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.

Smurfit Kappa has seen volumes of its Vitop® tap pass the five billion mark. The Vitop® tap forms an integral part of the Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box range, a collection of sustainable packaging solutions for liquid and semi-liquid products. The Bag-in-Box products have a low carbon footprint throughout the lifecycle of the packaging due to the efficient use of materials and resources. There has been a series of sustainable innovations made to the product range to date including a reduction in film thickness for the bags and the introduction of a more compact Vitop® tap. A dedicated Bag-in-Box Circular Economy Team is also exploring further product innovations including the introduction of bio-based raw materials.

Cosmo Films will re-commence the installation of a speciality polyester films line (BOPET) by the second quarter of 2022-23. The new line will be commissioned at the Waluj plant site in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India with a capacity of 30,000 MT per annum. This plant already houses BOPP lines, extrusion coating lines, chemical coating lines, metallizers and a CPP line. The new production line will complement the existing BOPP capacity of 200,000 MT per annum and allow Cosmo Films to offer a more comprehensive speciality product basket for flexible packaging, labeling, lamination and industrial applications. The project cost is estimated to be 300 crore INR (41 million USD), which will be financed through a mix of internal accruals and loans.

Pregis is introducing the AirSpeed® Ascent high-pressure air cushioning system. This next generation inflator creates the patented square pattern hybrid cushioning (HC) packaging material on-demand, saving companies valuable floor space while providing superior product protection to ensure products arrive to customers undamaged. “Users will immediately notice multiple advancements in the compact, ergonomic design and the throughput speed of up to 100 feet-per-minute. But the biggest impact for packers comes from the Ascent’s ’smart logic‘ technology,” said Ryan Germann, category manager—air systems, Pregis.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has successfully completed the installation of major new equipment at its corrugated box production plant in Szczecin, Poland to meet growing e-commerce demand. The installation of the new machinery also marks further progress in Mondi’s ambition to further digitalise its business by using more advanced analytics and automation to better serve its customers with innovative and sustainable packaging and paper solutions. The new equipment includes a five-colour Bobst Masterline 2.1 HD and a Robot MUK, which will produce sustainable packaging solutions for the growing e-commerce market in north-eastern Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Poland. Both machines will be equipped with automatic palletisers, run at faster speeds to increase production capacity and ensure high quality printing. Mondi's award winning 100% recyclable SizeMeMailer and Envelope Mailer alongside other packaging solutions will be produced from this site.

The Arctic Blue Gin package, featuring images of Northern Lights, has won a ScanStar 2020 award. Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, designed the Arctic Blue Gin package. It featured an impressive holographic design inspired by the Northern Lights and used MetsäBoard Pro FBB Bright lightweight folding boxboard. Metsä Board designed the package structure, the original graphics, and the embossing. The Northern Lights image was created by printing on top of Envirofoil®, a plastic-free, holographic metallisation effect designed by US-based paper converter, Hazen. It uses 1% of the aluminium of traditional foil laminates – making it both economical and environmentally friendly.

Like many other major plastics applications, plastics use in flexible packaging has come under deep scrutiny in recent years as sustainability concerns rise and spread globally. Paper is often lauded as a far more environmentally friendly alternative but how do the two materials really compare? And what is the most sustainable solution? Historically, papers have been used in flexible packaging for many applications, including confectionery, pet food and dried food. By the early-2000s, however, paper demand as a flexible packaging substrate began to decline due to competition from down-gauging and the rise of plastic alternatives. Consumers today widely view paper as a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. A European consumer preferences survey, commissioned by Two Sides in 2020, concluded that 62% of consumers see paper and cardboard packaging as better for the environment. Additionally, 70% of consumers surveyed said they were actively taking steps to reduce their use of plastic packaging. Comparing green credentials isn’t as straightforward as some would think, however.

HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) and ePac, the digital flexible packaging leader, today announced a new stage in their market acceleration for flexible packaging with a further rollout of 26 additional HP Indigo digital presses. ePac will be the first converter in the world to install the new HP Indigo 25K Digital Press, as it expands the transformation of the global flexible packaging market into additional locations in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. “ePac is completely changing the way small and medium size businesses around the world can access new markets and level the playing field with fast, top quality flexible packaging,” said Jack Knott, CEO, ePac Flexible Packaging. “The ability for rapid growth through proven technology and global support of HP Indigo is helping us reach yet another milestone in our history and bring innovation and change to new sites around the world and the communities they serve.”

Over the past year Superior Lithographics, a Los Angeles-based large format printing specialist of litho sheets and top sheets for the corrugated box industry as well as printing and converting folding cartons, has seen impressive improvements in many vital areas including product quality and data on product consistency stemming from state-of-the-art color and quality measuring systems outfitted on its new Koenig & Bauer Rapida 145 seven-color 57-inch press. “Since our new Koenig & Bauer Rapida 145 57-inch seven color press was installed last summer, we’ve seen incredible improvements within our facility,” says Jeff Ku, Vice President of Operations for Superior. “Our data has shown a 32% increase in overall sheet throughput. We’ve also seen an impressive 25% decrease in make-ready time. All this has resulted in our company experiencing an overall growth in business.”

Sonoco ThermoSafe and ACL Airshop announced a global agreement for the handling and repair of Sonoco ThermoSafe’s Pegasus ULD bulk temperature controlled containers. The Pegasus ULD™ is the world’s first passive bulk temperature controlled container for pharmaceutical use that is an approved unit load device, which allows it to speed through existing international ground handling and customs processes at the lowest possible cost. Engineered with composite materials, the unit load device will offer a lighter solution that is substantially more damage-resistant than traditional metal containers. Additionally, the Pegasus contains a fully integrated, FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) approved telemetry system, providing real-time, cloud-based data on payload and ambient temperature and key environmental factors, precisely synchronized with GPS location. ACL Airshop, headquartered in Greenville, S.C., and with air cargo support capabilities at more than 50 of the world’s top 100 cargo airports, will initially provide pre-conditioning, handling and repair services at air cargo facilities around the world representing key pharma hubs for import and export. As demand for the Pegasus ULD fleet continues to grow, ACL’s global footprint offers Sonoco ThermoSafe the opportunity to rapidly expand.

WAMI is an Italian water brand with a twist, aiming to make a difference to millions of people who lack access to clean, accessible water. Its mission is to turn the ordinary act of drinking water into something extraordinary by providing 100 liters of water to people in need every time a product is purchased. As of July 2020, WAMI water is available in aluminum cans from Crown Bevcan Europe & Middle East, further advancing the brand’s commitment to making a positive impact in the world thanks to the package format’s infinite recyclability and ability to remain within the material loop. Available in 0.44cl size, the cans are a product of the vision of WAMI CEO Giacomo Stefanini, whose belief is that working on packaging sustainability is a key area of focus – particularly as the B-Corp (Benefit Corporation) company looks to expand its reach into the restaurant and bar trades. They have a minimal but striking design and feature the WAMI logo on a predominantly white surface alongside brushstroke effect graphics in green for natural and blue for sparkling.

Third Quarter Highlights include (all results compared to the third quarter of 2019 unless otherwise noted): *Net income of $20.7 million decreased compared to net income of $62.7 million *Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $6.5 million to $135.0 million. *Total debt decreased by $240.9 million to $2,637.6 million. Net debt(4) decreased by $263.6 million to $2,539.1 million and decreased $70.8 million sequentially from the second quarter of 2020.

In shipping and packaging, there are a lot of definitions of what “sustainability” means. In fact, because there are so many different ways that companies can make more sustainable choices, it can sometimes feel just as elusive as Bigfoot. Companies often have big ideas on how they can reduce their carbon footprints. But when it comes down to creating a definitive plan, it slips quietly into the forest, leaving us with only a grainy picture of what we want to do — and no truly concrete way to move forward with our sustainability efforts. What we do know is that shipping has a massive impact on the environment. Parcel shipping has more than doubled in the last five years, and its year-over-year growth is 17%. This affects greenhouse gas emissions, and we know that we need to create an actionable plan to mitigate these environmental repercussions. Doing this can help companies take real steps toward actually reducing their carbon footprint, so that sustainability efforts yield real, not mythical, results.

The growth of e-commerce has generated significant demand for sustainable packaging options, as both consumers and e-retailers look to increase the recyclability of their packaging. This curbside recyclable padded paper mailer is a sustainable alternative to non-recyclable dual material packaging. GP is expanding its offerings to include paper padded mailers. In May, the company opened a new facility in Arizona to manufacture curbside recyclable paper padded mailers with Amazon as a key customer. To manufacture this product, Georgia-Pacific created approximately 80 jobs at a new manufacturing facility in Tolleson, Arizona, outside of Phoenix. The company will begin supplying Amazon’s West Coast fulfillment centers with potential expansion to other parts of the country. “This padded paper mailer is a significant advancement in developing a sustainable packaging alternative to reduce environmental impacts,” says Adam Ganz, vice president – commercial development at Georgia-Pacific. “Shipping items to consumers in a mailer that can be tossed in the bin with the rest of their paper recyclables is a game changer. We’re excited to bring this to our customers at a time when e-commerce continues to grow rapidly.”

Tredegar Corporation announced that it has agreed to sell its personal care films business to affiliates of Fitesa S.A. The Personal Care Films business, which is currently reported by Tredegar within the personal care component of its PE Films segment, has approximately 400 employees worldwide and includes manufacturing sites located in Terre Haute, Indiana; Kerkrade, The Netherlands; Rétság, Hungary; Diadema, Brazil; and Pune, India. The proposed transaction excludes the packaging film lines and operations relating to the Pottsville, Pennsylvania manufacturing site currently reported by Tredegar within the personal care component of its PE Films segment. Cash proceeds from the sale net of transaction costs, purchase price adjustments and transition services are estimated at $40 to $45 million. Net cash income tax costs or benefits relating to the transaction are expected to be negligible.

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has recognized a new Mactac® pressure-sensitive adhesive innovation for the association’s highest recyclability standard. The recognized adhesive – PUREfloat™ – is a permanent acrylic emulsion adhesive intended for polyester (PET) bottle labeling applications. It was designed specifically for applications where labels applied to PET containers can be washed off cleanly to allow the container to be recycled. “Meeting APR standards is a significant step for Mactac in demonstrating our company's commitment to the environmental impact and recyclability of our products,” says Kim Hensley, Senior Marketing Manager, Mactac Performance Adhesives.

PaperWorks is increasing its production capacity and capabilities, investing in new technology innovation and platforms in the Greensboro, North Carolina facility. The state-of-the-art equipment and new technology platforms will integrate well with PaperWorks’ highly-efficient business model by offering the most sophisticated automation geared towards in-line innovation and full-quality control. The new investment consists of: *A new 41” Offset printing press from Komori (Japan) – GLX740 with seven colors and two coaters including automating logistics, in-line color control, in-line detection systems, automated changeovers and in-line cold foil technology. This top-of-the-line technology platform will allow for the production of high-end cartons that will be highly sustainable and cost-efficient. *Two new MasterFold folding gluing lines from Bobst (Switzerland) – 110A1 with 600Meters/Min line speed including end-to-end automation through a full batch turner, easy feed and auto packer. These lines are made with a highly sophisticated servo controlled matic system and innovative technology used between job changeovers. They are equipped with a world-class, advanced gluing system and detection systems for full in-line quality and process control.

