Berry Global Group, Inc. announced an agreement with PureCycle that will provide Berry with PureCycle’s Ultra-Pure Recycled (UPR) advanced recycled resin. This agreement is the latest in a growing list of advanced recycling material sourcing announcements from Berry and is the Company’s second based in North America. If given the option to buy products with recyclable or compostable packaging, 47% of Americans opt for recyclable products as their first choice, and 20% prefer compostable products. (Ipsos, Aug. 2021) *77% of Americans are concerned about the environmental impact of products they buy, and 78% are more likely to purchase a product that is clearly labeled as environmentally friendly. (Greenprint, April 2021) *64% of consumers say that buying sustainable products makes them feel happy about their purchases (this reaches 72% in the 25-35 age group). (Capgemini Research Institute, July 2020). As demand for sustainable products grows, customers look to Berry for access to recycled material and packaging design expertise to maintain their brand image and package performance. As a result, Berry continues its leadership position in the converter market for access to recycled plastic material – over 600 million pounds per year by 2025.

Meal kits aren’t a new concept. In fact, the delivery service has been around for more than a decade. But, during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a newfound demand for fresh, shipped groceries started to skyrocket. As going to your local grocery store to grab everything on your weekly list became more difficult, people around the world searched for services that not only shopped for them but also taught them how to cook. As profitability and membership among meal kit services surged, some companies even saw sales rise more than 100 percent compared to the year prior. Success has permeated into 2021, bolstering the top meal kit players’ subscriber bases. For example, HelloFresh reported a 74.2 percent increase in active users compared to 2020 during the first three months of the year. While it’s hard to predict what the future holds for meal kit services, it’s safe to say the market is viable and growing in the short term.

Transcontinental Advanced Coatings is thrilled to announce the launch of the Total Care product portfolio of medical components used in the manufacturing of advanced wound care dressings, consumer & cosmetic dressings, ostomy devices, IV, patient monitoring devices, and medical antimicrobial hard coats. This new, technically superior portfolio provides leading tailored solutions that support the highest level of brand confidence, patient comfort, care, and healing. The Total Care line is a comprehensive medical product portfolio that features the trusted and newly enhanced inspire® product range of ultra-thin polyurethane films and innovative medical-grade adhesives for advanced wound care. Additionally, we have added new complementing platforms of silicone adhesives and hydrophilic foams used in bi- and tri-laminate constructions and wound dressings. The Total Care line also extends to z-flo™ conductive films for patient monitoring and medical devices, and reflex™, our range of antimicrobial hard-coated, optical-grade films, that stand up to the most challenging applications for HMI (human-machine interface) and MTS (membrane touch switch) applications.

Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, has won both the Finnish Circular Economy Award and the Finnish Quality Award in the Laatukeskus Excellence Finland assessment. The circular economy prize was awarded for the first time this year. Both the Quality Award and the Circular Economy Award are based on the international EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) model. The jury of the Circular Economy Award stated that the operations of Metsä Board are clearly outlined, with a systematic approach to defining the company’s direction, implementing its strategy and monitoring and reporting on its performance. This was considered a sign of excellent performance and good business practice, as well as strengthening a company’s competitiveness from the perspective of a circular economy.

Third Quarter 2021 Highlights (as compared to third quarter 2020): • Revenue increased 22.5% to $395.6 million primarily due to the impact of higher selling prices in tape, film, woven, and protective packaging products driven by increases in the cost of many raw materials and freight. • Gross margin decreased to 22.0% from 26.0% primarily due to the impact of maintaining dollar spread on higher average selling prices and increased plant operating costs, partially offset by a favourable product volume/mix. • Net earnings attributable to the Company shareholders ("IPG Net Earnings") decreased $1.4 million to $25.3 million ($0.43 basic and $0.42 diluted earnings per share) primarily due to an increase in selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") resulting from an increase in employee- and technology-related costs mainly due to the growth of the business in 2021 and the non-recurrence of cost saving measures implemented in response to COVID-19 related uncertainty in 2020. This unfavourable impact was partially offset by an increase in gross profit.

Sales of $1,030 million (compared with $956 million in Q2 2021 (+8%) and $1,014 million in Q3 2020 (+2%)) *Operating income of $73 million (compared with $23 million in Q2 2021 (+217%) and $54 million in Q3 2020 (+35%)) *Net earnings per common share of $0.32 (compared with $0.02 in Q2 2021 and $0.51 in Q3 2020)

Eco-Products® announced that it has earned the coveted GreenScreen Certified™ Silver designation for its groundbreaking line of compostable plates and containers made from sugarcane. Called VanguardTM, the award-winning line uses a proprietary chemistry to achieve grease resistance without the use of PFAS, a class of materials sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals.” In addition, GreenScreen Certified products do not contain other chemicals of high concern or known regrettable substitutes.

The Hämeenkyrön Voima power plant, from which Metsä Board's Kyro mill buys energy, has replaced the peat it burns with renewable energy. In the future, the power plant aims to use wood-based fuels from Metsä Group's production and wood procurement by-products. By not burning peat, Metsä Board Kyro's share of fossil fuels in total fuel demand will be reduced from just over a quarter to about a tenth. The phase-out of peat has required significant investments in power plant technology to control boiler corrosion damage and optimise running conditions. Previously approximately one fifth of the fuel used by the plant has been peat. Thanks to the investments, the energy and local district heat from the mill will be produced in a more environmentally friendly way. Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, targets to achieve fossil-free production and products by the end of 2030. Moving away from peat-based energy will help Metsä Board towards these goals.

Notable items in the fourth quarter include: *Record net sales of $5.1 billion increased 14% compared to $4.5 billion in the prior year quarter *Net income of $324 million compared to a net loss of $1,156 million in the prior year quarter, which included a $1,314 million goodwill impairment net of tax. Full Year 2021 Highlights: *Record net sales of $18.7 billion increased 7% compared to $17.6 billion in the prior year *Net income of $838 million compared to a net loss of $691 million in the prior year *Generated net cash provided by operating activities of $2.28 billion and record Adjusted Free Cash Flow of $1.49 billion; ended the year with a net leverage ratio of 2.38x

Sonoco announced it has acquired the assets of D&W Paper Tubes, Inc., a Chatsworth, GA-based manufacturer of sustainable industrial paper tubes and cores. Founded in 2000, D&W is a family-owned company that produces 100-pe rcent recycled paperboard convolute tubes, spiral-wound cores and yarn tubes primarily serving the carpet and textile industry from operations at its Chatsworth facility. The company expects to produce approximately $18 million in sales in 2021. “D&W is complementary to our Industrial Paper Packaging segment and further strengthens our position serving the carpet and textile market in Northeast Georgia. In addition to acquiring an attractive book of business, we expect to drive meaningful business synergies from our integrated industrial products operations in the Southeast,” said Howard Coker, Sonoco President and Chief Executive Officer.

BillerudKorsnäs, one of the leading global packaging companies, has partnered with Oatly, the world’s original and largest oat drink company, to develop innovative packaging solutions for Oatly’s Singapore produced products. Oatly recently opened its first production facility in Asia to supply the nearby markets as part of the company’s global expansion. Products produced in the factory will be packed in boxes and transported on pallets during demanding climate conditions offering hot and humid weather which generates challenging logistics chains. The conventional packaging solution to manage high humidity is adding additional material for sturdier packaging. But the team at BillerudKorsnäs BoxLab found a different solution to ensure enhanced sustainability performance while maintaining the high quality standards of Oatly’s secondary packaging. This innovative solution is based on the following principles: *Minimizing damage and waste throughout the logistics chain *Focus on resource efficiency – using as little material as possible and minimize water usage *Use packaging material that is recyclable and comes from renewable sources *Transparency throughout the value chain securing renewable energy sources

Third quarter 2021 net income from continuing operations was $6.2 million (0.19 per diluted share) compared to net loss from continuing operations of $17.0 million ($0.51 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020. Net income from ongoing operations, which excludes special items and discontinued operations, was $7.2 million ($0.22 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2021 compared with $13.2 million ($0.39 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020. John Steitz, Tredegar’s president and chief executive officer said, “Bonnell Aluminum's production and sales continue to fall below robust demand and bookings due to a shortage of labor while backlog continues to grow. Price increases have helped keep pace with inflationary cost pressures.” Mr. Steitz also stated, “PE Films' profitability has been adversely impacted by previously disclosed customer product transitions and resin price increases. In addition, competitive pricing pressures are anticipated to further erode profitability by $6 million in 2022. PE Films is very focused on generating sales of new surface protection products, applications and customers and driving production efficiencies and cost savings.”

