KHS, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of filling and packaging systems for the beverage and liquid food industries, to roll out its sustainable TopClip multipack product for bundling canned beverages. The partnership brings to the market an end to end solution for beverage companies, including a combined unique and innovative packaging solution and high speed, efficient packaging machines. Launched last year at Smurfit Kappa’s global Better Planet Packaging Day, TopClip is a recyclable solution that replaces the need for shrink wrap, therefore providing an option for substituting plastic with sustainably sourced paper-based packaging. TopClip is free from additional glue, meaning it is 100% plastic free, also allowing for a greater ease to remove or pull apart the cans. The patented product addresses the needs of consumers who are looking to retailers and brands to provide more environmentally friendly packaging.

Last year, Mondi announced that it would expand its existing plant in Ansbach, Southern Germany, to become the largest heavy-duty corrugated cardboard plant in Europe. The “Ansbach 2020” project, an investment worth €30 million, is in its final stages of completion and is meeting its customers' needs with innovative sustainable packaging solutions. The plant successfully installed state of the art machinery, including a new corrugator, die-cutting-machine, inline-machine, paper storage, shipping facility, waste processing facility and intralogistics system. The investment is strengthening the plants position as the go-to-expert for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions in the region. Furthermore, the updated machinery results in less energy consumption and reduces the carbon footprint of the plant.

The US shopping phenomenon is now part of the British retail calendar with millions of packages delivered over the promotional period. Now, retail and waste management has to accommodate the pre-Christmas spending spree. The rise of e-commerce shopping, and the appeal of sale-price products during the holiday shopping weekend, sees a lot of products being shipped from stores to buyers’ homes. This, in turn, leads to large quantities of packaging that need to be recovered from domestic recycling collections in a way that allows said packaging to become high-quality material for recycling.

Is packaging wasted? Well, certainly, some packaging is. But it depends upon your definition of waste. If a metal can is placed into the general waste stream, for example, then yes, it is wasted. If it enters into the recycling stream, then perhaps the consumer sees it as a waste product sent for recycling, but the item itself is far from wasted. In the case of metal, its properties are such that it can be recycled indefinitely without any degradation in quality, which creates what we call a circular economy. Provided the key elements of the circle are all performing their specific duties, it is a truly sustainable model. We have known this for some time, but what is perhaps less known is that food waste has a greater impact on the environment than packaging waste. Although the latter must of course be given our full attention, the former must also be looked at closely to ensure we are not ‘robbing Peter to pay Paul’ – so to speak.

Stora Enso and Tetra Pak are joining forces to explore the possibility of building a new recycling line to significantly increase the recycling of used beverage cartons in Central and Eastern Europe. The two partners are initiating a feasibility study to assess the viability of building a large-scale recycling line for Used Beverage Cartons (UBC) at Stora Enso’s Ostrołęka Mill in Poland. In the model Stora Enso would pulp and separate the fibers from used beverage cartons at its Ostrołęka Mill and use the recycled fibres as a raw material, while Tetra Pak would secure the recycling and reuse of polymers and aluminium which shall be processed by a dedicated partner. If realised, the annual capacity of the new recycling line would be 50 000 tonnes of UBC. This would be a significant increase in recycling capacity for beverage cartons across Europe, boosting the European beverage carton recycling rate from the current 51%. In the first stage the recycled post-consumer beverage carton material would come from countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

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.”

To answer the sustainability challenges raised by the growth in e-commerce, DS Smith and TemperPack are partnering to introduce ClimaCell®, a sustainable thermal insulation barrier for temperature sensitive goods such as meal kits, perishable groceries and medical products. How does it work? A combined pack will include: *a transport box – to protect and ship the content *insulation material – the thermal barrier between the inside and outside temperature (ClimaCell®) *and cooling agent (e.g. Gel packs)– to maintain the required temperature inside

Third Quarter 2020 Highlights (as compared to third quarter 2019): • Revenue increased 10.0% to $323.0 million primarily due to increased demand in products with significant ecommerce end market exposure including water-activated tape and protective packaging. • Gross margin increased to 26.0% from 21.8% primarily due to effective management of the spread between selling prices and combined raw material and freight costs, and favorable plant performance from both increased production to meet demand and continued cost savings initiatives implemented in the prior quarter. • Net earnings attributable to the Company shareholders ("IPG Net Earnings") increased $14.2 million to $26.7 million ($0.45 basic and diluted earnings per share) primarily due to an increase in gross profit, partially offset by an increase in selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") due to an increase in the fair value of cash-settled sharebased compensation and an increase in income tax expense mainly driven by improved profitability in 2020.

At EUR 1,903.5 million, the Group's consolidated sales almost reached the previous year's level (1-3Q 2019: EUR 1,924.3 million). At EUR 169.3 million, the operating result was 13.4% or EUR 26.3 million below the previous year's figure (1-3Q 2019: EUR 195.6 million). This includes one-time expenses of EUR 57.5 million from adjustments necessary for market and structural reasons as well as the termination agreement with the former CEO. Of this, EUR 38.5 million are attributable to the cartonboard division and EUR 19.0 million to the packaging division. As a result, depreciation rose from EUR 101.6 million to EUR 137.8 million. The Group's operating margin was 8.9% (1-3Q 2019: 10.2%).

Pregis announces the North American launch of its Sharp Packaging Systems® MAX-PRO 24 continuous bagging system. This latest model in the MAX-PRO line can handle a wider range of products and bag sizes making it ideal for fulfillment operations with a broad e-commerce offering. “When engineering the MAX-PRO 24, our focus was on creating a system that would help users maximize productivity and minimize labor costs. We think the MAX-PRO 24 delivers all that, and more, making it ideal for increasing volume demands being placed on e-commerce operations,” said Mike Menz, division president. The MAX-PRO 24 includes highly-advanced automated technology, new web handling features that simplify operations and automated pass-through settings, resulting in lower operating costs.

The labeling industry’s first truly closed-loop solutions for paper materials are here with the introduction of the UPM Raflatac LabelLoop™ range. Now available in the Americas market, this product portfolio includes paper label face materials constructed from recycled paper label liner – a first of their kind. The products were officially launched at this week’s Pack Expo Connects event. Today’s brands are looking for innovative solutions to help them meet their sustainability commitments, such as landfill reduction targets and increased use of recycled content. LabelLoop addresses this need and illustrates the company’s dedication to enabling the circular economy and working toward a future beyond fossils. Silicone and adhesive residue on waste liner causes major contamination, so liner that does get recycled is often downcycled into lower quality material. Now, with LabelLoop, these liners can continue to be used by the labeling industry, getting UPM Raflatac, its customers and end-users one step closer to a true circular economy.

WestRock was recognized at the Path to Purchase Design of the Times Awards with six awards for excellence in merchandising solutions, including two platinum awards, the most of any entrant. The Coca-Cola 4x4 Iconic Permanent Endcap produced for The Coca-Cola Company received a platinum award for Best Shopper Experience. This award celebrates the program that most effectively enhances the shopper experience by providing entertainment, visual enhancements, navigational assistance or other physical improvements to the retail environment. The Colgate® Target Optic White Advanced Endcap produced for Colgate Global Design & Colgate Palmolive received a platinum award for Best Shopping Solution. This award celebrates the program that most effectively delivers a tool that simplifies, quickens or otherwise improves the act of shopping. A complete list of the awards is included below, and images can be viewed at: https://events.ensembleiq.com/dotcelebration_2020/2020finalists

Third Quarter Financial Results Highlights: *Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") from ongoing operations for Aluminum Extrusions of $16.5 million was $0.1 million higher than the third quarter of 2019 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for PE Films of $6.0 million was $4.2 million lower than the third quarter of 2019 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for Flexible Packaging Films of $9.5 million was $5.2 million higher than the third quarter of 2019

TC Transcontinental Packaging is pleased to announce the launch of IntegrititeTM 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) collation shrink film. The new packaging can be found in the AHA® Sparkling Water printed case wrap appearing on select Sam’s and BJ's Club Store shelves this Fall in Ohio, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Indiana, South Carolina, North Carolina, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Mississippi and Delaware. IntegrititeTM PCR collation shrink film includes 30% of post-consumer plastic resin transformed into a recyclable resource. “Our R&D team has crafted a collation shrink film that is itself recyclable at store drop off locations and contains PCR without sacrificing performance, strength and durability,” said Alex Hayden, Senior Vice President, R&D and Sustainability, at TC Transcontinental Packaging. “We are proud to support The Coca-Cola Company in sourcing flexible packaging with recycled content, to contribute to the establishment of a circular economy for plastics, and to meet our shared Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment signatory vision of a future whereby plastic never becomes waste.”