Marc Shore, president of WestRock’s Multi Packaging Solutions (MPS) business, decided to leave WestRock, effective August 17, 2020. Patrick Kivits has assumed the role of president, MPS since Shore’s departure. Kivits joined WestRock in 2019 from H.B. Fuller and has served as the executive vice president for MPS since that time, where he was responsible for the company’s MPS North America operations. In this role, Kivits worked to ensure an ongoing commitment to customers while driving continuous growth, innovation and exceptional results. He also served as steward of WestRock’s China Operations, guiding a cohesive company presence while supporting the company’s MPS China Operations.

Clay Dunn, (63), President, North America business segment has decided to retire at the end of 2020 after successfully leading Huhtamaki’s business in North America since 2005. Ann O’Hara, (49), MBA, BSE (Chemical Engineering), has been appointed President, North America business segment and a member of the Global Executive Team. Ann will join Huhtamaki on November 1, 2020 and will assume the role of President, North America on January 1, 2021 following a two-month transition period with Clay Dunn. ”I would like to thank Clay for his outstanding contribution to Huhtamaki over the past 15 years,” says Charles Héaulmé, President and CEO of Huhtamaki. “Under Clay’s leadership Huhtamaki’s turnover in the United States has essentially doubled, passing the USD 1 billion milestone in 2014.”

DS Smith has announced the appointment of Johan van Baarle as Sales Director of its Paper Division. Reporting to Niels Flierman, Managing Director for Paper, Van Baarle will be responsible for the division’s paper sales across Europe and North America – managing around 5 million tonnes of paper produced at DS Smith’s mills annually. Van Baarle joins DS Smith from Cargill, the global food, agricultural, finance and industrial products provider, where he has worked since 2003. During his time at Cargill Van Baarle gained a wealth of experience holding a series of senior customer focused and sales manager roles. Most recently he has been Sales Director Global Accounts in Cargill’s Cocoa & Chocolate division. Based in The Netherlands, Van Baarle will be tasked with further growing DS Smith’s paper sales across Europe and the U.S.

Metsä Board's Kyro mill will be 150 years old this year, 2020. The wood grinding plant along the Kyröskoski rapids was started up in 1870. Since then, the Kyro mill has manufactured market wood pulp, groundwood, sawn timber, various papers and paperboard for international markets. Today, it is a modern and efficient mill that produces high-quality folding boxboard for Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group. “Kyro people are proud of their mill. Our staff have always lived with changes and challenging times have been overcome by working together. People commit themselves to the mill for a long time, with families often having several generations involved. This has positively influenced the kind of mill Kyro is today,” says Petri Huiko, VP and mill manager of Metsä Board Kyro.

Metsä Group’s innovation company Metsä Spring and Valmet have decided to continue the development collaboration related to 3D fibre products and hence, to invest jointly approximately EUR 20 million in a new R&D project. As part of the project, a greenfield pilot plant will be built on Metsä Group’s mill site in Äänekoski, Finland. When operational, the pilot plant will employ roughly 10 persons. The technology applied in the pilot plant converts wet wood pulp into final 3D fibre products without any intermediate steps. In other words, the new environmentally-friendly 3D fibre products are ready to be shipped to end customers as such. “Our objective is to develop a novel wood-based 3D fibre product, which can replace, for instance, packages made out of fossil raw materials. The pre-study phase with Valmet was a success. We have thus decided to accelerate the pace of development by constructing a pilot plant. I believe that our possibilities for developing a new significant added-value product for the Finnish forest industry are good”, says Jarkko Tuominen, head of the project at Metsä Spring.

Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP) announced the introduction of WestRock’s CanCollar® Eco, an innovative paperboard packaging solution, for multipack cans in Spain. The move supports its work, in partnership with Coca-Cola in Western Europe, to remove all unnecessary or hard to recycle plastic from its portfolio, avoiding the use of more than 11,000 tons of virgin plastic a year across the region. WestRock partners with customers to provide sustainable and differentiated packaging solutions that will resonate with consumers. The CanCollar Eco design is based on learnings from commercializing CanCollar® Classic in the U.S. craft beer market since 2017. Initially, Coca-Cola European Partners will launch the new paperboard CanCollar® Eco in the Balearic Islands in November 2020, a first in Europe.

ePac Flexible Packaging and RePurpose Technologies (RPT) have announced a partnership to effectively solve the crisis that leads to 9 out of 10 pieces of discarded plastic waste polluting our environment*. The community-based model, which can be replicated easily, provides a transparent and economically viable solution that can once and for all cure the grave problem of our overflowing landfills. By forming this partnership, ePac and RPT will create replicable recycling facilities starting in 2021 that are able to create a circular community-focused solution. The ability to track and trace every package will provide supply chain transparency to all parties in the value chain.

At EUR 1,266.5 million, the consolidated sales of the Group almost reached the previous year's level (1st half of 2019: EUR 1,275.5 million). At EUR 122.5 million, the operating result was 1.2% or EUR 1.5 million below the previous year's figure (1st half of 2019: EUR 124.0 million) and includes expenses from the termination agreement with the former CEO in the amount of EUR -8.6 million, which were booked in equal parts in the divisions. Depreciation and amortization increased from EUR 67.6 million to EUR 89.2 million, which includes market-related impairments in the long-term assets of both divisions in the amount of EUR 20.9 million. The Group's operating margin remained unchanged at 9.7% (1st half of 2019: 9.7%). The profit for the period decreased accordingly by 8.0% to EUR 84.9 million (1st half of 2019: EUR 92.3 million).

The 200-year-old US paper manufacturer’s Monadnock Envi PC 100 Coated Performance Board is a smooth, cool white grade that is FSC certified and made from 100% post-consumer waste recycled fibre. It is targeted at luxury packaging applications including cosmetics, fragrances, wine and spirits and high-end fashion and tech products. “The world’s leading brands have been clamouring for a sustainable, high-performing, and beautifully coated packaging material and that’s exactly what Envi PC 100 delivers,” said Julie Brannen, director, sustainability solutions at Monadnock.

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) has notified Amcor that the AmPrima™ PE Plus recycle ready solution with heat-resistance has met APR’s responsible innovation requirements for moulded parts and films over three mils in thickness. Amcor’s AmPrima recycle ready solutions offer customers a more sustainable choice for their flexible packaging needs without compromising performance. AmPrima PE Plus with heat resistance was developed to meet more critical requirements for demanding applications such as flow-wraps, pouches with spouts, lidding and more. AmPrima PE Plus solutions meet all the performance expectations of non-recyclable laminates, and satisfy customers’ needs for more complex options for strength, stiffness, clarity, higher line speeds, fitments, graphics and print finishes in a recycle-ready format.

E-commerce is expected to reach $3.914 trillion globally by the end of 2020. And in order to snag a significant market share from the hundreds of thousands of competing e-commerce retailers that are just a few clicks away, differentiation is key. Direct to consumer (D2C) companies, in particular, allocate a lot of their budgets to marketing and branding — in some cases, 30 percent of sales. With consumers having more access to competitor products at their fingertips, D2C brands need to make a connection with consumers and give a reason to become a brand loyal customer. Unboxing also allows companies to showcase their brand through packaging, including their sustainability efforts.

Mondi is supplying zooplus with a pre-made FlexiBag Recyclable and BarrierPack Recyclable form-fill-and-seal (FFS) reel material, which are both certified recyclable by the Institute cyclos HTP which specialises in the classification, assessment and certification of recyclability of packaging. While seeking greater recyclability for its packaging, the online retailer was not willing to compromise on any performance properties, including barrier protection, or aesthetics. Mondi’s materials provide all the necessary barrier properties to protect against the unwanted transmission of moisture, oxygen and odours with a high premium look and feel. Mondi’s expertise made it possible to maintain the desired aesthetics on the packaging, so that the previously metallised highlights on the label and in the eyes of the wolf are also recyclable.

Fiscal 2020 Full Year Highlights • GAAP net income of $612 million and earnings per share (EPS) of 38.2 cents per share; • Bemis integration well ahead of original expectations. Pre-tax synergy benefits of $80 million delivered; • Adjusted free cash flow of $1.2 billion, up 26%; • $500 million share buy-back completed. Shares on issue reduced by 3.5% during the year; and • Fiscal 2021 outlook: constant currency adjusted EPS growth of 5-10%. Adjusted free cash flow of $1.0-$1.1 billion.

Flint Group, a leading provider of consumables and equipment for the global packaging industries, has announced a series of key investment actions in its Russian packaging inks business to further extend support to customers in the region. Doug Aldred, President Flint Group Packaging Inks, said: “As one of the largest packaging markets in the world, Russia holds significant growth opportunities for our business. We’re delighted to announce a series of strategic commitments to the region to ensure our current and future customers are receiving best in class product and service solutions.” With a presence in the Russian market spanning more than 25 years, the company has confirmed that a new packaging inks manufacturing site is currently under construction, conveniently located south west of Moscow in the Kaluga region.

Total boxboard production in July decreased seven percent compared to July 2019. It was down two percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 90.4 percent, down 3.3 points from July 2019 and essentially flat (+0.3 pts.) year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in July decreased 15 percent compared to July 2019. It was down five percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in July decreased seven percent compared to July 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in July increased two percent compared to July 2019. It was up one percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019.

Total containerboard production in July remained essentially flat (-0.2 percent) compared to July 2019. It was up four percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019. July 2020 production of containerboard for export decreased seven percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 28 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 89.4 percent, down 1.6 points from July 2019 and up 3.1 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of July decreased 7,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 67,000 short tons compared to July 2019.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in July increased seven percent compared to July 2019. They were up three percent when compared to the same seven months of 2019. The operating rate was 84.5 percent, up 2.2 points from July 2019 and down 0.7 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of July decreased 1,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 17,000 short tons compared to July 2019.

CVS reported a 10-fold increase in prescription deliveries after they waived fees, as health insurance companies encouraged consumers to sign up for 90-day mail-order prescriptions to avoid running out of their medications. The surge created a serious challenge for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs): how to quickly ship prescriptions to patients, meet government requirements for pharmaceutical packaging, and improve sustainability in the process. What can PBMs do to meet the increased demand while protecting prescriptions with the correct packaging? Here’s what to know. click read more below for the rest of the article

• Revenue decreased 9.4% to $267.8 million primarily due to a decrease in volume/mix and lower selling prices. The decrease in volume/mix was primarily due to the net impact of COVID-19 on demand. • Gross margin decreased to 21.1% from 21.9% primarily due to the unfavorable impact of unabsorbed overhead costs related to production slowdowns in the second quarter of 2020 to manage inventory levels at facilities that experienced COVID-19 related declines in demand, partially offset by a net decrease in all other plant-related operating costs driven by cost savings initiatives. • Net earnings attributable to the Company shareholders ("IPG Net Earnings") increased $8.3 million to $14.8 million ($0.25 basic and diluted earnings per share) primarily due to (i) a gain resulting from a fair value adjustment to the Company's contingent consideration related to the Nortech Acquisition(2) , (ii) a decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") mainly driven by decreases in travel expenses and variable compensation both related to the impacts of COVID-19, and (iii) a decrease in income tax expense mainly driven by the non-recurrence of the Proposed Tax Assessment(3) recorded in the second quarter of 2019. These favourable impacts were partially offset by a decrease in gross profit.