The Mayr-Melnhof Group (MM) has joined the global initiative “Business Ambition for 1.5 ° C” in order to use suitable measures to help limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. As part of this platform, which was launched by the UN Global Compact and the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), MM is committed to setting science-based climate targets. These provide for net zero emissions in the entire value chain by 2050 at the latest. MM is thus increasing the pace of its engagement against climate change at the time of important global milestones such as the UN climate conference COP26. Peter Oswald, CEO of the MM Group: “MM is a sustainability company that is at the forefront of avoiding plastic waste with innovative recyclable packaging made from renewable raw materials. In addition, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change is an integral and fixed part of our corporate strategy. That is why we set ourselves ambitious, science-based goals and take an active part in the Business Ambition for 1.5 ° C initiative in order to jointly promote climate-friendly economic activity. "

Mondi commissioned a life cycle assessment (LCA) comparing its new ground-breaking paper pallet wrapping innovation, Advantage StretchWrap, with conventional plastic stretch film wrapping. The full study was conducted by an external consultancy, is ISO-compliant and includes an external critical review. Based on the assumption that both materials are recycled at the end-of-life, the findings showed that the paper-based pallet wrapping by Mondi has a lower climate impact as one of the LCA indicators. The basis of comparison is the potential environmental impacts arising from wrapping one pallet. The LCA examined 16 indicators to understand potential trade-offs between the two materials. It covers all relevant life cycle stages, from raw material extraction, production, up to the application on a pallet at the customer. In addition, the impact of the end-of-life stage is assessed. The LCA found that Advantage StretchWrap has 62% lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when compared to virgin plastic stretch film, and 49% lower GHG emissions when compared to plastic stretch film made with 50% recycled content. Advantage StretchWrap has a lower environmental impact than plastic in a number of categories including climate change and fossil resource use. The plastic stretch film did perform better in some indicators, such as land use and freshwater eutrophication.

UPM Raflatac is leading the way by introducing a full range of paper label products made with 100% recycled fibers designed for food, retail and logistics labeling needs. The range includes the first commercially available Total Phenol Free thermal paper labels made with 100% recycled fibers. These labels are a good choice for logistics and retail labeling applications and contribute to the overall sustainability of the packaging. UPM Raflatac’s new product range offers brand owners a way to increase the share of recycled materials in their packaging. This reduces the pressure on forests and enables a circular economy. The range is FSC® certified and the labels maintain the same functionalities as label material made from virgin fibers. “The need to reduce waste and alleviate the pressure to virgin raw material sources is evident and increasing. One of the ways to achieve that is by recycled materials. We continue to lead the way in sustainable labeling as we introduce thermal paper labels with 100% recycled fibers to the market. Making the switch to these labels offers a host of sustainability benefits for both the brand owners and the environment,” says Ville Pollari, Director, Business Segment VIP & Prime, UPM Raflatac.

SEE announced it has completed the sale of its Reflectix® business to an affiliate of Balcan Innovations. Under SEE’s ownership, Reflectix grew to become the largest brand of reflective insulation solutions serving construction, HVAC, and insulation applications for residential do-it-yourself and pro-channels. Reflectix’s products are widely distributed in North America through more than 3,500 dealer, distributor and retail locations. The transaction includes Reflectix manufacturing facilities in Markleville, Indiana, where they employ approximately 80 employees.

Highlights - Three Months Ended September 30, 2021: • GAAP Net Income of $202 million, up 2%; GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of 13.1 cents per share, up 4%; • Adjusted EBIT of $381 million, up 7% on a comparable constant currency basis; • Increased returns to shareholders: $64 million of shares repurchased and quarterly dividend increased to 12.0 cents per share; and

First Nine Months Overview: *Revenue growth year-on-year of 15% to €7,287 million *EBITDA growth year-on-year of 10% to €1,235 million with a margin of 17% *Third quarter EBITDA growth year-on-year of 16% to €454 million *Issued €1 billion in bonds under our Green Finance Framework

Transcontinental Inc. announced that it has acquired H.S. Crocker Co., Inc., a manufacturer of die cut lids for the food industry and labels for the pharmaceutical industry. Primarily serving North American customers, with approximately 150 employees, H.S. Crocker operates two facilities, in Huntley, Illinois, and Exton, Pennsylvania. For the 12 months ending July 31, 2021, H.S. Crocker’s consolidated sales were around US$50 million. “H.S. Crocker is a die cut lidding leader in North America, serving markets that are highly strategic for us,” said Thomas Morin, President of TC Transcontinental Packaging. “The integration of H.S. Crocker’s Huntley facility to our platform will broaden our packaging solutions portfolio, especially in the dairy, coffee lids as well as shelf stable and chilled desserts markets, and provide significant cross-selling opportunities with our respective customers. As for the Exton plant, it will allow us to expand our pharmaceutical and medical expertise in the advanced coatings product offering through the addition of value-added and specialized labels, while increasing our market share in the healthcare industry. We are also planning on leveraging the excess capacity within both H.S. Crocker’s facilities in order to support our organic growth. We wish to extend a warm welcome to all of H.S. Crocker’s talented employees.”

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced the successful close of its acquisition of AR Packaging Group AB, Europe's second largest producer of fiber-based consumer packaging. The acquisition accelerates Graphic Packaging's growing position serving consumer packaged goods companies around the world with sustainable fiber-based packaging alternatives. Graphic Packaging announced its intent to acquire AR Packaging Group AB on May 14, 2021.

Third quarter net sales in Food were $797 million, an increase of 13% as reported. Third quarter net sales in Protective were $609 million, an increase of 14% as reported. Net sales of $1.4 billion increased 14% as reported. Favorable currency impact contributed $12 million, or approximately 1%, to net sales growth, as compared to the prior year. Net earnings in third quarter 2021 were $108 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, as compared to net earnings of $132 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, in the prior year. The decline is due to higher income tax expense and a $15 million pre-tax loss on the debt redemption of 4.875% senior notes due 2022.

Pregis celebrated production start-up at its new 265,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Arlington, Texas with a ribbon cutting attended by the city’s mayor The Honorable Jim Ross. The new facility is now producing the Pregis EverTec™ mailer which is a durable, lightweight, curbside recyclable, paper cushioned, shipping solution. Pregis is currently employing 75 people in Arlington with plans to scale up to 105 over time. Pregis acquired the technology to manufacture the envirotech shipping solution in October 2020 with the goal to scale the production of the curbside recyclable product to meet consumer demand. The company self-manufactures the proprietary equipment used to produce the mailers. The new capacity in Arlington is in addition to the recently announced facilities in Bethel, Pennsylvania and McDonough, Georgia, as well as the Elk Grove Village, Illinois facility. The company is expanding with additional sites to serve strategic geographic markets which will create approximately 450 new jobs, in total.

SCA increases the prices on white and brown kraftliner in Europe by €50 per tonne. The new price is valid from December 1, 2021. “The kraftliner market remains strong”, comments Mikael Frölander, VP Sales and Marketing Containerboard. “We have a firm confidence in transport packaging, while we see a limited product supply.”

Third Quarter 2021 Summary *Reported sales grew 9%, primarily driven by double-digit core sales growth in Beauty + Home and Food + Beverage from a combination of price increases and volume growth *Core sales (excluding currency effects) increased 8% *Pharma sales declined slightly compared to the prior year *Reported net income totaled $47 million *Acquisition Updates: -Completed the acquisition of 80% of Weihai Hengyu Medical Products, adding elastomeric and plastic component manufacturing capabilities in China for injectable drug delivery -Completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Voluntis, a provider of digital therapeutic solutions

The Twin Rivers Paper Company, a leading producer of specialty paper products, has received compostability certification from the Biodegradable Products Institute® (BPI®) for its portfolio of EcoBarrier® PFAS-free packaging papers. Products that receive BPI compostability certification have gone through rigorous third-party testing to ASTM standards that ensures items can be safely cycled back into the soil at a commercial composting facility. The BPI certification mark helps consumers identify and trust that an item is compostable. “In addition to meeting our customers’ stringent grease-resistance performance requirements, we’re committed to helping customers meet their sustainability goals,” stated Rachel Van Wychen, Director of Sales – Specialty Packaging and Technical at Twin Rivers Paper. “With the achievement of BPI certification, our EcoBarrier products are 100% recyclable, biodegradable and compostable, making EcoBarrier papers the optimal substrate for sustainable packaging.”

The modernisation of the Metsä Board Kyro mill’s finishing area has now been completed and the finishing line with new advanced equipment has started up. During the mill’s annual maintenance shutdown in October, a new state-of-the-art reeler and winder were installed on the production line, and the reel broke handling system was significantly upgraded. The investment, announced in December 2019, was worth EUR 20 million. Metsä Board is part of Metsä Group. "The new high automation finishing line will further improve the quality consistency of the paperboard reels and increase the runnability on our customers' converting lines. In addition, the automation will improve upon the existing occupational safety level in the mill's finishing area and reduce the physical workload," says Petri Huiko, Mill Manager at Metsä Board Kyro mill. The Kyro mill produces coated high-quality folding boxboard and innovative dispersion coated barrier board, which helps reduce plastic in consumer packaging. The mill has a production capacity of 190,000 tonnes per year.

Smurfit Kappa has developed an innovative new packaging solution for detergent together with McBride, the leading European manufacturer of private label products for the cleaning and hygiene market. The Click-to-Lock Pods Box is a 100% paper-based solution which provides a sustainable and safe alternative to the traditional plastic box for laundry pods. The new packaging solution reduces CO2 emissions by 32% during production and is 100% recyclable and biodegradable. It is the latest example of how Smurfit Kappa utilises its circular business model to identify the best packaging solution for each situation alongside reducing the environmental impact. The Click-to-Lock Pods Box is tamper-proof thanks to an effective, certified child-lock system in line with the International Association of Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products, following successful protocol testing. It is also moisture resistant, due to a varnish inside the packaging that provides a barrier against any type of moisture from accessing the contents.