From takeout food to online shopping, more people are leveraging the safety and convenience of ordering online because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As unprecedented as this moment in time is, consumers’ shifting purchasing habits have a silver lining—people are paying more attention to the sustainability of product packaging. While the pandemic has compounded an environmental crisis, consumers are paying attention to issues of sustainability in a different way and prioritizing the need for greater packaging sustainability. As we navigate this “new normal,” our awareness of just how much we are consuming has sharpened our focus on the need to advance toward a circular economy for a more sustainable world. In navigating the road to greater sustainability in packaging, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Companies and customers must have access to a variety of solutions and be provided with multiple opportunities to make more sustainable choices. How do we gain traction on our journey toward a more circular economy? In a word: collaboration.

Smurfit Kappa has today announced new targets to further reduce its fossil CO2 emissions, including its ambition to reach at least net zero emissions by 2050. It has also increased its existing intermediate 2030 CO2 reduction target by 15 percentage points to 55%, in comparison to the 2005 baseline. The company will have these targets validated by the Science Based Target initiative as being in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. Smurfit Kappa has been a market leader in sustainability since 2005. Before today’s announcement, the company had already achieved a reduction in CO2 emission intensity of 32.9% on its 2030 target of a 40% reduction. This impressive achievement has resulted from the successful implementation of key projects that form part of the company’s medium-term strategic plan. One such project was the installation of an industry-leading recovery boiler at the company’s Nettingsdorf Paper Mill in Austria which began operating in June of this year. The new boiler is set to cut CO2 emissions by an additional 40,000 tonnes, which translates into an additional 1.5% reduction in CO2 emissions across the business.

Branded, wood fibre-based, easy-to-recycle cups manufactured from Kotkamills’ board are now used by Bentley Suomi. The tailor-made cups commemorate the luxury brand’s more than 100-year history. The history of Kotkamills, a specialist in wood-based consumer packaging, goes back even further: it will soon be 150 years since the sawmill was established. In addition to a long history, Kotkamills and Bentley are united by a strong commitment to building a more sustainable future – without compromising quality. The wood-based products are driving Bentley Suomi to the forefront of sustainable luxury. The high-quality branded cups reflect the sustainable and innovative use of natural resources, and they are safe to use and easy to recycle.

Highlights - Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 • GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of 12.6 cents per share, up 207%; • Adjusted EPS of 15.8 cents per share, up 20% in constant currency terms; • Adjusted EBIT of $358 million, up 9% in constant currency terms; • Bemis acquisition synergies of $20 million delivered in Q1. $100 million delivered on a transaction to date basis; • Quarterly dividend increased to 11.75 cents per share; • $150 million share buy-back announced today, funded by divestment proceeds; and • Fiscal 2021 outlook for adjusted EPS growth raised to 7-12% in constant currency terms (previously 5-10%).

Sonoco ThermoSafe announced the launch of its new EOS™ line of fully curbside recyclable temperature controlled packaging in the U.S. EOS was created to give concerned life science and perishable clients a truly curbside recyclable system from a trusted provider. Several competing insulated packaging products claim curbside recyclability but use inner pellets, panels and liner coatings that can’t be separated or sorted and become unrecyclable as-is at Municipal Recycling Facilities (MRFs). As one of the largest recyclers in the U.S., Sonoco has deep expertise in both recycling technology and regulatory requirements. Prior to launching EOS, Sonoco ThermoSafe conducted substantial internal and third party university testing on its components affirming EOS’ curbside recyclability as is.

Pregis has acquired Technical Machinery Solutions (TMS), Elk Grove Village, Illinois from its privately-held owners. The acquisition also includes the Graphic Innovators business. Most recently, the company has gained attention for the equipment it has engineered which is thought to be the first used to produce a lightweight, curbside recyclable all-paper mailer. Branded the TMS Eco Mailer™, these cushioned mailers provide great protection with circularity in mind and can be recycled in all-paper recovery systems. As a result, they are the ideal solution for both consumers and brand owners seeking to meet environmental objectives.

Mondi, a leading global packaging and paper manufacturer, and Fiorini International, a leading Italian packaging converter, have developed Italy’s first 100% recyclable paper rice bag for Italian rice producer Riseria Vignola Giovanni. Made of Mondi Advantage Smooth White Strong paper, the new ‘Rice Bag’ will support Vignola’s sustainability aims to reduce use of plastic packaging. The 'Rice Bag' was designed as part of Mondi’s customer-centric EcoSolutions approach to help customers achieve their sustainability goals while meeting technical requirements such as food shelf life preservation and regulations. Vignola showed a clear commitment to use more environmentally sustainable packaging with their purchase of a new form-fill-seal machine suitable for paper-based bags. "Our fifth-generation family company has long been an innovator in Italy. In 1971, we were one of the first to pack rice in cardboard boxes, and in the 1980s we were among the first to adopt the vacuum packaging system. Now we are pleased to be leading the market once again with this fully recyclable paper rice bag for our 500g and one kilo packages, giving consumers the sustainable, recyclable packaging they increasingly prefer." Giovanni Vignola, Managing Director, Vignola

The Mayr-Melnhof Group is strengthening the Neupack folding box production at the Hirschwang site in Austria with an extensive future-oriented program. An investment plan of EUR 18 million in buildings and machines is intended to significantly increase the international competitiveness of the location in the growth markets of e-commerce packaging and high-quality printed consumer goods packaging in ultra-fine wave (microwave) for products such as food, pet food and electrical household appliances. In addition to the construction of an enlarged production and warehouse hall, investments are made in new printing technology, punching capacities as well as state-of-the-art automation and infrastructure. The aim is to lead Neupack Hirschwang into the future with bundled forces and an attractive range of products with good earnings. This makes the folding box factory a sustainable employer in the region with currently 215 employees.

The Alloyd Division of Sonoco introduced its new, patent pending, roll-feed, cut and seal machine for medical packaging applications that use Tyvek. This innovative, integrated machine brings automation to the production environment, helping to create a faster, more efficient production system for sealing Tyvek-based packaging. It makes for a versatile addition to the existing line of Aergo 2 and Aergo 2 Plus heat sealing machines. “Any time you can increase speeds, seal quality and seal accuracy, while also reducing material scrap and tooling costs, it’s a win, win, win,” said Jim Lassiter, Sonoco segment vice president, Global Plastics. “Precision and performance are so critical in medical packaging where there is very little, if any, room for error. The fact that the addition of this machine to the production process is able to dramatically reduce, or in some cases, completely eliminate operator error, delivers peace of mind for customers because they can have greater confidence in the performance of their final package.”

Leading European thermoforming packaging specialists Waddington Europe, a division of Novolex®, announced today the launch of two food packaging material options made of 100% recycled plastic that are also 100% recyclable. This represents a best in class “circular” packaging option for the food manufacturing and retail sectors. With sustainability and the environmental impact of packaging increasingly a priority for the end consumer, Waddington Europe’s in-house Innovation team have introduced the Eco Blend™ Pura and Eco Blend™ 100 products made with 100% recycled materials as competitive and cost effective options to customers.

First Nine Months Overview: *Third quarter performance ahead of our expectations *Revenue of €6,312 million for the nine months *EBITDA of €1,125 million for the nine months *EBITDA Margin of 17.8% for the nine months *Second interim dividend at 27.9 cent per share

Sonoco ThermoSafe announced that AirBridge Cargo Airlines has signed a Master Lease Agreement (MLA) to offer ThermoSafe’s new Pegasus ULD™ bulk temperature controlled container directly to its clients. The Pegasus ULD™ is the world’s first passive bulk temperature-controlled container for pharmaceutical use that is an FAA-approved unit load device, which allows it to speed through existing international ground handling and customs processes at the lowest possible cost.

Tredegar Corporation announced that it has completed the previously announced sale of its personal care films (“Personal Care Films”) business to affiliates of Fitesa S.A. Commenting on the sale, John Steitz, Tredegar’s president and chief executive officer said, “We believe that in combination with Fitesa, a worldwide leader in nonwoven fabrics, Tredegar’s former personal care business will have improved opportunities for growth.” Cash proceeds from the sale net of transaction costs, purchase price adjustments and transition services are estimated at $45 to $50 million. Net cash income tax costs or benefits relating to the transaction are expected to be negligible. The transaction excludes the packaging film lines and related operations located at the Pottsville, Pennsylvania manufacturing site (“Pottsville Packaging”), which will now be reported within the Surface Protection component of PE Films.

Ox Industries has announced it is opening a new converting operation in Sturgis Michigan. The new plant will expand Ox’s geographic reach for converted products in the Midwest. The facility will be approximately 150,000 square feet of production and warehouse space and house two fully automatic high-speed protective packaging and tube and core lines from TCM Solutions, as well as a new high speed “SheetRunner” paperboard sheeter from BW Paper Systems. The facility will be vertically integrated within the Ox paper mill network and operational in the first quarter of 2021. Ox expects the project will create up to 50 new jobs.