SmartLife uses a combination of top class filling-performance diagnostics and practical training in order to identify opportunities for improvement within the supply chain that will ultimately increase the shelf-life of Bag-in-Box wines. This diagnostic process provides a unique opportunity for customers to benchmark the oxygen level of their product against Smurfit Kappa’s unique worldwide oxygen database. Speaking about the new service Patrick Vuchot, Scientific Director of Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box, said: “We have capitalised on our 40 years of expertise as market leader in Bag-in-Box solutions to create SmartLife.

The development of sustainable packaging solutions is not a new endeavor at Sun Chemical but has accelerated in the past ten years as awareness of environmental issues has dramatically increased, as has the demand for cutting and recycling household waste and reducing carbon emissions and other pollutants. Consequently, Sun Chemical has organized a Corporate Sustainability Committee to further strengthen its approach to addressing the sustainability needs of the packaging industry. Comprised of eight executive leaders, including Myron Petruch, Carlo Musso, Chris Parrilli, Fernando Tavara, Robert Fitzka, Greg Hayes, Russell Schwartz, and Jim Van Horn, the Corporate Sustainability Committee will work together to guarantee company-wide engagement in sustainability initiatives and will build and oversee the company’s sustainability strategy, ensuring that proper resources are assigned for timely and effective implementation.

In response to significant growth of their customer base, Rootree Inc., Canada’s leader in sustainable digital flexible packaging, opened a second location in Montréal, Québec, and also moved their head office from Hamilton, Ontario to Burlington, Ontario. Over the past year, Rootree Inc.’s customer base has rapidly grown across North America. In order to continue to provide quality service for sustainable digital flexible packaging, Rootree Inc. opened a second location in Montréal, Québec to serve their French-speaking and Québec-based clients more effectively. The expansion allows Québec and East Coast-based Canadian and US clients to: *communicate with bilingual sales representatives, *access Rootree Inc.’s offices and showrooms from a more central location, and *receive sample deliveries in less time.

As shoppers demand products that are better for the environment, retailers can’t help but take notice. In fact, the consumer packaged goods industry has already started to reap the rewards. In just five years, 50 percent of their growth was attributed to a rise in sustainable products. Even so, 78 percent of consumers think companies need to do more for the environment. To capture a portion of the money consumers are now spending toward sustainable companies, it’s time companies reevaluate their practices. But the question is, how? Sustainable practices allow companies to connect with consumers and improve their bottom line — all at the same time. Plus, retail logistics go a long way toward demonstrating to customers that you’re doing right by the environment.

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced that International Paper has notified the Company of its intent to continue the monetization process of its ownership interest in Graphic Packaging International Partners, LLC (the "Partnership"). Per the agreement, the Partnership will purchase approximately 17.4 million partnership units from International Paper for $250 million. As a result, Graphic Packaging's ownership interest in the Partnership will increase from approximately 81.1% to 85.5%. The purchase will be funded with cash on hand and a draw on the domestic revolving credit facility.

Sealed Air Corporation has announced it has signed a collaboration agreement with Plastic Energy, an industry-leading company in advanced recycling technology. Additionally, Sealed Air has made an equity investment in Plastic Energy Global, the parent company of Plastic Energy. Plastic Energy Global was established in 2012 with the goal of creating a circular economy for plastics by diverting plastic waste away from landfills and oceans. Headquartered in London, the company has two operations in Spain and projects developing in Western Europe and Asia, with a vision for 50 new facilities over the next 10 years. "We’re excited to join forces with Plastic Energy to innovate faster and accelerate the development of new technology that eliminates waste and ensures a circular economy for plastics,” said Ted Doheny, Sealed Air President & CEO. “This collaboration will help us meet our 2025 sustainability pledge and lead the way in transforming our industry.”

The coronavirus pandemic’s demand-shock, brick-and-mortar store closures and stay-at-home orders have upended retail sales. As total spending declines, online spending is projected to surge by 18% in 2020, reflecting the impact of new buyers joining the online retail space as a result of the pandemic. With ecommerce expected to reach 14.5% of total retail sales this year – both an all-time high and the biggest ever share increase in a single year* – the findings of Two Sides’ recent U.S. Packaging Preferences Survey provide brand owners with valuable insights into consumers’ current thinking on packaging materials, online shopping and related behavior. *More than half of consumers (57%) prefer products ordered online to be delivered in paper/cardboard packaging, and two-thirds (66%) believe paper/cardboard packaging is better for the environment than other types of packaging. *70% of consumers prefer products ordered online to be delivered in appropriate fitting packaging, i.e., not too big for the size of the product inside. click read more below for additional insights

Second Quarter Financial Results Highlights *Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") from ongoing operations for Aluminum Extrusions of $13.3 million was $5.3 million lower than the second quarter of 2019 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for PE Films of $15.3 million was $4.2 million higher than the second quarter of 2019 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for Flexible Packaging Films of $6.5 million was $3.6 million higher than the second quarter of 2019

Q2 2020 Highlights *Sales of $1,285 million (compared with $1,313 million in Q1 2020 (-2%) and $1,275 million in Q2 2019 (+1%)) As reported (including specific items) *Operating income of $94 million (compared with of $90 million in Q1 2020 (+4%) and an operating income of $82 million in Q2 2019 (+15%)) *Net earnings per share of $0.57 (compared with $0.24 in Q1 2020 and $0.33 in Q2 2019)

Second Quarter 2020 U.S. GAAP Summary: Net sales of $1.2 billion decreased 1% as reported. Currency had a negative impact on total net sales of $42 million or approximately 4%. Net earnings were $100 million, or $0.64 per diluted share. Special Items had a negative impact of approximately $18 million on net earnings in the quarter, which was largely due to restructuring and restructuring associated charges of $14 million ($11 million, net of taxes).

Highlights • Robust financial performance in a challenging environment ◦ Underlying EBITDA of €738 million with margin of 21.4% ◦ Profit before tax of €466 million ◦ Basic underlying earnings of 73.0 euro cents per share ◦ Cash generated from operations of €602 million ◦ Return on capital employed of 17.1% ◦ Strong balance sheet with 1.4 times net debt to 12-month trailing underlying EBITDA at 30 June 2020

Net sales in the second quarter of 2020 were $1.4 billion, compared to $1.8 billion in the second quarter of 2019. Average selling prices improved approximately 1 percent and increased revenue $18 million. However, lower shipments due to the pandemic negatively impacted sales by $255 million. Unfavorable foreign currency translation reduced net sales by $88 million. Segment operating profit1 was $95 million in the quarter, compared with $236 million in the same period of 2019. Current year profits were impacted $6 million by unfavorable foreign currency translation. The benefit of higher selling prices more than offset incremental cost inflation by $1 million. Reflecting the impact of the pandemic, sales volume in tons declined approximately 15 percent from the prior year quarter and negatively impacted segment operating profit by $84 million. Segment operating profit was negatively impacted by $52 million as lower production levels were partially offset by improved operating performance and cost control efforts. Production levels were down approximately 20 percent from the second quarter of 2019 reflecting required curtailment to comply with government decrees to manage the pandemic, including disruptive lock downs in Mexico and the Andean countries, as well as the company’s effort to align supply with lower demand and manage inventory.

ePac Holdings Europe has established two new locations for its digital-only production plants in both Lyon in France and Wrocław in Poland, in line with its previously announced expansion plans into continental Europe. The new manufacturing center in France will be strategically located near Lyon, in the town of Bourgoin Jallieu. Operations will be headed up by Jonathan Schmitt, who is the managing partner at ePac Lyon. The new ePac facility in Poland will be located in Wrocław, where Maciej Plamieniak will take the reins, and like ePac Lyon, orders will be fulfilled by the UK until full manufacturing is online.

Third quarter of fiscal 2020 financial highlights include: *Net sales of $4.2 billion decreased by 9.7% compared to the prior year quarter *Segment EBITDA margins improved sequentially across both segments in a rapidly changing economic environment *Generated net cash provided by operating activities of $740 million *More than $3.2 billion of availability under long-term committed credit facilities and cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2020

Sonoco announced it has acquired Can Packaging, a privately owned designer and manufacturer of sustainable paper packaging and related manufacturing equipment, based in Habsheim, France, for total consideration of €41.7 million, or approximately $49 million. Founded by George Sireix in 1989, Can Packaging operates two paper can manufacturing facilities in France along with a research and development center where it designs and builds patented packaging machines and sealing equipment. Can Packaging is projected to produce sales of approximately €23 million or $27 million in 2020 and provides sustainable paperboard packaging to a number of large consumer food brands distributed across Europe. The business has approximately 60 associates.

Third Quarter Highlights (all comparisons made to the June 2019 quarter): *Net sales up 50 percent to $2.9 billion *Operating income up 61 percent to $347 million *Operating EBITDA up 67 percent to $581 million *RPC Group Plc (“RPC”) integration and synergy realization progressing ahead of plan *Increased fiscal year 2020 cash flow from operations and free cash flow guidance to $1.45 billion and $830 million, respectively

O-I Glass, Inc. announced it completed the sale of its Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) business unit to Visy Industries. Gross proceeds approximated AUD $947 million including a related sale-leaseback agreement which approximated AUD $214 million. Based on recent currency exchange rates, gross proceeds represented approximately USD $677 million. Approximately 95 percent of proceeds are being received at time of closing and the remaining balance will be paid within 12 months of closing without conditions precedent. Net proceeds will be principally used to reduce debt. O-I ANZ is the largest manufacturer of glass bottles and containers in Australia and New Zealand and the business generated sales of approximately AUD $754 million and EBITDA of approximately AUD $124 million in 2019.

Second Quarter 2020 Summary: *Reported sales and core sales decreased 6% primarily due to the negative effects of COVID-19 on the beauty and beverage markets as well as passing on lower resin costs; negative currency effects were offset by contributions coming from acquisitions *Reported sales growth of 7% and core sales growth of 6% in our Pharma segment was offset by decreases in reported sales and core sales in our Beauty + Home and Food + Beverage segments *Reported net income totaled $42 million (a decrease of 43% compared to the prior year) *Cash flow from operations was $228 million in the first half of 2020 (an increase of 3% compared to the prior year)

Second Quarter 2020 Highlights: *Second quarter net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper of $266 million, compared with $(141) million in the first quarter of 2020 and $292 million in the second quarter of 2019. First quarter 2020 net earnings included an after-tax charge of $337 million for the impairment of the net assets and write-off of foreign currency translation adjustment following the announcement of the sale of our Brazil Packaging business. *Second quarter adjusted operating earnings* (non-GAAP) of $305 million compared with $226 million in the first quarter of 2020 and $460 million in the second quarter of 2019 *Second quarter cash provided by operations of $890 million and year-to-date of $1.5 billion compared with $1.8 billion year-to-date in the same period of 2019 *Liquidity position of $3.6 billion at the end of the second quarter compared with $3.5 billion at the end of the first quarter, which reflects cash and unused committed facilities

January–June 2020 (compared to 1–6/2019) • Sales were EUR 945.2 million (964.2). • Comparable operating result was EUR 94.2 million (102.8), or 10.0% (10.7%) of sales. Operating result was EUR 100.3 million (118.3). • Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.19 (0.23), and earnings per share were EUR 0.21 (0.27). • Comparable return on capital employed was 10.7% (11.7%). • Net cash flow from operations was EUR 152.3 million (67.1). April–June 2020 (compared to 4–6/2019) • Sales were EUR 473.1 million (477.1). • Comparable operating result was EUR 60.5 million (41.0), or 12.8% (8.6%) of sales. Operating result was EUR 66.5 million (46.4). • Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.13 (0.09), and earnings per share were EUR 0.15 (0.10). • Comparable return on capital employed was 13.9% (9.7%). • Net cash flow from operations was EUR 72.3 million (30.7).