Due to ongoing inflationary pressures across most cost categories, including freight and storage, energy, labor, packaging materials, PET resin feedstocks, and other operating costs, Toray Plastics (America) is announcing a price increase of $0.18/lb. on all PET film products effective with shipments on or after December 1, 2021. As you are aware, we at Toray always strive to improve productivity and to reduce internal costs so that such measures can generally be avoided. However, in this highly unusual economic climate, this step has become necessary to allow us to maintain our long-term ability to provide industry-leading technology and product quality while offering the reliable service upon which our customers have come to rely.

Rottneros is partnering with KAPSU, a startup company within the beverage industry, based in Karlstad, to develop and produce a new plastic-free beverage solution. The new container will be made of 100% fiber from local certified forests. The aim is to use their groundbreaking solution to transform the beverage industry through competitive plastic-free solutions, resolving an environmental challenge that people face every day, globally. The solution features a three-part system; a stainless-steel bottle, a container made of 100 percent fiber containing the drink mixes and KAPSU´s own lid technology. The container will be manufactured by Rottneros Packaging. Main focus will be on healthy, functional drinks which are nutritious and low on sugar.

Performa Light CarbonZero™ by Stora Enso is the first carbon neutral cartonboard offer in the market. It helps Stora Enso’s customers to have a smaller climate impact. Performa Light CarbonZero is a carbon neutral, renewable and recyclable cartonboard offering that helps Stora Enso’s customers to achieve carbon-related sustainability targets and show concrete and measurable actions on climate change through their packaging. Performa Light CarbonZero is produced at Stora Enso’s Fors site in Sweden, which is fossil carbon emission-free in its electricity and steam production and from the beginning of 2022 also in internal logistics. This is a result of continuous work and investments in improving the operations. The production is therefore already very low on greenhouse gas emissions. To make Performa Light CarbonZero carbon neutral, the currently unavoidable emissions originating from raw material production are compensated with a well-established offsetting service provided by external partner South Pole.

HIGHLIGHTS: *Third quarter net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper of $864 million ($2.20 per diluted share), compared with $432 million ($1.09 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2021 and $204 million ($0.52 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020. Third quarter 2021 net earnings include a net after-tax gain of $350 million ($0.89 per diluted share) on the sale of our Kwidzyn, Poland mill. *Third quarter adjusted operating earnings* (non-GAAP) of $532 million ($1.35 per diluted share) compared with $421 million ($1.06 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2021 and $280 million ($0.71 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2020 *Third quarter cash provided by operations of $645 million and year-to-date of $1.9 billion compared with $2.3 billion year-to-date in the same period of 2020. Third quarter 2021 cash generation also includes pre-tax sources of $737 million (net of cash divested) related to the sale of the Kwidzyn, Poland mill and $630 million related to the unwind of timber monetization notes. *Ilim equity earnings of $95 million, bringing year-to-date to $245 million *Debt reduction of $235 million, bringing year-to-date to $1.1 billion *Share repurchases of $212 million, bringing year-to-date to $398 million

Net sales for the third quarter of 2021 were $1.65 billion, an increase of $162.6 million, or 10.9 percent, as compared to the same period in the prior year. This increase was the result of higher net sales in all segments. Income before interest and income taxes for the third quarter of 2021 was $167.9 million, a decrease of $6.1 million, or 3.5 percent, as compared to $174.0 million for the third quarter of 2020, and margins decreased to 10.2 percent from 11.7 percent for the same periods. The decrease in income before interest and income taxes was primarily the result of higher costs attributed to announced acquisitions and lower income in the Dispensing and Specialty Closures segment, partially offset by higher income in the Custom Container segment. Costs attributed to announced acquisitions for the third quarter of 2021 were $4.1 million for the acquisitions of Gateway Plastics and Unicep Packaging in September 2021 and Easytech Closures S.p.A in October 2021. Costs attributed to announced acquisitions were $0.7 million for the third quarter of 2020. Rationalization charges were $2.3 million and $2.5 million in the third quarters of 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Cascades inc. announces that it has completed the sale of its 57.6% equity stake in Reno De Medici S.p.A. (BIT: RM) ("Reno de Medici", or "RDM Group"), previously announced July 5, 2021, to a subsidiary of funds managed by subsidiaries of Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE: APO) for an all-cash price of €1.45 per share corresponding to a total cash consideration of approximately €315.3 million (approximately CAN$ 461 million, before transaction related fees). The selling price represents a multiple of approximately 11x of the adjusted operating income before depreciation of Reno De Medici for the last 12 months as of June 30, 2021.

January–September 2021 (compared to 1–9/2020) • Sales were EUR 1,565.6 million (1,416.4). • Comparable operating result was EUR 295.3 million (156.7), or 18.9% (11.1) of sales. Operating result was EUR 285.0 million (162.7). • Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.65 (0.33), and earnings per share were EUR 0.63 (0.34). • Comparable return on capital employed was 19.4% (11.8). • Net cash flow from operations was EUR 209.8 million (226.7).

Third Quarter 2021 Results: Reported Results: For the third quarter 2021, the company recorded earnings from continuing operations of $0.48 per share (diluted) compared to earnings from continuing operations of $2.06 per share (diluted) in the prior year period. The current year earnings from continuing operations before income taxes were $127 million, compared to $376 million in the third quarter of 2020 which included an approximately $280 million net gain on the sale of O-I’s ANZ business unit. Segment Operating Profit1: Third quarter 2021 segment operating profit was $243 million compared to $204 million in the prior year period. While demand for glass containers remains strong, sales volumes (excluding divestitures) declined approximately 1 percent from the prior year. Higher segment operating profit was largely due to higher production levels, as well as strong operating performance and the benefits from the company’s margin expansion initiatives. Cash Flows: Cash provided by continuing operating activities was $306 million in the third quarter 2021, compared to $262 million in the prior year period. Third quarter 2021 free cash flow1 was $213 million compared to $205 million in 2020.

WestRock Company announced that Ward Dickson will retire as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective November 30, 2021. In addition, the company announced Alexander (Alex) Pease will succeed Dickson as WestRock’s executive vice president and chief financial officer. “On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire WestRock team, I want to thank Ward for his tremendous leadership as the Company’s chief financial officer,” said David B. Sewell, chief executive officer of WestRock. “Throughout his career with the Company, Ward maintained a steady focus on supporting WestRock’s significant growth and built an outstanding track record of creating value for our shareholders. We all wish Ward the very best in his retirement.” Sewell added, "I'm pleased that Alex Pease will be joining WestRock as our new chief financial officer. Alex's success and experience as a public company CFO, his financial expertise and his outstanding leadership qualities will be a valuable addition to the WestRock team."

Q3 2021 Highlights *Net Sales were $1,782 million versus $1,698 million in the prior year quarter. *Net organic sales declined 1% during the quarter as supply chain and labor market constraints delayed sales; remain on track to achieve approximately 200 basis points of full year organic sales growth. *Net Income was $73 million versus $64 million in the prior year quarter. *Executing approximately $650 million in pricing actions to address commodity input cost inflation. *AR Packaging acquisition expected to close November 1st. *Coated recycled paperboard production on new K2 machine in Kalamazoo, Michigan on track for start-up in the fourth quarter.

Sonoco has received a 2021 Innovator Award for its EnviroSense® PaperBlister™ package in the category of Innovation in Design Optimization. Sonoco’s all-paper PaperBlister package is further evidence of the Company’s commitment to developing more innovative, sustainable packaging options for customers and consumers alike. “The revolutionary PaperBlister package provides a fully recyclable, plastic-free alternative to traditional blister packaging and is the latest addition to Sonoco’s growing assortment of EnviroSense packaging solutions,” said Eric Clamp, commercial development manager. “Designed with tomorrow in mind, EnviroSense packaging is purposefully engineered to deliver a host of earth-conscious attributes, including recyclability, recycled content, reusability, compostability, packaging optimization, bio-based content and responsible fiber sourcing.” Made entirely from renewable resources, the mono-material PaperBlister package is plastic-free, so it is recyclable in the paper stream. And because it uses water-based printing and sealing technology, there are no harmful VOCs used in making the package. With a simple tooling changeover, brand manufacturers can easily go from traditional plastic packaging to PaperBlister packaging, meeting their sustainability goals and customer expectations at the same time.

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., announces that Jim Nunn has joined the company as a Business Manager in its Torayfan® Division. Nunn arrives at Toray following roles at ExxonMobil and Jindal Films America. He has held leadership positons in production management, sales, and demand planning. Nunn earned his M.B.A. in finance from Cornell University. “It is a pleasure to welcome Jim to the Torayfan team,” says Franco Chicarella, Director of Sales, Torayfan Division. “Jim brings to Toray solid, diverse industry experience, and we anticipate that he will be an important contributor to the division’s ongoing success.” Toray Plastics (America), Inc., is a leading manufacturer of polyester, polypropylene, and metallized films and polypropylene and polyethylene foams. The company is committed to environmental, social, and corporate governance and aims to contribute to society through the creation of new value with innovative ideas, technologies, and products that help address global issues. R&D is focused on the development of materials that are fossil fuel-free, compostable, biodegradable, and/or recyclable. The company’s sustainability initiative, launched in 2004, includes the operating of one of Rhode Island’s larger solar farms and two cogeneration systems, energy and water conservation, recycling, and zero landfill.