As an $18 billion-dollar global company, WestRock understands the important role it can play in driving greater sustainability in the packaging industry, for — and with — its customers. It does this by providing customers with a portfolio of sustainable fiber-based packaging options and working with them to create tailored sustainable packaging solutions to meet their individual sustainability needs. Every day, WestRock’s fiber-based packaging solutions deliver vital products to millions of customers, and the company is proud of the pivotal role it has played during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring consumers receive much-needed items when they need them the most.

Sustainable recycling management is becoming increasingly important in trade and industry. Colorful recycled paper from Koehler makes PresentFill® boxes and fill material more environmentally friendly. A product’s packaging is crucial for 70 percent of consumers in their decision to buy. The circular economy is thus increasingly becoming a strategic topic in the sustainability efforts of trade and industry. In addition to transport containers, packaging includes fill material to protect the packed goods. The fact that packaging is increasingly being considered with regard to environmental protection and recyclability has been conducive to the success of the Bavarian company PresentFill®. Company founder Gerald Göbel started producing filling and padding material in 2013. The “raw material” in the form of recycled paper has been delivered ever since by the Koehler Paper Group from their factory in Greiz, Thuringia. There, the family company produces recycled paper from 100% secondary fiber material, proving, through the use of brilliant colors, that sustainability can be colorful.

Finnish packaging manufacturers PackageMedia and Starcke have been awarded for their innovative products packaged in Kotkamills’ board material. Designed by PackageMedia, the Fazer Domino campaign packaging has received a ScanStar Award. The primary judging criteria of the pan-Nordic packaging competition, organised by the Scandinavian Packaging Association, were innovativeness of the idea, protective properties of the packaging, price, design, and user and environmental friendliness. The awarded Domino campaign skilfully used appealing images submitted by consumers. To delight consumers, digital technology was used to print a total of 1,200 different images on cookie packages made from Kotkamills’ AEGLE® Pro board. The good printability and excellent stiffness of AEGLE® Pro ensured the high-end result.

Third Quarter 2020 Summary: *Reported sales increased 8%, including positive effects of currency translation rates and recent acquisitions, and core sales increased 2% *Strong reported and core growth in our Pharma segment *Core sales growth in the food, personal care and home care markets *Recent acquisitions are performing well *Reported earnings per share totaled $0.95 (an increase of 12% compared to the prior year) *Reported net income totaled $64 million (an increase of 12% compared to the prior year) *Cash flow from operations was $381 million in the first nine months of 2020 (a slight increase over the prior year)

January–September 2020 (compared to 1–9/2019) •Sales were EUR 1,416.4 million (1,453.4). •Comparable operating result was EUR 156.7 million (145.3) or 11.1% (10.0%) of sales. Operating result was EUR 162.7 million (160.8). •Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.33 (0.32), and earnings per share were EUR 0.34 (0.36). •Comparable return on capital employed was 11.8% ( 11.0%). •Net cash flow from operations was EUR 226.7 million (110.9). July–September 2020 (compared to 7–9/2019) • Sales were EUR 471.2 million (489.2). •Comparable operating result was EUR 62.5 million (42.5), or 13.3% (8.7%) of sales. Operating result was EUR 62.5 million (42.5). •Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.13 (0.09), and earnings per share were EUR 0.13 (0.09). •Comparable return on capital employed was 14.3% (9.7%). •Net cash flow from operations was EUR 74.4 million (43.8).

To offer our customers a full portfolio of packaging papers, UPM Specialty Papers has launched UPM SolideTM, a family of kraft papers that feature a versatile combination of strength as well as converting properties. All grades in the portfolio offer excellent printability to maximise the shelf impact of packaging. All papers in the UPM SolideTM family are recyclable in regular paper recycling stream. The UPM Solide portfolio offers a broad range of kraft papers to choose from, with substance ranging from 45 g/m2 up to 90 g/m2. Samples and trial reels of the UPM Solide portfolio are available. UPM SolideTM combines high strength and good printability. UPM SolideTM Smooth offers high printability with good strength. Excellent choice when you need the visuals of your product to make an impact. UPM SolideTM Strong offers excellent strength and good printability. The paper is free from optical brighteners, making it an excellent choice when you are looking to convey your natural image. UPM SolideTM Lucent is a natural white translucent paper with high strength properties. The smooth surface offers good printability and convertability.

The latest industry studies estimate that as much as half of all food produced globally for human consumption is wasted every year. That is a staggering figure, particularly considering that around one in nine people on the earth do not have enough food to live a healthy life. Couple this with estimates that the global population will reach close to 9 billion people by 2050, and the need to reduce food waste to ease the strain on resources and agricultural land is more vital than ever. To look at where we can make a difference, we must first look at the food value chain. There are five steps in the process: production, handling and storage, processing and packaging, distribution and market and consumption. Emerging economies waste 40% of food during the first two steps of the value chain, while mature economies waste 40% of food during the last two steps. Processing and packaging lies in the middle of the value chain and has the potential to make an impact on both sides of the economic divide.

KeelClip™ and PaperSeal®, two award-winning packaging innovations from fiber-based packaging solutions leader Graphic Packaging International (Graphic Packaging), are being recognized again, this time at the at the Institute of Packaging Professionals' 2020 AmeriStar Packaging Awards. KeelClip, a replacement solution for plastic rings and shrink wrap on multipack cans, gathered the top awards in both sustainability and the beverages/alcoholic drinks category. PaperSeal tray, an alternative to modified atmosphere packaging and vacuum skin packaging, received the top award in the food/refrigerated category.

Net sales of $1.2 billion increased 2% as reported. Currency had a negative impact on total net sales of $12 million or approximately 1%. Net earnings were $132 million, or $0.85 per diluted share. Special Items, which were largely due to one-time net tax related benefits, contributed $5 million to net earnings. This compares to third quarter 2019 net earnings of $80 million, or $0.51 per diluted share, which were unfavorably impacted by $20 million of Special Items, including restructuring and restructuring associated costs of $15 million, net of tax.

Consider millennials as the poster children for sustainability. They’re the ones toting reusable fabric bags at your local farmer’s market and driving hybrid vehicles around town. If you think about it, it’s no surprise: they learned from the Greatest Generation, who founded Earth Day and turned environmentalism into actionable steps to preserve the planet. As millennials grab the environmentalism baton, their spending habits are expected to match their commitment to the planet. For example, one survey found that 75 percent of millennials look for and spend money on sustainable food products versus just 34 percent of Baby Boomers. As millennials spend serious cash on sustainable products across all industries — from food to cleaning supplies to wellness products — companies are quickly introducing products that appeal to their desire to protect the environment.

Net sales in the third quarter of 2020 were $1.6 billion compared to $1.7 billion in the prior year as net sales declined $76 million attributed to the divestment of ANZ. After adjusting for the sale of ANZ, average selling prices improved nearly 1 percent and increased revenue $12 million. Shipments increased 1.7 percent in tons, or $24 million, while unfavorable foreign currency translation reduced net sales by $11 million. Segment operating profit1 was $204 million in the third quarter of 2020 compared to $206 million in the prior year. Higher shipments benefited segment operating profit by $10 million. Cost inflation, which was elevated due to foreign currency pressures, more than offset the benefit of higher selling prices by $4 million. Operating costs were $6 million higher than the prior year as improved operating performance and cost control efforts substantially offset the impact of lower production levels. Current year profits were unfavorably impacted by the net effect of favorable foreign currency translation and the sale of ANZ.

Packaging Corporation of America reported third quarter 2020 net income of $139 million, or $1.46 per share, and net income of $149 million, or $1.57 per share, excluding special items. Third quarter net sales were $1.69 billion in 2020 and $1.75 billion in 2019. Excluding special items, the ($.35) per share decrease in third quarter 2020 earnings compared to the third quarter of 2019 was driven primarily by lower prices and mix in our Packaging segment ($.36) and Paper segment ($.07), lower volumes in our Paper segment ($.33), higher scheduled maintenance outage costs ($.04), and higher freight expense ($.02). These items were partially offset by higher volumes in our Packaging segment $.22, lower operating costs $.20, and lower converting $.04 and other costs $.01.

DS Smith Tecnicarton has received the Liderpack Award in the category 'best logistics and distribution packaging' for its latest innovative design, a telescopic lid valid for different packaging lengths. The system is made up of two joined sections and is equipped with several side tabs whose locking at different lengths allows the lid to be lengthened and shrunk and adapted to different dimensions. In this way, with a single element, multiple packaging references can be covered, which optimises storage space, promotes the reduction of stock costs and simplifies reference management.