Sonoco ThermoSafe is building PharmaPortal™, a vendor-neutral blockchain platform for use by pharmaceutical manufacturers and carriers. Built on IBM Blockchain Transparent Supply, PharmaPortal intends to address the industry’s needs to trace assets across many different supply chain participants, record a single version of the truth on all events generated on a package’s journey, integrate this data with that of other businesses across an industry-scale network, and provide access controls to help ensure each data owner maintains control over who can access it on the network. The openly governed blockchain network built on open source technology will initially focus on end-to-end traceability of temperature-controlled drugs, such as vaccines, and provide an audit trail of environmental condition monitoring to help protect the efficacy of these lifesaving, life-extending and life-enhancing medicines. To help drive its development, Sonoco will invite industry leaders to collaborate on the initiative to optimize the safety and efficiency of global temperature controlled pharmaceutical distribution.

Packaging Corporation of America reported second quarter 2020 net income of $57 million, or $0.59 per share, and net income of $132 million, or $1.38 per share, excluding special items. Second quarter net sales were $1.54 billion in 2020 and $1.76 billion in 2019. Reported earnings in the second quarter of 2020 include $.79 per share of special items expense primarily for the impairment of goodwill associated with our Paper segment (as described below), the previously reported closure of our corrugated products production facility in San Lorenzo, CA, and costs and expenses associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cascades Inc. announces that it will close its Etobicoke, Ontario Containerboard packaging facility as part of the strategic repositioning of its Containerboard platform in Ontario and the Corporation's continuing global optimization initiatives. Cascades' Etobicoke Containerboard Packaging operations will permanently close no later than August 31, 2021, and the property will be put up for sale. Over the coming weeks and months, Cascades will work to minimize the impact of this announcement on the 125 employees related to this facility. It is important to note that this announcement has no impact on the activities of our Cascades Recovery+ facility and offices that are also located in Etobicoke.

Key Points: Strong performance against key metrics* EBITDA of €735 million, with an EBITDA margin of 17.5%*Free cash flow of €238 million *ROCE of 14.8% *Leverage of 2.1x *Dividend payment of 80.9 cent per share. “Our European business performed strongly in the first six months with an EBITDA margin of 17.6% and flat corrugated box volumes. “The EBITDA margin of the Americas business improved again year-on-year from 17.1% to 19.0%.

Announced in 2018, Sonoco’s commitments for sustainable use and increased recyclability of packaging by 2025 include: *Sonoco will increase the equivalent by weight, the amount it recycles, or causes to be recycled, from 65 percent to 85 percent, relative to the volume of packaging it places into to the global marketplace. In 2019, the Company recycled or caused to be recycled 83 percent of the products it placed in the marketplace. *Sonoco is committed to increasing the use of post-consumer recycled resins in its plastic packaging from 18 percent to 25 percent. Sonoco utilized 21 percent recycled content in its plastic supply chain in 2019, including 18 percent post-consumer content. *Sonoco will ensure that approximately 75 percent of its rigid plastic packaging can carry the relevant on-package recyclable claim.

Mondi Paper Bags has acquired two paper bag lines from Helwan Cement Company and InterCement Sacs, two major cement producers in Egypt. The acquired production lines will increase Mondi’s capacity by approximately 60-80 million bags annually and strengthen Mondi's position in the Middle Eastern bag market, particularly in supporting suppliers to the construction industry. Mondi Paper Bags, a global producer that operates two plants in Egypt, will also become the exclusive supplier of paper bags to Helwan Cement Company and InterCement Sacs. "We are excited to have signed long-term supply agreements with two of our biggest customers in Egypt further securing our position in the Middle Eastern market.

American Carton Company, Mansfield, TX, has installed a six-color Komori Lithrone GX40 press with both conventional UV and UV LED to increase its folding carton print capacity. Folding cartons are the company’s primary product, and American Carton currently holds a number of globally-recognized certifications to meet the quality and U.S. FDA safety compliance requirements of its clients in the pharmaceutical, medical device, food, personal care products and retail markets. American Carton chose the GLX640 for its ability to meet both complex packaging requirements and high-end commercial print applications, making it possible to expand on what the company can offer its customers. Key to American Carton’s success is the full range of services it offers, from design and prototyping through printing to die-cutting, embossing and finishing. General Manager, Trent Tucker, expects the GLX640 to become the company workhorse.

Italian converter AMB SpA has acquired German firm PTS (Prime Tray System) Verpackungen, a manufacturer of injection-moulded cups, bags and composite plastics films. Located in Gauting, Bavaria, PTS has been responsible for sales of the AMB product range for several years. With the purchase, AMB is keen to strengthen its market position in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. AMB operates from five locations in Europe, employs 435 people and boasts turnover of more than €160 million ($184m).

Mactac® Industrial Tapes announces the launch of MacBond® FBR899 Series Tapes, a versatile line of industrial tapes designed to adhere to nearly any and every surface. The product line features Mactac’s workhorse MacBond FBR899 adhesive. Unlike any other adhesive on the market, FBR899 offers the highest-tack rubber available, as well as an excellent blend of adhesion and peel. It has exceptional low-surface energy (LSE) performance and superior adhesion to most open- and closed-cell foams, as well as corrugated materials. Additionally, it forms aggressive bonds to textiles and textured surfaces.

Mactac®, a leading supplier of pressure-sensitive papers and films, and ARMOR, a leader in the design and production of thermal transfer ribbons, are partnering to bring thinner, more sustainable thermal transfer solutions to the labeling industry. Both companies offer thermal transfer solutions that are designed to help reduce the labeling industry’s environmental impact, including Mactac’s Optiscan® thermal transfer products with BLOOM® hi.mpact™ liner and ARMOR’s inkanto® APR1 wax-resin thermal transfer ribbon. When Optiscan products (Optiscan V, Optiscan K and Optiscan 2C) with BLOOM hi.mpact and APR1 ribbon are used jointly as a comprehensive thermal transfer solution, printers, converters and end-users benefit.

Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium lightweight paperboards and part of Metsä Group, is glad to announce that its paperboards have now achieved DIN CERTCO certificates in industrial compostability complying with DIN EN 13432 and ASTM D6400 standards. In addition, Metsä Board’s eco-barrier paperboard MetsäBoard Prime FBB EB also holds a home compostability certificate. As one of the leading companies, Metsä Board provides certification across its product line helping customers choose packaging materials that comply with their requirements. “In order to enhance circular economy our main target is that our paperboards are recycled after use. But recycling is not always possible – the paperboard may be contaminated due to its contents and cannot be recycled. In this instance compostability is the next best alternative,” says Helena Moring-Vepsäläinen, Product Safety Manager at Metsä Board.

Q2 2020 in brief •Net sales decreased 8% to EUR 797 million (EUR 867 million) •Comparable net sales growth was -8% at Group level and -12% in emerging markets. H1 2020 in brief •Net sales decreased 2% to EUR 1,642 million (EUR 1,669 million) •Comparable net sales growth was -3% at Group level and -8% in emerging markets.

As brands compete for consumer attention, 81 percent of shoppers have tried something new because the package caught their eye. Appearance or aesthetics of the package has led to 63 percent of shoppers repurchasing a product, and 52 percent have completely switched brands based on new packaging, according to Westrock. Bottom line, the look and feel of packaging are primary drivers that influence a customer’s purchasing decision in the aisle. It’s a powerful enabler that meets consumers’ need for a personalized brand experience. One of the key ways to create that experience is the use of finishing technologies. Amcor’s AmPlify™ finishing technologies for packaging is a portfolio of solutions designed to create engagement opportunities through more intense experiences with packaging elements that embody a product’s flavor, texture and scent.

Until recently, packaging optimization was largely overlooked as brands and retailers scrambled to keep up with exploding e-commerce demand and customer expectations for faster deliveries. Now, packaging has become one of the highest priorities for many e-commerce providers. End consumers have made their voices heard and have demanded that providers focus on waste and recyclability of the e-commerce packages they receive. Providers are challenged with addressing often conflicting sustainability objectives to gain the approval of internal and external stakeholders. click read more below for details

DS Smith Tecnicarton has designed and manufactured a new packaging for the metallurgical sector in four-wave laminated cardboard, especially suitable for heavy bulks in the sector, whether they are positioned or extendable parts. It is a unique packaging that is extremely resistant and able to adapt to the needs of the product and its transport conditions. In addition, the possibility of customizing the measures, allows to adapt it to the European regulations, as well as to the maritime platforms or to the measures stipulated by the client. Another of its main advantages is that its folding system allows a single piece to function as both a bottom and a body and to be assembled in a single movement. This innovation introduces significant cost savings in the assembly process, as time is significantly reduced; it facilitates stacking and allows for a significant reduction in storage space.

In order to better serve it’s growing customer base ePac Flexible Packaging, the leader in fast time to market custom printed finished pouches and roll stock, has announced an expansion in operations to serve its rapidly growing customer base. Throughout 2020 ePac has been adding new manufacturing facilities in North America, expanded internationally, and added printing and finishing equipment to its existing operations. These expansion projects will continue to run through the balance of 2020 and into 2021. With its core mission to serve locally based small and medium-sized brands, the additional capacity will drive down lead times while enabling the company to also handle longer run length jobs.

Net income for the first six months of 2020 was $135.8 million, as compared to net income of $77.7 million, for the first six months of 2019. Net sales for the first six months of 2020 increased $86.5 million, or 4.1 percent, to $2.21 billion as compared to $2.12 billion for the first six months of 2019. This increase was primarily a result of higher volumes in each of the businesses, including the impact from acquisitions, and a more favorable mix of products sold in the closures business, partially offset by the pass through of lower raw material costs across all businesses, a less favorable mix of products sold in the metal and plastic container businesses and the impact of unfavorable foreign currency translation.

Q2 2020 Highlights *Net Sales were $1,611.0 million versus $1,552.8 million in the prior year period. *Net Income was $52.1 million versus $63.8 million in the prior year period. *Net organic sales increased 1.5% in Q2 and 3% in the first half of 2020 versus the prior year periods. *Continue to operate safely and effectively; investing in multiple protocols focused on the well-being of employees and serving customers globally. *Successfully closed the 70,000 ton White Pigeon, Michigan Coated Recycled Board (CRB) mill and shut down the 120,000 ton West Monroe, Louisiana PM1 containerboard machine. *Repurchased $38.0 million in common shares during the quarter; delivered $64.9 million to stakeholders in share repurchases, dividends and partnership distributions.