Pure Supreme is a well-established premium white-top kraftliner, optimized for offset printing. BillerudKorsnäs is now launching an upgraded version of Pure Supreme, which is more than a facelift – it could even be regarded as a new product. It offers excellent print results in terms of colour fidelity and lifelike image reproduction. Its strength and stiffness ensure high runnability, allowing for high-speed printing and converting processes. New Pure Supreme is the latest in a series of new products to come out of BillerudKorsnäs’ KM7, the world’s most modern board machine. The advanced technologies applied in KM7 have made it possible to combine several valuable product properties: printability, strength, stiffness, appearance, consistency, and purity. Like all BillerudKorsnäs products, Pure Supreme is made of 100% pure and strong primary wood fibres, sourced from responsibly managed forests. With the high capacity of KM7 – 550,000 tons/year – global availability is high.

Leading European thermoforming packaging specialist Waddington® Europe, a division of Novolex®, has launched a new 100% mono-material protective soft-fruit punnet thanks to its revolutionary MONOAIR™ cushion technology. Traditionally, punnet bases have required an additional layer of bubble padding attached with a glue adhesive to protect soft fruit from bruising and spoiling in transit. However, the padding must be removed from the container to be properly recycled.

Tetra Pak unveils how Covid-19 has made consumers rethink the way they live, and fundamentally shift how they act in the latest Tetra Pak Index report. The pandemic has reinforced the value consumers place on human connections, taking into account both time spent with family at home, and with extended circles outside it. Shared food and beverage experiences play a key role in these relations. Fundamentally, the personal, economic and environmental fragility experienced during the global pandemic has created a shift from concern to active caretaking, and a desire to take action to keep ourselves, our food, our communities and the planet secure. Food safety and security4 are top priorities too, with the pandemic shining a spotlight on health and highlighting weak points in our food systems. Worries about the environment are very strong, with pollution and plastic litter in the ocean as the joint top worry (83%) and Global warming closely follows, cited by over three quarters (78%) of consumers across nine countries. This sits ahead of food waste (77%) and food accessibility (71%). Meanwhile, nearly half (49%) of the global population are now recognising the impact that everyday choices have on the environment.

Greif, Inc. announced that it is implementing a $60 per ton price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) and a minimum 7.0 percent increase on all tube and core and protective packaging products. The uncoated recycled paperboard increase is effective today with new orders and shipments on and after November 8, 2021. The tube and core and protective packaging products increase is effective with shipments on and after November 22, 2021. These price increases are in addition to previously announced increases and are in response to strong demand across the Greif paperboard and converting network and increasing energy, transportation, labor and other input costs.

Pregis celebrated production start-up at its new $80 million blown film extrusion facility in Anderson, South Carolina with a ribbon cutting attended by Governor Henry McMaster and industry partners. “We congratulate Pregis on this $80 million investment that will create 120 new jobs within the Anderson County community. We wish them great success in the Palmetto State and look forward to seeing them grow and prosper for a long time,” said Governor McMaster. Headed by industry veterans, the 168,000 square foot facility features multiple newly-installed lines, producing the latest engineered films. The films are used downstream to manufacture performance-oriented, flexible packaging solutions for food, CPG, healthcare/medical and industrial applications. The facility will also feature a world-class film laboratory to develop and test materials.

Mondi is supplying a range of recyclable mono-material pet food packaging for Hau-Hau Champion, one of Finland’s most recognised brands in the premium dog food segment. The new packaging fulfils the pet food producer’s objective to launch a reclosable and recyclable packaging solution that does not compromise on performance and retains the strong brand recognition in stores. It also addresses sustainability concerns of end consumers that are playing more of a role in the purchasing of pet food and products. Mondi’s customer-centric approach, EcoSolutions, helped Hau-Hau Champion find a high-barrier solution that can be reclosed, keeps food fresh and confines any smells. The previously unrecyclable multi-layer packaging contained a metallised layer which was replaced by Mondi’s recyclable mono-material packaging: a reel material for form-fill-and-seal (FFS) 1.5kg bags and pre-made FlexiBag Recyclable for bags up to 15kg. FlexiBag Recyclable is a mono-material polyethylene (PE) pre-made bag developed specifically for recycling, which means it can be deposited directly into Finnish plastic recycling streams.

Sonoco announced it will raise the price for all paperboard tubes and cores by a minimum of 6 percent, effective with shipments in the United States and Canada, on or after November 8, 2021. “Continuing inflationary increases, particularly in Uncoated Recycled Board, adhesives and primary packaging components, coupled with exceptional market demand make this increase necessary,” said Doug Schwartz, Division Vice President and General Manager, North America Tubes and Cores. “Despite these unique times with market and supply chain challenges, we remain committed to maintaining the quality and service that our customers have become accustomed to when working with Sonoco.”

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced that all required regulatory approvals to complete the proposed acquisition of AR Packaging Group AB have now been received. The transaction is expected to be completed in early November 2021, subject to the satisfaction of the remaining customary closing conditions set forth in the acquisition agreement. Graphic Packaging announced its intent to acquire AR Packaging Group AB on May 14, 2021, creating the premier global provider of sustainable fiber-based consumer packaging solutions.

Cascades is pleased to announce that its fourth Sustainability Action Plan was a winner in the Medium and Large Business category of the Prix initiatives circulaires presented by Québec Circulaire. This competition recognizes initiatives that redefine business models, and production and consumption methods, so as to accelerate the transition to a circular economy in Québec. Cascades' fourth Sustainability Action Plan, launched last spring, has been recognized as a catalyst for change in support of a circular business model; its "solutions driven" commitments, among the Plan's four main pillars, are the basis for this recognition. For the first time in its history, Cascades has set itself an eco-design target: 100% of the packaging manufactured and sold by the company will be recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2030.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its first three sites in North America to achieve the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS designation to support its growing North America based customer demand for more sustainable packaging. With many brand owners searching for pathways to achieve their sustainability goals, inclusive of renewable or recycled material use in their packaging, Berry’s ISCC PLUS certified facilities can provide customers with assurance of a product’s material composition. These materials meet the ISCC’s standards for recycled, renewable, and recycled-renewable materials, providing traceability along the supply chain, verifying that certified companies meet high environmental and social standards. ISCC PLUS Certification Highlights *Allows Berry to bring in-demand certified circular products to market, presenting customers with options for advanced recycled materials on a mass balance basis to meet their sustainability goals. *Crosses multiple product lines, allowing customers the potential to leverage Berry’s broad expertise across a number of manufacturing processes for the certified resins. *Validates the “mass balance approach,” tracking the quantity and sustainability characteristics of recycled and/or renewable content in the value chain, and attributing it based on verifiable bookkeeping with predefined and transparency requirements.

ePac Flexible Packaging, the industry leader in fast time to market, short and medium run length pouches and rollstock, today announced plans to open its next facility in Kansas City, Missouri. Serving brands of all sizes, ePac Kansas City will be a full-service sales and manufacturing facility, located on 9705 Loiret Blvd., Lenexa, KS 66219. The company has begun accepting orders, with fulfillment handled by other ePac U.S. locations until its manufacturing facility opens early 2022. Randy Mackey, General Manager of ePac Kansas City, commented: “We’re excited to be able to bring ePac’s unique service model to local brands that need professional packaging to grow. As with the thousands of ePac clients around the world, our customers will benefit from delivery times of 5-15 business days and low minimum order quantities.”

Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box introduces a new and more sustainable version of its highly regarded Vitop® tap, the new Vitop® Renew, which is made from bio-based PP resins. This innovative development now combines an approach already taken with the bag inside the box, which is manufactured of E-recycled film EVOH, containing raw materials issued from plastic chemical recycling. This means the new bags are composed of 53% recycled and renewable content. This chemical recycling is not however replacing the mechanical one. The materials which are difficult to recycle mechanically are treated by pyrolysis. This process takes a circular approach and provides a new means by which to increase plastic recycling rates, as it can be applied to a wider range of plastic waste. The crucial difference of such materials from the ones of traditional mechanical recycling is that the resins after pyrolysis have identical properties to virgin polymers, and therefore can be used for direct food contact packaging.

Sonoco announced it is implementing a $60 per ton price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in the United States and Canada, effective with shipments beginning November 1, 2021. Sonoco said the price increase was in response to continued inflationary pressures on manufacturing costs, including energy, freight, chemicals, and packaging materials. “Inflation on our input costs remain unabated as we enter the last quarter of 2021, and we expect these cost pressures to continue into 2022,” said Tim Davis, Division Vice President and General Manager, North America Paper. “Despite the current supply challenges driven by very strong URB demand, we remain committed to delivering the highest level of quality and service to our many loyal customers.”

Leading metal packaging manufacturer Crown Holdings, Inc. has announced collaboration with Velox Ltd. (www.velox-digital.com), an innovative developer and manufacturer of direct-to-shape digital decoration solutions, to provide beverage brands with game-changing digital decoration technology for both straight wall and necked aluminum cans. Crown and Velox brought together their expertise to unlock new possibilities for major brands wishing to increase product offerings, as well as smaller producers taking advantage of the benefits of fully recyclable beverage cans. The technology and solution deliver market firsts and create greater brand design options with running speeds over five times faster than existing digital solutions and proprietary features, including the ability to print up to 14 simultaneous colors and embellishments such as gloss, matte and embossing on nearly the entire surface area of the can. Crown and Velox recognize a growing global demand from beverage brands for more innovative digital decoration solutions. Brands can now take advantage of the technology and solutions' myriad benefits, particularly execution of lower production volumes that do not meet the constraints of traditional printing, such as small-batch varieties, short-run seasonal and promotional products or multipacks containing a variety of SKUs. The Velox technology and solutions also provide a photorealistic quality and wider color gamut for graphics, the ability to quickly produce an accurate print proof of a package and, in the case of smaller brands, improved sustainability over traditional plastic shrink wrap and labels that significantly hinder the aluminum can recycling process.