Sustainable packaging, which means replacing plastic with paper wherever possible, is not just a question of material availability. While flexible packaging paper may well be threatening to displace plastic packaging, both materials still have to share the same machines for the time being. Questions concerning changeover times and even machine conversions and, above all, process reliability in processing are therefore of primary importance for machine operators. Eckard Kallies, Head of the Flexible Packaging Paper Division at the Koehler Paper Group, explains: "We know just how much pressure the consumer is exerting when it comes to greater sustainability. As a supplier to the packaging industry, we have therefore entered into a strategic partnership with Syntegon, a globally leading processing and packaging technology provider. Although people are demanding to see an instant revolution in terms of greater sustainability, this is only possible by taking an evolutionary path. To ensure that we move step by step in the right direction, Syntegon and the Koehler Paper Group are strategically combining their knowledge."

There are more and more reasons to replace the plastic Bag for Life with one in paper when you go shopping. BillerudKorsnäs and AB Group Packaging therefore proudly present the reusable paper bag, one of the world´s strongest paper bags now available in UK Supermarkets. The secret behind the power of the Reusable Paper bag is the raw material called FibreForm®“RPET, fabric or PP reusable bags have long been available for consumers but can now be replaced by a Reusable bag made of FibreForm®, says Veronica Fylkner, Sales Manager, Formable Solutions at BillerudKorsnäs. “FibreForm® is one of the strongest kraft papers in the world. It’s been on the market for a while and we are still exploring its full potential. We see several new applications we can develop with FibreForm® and we are eager to replace less sustainable materials and solutions. It is a journey that we are pleased to be on as we can help decrease the amount of plastics and aluminium in different applications on the market” says Veronica Fylkner.

Delhaize Belgium, the leading supermarket chain, has optimized its packaging process to meet the increased demand for home deliveries in partnership with DS Smith, the leading sustainable packaging provider. By creating its new Direct Box, the retailer could reduce the CO2 emissions with more than 87 tons. Nico Buelens, Project Manager Ecommerce Operations of Delhaize explains: "The new Direct Box is an innovative reusable corrugated tray. It incorporates built-in reinforcement on the handles, thisensures an extra strong Direct Box.

ePac Flexible Packaging has announced the launch of ePacConnect. ePacConnect leverages the power of digital printing to create serialized, trackable packaging, and new ways for brands to engage consumers, gain market insights and protect their brand. ePac will offer all its customers an entry-level no-cost solution, ideal for small and medium-sized brands, as well as a fee-based solution for customers with broader requirements. ePacConnect will be piloted in Q4 2020 in the US and Europe, with a full roll-out to all ePac locations planned in early 2021. All customer orders received by ePac will include smart, serialized secure QR codes on every package or the brand can opt-out and no codes will be printed. By serializing each package it is automatically digitally enabled, given a unique digital identity, and can be “activated” at any time to give brands flexibility for how and when the codes are used.

E-commerce sales jumped a whopping 49 percent in April in response to COVID-19, and since then, online retailers have been scrambling to keep up with the increased demand in shipments. In addition to using more boxes or bags, there is also more in-the-box protection used to make sure the package contents make it safely to its destination. If the materials are not properly disposed of, this additional packaging may lead to a rise in consumer waste. In spite of all this increased consumption, online shoppers still care about the environmental impact of their purchases. In a recent survey, 83 percent of consumers said they considered the environment at the checkout screen, including the excessive waste it might be generating, and the increase in their carbon footprint. In that same study, 78 percent of respondents said that companies could be doing more to mitigate packaging waste. More and more brands are becoming conscious about their impact on the environment. Eco-friendly products in fashion, personal care, and other sectors have been popular for years. But now those same values are being extended to their packaging and fulfillment strategies, and mainstream companies are joining them. Here are 7 brands using sustainable packaging to make a lasting impact on consumers: click read more below

Encase operates two integrated corrugated packaging plants in England and one sheet plant in Scotland. VPK will merge Encase with its UK corrugated operations, formerly known as Rigid Containers. The combined businesses are expected to achieve yearly sales of more than £200m in corrugated packaging and sheets. All six corrugators combine a yearly containerboard consumption of 300,000 tons, which represents a major part of the non-integrated recycled containerboard consumption in UK.

O-I Glass, Inc. and Germany’s Krones AG signed a strategic collaboration agreement that aims to elevate glass by innovating together and to jointly create solutions for the growing glass market. “For O-I, glass is the preferred packaging solution in a world that increasingly values health, premium products and the environment. Not only does it maintain the integrity of the products and protects the environment, as customers and consumers intend, but it also offers magnificent opportunities for establishing brands and implementing sustainable solutions,” explains Andres Lopez, President and CEO at O-I. “This agreement is the first step that O-I and Krones are taking together in order to offer clients completely integrated, end-to-end solutions in the future.” Focus areas include improvements in glass filling and packaging line speed and efficiency; enhanced agility and flexibility of responding to market trends; development of innovative and sustainable glass systems; and advancements in digital solutions such as direct-to-glass digital printing technology.

Q3 2020 in brief • Net sales decreased 1% to EUR 847 million (EUR 855 million) • Adjusted EBIT was EUR 86 million (EUR 72 million); reported EBIT was EUR 65 million (EUR 68 million) • Adjusted EPS was EUR 0.56 (EUR 0.45); reported EPS was EUR 0.43 (EUR 0.41) • Comparable net sales growth was 2% at Group level and -2% in emerging markets. Q1-Q3 2020 in brief: • Net sales decreased 1% to EUR 2,489 million (EUR 2,524 million) • Adjusted EBIT was EUR 229 million (EUR 218 million); reported EBIT was EUR 217 million (EUR 213 million) • Adjusted EPS was EUR 1.46 (EUR 1.40) reported EPS was EUR 1.40 (EUR 1.36) • Comparable net sales growth was -1% at Group level and -6% in emerging markets

Net sales for the third quarter of 2020 were $1.31 billion, down 3.1 percent from last year's third quarter sales of $1.35 billion. The sales decline was driven by lower volume/mix, a stronger U.S. dollar and lower selling prices. These negative impacts were partially offset by sales added from acquisitions. GAAP net income attributable to Sonoco in the third quarter was $83.4 million, or $0.82 per diluted share, a decrease of $8.6 million, compared with $92.1 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, in 2019. Gross profit was $257.0 million in the third quarter compared to $265.5 million in the same period in 2019. Quarterly gross profit as a percentage of sales was essentially flat year over year at 19.6 percent. Third-quarter selling, general and administrative expenses increased $5.8 million from the prior year to $126.1 million.

Key highlights: *Stable sales volumes despite challenging markets *Successfully accomplished maintenance shutdowns *Accelerated delivery of the cost and efficiency programme *Strong operating cash flow generation *Recyclable Flow Wrap launched. Quarterly data: *Net sales declined by 5% to SEK 5 561 million (5 833). Excluding currency effects sales declined by 3% *Operating profit was SEK 86 million (149) *Net profit from continuing operations was SEK 52 million (77) *Earnings per share amounted to SEK 0.25 (27.83)**

PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, announced the continued growth of its membership, adding 21 new companies this Fall, bringing active membership to 943. “The addition of 21 new members demonstrates confidence in PMMI’s ability to provide timely resources that drive the packaging and processing industry forward. We are committed to adding value to our members’ businesses so they can stay competitive and adjust to our constantly changing climate,” says Glen Long, senior vice president, PMMI. “Now more than ever, we are excited about our growth and look forward to continuing to support our membership.”

Silgan Holdings Inc. reported record third quarter 2020 net income of $112.9 million, or $1.01 per diluted share, as compared to third quarter 2019 net income of $81.3 million, or $0.73 per diluted share. Net sales for the third quarter of 2020 were $1.49 billion, an increase of $167.2 million, or 12.7 percent, as compared to the same period in the prior year. This increase was the result of higher net sales in all of the businesses. Income before interest and income taxes for the third quarter of 2020 was $174.0 million, an increase of $41.3 million as compared to $132.7 million for the third quarter of 2019, and margins increased to 11.7 percent from 10.0 percent for the same periods. The increase in income before interest and income taxes was the result of higher income in each of the businesses. Rationalization charges were $2.5 million and $3.2 million for the third quarters of 2020 and 2019, respectively, and acquisition related costs were $0.7 million in the third quarter of 2020.

WestRock Company was recognized for packaging design excellence at the 77th Annual North American Paperboard Packaging Competition. The company won 18 awards, including two major awards: Rigid Box of the Year and Digital Application of the Year. Sponsored by the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) and judged by packaging experts, the awards recognize packaging that represents the best in converting excellence, innovation and sustainability that the North American folding carton industry provided its customers over the past year. Click read more below for additional detail.