Mactac®, a leading supplier of pressure-sensitive papers and films, and ARMOR, a leader in the design and production of thermal transfer ribbons, are partnering to bring thinner, more sustainable thermal transfer solutions to the labeling industry. Both companies offer thermal transfer solutions that are designed to help reduce the labeling industry’s environmental impact, including Mactac’s Optiscan® thermal transfer products with BLOOM® hi.mpact™ liner and ARMOR’s inkanto® APR1 wax-resin thermal transfer ribbon. When Optiscan products (Optiscan V, Optiscan K and Optiscan 2C) with BLOOM hi.mpact and APR1 ribbon are used jointly as a comprehensive thermal transfer solution, printers, converters and end-users benefit. These innovative products help create a labeling industry with more sustainable solutions. By focusing on sustainable product development, both Mactac and ARMOR are helping ensure the labeling industry is making strides in reducing the impact on the environment.

Dune Packaging Ltd has partnered with Mondi to grow its market share by offering more complex, multicolour designs on its open mouth paper bag packaging. Working with Mondi, Dune Packaging is now using Mondi's Advantage Kraft White Print paper to produce high quality packaging for consumer food produce including flour, maize and grain. The current market norm in East Africa is two-colour flexo printing thereby limiting the "shelf appeal" for consumers. By investing in improved machinery as well as upgrading the bleached kraft paper they use has enabled Dune Packaging to supply bags of even higher quality and value to their growing customer base.

Total Packaging Papers & Specialty Packaging shipments in June increased four percent compared to June 2019. They were up two percent when compared to the same six months of 2019. The operating rate was 86.8 percent, essentially flat (-0.1 pts.) from June 2019 and down 1.2 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of June decreased 5,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 17,000 short tons compared to June 2019.

Total Containerboard production in June increased one percent compared to June 2019. It was up five percent when compared to the same six months of 2019. June 2020 production of containerboard for export increased five percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 34 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 90.1 percent, up 1.8 points from June 2019 and up 3.9 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of June decreased 4,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 48,000 short tons compared to June 2019.

Total Boxboard production in June decreased one percent compared to June 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same six months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 93 percent, up 1.1 points from June 2019 and up 0.9 points year-to-date Solid Bleached Boxboard production in June remained essentially flat (-0.4 percent) compared to June 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same six months of 2019. Recycled Boxboard production in June decreased five percent compared to June 2019. It was down zero percent when compared to the same six months of 2019. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in June increased four percent compared to June 2019. It was essentially flat (+0.4 percent) when compared to the same six months of 2019.

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

Visy/Pratt Industries Exec chmn Anthony Pratt is leading a recycling resurgence. His US company Pratt Industries was the fifth largest US boxmaker in 2019 with a 7% market share and an estimated 27.5 billion ft2 of shipments. The US boxes are made mostly out of lowcost mixed paper. His five containerboard mills with 1.91 million tons/yr of 100% recycled content containerboard capacity are nearly fully integrated to 70 Pratt corrugated plants, including 30 sheet plants. Pratt US last year generated more than $3 billion in sales and $550 million in EBITDA, in a year of record-low mixed paper pricing at a negative-$2/ton average and containerboard prices an estimated 175-200% more than the firm’s production cost.

Net sales for the second quarter of 2020 were $1.25 billion, down 8.4 percent from last year's second quarter sales of $1.36 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 increased sales from acquisitions. GAAP net income attributable to Sonoco in the second quarter was $55.2 million, compared with $81.2 million. Second-quarter GAAP earnings included net after-tax non-base charges totaling $24.9 million, $16.7 million of which were related to operational restructuring activities primarily related to capacity reductions in the Company's North America paper mill network. Gross profit was $248.0 million in the second quarter compared to $275.3 million in the same period in 2019.

The convenience of online shopping is shifting a larger share of the retail marketplace to e-commerce. In 2019, e-commerce was 16.4 percent of total retail sales globally. But recent indicators show a strong rise in e-commerce that will lead to busier fulfillment centers. For example, Sally Beauty saw a 555 percent increase in its U.S. digital growth in the third quarter of 2020 compared to last year, and 163 percent growth in its European arm in the same time period. By 2023, e-commerce will amount to 22 percent of global retail sales. This jump in online purchasing will lead to big changes for fulfillment centers, particularly as consumers purchase a larger variety of items from the comfort of their homes. The future of e-commerce holds an increase in perishable purchases online, demand for rapid fulfillment, a need for more warehouse space, and more direct-to-consumer brands creating a memorable unboxing experience. As a result, fulfillment centers will need to find ways to package more orders and ship them out faster. click read more below for much more info

Clearwater Paper Corporation introduced ReMagine™, a folding carton paperboard brand with up to 30 percent post-consumer recycled fiber. Inspired by circular economy principles, ReMagine provides high definition print capability and superior converting performance. The new folding carton brand is now available to the company’s customers. ReMagine is distinct, offering up to 30 percent post-consumer recycled fiber that is Food and Drug Administration compliant for all types of food contact. This new brand of solid bleached sulphate (SBS) provides an optimized balance of post-consumer recycled fiber and renewable virgin fiber, converting speed, and high definition print capability. The brand also offers Forest Stewardship Council® FSC-C008402 chain of custody certification.

Mondi, has partnered with Austrian meat producer Hütthaler to produce a fully recyclable thermoforming film made from a mono-material for their meat and sausage products. The film is made of a mono-material solution that can be fully recycled and provides a barrier to protect the food and extend its shelf life. The independent cyclos-HTP Institute for Recyclability and Product Responsibility has awarded this film the highest classification "AAA" for recyclability. Hütthaler's requirement was to replace the previously used film with a recyclable solution. The company was looking for a more sustainable approach that would not compromise on quality or the attractive presentation of the food.

Lead2030 was launched by One Young World, the global forum for young leaders, in November 2018 to support youth-led innovation to contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year’s winning project comes from Genecis Bioindustries, a Canadian-based start-up, which makes compostable plastic from food waste. Genecis has been awarded $50,000 from Mondi as well as 12 months of corporate mentorship focused on business development, marketing/communications support as well as technical mentorship on the potential market applications of PHA polymers in packaging.

The Hood Container paper mill in West Feliciana Parish is undergoing a $50 million upgrade to boost its efficiency and capacity. The project is expected to support 75 construction jobs but not add new permanent jobs to the mill's 306 existing employees, company, state and local officials announced Thursday. The mill has a $23 million annual payroll. The announcement was made by Wayne Morgan, senior vice president of Hood Container of Louisiana LLC, and Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. announced its preliminary estimated revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2020. The Company estimates that its revenue is approximately $267 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020, compared to the outlook range communicated on May 13, 2020 of $235 million to $250 million. With the outperformance of revenue, management also expects adjusted EBITDA(1) to be greater than the top end of the outlook range of $34 million that the Company communicated on May 13, 2020 as well.

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. published its 2019 annual sustainability report, titled “We Package, We Protect & We Sustain”. The report provides an overview of the Company’s sustainability progress in 2019 and highlights IPG's sustainability opportunities in the years ahead. The report was prepared with reference to certain Global Reporting Initiative (“GRI”) standards with details provided in the index section of the report. “Sustainability is a core pillar of our long-term strategy and we believe it is a key component to meeting the needs of our stakeholders as well as the growth of our business,” said Greg Yull, President and CEO of IPG. “While this year’s report is published as society is dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, our approach to sustainability is a long-term initiative that requires consistent and continuous support. In fact, the ingrained culture of health and safety within our daily operations at the plant level underpinned our ability to maintain ongoing operations in the face of the pandemic.”

TC Transcontinental Packaging is proud to announce the launch of a new website section on sustainability and flexible packaging. The section is available at www.tc.tc/packaging/sustainability and is accessible through desktop and mobile. The content has been updated to share with clients and consumers the benefits of flexible packaging, including its positive impact for the environment. It is modern, engaging and full of resources. From TC Transcontinental’s 2025 commitment to a 10-step journey to create sustainable packaging, the new website section sets out what brands and CPG’s need to consider to help them achieve their sustainability objectives.

Sonoco FRESH (Food Research Excellence for Safety and Health), a Sonoco and Clemson University initiative to develop new technologies and new forms of packaging to optimize the fresh food lifecycle, is pleased to host a series of events focused on innovations in packaging. With the theme of “Safe. Secure. Sustainable.,” the February 2021 Summit, hosted on the campus of Clemson University, will offer a unique opportunity to stimulate high impact discussions on how the issues associated with each part of the food value chain can be used as opportunities to drive business and benefit society. Attendees, industry and academic experts will participate in presentations, panels and roundtables to foster knowledge growth and solutions. Registration for the Summit will open in late summer 2020. In preparation of the Summit, Sonoco FRESH will host sneak peek webinars September 22-23, 2020.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, is investing in its flexible packaging plants, in Aramil and Pereslavl in Russia, to provide customers with improved flexibility and a broader portfolio, including sustainable packaging solutions. To meet rising demand in Russia for sustainable packaging for the confectionary, food and dry and wet pet food markets, Mondi will broaden the range of competitive packaging solutions. The plant in Aramil will also install a nine-layer co-extrusion line to produce high-barrier films by the end of 2020. This updated product portfolio will offer a range from mono-materials to multi-layer high-barrier laminates, many of which already meet current sustainability criteria, such as recyclability.

Global packaging leader Amcor today published results from its latest research into consumer perceptions of sustainability and packaging. The proprietary insights give Amcor and its customers a unique understanding of evolving preferences, including a willingness to pay more for differentiated products from top brands. Michael Zacka, Amcor’s chief commercial officer, said consumers are increasingly making buying decisions that factor in environmental considerations and expect brands to provide more responsible packaging options. The survey of more than 4,000 participants found differences in perception between countries, but that overall consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of their choices. Across the countries surveyed, 83% say they check on-pack instructions to know how to dispose of packaging.

Vegpro, the largest fresh baby lettuces producer in Canada, and Cascades have established a partnership aimed at replacing all Fresh Attitude salad containers, traditionally made from virgin plastic, with 100% recycled and recyclable plastic containers. Custom-designed for Vegpro by Cascades, these containers are manufactured at the Cascades Inopak plant in Drummondville, Québec. The two companies have teamed up to offer consumers a container with a smaller environmental footprint that also helps to extend the shelf life of salads. The containers improve airflow and prolong conservation time by limiting the build up of excess humidity. This way, the baby lettuces remain fresh and crisp longer.

MacDermid Graphics Solutions announces a strategic partnership with the Digimarc Corporation (NASDAQ: DMRC) to expand the application of Digimarc for packaging in the global flexographic printing market. MacDermid is delighted to be the first flexographic plate manufacturer to partner with Digimarc. MacDermid’s world-class products and technical support enable printers to deliver the highest print quality to meet the demands of brand owners. MacDermid’s vast expertise in flexographic printing, combined with the Digimarc Platform, provides brand owners with increased product traceability throughout the supply chain. Additionally, brands can heighten the consumer’s pre-purchase and post-purchase experiences through interactive and dynamic data embedded in the packaging designs.

Food packaging is incredibly important to our day-to-day lives but pressing sustainability issues mean that alternative materials are becoming a requirement rather than an option. The next time you’re in a grocery store imagine that food packaging didn’t exist. Your bananas and oranges don’t need packages, but buying milk or flour is suddenly a whole lot more complicated. Many foods wouldn’t be available at all, because they wouldn’t remain fresh. Food packaging is extremely important to our modern lives and plays a critical role in both the safety and sustainability of our food supply. Food packaging must be a good marketer so that people want to buy the product. It must also be cost-effective. Increasingly, people demand sustainable packaging. Perhaps most importantly, packaging must be a protector, so the food remains safe.