Packaging leader Smurfit Kappa has launched a unique range of circular packaging solutions for the rapidly growing online health and beauty market. The customisable eHealth & Beauty portfolio includes sustainable, paper-based packaging solutions ideal for shipping vulnerable products, such as fragrances, cosmetics, and skin and hair care products, as well as tamper proof packaging designed for vitamins, supplements and sports nutrition. As demand in the health and beauty eCommerce market expands, so do consumer expectations for higher quality and sustainable packaging, in addition to delivery protection. Recent research carried out by Smurfit Kappa shows consumers are continuing to push for higher standards in delivery. The research found: *80% expect their parcel to arrive in perfect condition *59% prefer parcels that are easy to open *74% say that easy return is important for their convenience *69% prefer paper-based packaging for sustainability reasons

Mondi has added to its range of sustainable premium food and pet food packaging solutions with the launch of RetortPouch Recyclable. The new high-barrier pouch will replace complex multi-layer and unrecyclable packaging for a range of food and wet pet food products. Moist or semi-moist foods that are heat-treated in steam or hot water retort vessels to achieve commercial sterilisation for shelf-stable foods require retort packaging. The aluminium typically used in most solutions has been substituted with an innovative high-barrier film that keeps temperatures high and maintains short processing times during the retort process. The new mono-material retort packaging is fully recyclable, offering a solution that protects the product, provides exceptional shelf life for a mono-material solution and reduces potential food waste.

Silgan Holdings Inc. announced that it has acquired Easytech Closures S.p.A. This business manufactures and sells easy-open and sanitary metal ends used with metal containers primarily for food applications in Europe. It operates a manufacturing facility in Fisciano, Italy and is projected to generate approximately €38 million, or approximately $45 million, in sales and approximately €6.6 million, or approximately $7.8 million, in adjusted EBITDA in 2021. “Easytech is a leading manufacturer of a broad portfolio of metal ends, including easy-open metal ends, in the European market. We have had an excellent long-standing business relationship with Easytech and have great respect for its owners and management team. We are excited to now welcome Easytech to the Silgan team,” said Adam Greenlee, President and CEO. “This acquisition will allow our combined businesses to more effectively and efficiently utilize existing capacity for metal ends, reduce capital investment in the near term and accelerate completion of an on-going cost reduction program. Our acquisition of Easytech is yet another example of our strategy to build shareholder value through a disciplined capital allocation model. We now look forward to the successful integration of our three recent acquisitions,” concluded Mr. Greenlee.

Amcor Rigid Packaging (ARP) has created a more responsible bottle for one of the country’s most popular ingredients – cooking oil. It’s the first cooking oil bottle in the country made from 100% recycled content. “ARP worked with Gourmet to create more sustainable bottles for the edible cooking oil industry,” said Alexander Alvarez, general manager of ARP Colombia. “The Amcor team in Cali, Colombia, partnered with resin suppliers and applied their knowledge and expertise to create a bottle that was made completely from recycled content.” ARP refined its bottles to ensure it is safe, causes no change in taste and is transparent – while maintaining Gourmet’s visual branding.

Pregis, a leading global manufacturer of protective and flexible packaging solutions, has acquired Danco Converting, Carol Stream, Illinois, from its privately-held owners. As Pregis continues to grow its manufacturing footprint, both organically and through acquisition, bringing Danco’s paper converting capabilities and diverse offering into its portfolio will further enhance the company’s vertical integration strategy. Further, the paper converting acquisition is another demonstration of Pregis’ commitment to its previously announced 2K30 sustainability objectives. For more than a decade, the company has brought to the marketplace a portfolio of products that address environmental concerns, as well as deliver protective attributes critical for damage-free delivery of products to consumers. The Danco acquisition will enable Pregis to add complementary curbside recyclable products to its offering and support the explosive demand for paper solutions.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its Chairman and CEO, Tom Salmon, has accepted the appointment as an Officer of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (Alliance), a global non-profit organization. As a founding member and first converter to join the Alliance, Berry continues its leadership role to help convene a global network of over 80 member companies and partners in the mission to end plastic waste in the environment. Salmon continues to stand behind the power of plastics, known for its versatility, innovation, and lower overall environmental impact than other packaging alternatives*. Through his leadership, he will help guide the Alliance’s decision-making on global projects that are sustainable, circular, and scalable businesses.

Tetra Pak and Poka are pleased to announce the launch of a new strategic collaboration that brings together the expertise, technology, and best practices of Tetra Pak, a leader in the food & beverage packaging industry, with the power of Poka, the most comprehensive connected factory worker platform. This collaboration will empower workers in food production with the tools and training needed to accelerate zero waste processes in food manufacturing plants. It’s the first global and scalable connected workforce service that Tetra Pak will roll out as part of its new training and support solution. According to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12, a range of entry points are required for promoting responsible consumption and production, and this can be achieved by producing more with less, increasing resource efficiency and promoting sustainable practices. Poka has helped manufacturers reduce equipment downtime by 5.9%, increase in worker productivity by 18% and decrease quality issues by 64%. By equipping front line staff with the most up to date information they need to make fast decisions, manufacturers can maintain high standards of quality and food safety whilst minimising waste in the form of product, time, or cost.

DS Smith, one of the leading manufacturers of sustainable packaging solutions made of corrugated board, has set itself ambitious climate targets. In addition, the company is driving the circular economy and reducing waste and pollution through clever design, as one goal is to produce 100% recyclable or reusable packaging as early as 2023. A current innovation in the field of e-commerce is a fixation packaging that uses crepe paper to secure and fix the goods instead of the usual plastic foil. In the service centers of a well-known smartphone manufacturer, the plastic-free shipping solution already ensures more sustainability. Online shopping is and remains a megatrend. As a survey published at the beginning of 2021 by the German E-Commerce and Distance Selling Trade Association (bevh) shows, e-commerce is not only popular with younger generations but has also become part of everyday life for the over-60s, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Around a third of all online shoppers belonged to this affluent age group in 2020. And even after the pandemic, a large part of the population does not want to give up the convenience of online shopping. According to bevh data, almost three out of four consumers plan to order online to the same or greater extent in the future.

Silgan Holdings Inc. announced that it has acquired Unicep Packaging. As a Specialty Contract Manufacturer and Developer (SCMD) solutions provider, this business develops, formulates, manufactures and sells precision dosing dispensing packaging solutions, such as diagnostic test components, oral care applications and skin care products, primarily for the health care, diagnostics, animal health, oral care and personal care markets. It operates two manufacturing facilities located in Spokane, Washington and Sandpoint, Idaho and is projected to generate approximately $45 million in sales and approximately $18.3 million in adjusted EBITDA for 2021. “Unicep is a clear leader in the rapid development and manufacturing of differentiated precision dosing dispensing packaging solutions for applications in health care, diagnostics and personal care. This acquisition further expands and extends our precision dosing capabilities and comprehensive product offering into new and existing markets,” said Adam Greenlee, President and CEO. “The Unicep team has combined a high-touch commercial philosophy with a proprietary operating platform to excel at meeting the unique requirements of their customers. The business broadens our exposure to health care and Point-of-Care diagnostics markets, has existing capacity for continued growth, complements our global Dispensing and Specialty Closures franchise and is scalable across our global footprint. We believe the acquisition of Unicep represents another example of our disciplined capital allocation model that has allowed Silgan to consistently create long-term shareholder value, and we look forward to welcoming our newest employees to the Silgan team,” concluded Mr. Greenlee.

Mondi and Taurus Packaging have developed a fit-for-purpose reusable shopping bag that can carry groceries and meet the needs of the demanding Southern African retail marketplace. Mondi’s Advantage Kraft Plus with wet strength makes this paper bag a great alternative in a market where plastic bags have traditionally been used. Mondi's kraft paper for shopping bags is strong enough for South Africa's demanding weather conditions, including humidity. Its wet strength meets the 16kg standard requirement of the South African market and resists tearing even when cold products and liquids condense quickly. It also withstands longer customer journeys on public transport. Collaborating with Taurus Packaging, two million paper shopping bags will be produced per month using Mondi’s paper, providing a recyclable, renewable, and PEFC certified, sustainably sourced alternative to plastic.

A long-term collaboration between Finnish startup The Paper Lid Company and Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, has led to the development of a 100% recyclable paperboard lid for use with takeaway cups. The lid, which is made from fully recyclable dispersion barrier board, is suitable for use with both hot and cold beverages. It uses a novel technology developed by The Paper Lid Company that makes it possible to form the paperboard into the desired shape. The result is a one-piece lid that clicks firmly in place and offers performance that is comparable to that of a traditional plastic lid. “Reducing the volume of plastic waste is a critically important issue, and together with our partners we are continuously developing and testing new innovative solutions that have circular-economy thinking at their core,” says Ilkka Harju, Packaging Services Director EMEA and APAC at Metsä Board. “The paperboard lid is a great example of precisely such a solution.”

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced Michelle M. Fitzpatrick, Ph.D., will join the Company as its first Chief Sustainability Officer. Graphic Packaging has had a long-standing commitment to running operations in a sustainable manner and has continued to advance environmental, social and governance (ESG) programs at the Company to benefit all stakeholders. The Company's consumer packaging solutions are inherently sustainable, are made from renewable and recyclable materials and support the move to a more circular economy.