Q3 2020 Highlights: *Net Sales were $1,697.7 million versus $1,581.6 million in the prior year period. *Net organic sales increased 4.2% in the quarter and increased 3.5% for the first nine months of 2020 versus the prior year period. *Net Income was $63.7 million versus $52.1 million in the prior year period. *Global liquidity was $1,557.1 million at quarter end. *Returned $366.7 million to stakeholders in share repurchases, dividends, partnership distributions and redemptions; included $89.9 million in common shares repurchased during the quarter.

Graphic Packaging International earned a noteworthy number of awards at the 2020 Paperboard Packaging Council's carton competition, including the top honor, Paperboard Package of the Year, in addition to the Innovation, Sustainability and Folding Carton of the Year awards. KeelClip™ is the winner of two top accolades: Paperboard Package of the Year and the Innovation award. KeelClip is a unique paperboard design that not only replaces plastic rings, top clips and shrink wrap multipacks for cans; it also offers merchandising benefits that similar beverage packaging does not. The concept combines an efficient paperboard clip with the benefits of a stabilizing 'keel' structure to strengthen the top panel and optimize clip performance. KeelClip works with the widest range of cans and multi-count configurations and at the speeds required by large beverage operations, allowing brand owners to present a premium and sustainable image with a billboard for branding and can orientation. The award affirms the company's approach to creating innovative packaging solutions that helps brands achieve sustainability goals and meet consumer demand for packaging made from renewable materials.

There has been a surge in consumer demand for Bag-in-Box wines in the current year according to new data, partially caused by changing behaviours due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Research by packaging leader Smurfit Kappa in collaboration with Wine Intelligence found that Bag-in-Box wine attracted 3.7 million new consumers in France and the UK during the past six months. The survey analysed the behaviour of monthly wine drinkers in France and the UK, who have increasingly moved to drinking and entertaining at home due to the restrictions of the pandemic. France is the biggest market for Bag-in-Box wine and the UK is currently one of the fastest growing. Consumers noted freedom of consumption, ease of transport and value for money as the main motivations when purchasing Bag-in-Box wines. Other benefits of Bag-in-Box wine include its ability to preserve wine for up to 6-8 weeks after opening compared to 2-3 days in a glass bottle, and its lower carbon footprint.

Sonoco announced it is implementing a $50 per ton price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in the United States and Canada, effective with shipments beginning November 16, 2020. Sonoco cited significantly longer backlogs at its mills along with continuing inflation of input costs, especially freight and papermaking chemicals as the drivers for this pricing action.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in September increased 14 percent compared to September 2019. They were up four percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019. The operating rate was 92.3 percent, up 6.7 points from September 2019 and essentially flat (-0.1 pts.) year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of September decreased 3,000 short tons from the previous month, and were up 12,000 short tons compared to September 2019.

Total Containerboard production in September increased four percent compared to September 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019. September 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased 12 percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 19 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 95.9 percent, up 3.7 points from September 2019 and up 2.8 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of September decreased 67,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 25,000 short tons compared to September 2019.

Total Boxboard production in September decreased six percent compared to September 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 88.3 percent, down 3.6 points from September 2019 and down 0.8 points year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in September decreased 11 percent compared to September 2019. It was down six percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in September decreased one percent compared to September 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in September decreased four percent compared to September 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same nine months of 2019.

International technology Group ANDRITZ has received an order from Segezha Pulp and Paper Mill, a member of the Segezha Group (part of PJSC Sistema), to supply stock preparation equipment for its mill in Segezha, Republic of Karelia, Russia. Start-up is scheduled for the beginning of 2021. The new system will feature a capacity of 350 bdmt/d and process bleached market pulp bales to produce a new final product – white high-porosity sack paper. The scope of supply comprises the bale feeding line with a manual dewiring station, an ANDRITZ FibreSolve FSV pulper for efficient slushing, a ModuScreen CP protection screen, as well as the complete control and electrification system.

Atlantic Packaging Products Ltd. officially announced the construction of a new 100% recycled paper machine in Whitby, Ontario. The new paper machine will be Atlantic's second recycled paper machine in Whitby, and is being built adjacent to their current machine which has been operational since the 1990s. The new machine will be one of the most technologically advanced machines in North America producing 400,000 tons per annum of high performance light weight medium and liner. Production is scheduled for the first quarter of 2022.

Evergreen Packaging®, a global leader in plant-based packaging solutions today announced that Clover Sonoma, a third-generation family-owned and operated dairy, is transitioning its half-gallon organic milk to the PlantCartonTM package with RenewablePlusTM paperboard by Evergreen. “As a company, we continuously look for innovative approaches to reaching sustainability goals, and packaging is an important part of that,” said Kristel Corson, vice president of sales and marketing at Clover Sonoma. “We are the first dairy to switch to Evergreen Packaging’s fully renewable plant-based milk carton, and we chose the RenewablePlus cartons because they support responsible forest management, while utilizing less plastic, encouraging recycling, and decreasing the use of fossil fuels.” “As the world’s most trusted forest certification, the Forest Stewardship Council® demonstrates that Clover Sonoma and Evergreen Packaging are meeting the highest standards of responsible forest management,” said Chris McLaren, Chief Markets and Marketing Officer for FSC® US. Evergreen Packaging is Forest Stewardship Council certified (FSC®-C016043).

International Paper announced that it completed the previously disclosed sale of its Brazilian corrugated packaging business to Klabin S.A. The business has three containerboard mills and four box plants. The company will continue to run its papers business and forestry operations in Brazil.

ND Paper is pleased to introduce a new offering of bleached and natural kraft bag paper products manufactured at our Rumford, Maine mill. Ideal for multi-wall bags, retail bags, and converting applications, these papers range from 40 lb. to 80 lb. (3,000 ft2 basis) and are produced from 100% virgin fiber, with options for post-consumer waste content. "Combined with our 100% recycled packaging grades from our recently rebuilt B25 machine in Biron, Wisconsin, ND Paper is now able to offer a wide range of options to converters and brand owners," says Matt Stapleton, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Our kraft and recycled grades are designed to meet demanding print, converting, and sustainability requirements for a multitude of end use applications." All ND Paper packaging products are available with FSC, SFI, and PEFC chain of custody certification. These new offerings are yet another example of how ND Paper is investing to be sustainable now and for the next 100 years.

With demand increasing, Novolex® brand Shields® is stepping up production of its innovative poly mailers to help companies ship their products more reliably and securely. Manufactured in the USA, the Shields eCommerce mailer bag is durable, puncture resistant and waterproof. Its easy-to-use closure uses a secure, pressure-sensitive adhesive with an anti-static release liner. The mailer is also labeled with the How2Recycle® “store drop-off” label, which instructs consumers and businesses to bring mailers to participating retailers for recycling. “The pandemic is creating an intense need for secure poly mailers manufactured dependably in the USA,” said Martin McDonough, Vice President of Sales for Shields. “We are increasing production of our high-quality mailers so we can help as many companies as possible ship their products more reliably and securely.”

Sonoco announced it has signed an agreement to sell its Europe contract packaging business to Prairie Industries Holdings, a Wisconsin-based contract packaging and contract manufacturing firm backed by The Halifax Group, a Washington, D.C.-based global investment firm, for $120 million in cash. The transaction is subject to normal closing requirements and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2020. Sonoco’s Europe contract packaging business (Sonoco Poland Packaging Services Sp. z o.o.) produced net sales of approximately $300 million in 2019 and provides full-service custom packaging and supply chain management solutions to global consumer product goods companies through six contract packaging facilities in three locations and a warehouse all in Poland. The business is part of Sonoco’s Display and Packaging segment and has approximately 2,600 employees.

The Tetra Pak® Tubular Heat Exchanger equipment​ has become the first tubular heat exchanger to receive the EHEDG certification​ meeting the leading food safety standards in Europe, in accordance with new standards. Tubular Heat Exchangers are used for the heating and cooling of liquid food, so they are safe for consumption. The Heat Exchanger is the most critical component in a processing line as it is the hottest part during heat treatment and where fouling is most likely to occur. Therefore, innovation advances in hygienic engineering and design are key to consistently meet increasing food safety demands.

E-commerce is booming. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans spent $211.5 billion on online shopping in the second quarter of 2020, up 31.8% quarter over quarter. Every one of those orders generated a shipment. And because of shelter in place policies, there’s an increased volume in large bulky items being shipped that would normally be purchased in stores. Packaging Digest finds that, “As much as 11% of unit loads arriving at a distribution center have some level of case damage.” Transport and handling issues are certainly a cause of this, but the root of the problem often lies in insufficient packaging. Shipping oversize packages is notoriously more expensive than standard parcels, racking up surcharges and additional handling fees, not to mention more labor intensive when it comes to finding the right container and materials. Click read more below for the rest of the article

Metsä Board’s, part of Metsä Group, comparable operating result for the third quarter of 2020 is better than the company’s result guidance issued on July 30, 2020. The result guidance in Metsä Board’s January–June 2020 half-year financial report was: “Metsä Board’s comparable operating result for the third quarter of 2020 is expected to weaken compared to the second quarter of 2020.” The comparable operating result for the second quarter of 2020 was EUR 60.5 million. The comparable operating result for the third quarter of 2020 is estimated to be approximately EUR 62 million.

Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, is delighted to announce that five cartons produced using its quality paperboards were selected as winners at the 2020 European Carton Excellence Awards at a virtual ceremony organised on 7th October. Metsä Board’s paperboard was used for the winner in the category of Food & Drink Packaging, Virgin Fibre, as well as for two Platinum Award winning cartons and for two Gold Award winning cartons. “The demand for packaging continues to grow and new, sustainable solutions as well as innovations are needed to replace fossil-based materials and to ensure circularity. Sustainability has become an integral part of packaging design,” says Maarten Florizoone, Sales Director, Converters Team at Metsä Board. “I am proud that Metsä Board’s ecological and recyclable paperboards were selected by our customers and partners for the five award winning packages, and I would like to congratulate all the teams behind the winning designs.” click read more below for details

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced that it is investing in a state-of-the-art Reicofil R5 asset to provide incremental capacity to serve the fast growing Asia healthcare markets. The investment is targeted to meet forecasted market and customer growth and will be focused on high performance applications in the desired healthcare markets. The nonwovens investment supports Berry’s strategy to further its leadership position in healthcare. The new asset will be installed at Berry’s Nanhai, China, facility, which is strategically positioned to serve customers in the rapidly growing Southeast Asia region. Current projections are for startup in the September quarter of 2022. “We are committed to further partnering with our customers to pursue growth opportunities around the world. The added capacity achieved through this asset is a next step in advancing our market leading position in healthcare material solutions,” said Curt Begle, President of Berry’s Health, Hygiene, and Specialties Division.

In this blog post, we look at how working with your packaging provider early in the product development process can help combat food waste. If food waste were represented as a standalone country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally after China and the U.S.1This statistic may not be well-known, but it is one we are keenly aware of at Crown. That is why we have partnered with Dr. Lilly DaGama, a food waste consultant and founder of The Food Waste Doctor, to drill down into the food waste issue and discover where metal packaging can make an impact. The value of involving packaging manufacturers early in the process – even as early as the concept phase–as opposed to the point when a product is already developed can not be underestimated. Far more can be done to ensure the package itself can make a difference in terms of food waste if this is the case, as features can be incorporated before a concept goes into production.

Greif, Inc. announced it has been awarded a Gold Rating in sustainability performance by EcoVadis for the third year in a row. EcoVadis is an independent rating agency specializing in the evaluation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including sustainable development and performance monitoring of suppliers. This achievement places Greif among the top three percent of suppliers evaluated by EcoVadis. “We are pleased that our ongoing sustainability efforts have once again been recognized by EcoVadis with our third consecutive Gold Rating," said Pete Watson, Greif's President and Chief Executive Officer. “Greif’s commitment to sustainability is outlined in The Greif Way, is embedded in our business strategy and is critical to our customers’ success. I would like to thank our global colleagues for their continued commitment to sustainability and for their hard work to improve our performance in this key area.”

Sonoco announced it is implementing a $50/ton (USD/ST) increase on all domestic and export corrugating medium grades shipping from its Hartsville, S.C. paper mill. The prices are effective with shipments on and after November 2, 2020. According to Tim Davis, division vice president and general manager, Paper and Adhesives, U.S./Canada, Sonoco is responding to changes in market demand and extended order backlogs, in line with other North American containerboard producers.

A comprehensive review of the general conditions has shown that it is not possible to continue production economically on the board machine in Hirschwang an der Rax, Lower Austria. The age and design of the machine (year of construction 1952) as well as increased market requirements prevent continued existence. 150 employees are affected, discussions about a social plan have already been started. The supply of customers from other plants of the Mayr-Melnhof Group is guaranteed. The result of the cartonboard division is expected to be impacted by around EUR 25 million, the greater part of which is due to depreciation. The Hirschwang site is to concentrate on the existing folding box production (Neupack) with 215 employees in the future. Investments to strengthen the location in this area are being examined.

Sealed Air Corporation announced a three-year partnership with Gastromotiva, a nonprofit organization based in Brazil that uses the power of gastronomy, food, and education to address social inequality, improve nutrition education, fight hunger, eliminate food waste, and create local jobs. Since 2006, Gastromotiva has served more than 500,000 meals, recovered more than 220,000 pounds of food and engaged more than 100,000 people worldwide in nutrition education. Sealed Air’s investment will empower Gastromotiva to achieve food security goals that align across three pillars: *Education: Sealed Air and Gastromotiva will co-create a global education module on sustainable packaging and food waste reduction for students to learn more about innovations that minimize food waste. *Workforce Development: Sealed Air and Gastromotiva will develop a system to connect low-income youth and other vulnerable populations with Gastromotiva partners for job opportunities and career development. *Expansion: Gastromotiva will standardize its educational methodology and develop an integrated educational platform for expansion to strategic locations in Brazil and Mexico, which will ensure vulnerable communities have access to the Gastromotiva network of NGOs and partners working to create a sustainable food system.

One of these combinations is not like the rest: Oil and water. Day and night. Protection for fragile items and eco-friendly packaging. There’s a myth that packaging a fragile item with various forms of padding isn't eco-friendly. We’re here to tell you that belief is, in fact, entirely wrong. As one out of 10 packages arrives damaged, the perceived sustainability hit from protective packaging pales in comparison to the environmental impact of returning, repackaging, and then reshipping a new product. That’s why it’s critical to securely nestle fragile goods inside their respective boxes. Think about it: all it takes is just one accidental drop to damage or completely break an item before it reaches its final destination. And the last thing you want is a customer to enthusiastically unbox brand-new champagne glasses to find a pile of shattered glass instead. No matter how delicate an item is, there are numerous eco-friendly packaging solutions to guarantee its arrival in pristine condition. Here are four eco-friendly packaging options to ensure even the most delicate items travel safely and remain intact: click read more below for the rest of the article

Cascades Inc. is pleased to announce plans to proceed with the strategic Bear Island mill conversion project located in Virginia. Subject to obtaining final permits, the currently idled newsprint machine will be converted to a 1st quartile containerboard machine capable of producing high-quality, lightweight, 100% recycled linerboard and medium for the North American market. The total cost of the Bear Island mill project will be US$380 million, which includes the initial US$35 million acquisition cost paid to White Birch Papers in 2018. The plant will have an annual production capacity of 465,000 short tons and is scheduled to start up in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Mondi has partnered with Adelaide Brighton Cement and Pope Packaging on the development of a new water-resistant paper bag called ‘Rain Barrier,’ made out of Mondi’s Advantage Protect White sack kraft paper, for the Australian construction market. Standout characteristics include its water repellent surface and high tensile strength in a wet environment. While a standard paper bag absorbs water, the qualities of the Rain Barrier bag, keeps water from seeping in, as it stays on the surface where it evaporates. The paper itself is rain resistant for up to six hours and can resist water ingress for up to five full days when stored in damp conditions.

Green Bay Packaging Inc. has acquired Third Dimension Inc., a packaging company based in Geneva, Ohio. The acquisition went into effect Oct. 1. Third Dimension is focused on corrugated packaging innovation, molded foam packaging and four-color digital printing. The company was founded in 1991 by Louis DeJesus and Jeanette DeJesus. The company has facilities in Geneva and Middlefield, Ohio, and services customers in Ohio, Virginia and Kentucky. “The acquisition of Third Dimension is a great fit for Green Bay Packaging. This acquisition gives us the opportunity to grow our business in several states,” says Will Kress, president and CEO of Green Bay Packaging. “Third Dimension has the perfect culture, workforce and strong leadership that fit the GBP model and we look forward to expanding their business and facilities.”

UPM Raflatac’s Forest Film™ label material has received the 2020 Innovation in Responsible Sourcing Award from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC). The announcement came on Wednesday, September 30, at the SPC Innovator Awards ceremony as part of this year’s SPC Advance virtual event. Forest Film is the world’s first polypropylene film label material derived entirely from wood-based sources based on mass balance approach and brings UPM Raflatac’s vision of “labeling a smarter future beyond fossils” to life. "Forest Film deserves attention for being a notable introduction of bio-based polypropylene with a well understood feedstock and an assurance mechanism for responsible sourcing,” says Adam Gendell, Associate Director of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. "It is a significant advancement in the field of bio-based plastics, and we feel it's earned its status as the winner of Innovation in Responsible Sourcing in the 2020 SPC Innovator Awards.”