Flow Cosmetics, a Finnish natural cosmetics company, has selected paperboard from Metsä Board, part of the Metsä Group, as its packaging material of choice, for its innovative range of shampoos, body and face soaps. Bar-shaped cosmetic products are ecological to use as well as to transport and store. MetsäBoard Natural FBB was selected for the packaging board for its visual appearance, lightness, and ecology. In addition, the uncoated surface of the paperboard has a pleasing natural look and feel. “As part of our zero waste principle, we chose sustainable MetsäBoard Natural FBB board. We wanted to ensure that our products are natural all the way through to the packaging, and that they comply with stringent quality requirements,” says Riitta Jänkälä, Founder and CEO of Flow Cosmetics. "It's also important to us that all our packaging boards are recyclable after use."

For the full year, revenue (continuing operations) declined 2 per cent on a constant currency basis. There was a positive contribution from European corrugated box volumes (£22 million) and an incremental c. nine month contribution from Europac (which was acquired in mid January 2019) of £376 million, offset in Europe by reduced pricing of external paper, recyclate and box prices (together down £285 million year on year), and a decline in other volumes particularly due to increased paper and recyclate integration and reduced volumes of corrugated sheet (down £175 million). The reduced sales price across the European operations was driven principally by a fall in testliner and kraftliner pricing, which partly fed through into corrugated packaging pricing progressively through the year as indexed contracts adjusted for the market price of paper, the main input cost. The North America business also recorded a fall in revenue (down £63 million), principally reflecting lower paper prices into the export market. Operating profit improved 6 per cent (constant currency) to £455 million (2018/19: £427 million).

Smurfit Kappa’s Bag-in-Box packaging is perfectly suitable for sanitiser due to it being a hygienic, easy-to-use and flexible solution that is available in a range of sizes from 1.5 to 20 litres and is suitable both for end consumers or as a refill solution. Furthermore, Bag-in-Box’s high performance films have a high oxygen barrier to protect products from air and light so the hand sanitiser’s physical and chemical properties remain intact. The packaging also brings a number of environmental benefits including the ability to optimise the supply chain and reduced weight and plastic in comparison to other traditional packaging. For instance, a 5L Bag-in-Box pack uses 54% less plastic than to a 5L PET bottle.

Espoma Organic, a lawn and garden brand, continues to showcase their commitment to the environment by replacing fossil-fuel-derived polymers in their packaging with more sustainable alternatives. In response to Espoma Organic’s mission to “develop the finest organic gardening products that work in harmony with nature, grow beautiful gardens and make a greener world for the future,” global packaging company Amcor partnered with the brand to innovate more sustainable packaging and launch a new bio-based polymer package. The polyethylene (PE) film contains 25 percent bio-based material, derived – in this case – from sugar cane. “We know consumers increasingly are paying attention to product packaging as they make purchasing decisions,” said Troian. “The use of renewable materials in packaging offers brands a new way to stand out on store shelves while driving down the total carbon footprint of their products.”

Mondi won five awards for its innovative and sustainable designs at the 2020 WorldStar Packaging Awards. This year’s award ceremony was cancelled due to COVID-19, so Mondi’s designers are sharing their insights on the thinking behind their design packaging. Designers and the award-winning products: *Herbert Reitbrugger, UpliftBox in the Household category from Mondi Corrugated Solutions Grünburg, Germany *Marco Rammler, DashV1Box in the Transit category from Mondi Corrugated Solutions Ansbach, Germany *Eva Hrychova, Stabilization Box in the Other category from Mondi Corrugated Solutions Bupak s.r.o, Czech Republic *Nadja Nickel, Sales Manager for Protector Bags in the Transit category from Mondi Paper Bags and aPak, a Swedish Packaging dealer *Jens Koesters, StripPouch in the Household category from the German cleaning products maker Werner & Mertz and Mondi Consumer Flexibles

WestRock Company received 19 awards at this year’s Outstanding Merchandising Achievement (OMA) Awards – the most of any entrant – including the distinguished Creative Award. The OMAs celebrate merchandising and design excellence in the retail space. They are presented by SHOP! Association, a global non-profit trade association dedicated to enhancing retail environments and experiences. WestRock won the distinguished Creative Award for a permanent display for a large personal care consumer goods company that was launching a new shaving product designed specifically for women. The WestRock-designed display reinforced the company’s brand messaging with elements of playfulness and humor.

Banavali will focus on building materials science capabilities that can be used as the basis for creating new products, processes and services across the company. He will also partner with WestRock’s commercial, digital, marketing and innovation teams to advance the company’s innovation strategy with a strong focus on more environmentally sustainability products, breakthrough packaging designs and the digitalisation of packaging.

Mondi, leading global packaging and paper group, has successfully completed the implementation of a new state-of-the-art paper sack converting machine at its Nyíregyháza site in Hungary. The machine – a Windmöller & Hölscher AD 8320 / AM 8115 – allows the plant to produce a new line of sophisticated paper sacks for food packaging. The site will be capable of producing more than 130 million sacks annually. The Mondi Nyíregyháza plant, which employs more than one hundred people, serves the Hungarian, Romanian, Austrian and Bulgarian market in many industries and sectors. It produces industrial paper sacks (open mouth and valve bags) for applications such as cement, building materials, food-feed-seed, chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

For the first time in its history, Fishers Gin (Fishers), a spirit inspired by the quaint coastal town of Aldeburgh, U.K., is available for purchase in an eye-catching tin that reflects the brand’s seaside origins and premium appeal. Known as the ‘Gin Distilled by the Sea,’ Fishers worked closely with Crown Aerosols & Promotional Packaging Europe to produce a design that captures the signature colors and netted style of its standard bottle. This cohesiveness ensured the new package remained true to the brand’s well-established identity. Fishers approached the design process with enthusiasm and a desire to push the envelope. The brand engaged Crown for its expert advice and guidance from the beginning of the project, having been inspired by its diverse and creative metal packaging portfolio. Using the concept of a white tin and fishnet look as a starting point, Crown’s design and in-house engineering team counselled Fishers on the overall style of the tin, as well as how to attain the best graphic results when printing on metal. Crown and Fishers collaborated on each detail of the gifting tin, testing different concepts and combinations until the tin achieved the desired premium look and feel.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its collaboration with The Medicom Group, (Medicom), to design the manufacturing solution and guarantee the supply of nonwoven fabric intended for use in producing hundreds of millions of face masks annually as part of Medicom’s agreement with the British Government. Medicom is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medical and respiratory masks. To do so, Berry is investing in a new state-of-the-art meltblown nonwovens line, to be outfitted with its proprietary charging technology, at one of its UK based facilities to increase capacity of material necessary in the production of European-standard Type IIR and N99-equivalent FFP3 masks. The masks will be manufactured and sold under Medicom’s European Kolmi brand.

ePac Flexible Packaging announced plans to open its next facility near Sacramento, serving the Northern California area. The company has begun accepting orders, with fulfillment handled by other ePac U.S. locations until its manufacturing facility opens. The Sacramento facility is scheduled to open in 3Q 2020. ePac Sacramento is a joint venture between Karma Packaging and ePac Holdings, and will be managed by Pete Rogers, a long-time Sacramento native and business owner. The ePac manufacturing facility will be located at 1601 Aviation Blvd Suite 125, Lincoln, CA 95648.

DS Smith was joined by its global partner the Ellen MacArthur Foundation for a virtual event to explore the packaging company’s brand-new Circle Design Principles. With over 700 packaging designers developing hundreds of thousands of packaging specifications every year, DS Smith is helping its customers to optimize packaging for their individual supply chains every day. The new Circular Design Principles, which have been developed in collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, equip the designers with a framework to stimulate innovation and offer customers more sustainable packaging designs.

When packages come and go, label choice matters. A truly closed loop solution is here with new and improved UPM Raflatac RW85C wash-off label materials for PET containers, now available in the Americas market. Part of the UPM Raflatac SmartCircle™ sustainable product range, products with RW85C adhesive offer best in class wash-off technology. Because PET plastic packaging is lightweight and economical to manufacture, it is in high demand. Although PET has the highest recycling rate among plastics, less than half is collected for recycling, and the vast majority that is recycled is downcycled because it is not suitable for turning back into bottles or food containers. This can be due to the labels not separating well during the recycling process. As more and more global brands seek recycled content in their packaging materials, label choice has never been more important.

The U.S.-based nonprofit Food System 6 (FS6) announces the launch of a comprehensive startup program in partnership with global sustainable food packaging leader Huhtamaki. The Huhtamaki Circular Economy Startup Program by Food System 6 is designed to accelerate the development of young and promising companies working for a more sustainable future. It will focus on identifying and developing early-stage companies with innovative and promising sustainable solutions in areas such as waste diversion, sustainable packaging alternatives, new materials innovations, and regenerative production models. “Our program is happening at a critical time. The COVID-19 crisis has exposed the vulnerabilities that already existed in our fragile food system,” said Caesaré Assad, Chief Executive Officer of Food System 6. “We need solutions now that will support regeneration and circularity across agriculture, food distribution and production. By supporting entrepreneurs, we can rectify the problems that impact people and our planet to create a stronger, resilient, and equitable world.”

Scholle IPN, a global leader in flexible packaging solutions, has announced today a major rebranding to reflect the company's focused efforts on sustainable packaging. Ross Bushnell, President and CEO of Scholle IPN, said of the rebranding initiative, "This is a really exciting time for the Scholle IPN business and for our team around the world. The opportunities are endless for sustainable, leading-edge solutions crafted around film, fitments, and equipment offerings. We believe that our brand should more accurately reflect those tremendous opportunities and we are excited to launch the new brand campaign at this time."

Unlike any other adhesive on the market, PUREapply delivers a unique combination of initial open time and ultimate secure adhesion. It was designed for any semi-rigid or rigid plastic container substrates and is often used in beverage, cosmetics, toiletries, household goods and food packaging labeling. It is also suitable for cold, damp labeling applications. “PUREapply was custom-engineered for any and all plastics or glass – it doesn’t matter what type if it’s high or low energy, treated or untreated, and so on – PUREapply is the right choice,” says Kim Hensley, Senior Marketing Manager, Mactac Performance Adhesives. “No other comparable products on the market today are able to match PUREapply’s level of initial open time and still ensure long-lasting, secure label adhesion.”

Eco-Products® announced today its award-winning new line of molded fiber plates and containers – once in limited release – is now available to all customers nationwide. The groundbreaking new line – called VanguardTM – is made from sugarcane and uses proprietary compounds to achieve grease resistance without the use of conventional chemistry, known as PFAS. “Vanguard demonstrates our deep commitment to providing new choices for those seeking grease-resistant packaging,” said Sarah Martinez, Senior Marketing Director for Eco-Products. “Our goal is to stay at the cutting edge of innovation, and the Vanguard line keeps us right there. It’s another outstanding option for our customers.”