Toray Plastics (America), Inc., announces that its Torayfan® Division’s new, state-of-the-art, 8.7-meter, five-layer, in-line coating polypropylene film line with automated slitting began producing commercial volumes of packaging and label films in May. The customized, proprietary equipment is considered by Toray to be one of the most capable BOPP film lines in the world. It is enabling Toray to expand its flexible packaging product lines, including a robust label portfolio, and manufacture highly-engineered next-generation laminations and mono-material films. The unique, energy-efficient line also gives a boost to Toray’s own sustainability initiative by reducing the company’s carbon footprint further. The additional OPP capacity is targeted for packaging, label, medical, and industrial applications. “Toray has always been committed to innovation and growth on behalf of its customers, and this new line enhances our ability to offer them a greater variety of film options while helping them commercialize their projects effectively and efficiently,” says Christopher Roy, Executive Vice President, Toray Plastics (America). “The entire Toray team is very proud of the division’s accomplishment, especially given the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.” Roy adds that the Torayfan Division has plans for more automation in 2021, an upgrade of an existing line in 2021-22, and a new metallizer in 2022. “It’s a very exciting time for Toray and the division.”

Markku Leskelä has been appointed SVP, Development at Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group and a member of the Corporate Management Team responsible for research, product development, sustainability and business development. He has worked at Metsä Board as VP, Research and Development since 2016. Ari Kiviranta, a member of the company's Corporate Management Team, has been appointed SVP, Technology with responsibility for developing the company's industrial structure, especially at the Husum mill in Sweden, as well as strategic investment projects and technology. His previous position was SVP, Development.

TC Transcontinental Packaging is thrilled to announce the significant expansion of our Transcontinental Ontario, California facility, fully commercial and ready for operation as of September 2021. The expansion of the Transcontinental Ontario facility notably enhances our Shrink & Extrusion Group capabilities and capacity, providing a coast-to-coast, cost-effective, and efficient solution for our customers and the market. The $14 million (USD) investment includes the addition of advanced technology: a 3-layer extrusion line along with a state-of-the-art flexographic 10-color, wide web press. This investment enables us to meet the market’s surging demand for improved delivery times, enhanced inventory management, and reduced transit time to market, especially for those customers west of the Mississippi.

The challenge of providing packaging that balances resource efficiency with the lowest possible environmental impact is one that every member of the packaging industry is familiar with. There is no ‘perfect’ solution, but Mondi looks at some of the strategies the industry could be employing to help turn the tide of climate change. Last month’s alarming IPCC global climate change report – the first since 2013 – found that human activity is damaging the climate ‘irreversibly’. We don’t need to look further than the recent devastating fires and floods across the globe to know that action needs to be taken now to address climate change and the importance of innovating for a circular economy. So what can we do in the packaging sector to ensure we play our role to mitigate the environmental impact of packaging? Broadly, the value chain from manufacturers, to brand owners, and converters need to innovate and collaborate. Only then can we find the right answers and approach. It’s complicated, though. Mondi, a global leading packaging and paper company, shares its vision of sophisticated packaging strategies for a complex world. click read more for more of the article

As part of an investor presentation, O-I Glass, Inc. will share its business plan to accelerate the company’s transformation and increase value for all stakeholders. “Glass containers are a great product that have been trusted for thousands of years. Building off this enduring legacy, glass is more relevant than ever given consumer preferences for health, wellness and sustainability. To meet the packaging market’s evolving needs, we will continue to transform the company, and with our MAGMA solution, O-I will redefine the glass production process for decades to come,” said Andres Lopez, CEO of O-I Glass. “O-I’s production network is purpose-built to serve a wide array of product categories. MAGMA will further enhance our capabilities to support many of these categories and expand in the highly differentiated product segments, which are aligned to changing consumer preferences. MAGMA also is more flexible and scalable and further improves glass’ position as the most sustainable packaging material available. With MAGMA, we can quickly add capacity in smaller increments, closer to our customers, and at lower capital intensity. This new capability will increase O-I's right to win in the more differentiated markets. It will enable the company to grow in existing markets and enter new markets with greater flexibility. We are ready to deploy MAGMA, achieve the full potential of glass, and enable profitable growth.

Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, plans to purchase from Pohjolan Voima Oyj all the shares it owns in Hämeenkyrön Voima Oy, and thereby consolidate its local operations in the Kyröskoski mill area. The transaction is subject to e.g. the decisions of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Pohjolan Voima Oyj to redeem Pohjolan Voima Oyj's G10 series shares from Metsä Board and to sell its shares in Hämeenkyrön Voima Oy to Metsä Board. The estimated completion of the transaction would be at the end of 2021 or at the beginning of 2022. After the arrangement, Metsä Board will own 84% of Hämeenkyrön Voima Oy and DL Power Oy, owned by Leppäkosken Sähkö Oy, will own 16%. The arrangement will not have a significant impact on Metsä Board's key financial figures.

Continuing its focus on global sustainability leadership and aligned with its ‘from Plastic to Purpose’ campaign, Ahlstrom-Munksjö has released a pioneering mono-material oxygen barrier technology made of 100% cellulose fibers. The PureBarrier™ technology is based on Genuine Vegetable Parchment and boasts numerous attributes including oxygen and gas barrier properties as well as natural wet strength. It is naturally grease resistant, does not contain any loose fiber or added chemicals, and can be made heat sealable with a biopolymer which makes it suitable for a limitless number of applications. Most importantly, its sustainable ‘from Plastic to Purpose’ features including biodegradability and compostability, make PureBarrier™ a great alternative to non-renewable oxygen barrier packaging. “Our ‘ƒrom Plastic to Purpose’ campaign continues to raise awareness on the possibilities of fiber-based solutions as a renewable option,” said Robyn Buss, Executive Vice President of Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s Food Packaging & Technical Solutions. “By educating the marketplace on paper-based packaging options available we are encouraging global industry stakeholders to consider fiber and paper-based alternatives where plastic and non-renewable materials are used today.”

Transcendia, a leader in manufacturing and converting specialty films is excited to announce it is breaking ground on a 52,000 square foot manufacturing expansion at its Hebron, OH location as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in barrier film technologies. The new building will be equipped with additional multilayer blown and cast film lines, specialty converting equipment and a new testing lab dedicated to supporting new barrier applications in the food, pharmaceutical and industrial film markets. Upon completion, the Hebron, OH facility, with its ISO 9001:2015 certified quality systems, SQF certification and class 7 clean room capabilities, will have a total footprint of 84,000 square feet. The new building will complement existing barrier extrusion capabilities, including Transcendia’s most recent seven-layer blown film asset capable of producing films up to 78” wide with thicknesses between 1.0 – 10.0 mil. In addition to multiple asset investments, Transcendia will be adding to its application and process engineering team to provide additional technology resources for customers’ new application development. To support the expansion and 24/7 operation, Transcendia will hire approximately 36 new associates including machine operators, material handlers, maintenance technicians and supervisors.

A new report by Drapers, the B2B publication covering the fashion retail industry, in partnership with Smurfit Kappa, the leading paper-based packaging company, has revealed that packaging matters to UK consumers and plays a significant role in the purchasing decisions of shoppers. Nearly two-thirds of respondents (64%) stated they are more likely to purchase from a brand or retailer if it uses sustainable packaging. In the Drapers’ Sustainability and the Consumer 2021 report, fashion consumers stated the packaging material their purchase arrives in matters, with 73% stating that the use of paper or cardboard packaging is important to them when considering a brand’s level of sustainability. Another 77% stated that brands should use as little packaging as possible, while two-thirds (66%) stated it is important to them that the packaging can be recycled. However, perhaps more significantly for retailers, nearly half (49%) of fashion consumers surveyed said they would pay more for both sustainable packaging and sustainable delivery. In addition, a third (33%) say they have rejected a purchase because of unsustainable packaging.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced plans to expand its foodservice packaging manufacturing operations in North America as part of its long-term strategic growth commitments. This more than $110 million investment will expand its proprietary and industry-leading polypropylene thermoforming capabilities to manufacture clear drink cups and lids for quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores, and other foodservice markets. The clear design fills an increasing demand for a cup that showcases a premium brand image and beverage appeal and improves restaurant operation efficiencies while offering a more sustainable packaging option. Foodservice brand owners are steadily increasing their forecasted volumes with Berry production for access to the Company’s 30-plus active patents across clear cups and lids. In addition, customized plastic cup and lid brand owner solutions are a rapidly increasing market trend, pulling volume from alternative substrates since 2017. As a result, Berry has demonstrated its market leadership, outpacing market trends growing its sales by a forecasted 60%*.

Aptar Beauty + Home, a global leader in packaging and dispensing for the beauty, personal care and home care industries announces the launch of Purity Lite, a polyethylene closure and tube combination that a creates a fully recyclable*, mono-material solution. Purity Lite is the latest in sustainable packaging development that addresses the need for innovative design to address a circular plastic economy. It is comprised of 100% polyethylene, features a low profile design, and lighter part weight (22% weight reduction vs. 2” Purity R tube top). In addition to being sustainable, Purity Lite is e-commerce capable**, passing the rigorous ISTA 6-Amazon certification.