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its Biesheim, France, facility has achieved International Sustainability and Carbon Certificate (ISCC). Berry has been awarded the certificate from SGS Germany GmbH, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. The certification enables the site to sell ISCC Plus certified nonwovens. “As the leading nonwovens provider globally, we continue to advance our product offerings to customers,” said Achim Schalk, EVP and General Manager, EMEIA, for the Health, Hygiene, and Specialties Division of Berry. “One of Berry’s core values is sustainability, as we know it is for many customers. With this certification, we can now offer another level of certified, sustainable nonwoven materials.” The ISCC Plus certification is validating the “mass balance system” utilization in the supply chain, tracking the quantity and sustainability characteristics of circular and/or biobased content in the value chain and attribute it based on verifiable bookkeeping with predefined and transparent rules. This certification enables customers of Berry to certify their usage of mass balance raw materials as the entire supply chain has been evaluated.

Mondi has been recognised in this year’s Austrian Green Star Packaging Awards for two recent sustainable packaging innovations developed using its customer-centric approach, EcoSolutions: PerFORMing - paper-based packaging with special barrier coating to protect cheese slices - Austria’s biggest retailer REWE worked together with Mondi to launch a more sustainable cheese tray for their organic brand Ja! Natürlich. Mondi developed a special kraft paper, Advantage Formable Brown, to replace rigid plastic trays. Its unique stretch characteristics mean it can be formed into a shallow tray enhanced with a special barrier coating. Fully recyclable thermoforming plastic film for meat - Mondi was able to reinvent packaging for Austrian meat producer Hütthaler. The packaging was designed for recycling while maintaining optimum barrier properties and replacing a previous, less sustainable, packaging.

Smurfit Kappa has extended its range of sustainable and biodegradable products for the agricultural sector with the launch of BanaBag®. BanaBag® is an innovative and sustainable product created by Smurfit Kappa to address the quality assurance needed for excellent bagging during the complete growth cycle of the banana plant. It is a unique solution for organic producers because it protects the fruit from disease and insects, whilst also reducing the overheating that can result from using other materials like plastic. The BanaBag® is made from cellulose which acts as a natural insulator to the growing bananas maintaining the quality of the product even in higher temperatures.

Cascades is launching the first 100% recycled and recyclable thermoformed cardboard tray designed for fresh food packers using automated equipment in North America. This thermoformed tray delivers a unique innovative food packaging solution that was developed entirely using a circular economy approach and ecodesign principles. The tray is composed of 100% recycled fibres, mostly sourced from post-consumer sources certified "Recycled" under the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) standard.1 In addition, it is designed with a patented water-based coating that protects it from moisture without compromising the recyclability of the cardboard. Unlike traditional containers coated with a thin layer of plastic or other non-recyclable coatings, this food tray is easily recyclable and can be placed in the recycling bin. Its SurfSHIELD® water-based coating also helps preserve the integrity and freshness of food, reducing food waste.

Amcor, in collaboration with Nestlé, launched the world’s first recyclable flexible retort pouch. The new high barrier pouch, using Amcor’s AmLite HeatFlex Recyclable solution, will first appear in stores in the Netherlands in October 2020. Amcor and Nestlé partnered to overcome one of the largest challenges facing the industry – the inability to recycle retort flexible packaging – and have achieved a technical breakthrough which underscores both companies’ long-term commitment to more sustainable packaging solutions. The partners collaborated during the product development process, testing for heat resistance, machine performance, shelf-life and recyclability in the real world.

Sonoco has once again been named one of 100 “Best for Vets” companies by Military Times. Sonoco joins other well-known brands, including Kellogg Company, Amazon, Deloitte and L’Oréal USA on the distinguished list. “Our Veterans are some of our brightest and hardworking associates,” said Howard Coker, president and CEO. “They bring specific attributes that align with our mantra of ‘People Build Businesses by Doing the Right Thing,’ including loyalty, teamwork and determination. We are proud to be included on such a distinguished list.” Representing the most prominent annual public rankings of its kind, Best for Vets evaluates companies’ cultures, veteran recruiting, veteran policies and accommodations for members of the National Guard and reserves.

BillerudKorsnäs joins forces with Syntegon Technology to launch Recyclable Flow Wrap, a paper based packaging solution that enables a shift from conventional plastic to renewable and recyclable materials. Flow wrap is a type of flexible packaging used for many products in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and today plastic film flow wrap is standard for FMCG. BillerudKorsnäs Recyclable Flow Wrap is an innovative paper packaging solution, based on primary fibres from well-managed forests and with high barrier performance that can be recycled as paper.

It’s not unusual in the Western world to throw away leftovers and discard slightly damaged food without a second thought. Yet when we consider that 135 million people face acute food shortages, it is clear that food waste is an issue we can no longer afford to ignore.(1) Food waste campaigner Tristram Stuart has said, “Cutting food waste is a delicious way of saving money, helping to feed the world and protect the planet.” He’s right, confronting food waste is critical to the health of people, the planet and business. It’s staggering that two billion people could be fed with the 1.3 billion tonnes of food that is lost or wasted every year – the combined population of Europe and Africa.(2) In places like Europe almost half lost is at the consumer end of the supply chain, while in developing countries a significant proportion of post-harvest food is wasted. Regardless of location, these high losses are mainly due to lack of proper storage, improper handling and inadequate packaging.(3) click read more below for the rest of the article

Stora Enso has started the production of formed fiber food service products at Hylte Mill in Sweden. The production ramp-up follows the investment announced in 2019 and enables the manufacture of products that are renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. The PureFiberTM by Stora Enso eco-product range is produced without plastic and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), enabling a safe and sustainable alternative for fresh food packaging. The Group is also investing in more formed fiber capacity in Sweden and China. Through its partnership with HS Manufacturing Group and its patented technology, PROTĒAN®, Stora Enso offers a plastic-free barrier technology for food contact packaging applications. The joint patent-pending technology offers a recyclable and biodegradable solution that gives fiber-based packaging water-, grease- and oil-resistant barrier properties, without plastic or PFAS. The solution can be applied for a range of products, such as single-use food service items. A Life Cycle Analysis study shows that the PureFiberTM product line has a CO2 footprint that is approximately 75% lower compared to competing packaging materials.

American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement regarding the passage of New Jersey’s Paper Bag Ban (NJ Senate Bill 864 / Assembly Bill 1978): “The American Forest & Paper Association opposes bans on paper products and urges Governor Phil Murphy to issue a conditional veto that removes paper from New Jersey’s bag ban. In voting to become the first and only state in the nation to ban paper bags, the New Jersey Legislature has undermined an environmentally responsible option for consumers. Furthermore, the ban on paper bags sends an alarming message in devaluing family wage jobs, which are often union labor, in addition to the indirect jobs supported by the paper and wood products industry in the state. “Paper is part of the environmental solution, but New Jersey is treating it like the problem. Governor Murphy should take action to ensure continued consumer access to a recyclable, reusable and compostable product - the paper bag.”

International technology Group ANDRITZ has received an order from JSC Management Company of the Holding Belorusskie oboi, Belarus, to complete and start up its production line for folding boxboard. Start-up is scheduled for 2021. The board machine is designed to produce 200,000 tons per year of folding boxboard, with basis weights ranging from 170 to 400 g/m2. The ANDRITZ scope of supply comprises equipment and engineering services for wood handling, chemi-mechanical pulping, stock preparation and approach flow, as well as the board machine including winder and roll handling, and the automation equipment.

Monadnock Paper Mills, Inc., the oldest continuously operating paper mill in the United States, is pleased to announce the expansion of its alternative fiber offerings with Monadnock Hemp Envi™ Performance Board. Monadnock developed the tree-free bright white premium board with a continued focus on both performance and sustainability. Recyclable Hemp Envi Performance Board is crafted in the United States, Forest Stewardship Council Certified (FSC® C018866), and composed of 30 percent hemp fiber and 70 percent post-consumer waste (PCW) recycled fiber. “Hemp is an exceptionally strong agricultural fiber that has been used in papermaking for centuries, so who better than our 200-year old company to reimagine its use for the needs of 21st-century brands,” said Julie Brannen, Director, Sustainability Solutions, Monadnock.

Mondi, a leading global packaging and paper manufacturer, has collaborated with BIOhof Kirchweidach, an organic farm in Bavaria, to design a sustainable packaging solution for 500g packs of tomatoes on the vine to be distributed to PENNY supermarkets, owned by major German retailer REWE Group. Coral Tray fulfils BIOhof’s objective of replacing its previous packaging, which used 2.5 g of plastic film per pack, with a recyclable and plastic-free solution, supporting REWE Group’s sustainability goals. It’s called ‘Coral Tray’ because of its resemblance to undersea coral and contribution to reducing plastic waste, potentially helping to protect marine life. This innovative new packaging is fully recyclable and made of renewable material and recycled corrugated board, which has an average recycling rate of over 80% in Europe.