Smurfit Kappa’s industry-leading new recovery boiler is now operating at its Nettingsdorf paper mill in Austria. The unveiling of the state-of-the-art boiler marks an important milestone in Smurfit Kappa’s Future Energy Plant project, which was a €134 million investment to increase the sustainability and efficiency of the leading kraftliner mill. The innovative new boiler will enable the plant to further boost energy optimisation at the mill. By recovering energy from the biomass contained in black liquor from pulp production, the new boiler is set to cut CO2 emissions by 40,000 tonnes, which equates to about two-thirds of the current emissions at the site, and 2.4% of those from Smurfit Kappa Europe.

This custom branded tissue paper is dispensed from the Easypack Quantum™ on-demand, void-fill system. By using an automated packaging system that dispenses paper directly into the box, Inspyre paper offers the high throughput required by operations while delivering the branded unboxing experiences sought after by marketing. A study conducted by research firm Package InSight revealed custom branded paper had a significant impact on how participants valued both products and brands. Products packaged in branded tissue paper had a 24% higher perceived value than generic packaging. Brand impressions improved by 86%, brand recall increased by 40% and the likelihood of sharing on social media rose by 64% when participants unboxed products packed with custom branded tissue paper.

BillerudKorsnäs launches Pure Performance, a White Top Kraftliner that combines high strength, excellent printability and purity in one material. Pure Performance is a unique paper product that offer packaging material reduction thanks to its 3-ply construction. Pure Performance is one of the first products from the world´s most modern board machine KM7 at BillerudKorsnäs and has received great appreciation among customers within the corrugating industry. Pure Performance offers extraordinary strength thanks to a 3-ply construction with optimized fiber properties: *The top ply contains well distributed short white fibers optimized for excellent printability. *The bottom ply has unbleached long fibers for highest strength. *The middle ply is used to create bulk in order to maximize stiffness and minimize washboarding.

While marketing focus steadily shifting from a mass to a more personalized approach, and each consumer increasingly has their own individual tastes and needs, analogue printing technologies such as gravure and flexography can not always caater to such requirements. This has lead to vendors needing to create an ever increasing variety of products but of smaller quantities, a phenomenon which has led to a constant reduction in the size of production lots. The Miyakoshi MJP30AXF includes features such as: *Water based ink, safe for food packaging *Minimizing of inventories and waste helping to achieve sustainable goals *Optimized production with a variety of small jobs on one single web *High resolution 1200 x 1200 dpi with latest inkjet printhead technology *Digitally printed white, enabling high quality colour reproduction *750 mm(30 inch) print width and 50 meter per minute printing speed *No make-ready time such as plate/drum making, and ink change.

According to the LOHAS2020 study, a growing number of consumers are considering the consequences of their consumption behaviour. Up to two out of three Finnish consumers would like to have more information on which packaging would be the best choice for both the environment and the shelf life of the product. “This was the third LOHAS consumer survey to address packaging issues extensively. Compared to previous studies conducted in 2011 and 2014, a lifestyle that supports both personal health and sustainable development has become an increasingly important factor in driving consumer behaviour. The coronavirus pandemic has probably further increased consumers' understanding of the core benefits of packaging,” says Virpi Korhonen from Sense N Insight.

UPM Raflatac is partnering with Vellamo, Finland’s award-winning natural mineral water for a truly innovative sustainable label. Vellamo’s bottles feature UPM Raflatac Forest Film PPTM, the world’s first and only wood-based polypropylene plastic label material. This transparent label material is constructed from UPM BioVerno naphtha, a 100 percent wood-based solution made from tall oil, a residue of pulp production, originating from sustainably managed forests. “This is an ideal collaboration to showcase how labels matter when it comes to sustainable packaging,” says Timo Kekki, Vice President, Films Business, UPM Raflatac. “Our innovative labeling material answers brand owners’ needs to replace traditional fossil-based virgin materials with renewable ones. The collaboration with Vellamo is an excellent example of how we are labeling a smarter future beyond fossils together with our partners.”

Paragon Films, Inc., a leading stretch film manufacturer in North America, has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Berry Global, Inc. in the U.S. Federal District Court for the Western District of Tennessee. The lawsuit alleges that Berry’s Fortitude products directly infringe four U.S. patents protecting Paragon Films’ Torque hand film products. The lawsuit seeks to recover damages as well as an injunction to prevent Berry from continued acts of infringement. “Innovation is one of Paragon Films’ core values,” said CEO Darin Tang. “Commitment to industry-leading performance, quality, and value to our customers drives our team. We must and will protect our intellectual property rights in the marketplace.”

Tetra Pak has launched a new, first-of-its-kind low-energy processing line for juice, nectar and still drinks (JNSD) to take beverage processing to a new level of efficiency. Innovatively using a unique combination of Pasteurization, Filtration and UV Light technology to treat beverages in two separate streams, which are aseptically blended together into the final beverage. Instead of pasteurizing the whole volume of the product, the new production line separates out water and pasteurizes only the concentrate. Water is treated separately with Filtration and UV Light which requires a lot less energy. In the new JNSD line customers reduce energy consumption up to 67% and water consumption used for cleaning-in-place, sterilisation and product change-over is cut up to 50%.

Cascades is pleased to announce the launch of its new range of Cascades Fresh packaging products for fruits and vegetables. Designed for producers, packers and retailers, Cascades Fresh packaging solutions meet the needs of this key industry while also addressing consumers' concerns about the environmental footprint of their foodstuffs. Through this new range of products, Cascades brings the circular economy to life by using different types of cardboard and recovered plastics to offer a full and multi-material range of eco-friendly, recycled and 100% recyclable products to reduce the environmental footprint of packaging used in the produce sector. The various products include trays made from PETE, LDPETE and cardboard, baskets, carriers and corrugated cardboard boxes as well as a number of sturdy and leakproof options.

*One-third of companies say sustainability is driving all R&D and new product development *Companies are investing most heavily in using recycled materials in their products and packaging *68% of businesses view materials used in packaging as the most challenging area for sustainability *37% of consumers rate packaging design as important when making a purchasing decision. A new survey by paper-based packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has revealed sustainability is transforming the innovation agenda as businesses rethink their products and packaging solutions in an effort to tackle environmental waste. The Sustainability and Profitability Survey, which was conducted among 200 senior business executives in the UK, showed that sustainability is driving all R&D and new product development in more than a third of companies.

Tredegar Surface Protection announced that it has commissioned a state-of-the-art manufacturing line for developing innovative surface protection films. Recognized for its industry-leading quality and supply reliability, Tredegar Surface Protection plays a critical role in protecting the sensitive surfaces of optical films used in displays and other substrates during manufacturing, converting and transportation. In response to increased demand for high-quality surface protection films and faster design cycles in the LCD and OLED markets, the Company has invested approximately $5 million for a scale-up line in its Richmond Technical Center located in Richmond, Virginia. “New technologies such as 8K resolution and foldable displays are driving the need for new surface protection films that meet increasing quality and performance requirements. This scale-up line will enable us to commercialize new products faster to ensure we can satisfy industry quality requirements and keep pace with the rapid introduction of new models in the mobile phone and television markets,” said Bapi DasGupta, President of Tredegar Surface Protection. “Tredegar Surface Production has a long track record of supplying innovative high-quality materials for masking applications, and this expansion will enable us to continue our tradition of providing increased value to improve our customers’ productivity and bottom line.”

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in May increased two percent compared to May 2019. They were up three percent when compared to the same five months of 2019. The operating rate was 83.8 percent, down 1.8 points from May 2019 and down 1.4 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of May increased 18,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 18,000 short tons compared to May 2019.

Total Containerboard production in May increased one percent compared to May 2019. It was up six percent when compared to the same five months of 2019. May 2020 production of containerboard for export increased 42 percent compared to the same month last year; it was up 41 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 90.3 percent, essentially flat (-0.2 pts.) from May 2019 and up 4.4 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of May increased 39,000 short tons from the previous month and were up 77,000 short tons compared to May 2019.

TC Transcontinental announces the acquisition of the assets of Enviroplast Inc., a company dedicated to recycling flexible plastics in the province of Québec. The equipment acquired will be used for converting plastic waste recovered from sorting facilities and other commercial, industrial and agricultural sources into recycled plastic granules. “The circular economy is the way of the future," said Sylvain Levert, Senior Vice President, Recycling Group, TC Transcontinental Packaging. This equipment acquisition is part of our goal to vertically integrate the recycling of plastics in our packaging production chain in Canada, the United States and Latin America, ultimately ensuring stable procurement of recycled resin. We are proud of this first step and are counting on the collaboration of public and private stakeholders to meet the plastic recycling challenge, and to promote the creation in Québec of a centre of expertise in the circular economy of plastics.” The Corporation's goal, which is also the goal of many of its customers, is to differentiate itself by offering eco-responsible packaging products that contain recycled plastic, to accelerate their development and to create a true circular economy of plastic that is beneficial from an environmental, economic and social standpoint.

Total Boxboard production in May increased two percent compared to May 2019. It was down one percent when compared to the same five months of 2019. The boxboard operating rate was 96.6 percent, up 5.3 points from May 2019 and up 0.9 points year-to-date. *Solid Bleached Boxboard production in May increased two percent compared to May 2019. It was down three percent when compared to the same five months of 2019. *Recycled Boxboard production in May increased four percent compared to May 2019. It was essentially flat (+0.4 percent) when compared to the same five months of 2019. *Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in May increased one percent compared to May 2019. It was essentially flat (-0.3 percent) when compared to the same five months of 2019.

Huhtamaki, the global leader in sustainable food-on-the-go and food-on-the-shelf packaging solutions, is launching a range of high-quality affordable and reusable face masks today. The Huhta Masks are suitable for everyday use and help reduce the spread of droplets into the environment*. The comfortable masks are breathable and washable, and are made of high-quality fabric with anti-microbial and fluid repellent properties. The Huhta Masks will be available at retailers across the UK in July, and will also be distributed globally via supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies and foodservice outlets. The initial range includes two sizes, one comfortably fitting adults and one for children (36 months and older). Both sizes are available in Lavender Grey and Delft Blue. The shelf-ready packaging includes 10 packs, each with one mask, that can be displayed on a shelf, end pedestal, podium or hook.

Ascend Performance Materials, the largest fully integrated producer of polyamide 66 resin, announced it signed an agreement to purchase the assets of NCM (Changshu) Co., Ltd., and Tehe Engineering Plastic (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., located in Changshu Yushan High-tech Industrial Park (known as “The Park”), one of the major advanced manufacturing parks in the eastern coastal area of China, 100 kilometers outside of Shanghai. The acquisition gives Ascend a flexible footprint for growth in the region. The company’s master plan includes the expansion of compounding assets at the site along with a global research and development center with a focus on existing applications in the automotive, electrical and electronics, and consumer and industrial areas, as well as new ones in areas such as 3D-printing and high-performance films.

Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, and the Finnish start-up company Esbottle have been jointly developing an ecological and appealing paperboard flute cup concept that meets the need to reduce the use of plastic. The newly designed paperboard cup is a stylish solution for celebration drinks, as well as lightweight and easy to transport and recycle. It can be personalised using traditional printing methods and special effects. Esbottle, based in Espoo, develops innovative, responsible and high-quality solutions for the beverage and food industry. The innovative shape of the paperboard cup is the result of collaboration between Esbottle and Metsä Board's packaging design team. The classic flute shaped design consists of two parts enabling the cup and base sections to be stored inside each other so they can be transported and recycled efficiently.