Mondi has worked with Nordic food manufacturer HKScan to provide renewable paper-based packaging for its best-selling Falukorv sausage. Sustainable packaging is a high priority for HKScan, who sells over eight million Scan Falukorv sausages every year in Sweden alone. The company has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon dioxide emissions target by 2025 - and aims to achieve a carbon neutral food chain by the end of 2040. Mondi used its EcoSolutions approach to collaborate with HKScan’s R&D team to provide the right barrier paper without requiring any changes to its existing production lines. The new packaging now comprises of renewable materials and is made with responsibly sourced paper and bio-based plastic. The paper is sourced, coated and printed in Sweden, so transportation is kept to a minimum. Thanks to its majority paper content, the new packaging can be disposed of in Swedish paper recycling streams. Mondi’s solution ensures the Scan Falukorv sausage remains fresh and intact in transportation, and the packaging provides excellent print quality for attractive presentation on the shelves.

Leading European thermoforming packaging specialist Waddington® Europe, a division of Novolex®, has teamed up with Shabra, Ireland’s leading recycler and reprocessor of post-consumer waste (PCW), to purchase food-grade recycled PET (rPET) sourced from bottles, pots, tubs and trays to manufacture new rPET food packaging products at its Arklow production site. Not only does the agreement help to further secure Waddington Europe’s long-term source of rPET, but it also enables the company to expand its line of Eco Blend® products made with post-consumer recycled content sourced domestically in Ireland back into the Irish market. “Collectively, we hope these new agreements will advance our stake in localized plastics circularity in the Irish market,” said Eduardo Gomes, Managing Director of Waddington Europe. “We need to start moving to a more holistic and long-term view when it comes to the lifecycle and environmental impact of food-grade packaging. It’s just as important to consider the carbon footprint at its start of life as the environmental impact at the end of its life.”

Pactiv Evergreen Inc. announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pactiv Evergreen Group Holdings Inc. has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Fabri-Kal, a leading manufacturer of foodservice and consumer brand packaging solutions. The transaction, valued at approximately $380 million, subject to adjustments for cash, working capital and indebtedness, is expected to close late in the third quarter or early in the fourth quarter of this year, subject to regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. “Combining these two complementary companies will further expand Pactiv Evergreen’s position in the Foodservice segment, broaden our sustainable packaging product offerings and customer base, and increase our manufacturing capacity and distribution capabilities,” said Mike King, Pactiv Evergreen CEO. “Fabri-Kal is well known for its high-quality products, longstanding customer relationships and sustainable packaging solutions. We look forward to the Fabri-Kal team joining Pactiv Evergreen and working together to drive increased value for our shareholders, customers and employees.”

The EU is seeking to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050 as outlined in the European Green Deal. One of the deal’s key building blocks is the transition to the Circular Economy, which will reduce pressure on natural resources, create sustainable growth and jobs and help achieve the EU’s climate neutrality target. The metal packaging industry is already making significant contributions to the Circular Economy thanks to the format’s inherent sustainability credentials. At Crown, we have also prioritized resource efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and use of renewable energy to further drive down our environmental impact. Another key area of advancement lies in lightweighting. This process enables us to produce more cans with the same material and for resources to be used more efficiently, as energy consumption is reduced downstream in the supply chain.

The 12,000 square meter (130,000 square feet) plant will be cutting and slitting large master rolls of 100% recycled paper into smaller rolls and fan-folded stacks for use with Pregis EasyPack cushioned paper packaging machines and other e-commerce applications. “The demand for packaging solutions for e-commerce applications continues to grow at a rapid pace. Pregis’ investment in this new facility will provide additional output to support European fulfillment operations looking for a paper-based packaging solution,” said Pieter van Dongen Torman, commercial director, Pregis Europe.

Koehler Paper works together with CLARUS Films GmbH in the small roll business and as a service partner for the converting industry for flexible packaging papers Europe-wide. This partnership will especially play out in the area of functionally coated, unprinted barrier paper. Koehler Paper and Clarus will have their first joint appearance at Europe’s biggest packaging, technology, and processing trade show – Fachpack – in Nuremberg, Germany, from September 28 through September 30, 2021 at booth 119, Hall 4. Koehler and CLARUS are linked not only in terms of their location in Germany, but also in terms of how both have made it their mission to provide their customers with top-quality solutions. This partnership combines the know-how from the traditional world of paper with the know-how from the flexible packaging market.

ePac Flexible Packaging has launched in Australia, with its first manufacturing facility opening in Melbourne in the fourth quarter of 2021. Built entirely on breakthrough digital printing technology, ePac serves local brands of all sizes, with a particular focus on small and medium sized businesses producing snacks, confections, coffee, natural and organic foods, pet food, and nutritional supplements. ePac’s first production facility will open eight kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, at the new Newlands Road food manufacturing hub, located in the heart of Coburg’s thriving industrial district.

The MM (Mayr-Melnhof) Group has appointed Päivi Suutari (58, M.Sc.) as the new Managing Director of MM Kotkamills. She will start in her role on 1.10.2021. Päivi Suutari has worked for more than 30 years in the Cartonboard and Packaging industry (Stora Enso, Huhtamaki) and brings a wealth of experience leading businesses and people in several countries in Europe and Asia. She joined Kotkamills in 2019 as Vice President for Research, Development and Innovation and has played a key role in advancing the company’s development and innovation activities.

The annual Green Packaging Star Awards recognise environmentally-friendly packaging and recycling solutions, as well as packaging-related improvements in operational processes in production, logistics, and distribution. The award is presented by Kompack magazine and the Austrian Research Institute for Chemistry and Technology. The judges of these awards recognised the high standard of the following three Mondi products: 1. EcoVantage paper for Tesco shopping bags - Mondi's collaboration with the retailer aims to close the loop by working across the whole supply chain. The partnership involves Mondi recycling Tesco’s existing corrugated packaging waste and then transforming it into EcoVantage paper. 2. WalletPack Recyclable for well-known German deli meats - Working with Bell Germany, Mondi created packaging for the meat producer’s ‘Abraham’ range of sliced deli meats. WalletPack Recylable, a mono-material solution that helps prevent food waste and has been verified by the German institute cyclos-HTP as 93% recyclable. 3. Functional Barrier Paper substituting plastic packaging - Mondi’s barrier-coated functional papers aim to transform packaging for a range of products including food and toys where, until now, paper has been unimaginable as a sustainable alternative. An ideal replacement for plastic laminates, the barrier papers can be used for dry food, frozen food, secondary packaging, and flow pack applications.

Heinz has announced today that it is continuing its mission to remove plastic from supermarket shelves with the UK roll-out of the Heinz Eco-Friendly Sleeve Multipack, a new, convenient, super skinny paperboard sleeve for all its multipack canned products. Made with WestRock’s PEFC-certified CarrierKote® paperboard, the Heinz Eco-Friendly Sleeve is recyclable and comes from sustainably managed forests. The innovative wrap design uses no glue and 50 percent less material than a fully enclosed wraparound box and 10 percent less than a traditional paperboard sleeve design[2]. In addition to selecting renewable, responsibly sourced material and optimizing the design to minimize the footprint, Heinz is also advancing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the manufacturing and transport of this new innovative sleeve is 1carbon neutral. The Heinz Eco-Friendly Sleeve 4-pack design has a nearly 20% (18.7%) lower CO₂ footprint compared with the equivalent shrink-wrap design.[3] Following a successful trial on Heinz to Home, the Heinz Eco-Friendly Sleeve will be available across the whole Heinz multipack canned range, including Heinz Beanz, Heinz Soups and Heinz Pasta varieties, in major retailers in the UK from September 2021.

Sonoco announced tit has partnered with AMP Robotics, a pioneer in AI, robotics and infrastructure for the waste and recycling industry, to create a new material category within AMP’s neural network specific to rigid paperboard cans. The U.S. partnership will result in increased recycling rates for the spiral wound paper canister with steel bottom produced by Sonoco and other manufacturers. The use of recycled steel has a 45% lower environmental impact than producing the equivalent amount from virgin material, reducing the need to mine for virgin iron ore. Additionally, when compared to landfilling, recycling the paper container with steel bottom through the steel or other streams has a greater than 40% lower environmental impact than landfilling. Any materials recovery facility with an AMP Cortex™ intelligent robotics system can now accurately and efficiently sort Sonoco’s paper can to the desired stream.  

The winners of the Public Award and the General Packaging Platinum Award at the 2021 European Carton Excellence Awards were produced with paperboard from Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group. The results were announced at a virtual ceremony held on 8th September. The new 'Smarties Giant Hexatube' won the public voting. It is a plastic-free pack, comprised of a one-piece construction made entirely from recyclable paperboard with an integrated cartonboard lid. The carton was produced by WestRock on MetsäBoard Pro FBB Bright lightweight paperboard. Yves Rocher’s luxurious New Year makeup calendar, produced by Durero Packaging, was presented with a Platinum Award, General Packaging, Virgin Fibre. The attractive heptagonal pack is made up of seven identical, linked cartonboard triangular cases, each containing an individual make-up gift. The calendar is made using MetsäBoard Prime FBB Bright lightweight paperboard.

Aptar Food + Beverage’s expertise is behind HiPP’s new infant formula packaging. Aptar’s solution features best-in-class technology with value-added benefits required by today’s parents and caregivers, including enhanced convenience and superior functionality. HiPP, the largest processor of organic-biological raw materials worldwide, and one of the leaders in the global infant food market, utilized Aptar’s breakthrough thinking to re-design their infant formula packaging for specific Asian markets, including China and Hong Kong. Aptar leveraged its expertise and history of innovation in the development of a customized version of their Neo™ closure, to maximize parents’ experience when selecting and using HiPP infant formula.