Total boxboard production in August decreased eight percent compared to August 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 90.4 percent, down 3.6 points from August 2019 and essentially flat (-0.4 pts.) year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in August decreased 13 percent compared to August 2019. It was down six percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in August decreased six percent compared to August 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in August decreased two percent compared to August 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019.

Total packaging papers and specialty packaging shipments in August increased one percent compared to August 2019. They were up three percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019. The operating rate was 85.2 percent, down 2.7 points from August 2019 and down 1.0 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of August increased 4,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 12,000 short tons compared to August 2019.

Total containerboard production in August remained essentially flat (+0.4 percent) compared to August 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same eight months of 2019. August 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased nine percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 23 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 92.1 percent, essentially flat (-0.4 pts.) from August 2019 and up 2.7 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of August increased 35,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 68,000 short tons compared to August 2019.

Understandably, to our customers in the food industry, product safety standards are especially important. Which is why establishing a clear commitment to this aspect and developing a thriving product safety culture across our network is key to our continued success – and our customers’ success too. Increasingly customers expect paper that isn’t just safe - but sustainable as well. However, there is a common misconception that recycled paper is unsuitable for food packaging because it has already been used and had prior contact with other substances. All the sustainable paper products marketed and sold to the food industry are safe for food contact. If the quality of the Paper for Recycling (PfR) meets EN643 standards, if the correct EN643 grades are used and if it is carefully handled and monitored through the pulping and the manufacturing process, then the quality of the finished paper product will also be high.

Over the last two years, Domtar has evaluated the merits of repurposing key paper machines as we adjust our white paper production capacity to match our customer demand. That’s why we recently announced we are converting our Kingsport, Tennessee, paper mill into the company’s first containerboard facility. Similar to previous decisions that have adapted our mills, like the 2016 conversion at our Ashdown Mill to produce fluff pulp, containerboard manufacturing is an exciting new market that directly aligns with our expertise and more than 100-year legacy of turning fiber into useful products. “Repurposing the Kingsport Mill provides Domtar with an excellent strategic entry point into a growing market with a very competitive, low-cost asset,” says Domtar President and CEO John Williams. “We view this as a strategic first step toward building a large value-adding business in the containerboard market.”

Leading packaging and paper manufacturer, Mondi, is launching a fully recyclable 80% paper-based packaging solution for cold meats and cheese. The new packaging will reduce plastic usage for Austrian dairy producer SalzburgMilch by approximately 40 tonnes per year, compared to its previously used rigid plastic trays. Mondi has launched its innovative PerFORMing removable in partnership with SalzburgMilch for the brand SalzburgMilch Premium and the premium own-brand SPAR Natur*pur organic cheese slices. The shallow paper tray combines the recyclability of paper with the essential barrier properties of a thin plastic coating to keep food fresh and avoid waste. Technical details about the product: *Formable paper packaging with a patented barrier *Made from natural brown paper (Advantage Formable Brown) *Ideally suited for shallow food trays (e.g. for cheese, meat or fish) *High symmetrical stretch for uniform formability *Suitable for existing filling lines *Results in 70% less plastic used compared to plastic trays *70% CO2 reduction compare to plastic alternative

Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, is putting the latest artificial intelligence to good use at its Kemi mill in order to improve the runnability of its white kraftliner on a customer’s corrugating line. Metsä Board will be collaborating with DS Smith, a leading provider of corrugated packaging solutions operating across 37 countries. The analytical solutions and technology are supplied by Valmet, the leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services to the pulp, paper and energy industries. Metsä Board’s Kyro mill began using artificial intelligence for quality management on its folding boxboard machine last year. Metsä Board is also continuing to investigate different possibilities to implement artificial intelligence on other production lines.

Sonoco ThermoSafe, a unit of Sonoco and the leading global provider of temperature assurance packaging for life sciences and healthcare, announced that its new Pegasus ULD® bulk temperature controlled container has received FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) approval as a unit load device (ULD). The Pegasus ULD® is the world’s first passive bulk temperature-controlled container for pharmaceutical use that is an FAA-approved unit load device, which allows it to speed through existing international ground handling and customs processes at the lowest possible cost. FAA approval officially enables reciprocal EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) approval, which is anticipated in the very near future.

In its latest ESG Risk Ratings, the sustainability analysis company Sustainalytics has ranked BillerudKorsnäs the most sustainable enterprise to invest in within the packaging sector. For the renowned Swedish company, this top ranking is proof positive that its unswerving focus on sustainability has paid off. The Dow Jones Sustainability Index already ranks BillerudKorsnäs the most sustainable packaging company in the world. In its annual assessment, the sustainability analysis company Sustainalytics rates BillerudKorsnäs as having low risk exposure combined with a strong approach to sustainability issues. In fact, BillerudKorsnäs was awarded an ESG Risk Rating score of 10.0, where low figures represent low risk, putting the company in first place among all the packaging companies analysed.

The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is facing new challenges following damages at feedstock monoethylene glycol (MEG) plants. The damages resulted in a force majeure declaration by three MEG producers, which in turn led to a force majeure declaration by a PET producer. Asia is being considered as a possible supplier of MEG until domestic plants resume operations. Local sources are hopeful that water and power at the affected plants in Louisiana may be restored in early October, but believe that the impact on PET availability will be significant. This has tightened supply as demand has remained robust. Although resin imports from Latin American may offset part of the shortage, many believe that pellets prices are likely to increase. Inquiries to Asian PET suppliers have shown an increase as prices in the region are low at $650-680/tonne FOB, but delivery would take weeks.

Huhtamaki is rated ‘A’ (on a scale of AAA-CCC) on the MSCI ESG Ratings assessment. The rating of ‘A’ or above is only given to 25% of the companies in the packaging sector. Our improvement is driven by our commitment to reduce the environmental impact of our products, optimize recyclability, as well as by our governance practices. “Huhtamaki has set itself an ambitious 2030 Sustainability Strategy. We want to become world-class leader in all three areas of sustainability: environment, social and governance. The MSCI rating shows that we are on the right track. We are determined to improve and will continue to focus on achieving carbon neutrality in our production and reaching our Science Based Targets by 2030,” says Thomasine Kamerling, EVP Sustainability and Communications.

As more people use technology to shop, grocery stores are following in the footsteps of fashion and electronics retailers by leveraging the omnichannel sales model. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated stay-at-home orders resulted in an increase in consumers purchasing groceries online. As a result, grocery retailers are now challenged to find the right protective food packaging, ensuring purchases arrive fresh and intact no matter if they’re shipped, delivered, or prepared for curbside pickup. This means brick-and-mortar grocery stores are charged with transforming into micro fulfillment centers. They now must take the same precautions consumers would to protect groceries in transit. Furthermore, employees must pick and pack items as if they were the customer themselves. And during transit, groceries need to be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations, crushing by other items, or accidental droppings. Grocery stores, especially those that haven’t started the transition to an omnichannel strategy, face three major challenges: They must carve out a footprint inside their existing stores to efficiently fill orders, re-train staff to handle in-store and online orders, and ensure that products are shipped with appropriate packaging.

Amcor announces its membership of the Digital Watermarks Initiative “HolyGrail 2.0”, which brings together over 85 companies and organisations across the packaging value chain, including key customers and industry peers. HolyGrail 2.0 is a pilot project facilitated by AIM, the European Brands Association, with the objective to prove the viability of digital watermarking technologies for accurate sorting and, consequently, higher-quality recycling. The project also aims to demonstrate the business case for digital watermarking at scale. It builds on initial research by Amcor’s partner, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, into innovations to improve post-consumer recycling.

A comprehensive examination of the framework conditions has shown that it is not possible to continue production on the board machine in Hirschwang an der Rax, Lower Austria, economically. The age and design of the machine (year of construction 1952) as well as increased market requirements prevent continued existence. 150 employees are affected, discussions about a social plan have already been started. The supply of customers from other plants of the Mayr-Melnhof Group is guaranteed. The result of the cartonboard division is expected to be impacted by around EUR 25 million, the greater part of which is due to depreciation. The Hirschwang site is to concentrate on the existing folding box production (Neupack) with 215 employees in the future. Investments to strengthen the location in this area are being examined.

Growing consumption and demand for more sustainable packaging is boosting the need for new innovations. To develop solutions for packaging today and into the future, Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, has started up operations in its new Excellence Centre at the unique bioeconomy site in Äänekoski, Finland. The centre, with its cutting-edge technology for R&D, packaging design and paperboard and packaging performance, aims to accelerate material and packaging innovation and provide a collaboration platform for customers and technology partners globally.