In the world of bulk powdered goods such as building materials, chemicals and foodstuffs, different supply chains place differing demands on packaging. Additionally, the machinery used across the world to produce and fill the packaging consists of many different technologies, brands and models. This has resulted in the development and use of a variety of packaging solutions and processes. Therefore BillerudKorsnäs and Haver & Boecker, have developed a set of recommendations called the Sack Packaging Norms. Our employees at BillerudKorsnäs and Haver&Boecker, who are active all over the world, have noticed many repeated and unnecessary errors which result in packaging waste, product loss and environmental damage. Often, also, these errors are as a result of miscommunication or the use of different standards or practices. These errors are mostly easily fixed by applying some basic standard knowledge or practice. It was thought that the development of a ‘’common language’’ for the packaging value chain would be an effective way to ensure the elimination waste and efficient packaging performance around the world. “Globalization makes it essential to speak one language clearly and distinctly.

Smurfit Kappa has launched an innovative and sustainable new pack which keeps frozen and chilled foods fresh throughout the supply chain. Made from a 100% paper-based combination of Hexacomb and corrugated, the Thermo Box keeps frozen food including fish at temperatures similar to expanded polystyrene (EPS) boxes. Smurfit Kappa was approached by Patani Global Food B.V., a global supplier of fresh and frozen foods including vegetables, meat and fish and non-food products for the catering industry. Patani Global Food B.V. ships goods from Amsterdam to worldwide locations including to the Antilles Islands in the Caribbean using EPS boxes. However, a rise in the amount of litter that was washing up on the idyllic beaches in the region had led to a future ban on plastic waste so the company wanted an alternative solution that would not harm the environment.

Sonoco announced its Tube & Core North America division will implement a tube and core scrap return subscription service, effective July 1, 2020. The subscription service is voluntary and will only be in effect if a customer chooses to return scrap tubes and cores to a Sonoco supplying facility. For many years, Sonoco offered this service at no cost to customers, however fluctuations in the value of the returned materials, along with the rising costs of labor, freight and other processing costs, required leadership to review this valuable offering. When OCC is at or above $90 per ton, Sonoco will continue to offer a core scrap return program with no fees. However, when OCC values drop below $90/ton (RISI’s – Southeast Region – High), a fee of $95 will be added to each invoice for new tube and core shipments. At the point when OCC again increases over the threshold of $90 per ton, the service fee will be removed.

The global packaging and paper group Mondi is contributing to a better world, with innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, and proving that non-recyclable plastic can increasingly be replaced by paper. Buying vegetables directly from farmers, flying less, using less water – an increasing number of consumers are living more sustainable lives, and at the same time expect companies to offer them sustainable options, according to a recent study by market intelligence agency Mintel. Mondi is firmly committed to these objectives and has been meeting its customers' evolving needs with innovative packaging and paper solutions for many years. The Group always uses paper where possible, plastic only when useful.

As market demand for fluorochemical-free, oil and grease resistant (OGR) food packaging substrates increases, Twin Rivers Paper Company advanced the category with the reformulation of its EcoBarrier product line. This high-barrier, next-generation paper delivers performance and choice to converters and brand owners for demanding fast food, quick-serve, and fast-casual food applications. Enhanced EcoBarrier delivers market-leading grease resistance and printability, critical characteristics for food packaging applications including burger wraps, basket liners, French fry and hashbrown pouches, cookie bags, and microwave food bags. EcoBarrier is fluorochemical-free, meets FDA requirements for direct food contact, and provides hallmark converting performance, including gluing, folding, and laminating. This grease-resistant paper is available in a basis weight range of 18 – 30 lb. /29 – 49 gsm (24 x 36/500). Additionally, it is 100% recyclable, biodegradable, and plastic-free, making it a sustainable substrate choice for food packagers.

As a metal packaging manufacturer, we have always underscored the importance product appearance holds in brand perception and experience. When enjoying a beverage, the packaging is the first and last interaction consumers have with the brand—and the right graphic design can make a world of difference in making those connections successful. Our newest honor as the winner of the inaugural Colored by INX Can Design Contest, hosted by INX International, drives that point home. We are pleased to share that Crown Mexico’s Toluca-based team of designers and technical operators earned the title with a vibrant can design for INDIO, a dark beer brewed and sold in Mexico since 1893 and owned by Heineken. Our graphics experts worked with the brand to design the look of the 16oz Pueblos de México Unido Edición Muertos beer, a special-edition package promoting the country’s annual Dia de los Muertos holiday. Utilizing three colors from the INX Metal Color Catalog and INX Color Perfection library, the design features high-contrast neon and jewel tones that highlight the spirit of the celebration, which pays tribute to lost loved ones.

Mohawk Fine Papers, Inc. recently unveiled a groundbreaking portfolio of papers made from rapidly renewable, sustainable fibers. As part of this new product range, Mohawk is announcing a strategic partnership with UPM Raflatac Americas, who will be offering roll fed, pressure sensitive labeling solutions made with Mohawk Renewal Hemp and Straw paper face stocks. “Mohawk Renewal expands the definition of responsible papermaking, and our partnership with UPM Raflatac makes it easier than ever for printers and brands to reach beyond their label and packaging sustainability targets,” said Melissa Stevens, Chief Revenue Officer, Mohawk.

German pet food maker Mera Tiernahrung GmbH has partnered with global leader in packaging and paper, Mondi, to expand its product line to include a new type of dog food with semi-moist croquettes. Mera realised that this type of pet food would require bespoke packaging to keep the chewable morsels fresh and moist for the duration of the product’s life span, while also being sustainable by design. Using Mondi's customer-centric approach EcoSolutions, which helps clients find the most effective and sustainable way to protect their products, Mondi recommended a packaging for Mera that addressed the practical aspects of food preservation without compromising on sustainability. The bag has a tight seal to ensure long-term freshness and protect the pet food inside, and is fitted with a valve to allow air to escape when palletising the bags. The reclosable zipper makes it easy for the consumer to handle, and the attractive matte-lacquer external finish makes the packaging stand out on the store shelf.

UPM Raflatac announces the release of Rêverie 2, a new premium collection of unique, high-end labeling materials for wines, spirits, and craft beverages developed in response to the latest market trends and demands. The collection has been created in collaboration with UPM Raflatac’s partners to meet their expectations, and it enables innovative printing techniques and finishes. The collection includes a variety of FSC-certified materials (FSC-C012530) from sustainably managed forests as well as materials made from 100% recycled content and other controlled sources. This helps the brand owners to reach their sustainability targets linking to mitigating climate change or promoting circular economy.

Esko, a global developer of integrated hardware and software solutions for the print, packaging and label industries, and AVT Inspection Systems Inc. (‘AVT’), global provider of print inspection, process control and quality assurance solutions, are pleased to announce the integration of their businesses. Effective immediately, the integration is designed to deliver simplicity and extended connectivity for both Esko and AVT customers by incorporating automated quality inspection into the connected packaging and labeling value chains. Sharing many of the same customers around the world, the combined business will see expansion of its sales and technical service teams with enhanced local representation, ensuring customers and OEM partners receive the same level of customer service and technical excellence they have come to expect from both companies.

With sustainability firmly at the forefront of today’s packaging supply chain, Flint Group Packaging Inks, one of the largest consumables suppliers to the global print and packaging industry, has detailed its vision for supporting circular economies in a new white paper that reveals the formation of a dedicated Sustainability Task Force. The paper outlines the environmental challenges faced by the industry past, present and future, and examines how Flint Group Packaging Inks, through the actions of its task force, can provide sustainable solutions, insight and collaboration for its key stakeholders. According to the company, there are four core areas of activity where Flint Group Packaging Inks is supporting the supply chain to become more circular, while at the same time adding value. These include addressing sustainability concerns on a broad scale, supporting converter operations, solving recycling complexities and delivering greater industry networking and partnership to drive change and innovation.

UPM Raflatac introduces a highly chemical resistant adhesive for wet wipe labeling in the APAC region. UPM Raflatac RRS4 adhesive pushes beyond traditional adhesives with repeatedly reliable open-closure functionality for high chemical resistance. RRS4 is designed to be resistant to 75 percent alcohol ensuring the disinfecting qualities of the wet wipes when reopening and closing the package. Having disposable disinfecting wipes on hand can help to stop the spread of the viruses. For the wipes to be disinfecting, they must contain at least 70 percent of alcohol according to C.D.C (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention). Therefore, the label needs to have chemical resistance to keep the wipes wet and disinfected. UPM Raflatac’s RRS4 adhesive answers to this need and ensures the reliability of the packaging.

AptarGroup, Inc. announced that it has joined the United Nations (UN) Global Compact, the world’s largest citizenship initiative, which focuses on universal principles in the areas of human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption. The Global Compact supports companies in two complementary goals: do business responsibly by aligning business strategies and operations with Ten Principles on human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption; and take strategic actions to advance broader societal goals, such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with an emphasis on collaboration and innovation.

In the retail environment, brands have mere seconds to attract consumer attention and make an impact on their buying decisions. Color is a key influencer when consumers are forming their first impressions of a product, making it a critical component of package design. To gain insight into how future trends can inform packaging innovation, the Crown Aerosols & Promotional Packaging Europe and Crown Food Europe teams recently embarked on a comprehensive research project with color and material designer and trend forecaster Laura Perryman. Together, they took a deep dive into color, surface, and texture trends with a goal of a better understanding of how consumer behavior impacts aesthetics and color choices.

Baker Labels is producing digital flexible packaging through its BakPac division, following a £2.5m investment in equipment and factory renovations. The company is offering a selection of base materials in silver, white, clear, and various thermally laminated finishes including soft-touch, matt, gloss, linen and leather for digitally printed pouches. Options include zippers, tear notches, euro slots and multi-web pouches are available.

Second Quarter Highlights include (all results compared to the second quarter of 2019 unless otherwise noted): *Net income of $11.4 million or $0.19 per diluted Class A share decreased compared to net income of $13.6 million or $0.23 per diluted Class A share. Net income, excluding the impact of adjustments(1), of $56.5 million or $0.95 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income, excluding the impact of adjustments, of $47.6 million or $0.81 per diluted Class A share. Adjusted EBITDA(2) increased by $19.3 million to $181.3 million. *Net cash provided by operating activities increased by $37.6 million to $99.8 million. Adjusted free cash flow(3) increased by $32.9 million to $79.0 million. *Total debt decreased by $260.2 million to $2,682.3 million. Net debt(4) decreased $242.8 million to $2,609.9 million and decreased $107.4 million sequentially from the first quarter of 2020.

TC Transcontinental Packaging is proud to support the vital food industry, a sector considered critical by governments, and contribute to the maintenance of essential services in communities during the COVID-19 global pandemic. While some of the sector’s verticals are experiencing a decrease in volumes due to government restrictions or the economic slowdown, the verticals related to food and other essential consumer staples, which represent the large majority of the sector’s activities, continue to fully operate in a safe and secure environment. "Our customers and the population can count on us. We are meeting the requirements of government guidelines, and adjusting constantly our safety practices to ensure the continuity of our operations as a vital packaging provider to essential services and industries, said Thomas Morin, President of TC Transcontinental Packaging. The safety of our people remains our top priority. We have implemented stringent policies and responsible behaviours to minimize movements, maintain physical distance, impose quarantines and maintain a clean work environment to offer a safe and secure environment within our facilities.”