AptarGroup, Inc. announced that following the signature of a share purchase agreement on July 22, 2021 and the approval of the French Ministry of Economy under the foreign investment clearance regulations, it has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Voluntis from the company’s reference shareholders and certain members of the management. The stake acquisition represents approximately 64.6% of the share capital of Voluntis, at a price of €8.70 per share. In accordance with applicable regulation, Aptar will launch a mandatory cash tender offer to acquire Voluntis’ remaining shares for the same price of €8.70 per share. Aptar intends to file the Tender Offer with the French Markets Authority in September 2021 and the Tender Offer will be subject to the regulatory clearance from the AMF.

Wikoff Color announces the opening of its 34th manufacturing location in Milwaukee, WI focused on the flexible packaging market. The newly constructed facility will be the main hub for the company’s solvent- and water-based gravure operations. In addition to manufacturing and warehouse space, Wikoff Color – Milwaukee will also boast a fully-equipped R&D department, a Training center and a Wikoff Graphics arm. The new location will feature leading-edge, energy-efficient milling technology and is expected to bring approximately 50 jobs to the greater Milwaukee area. Joe Kubasiak, Director of Flexible Packaging for Wikoff Color, will head up the new branch. “This state-of-the-art facility will allow us to provide an even greater level of service and support to our customers in the packaging market,” Joe commented. “Our investment in technology and increased manufacturing capacity will be integral to our growth in the flexible packaging space.” Joe has been with the company since 1992 and has held several management positions, including Plant Manager of the largest bulk manufacturing site in Fort Mill, SC.

The latest investment is being used to expand the current Grand Rapids facility by adding an additional 55,000 square feet for manufacturing, warehousing and office space. In total, the Grand Rapids facility will now have 205,000 square feet to meet increasing demand for high quality films and support services. Initially, the new structure will house additional custom Windmoeller & Hoelscher (W&H) blown film extrusion lines, with room to add equipment to meet future demands. The dedicated multilayer polyethylene lines are expected to be operational by the end of September. The investment is in addition to the previous $37 million capital expenditure put into that location between 2016 and 2020.

Third Quarter Financial Highlights include (all results compared to the third quarter of 2020 unless otherwise noted)(1): *Record net sales of $1,490.8 million, an increase of $407.8 million compared to net sales of $1,083.0 million. *Net income of $113.0 million or $1.89 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income of $20.7 million or $0.35 per diluted Class A share. Net income, excluding the impact of adjustments(2), of $115.9 million or $1.93 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income, excluding the impact of adjustments, of $50.1 million or $0.85 per diluted Class A share. *Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $40.1 million to a source of $94.9 million. Adjusted free cash flow(4) decreased by $42.5 million to a source of $64.1 million. *Total debt decreased by $370.0 million to $2,267.6 million.

Stora Enso’s winning designs are: Eco-friendly magazine packaging concept for Vogue Scandinavia - Vogue Scandinavia is disrupting the publishing industry in many ways. One of the unique features of Vogue Scandinavia is its sustainable packaging concept. There are two packaging versions: Normal Edition and the Collectors’ Item Limited Edition made from EnsocoatTM by Stora Enso. The package replaces the traditional single use plastic wrapping used in magazines. The magazine and packaging are carbon neutral, made with a renewable, low-carbon raw material, and energy efficient production. The remaining emissions are offset by using the CarbonZero service by Stora Enso, in collaboration with compensation partner South Pole. EcoFreshBox - The innovative berry container comes in several sizes and can be used for many other products too. It replaces plastic packaging – even the integrated lid is made from corrugated board. Half a million renewable berry containers can help cut out 4500 kilograms of fossil plastic. The packaging is cost-effective, easy to use, rigid, and effortless to flatten before recycling. Customer-specific images can be printed on the package to increase visibility and attractiveness. click read more below for the rest of the story

An innovative corrugated bin for face masks by Metsä Board, part of Metsä Group, has been awarded a ScanStar in a Nordic packaging design competition organised by the Scandinavian Packaging Association. The mask bin, made of lightweight and durable corrugated board, helps to collect and dispose of used face masks easily and safely. Metsä Board developed the concept together with packaging design agency Futupack and corrugated board converter Capertum. The competition jury commented: “A simple but clever solution for a new problem – mask littering. The bin is made from corrugated material, and is easy to assemble even without the instructions which have been printed on the bin itself. The lid makes the light packaging more rigid and, if you turn the lid, it closes the package when it is full. Good printing supports the product. The bin is also accessible to those who have disabilities.” MetsäBoard Pro WKL 160 g/m2 coated white kraftliner was used as the top liner of the mask bin. The Finnish corrugated board converter Capertum printed the E-flute corrugated board in silk screen. Thanks to fresh fibre board the waste bin is strong but light, which reduces the carbon footprint.

Esko has announced it has delivered a world-first in connected packaging production, "supercharging" secure Variable Data Print (VDP) capabilities in terms of both speed and scale for a new collaboration with Scantrust and packaging company ePac Flexible Packaging. Esko Automation Engine is at the heart of the operation, with its VDP technology enabling the printing of serialized and secure QR codes on flexible packaging on a mass scale, unleashing the power of VDP for the new connected packaging and connected goods service, ePacConnect™. “Variable Data Printing has the ability to take the role of packaging to a whole new level,” says Esko product manager, Paul Land. “With opportunities for localization, serialization, personalization and traceability, the advances in automation mean it is now possible to further harness the technology to transform the prepress environment. With cloud deployment for 24/7 global access to data and new scalability capabilities, Automation Engine is enabling ePac to realize the power of VDP for an organization without the downsides. “By connecting the VDP module in Automation Engine with Scantrust, we have created a framework for codes that makes it easy for converters to use,” adds Land. “Not only is this implementation the first of its kind, but it also unlocks capabilities that were previously difficult to achieve.”

Oji Holdings announces that Oji Group's paper was adopted by Nestle in Malaysia as 3rd market for replacement of plastic package to paper package as a solution to reduce plastic for one of the biggest sustainability issues the world is facing today. We highly appreciate Nestle's considerate commitment towards creation of sustainable society. At the same time we will maintain supporting Nestle's action as a packaging material supplier. As environmental statements were made at G20 summit which was held in Osaka in June 2019, the need to replace plastic with paper for the purpose of environment protection is increasing all over the world. Oji Group would like to engage in SDGs by supply of environmental friendly products together with our clients' actions.

Following the recent news on Aptar Freyung receiving ISCC PLUS*- Certification, enabling the use of renewable feedstock material for closures production, Aptar Food + Beverage is excited to announce that the Neo™ closure solution for the infant formula market is now available in renewable feedstock material based on the mass-balance approach. This polypropylene (PP) closure is made using sustainably sourced renewable feedstock derived solely from vegetable oil waste and residue, such as used cooking oil and residues from oil processing. There are many sustainability benefits found in using recycled and bio-based materials. First, the reduction of fossil-based resins in food-grade products can reduce the carbon footprint of a closure. Another benefit, from a technical and manufacturing perspective, is that new quality or filling line evaluations are not required. As the resin’s characteristics of fossil-based and renewable feedstock are the same, the closures keep the same level of safety and convenience. In addition, it can help infant nutrition brands to achieve their sustainability goals related to the reduction of CO2 emissions, and the incorporation of recycled or bio-based content measured by the mass balance model.

Finding new ways to address our environmental challenges is reliant on our ability to foster innovation to find ways of driving systemic change. To support such innovation and progress towards circularity, Huhtamaki, a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions for consumers around the world, donated €600,000 to fund the development and piloting of a river waste collector, invented by the Finnish cleantech start-up RiverRecycle. The collector is an integral part of RiverRecycle’s solution to solve marine waste, one of the biggest global challenges of today. With Huhtamaki’s support, a prototype waste collector was built and tested in Finland. This was then transported to and assembled in Mumbai, where it is now operational and where it will be collecting waste from the Mithi River for the next 12 months. “We believe in protecting food, people and the planet. We also believe that cooperation across the value chain with key stakeholders is needed to address global sustainability challenges, for example such as in this case marine plastics. If we want to drive systemic change, we not only need to support the development and commercialization of innovation that can help stop waste from getting into the oceans, but we also need the monetization of waste and incentivization of local communities to improve their waste management practices,” says Thomasine Kamerling, Executive Vice President Sustainability and Communications at Huhtamaki.

Which Products Will Be Affected By Plastic Packaging Tax? A packaging product will be classified as ‘plastic packaging’ if plastic is the heaviest of its components. Then, if the packaging contains less than 30% recycled plastic, it will be subject to PPT. Even though the tax’s environmental aims are to promote and produce ‘greener’ plastics, packaging labelled as biodegradable and compostable will still be subject to the new tax laws. There are, however, some exemptions to these rules, which include: *If the plastic packaging contains licensed human medicines *If the packaging is used in aircraft shipping or railway stores for international journeys *If the packaging’s primary function is to secure the safe transit of goods and produce *Exported goods will also be exempt, as long as they are exported within 12 months

Aptar Food + Beverage announces its recyclable SimpliCycle valve will be launched within new Kraft Heinz Ketchup packaging. In addition to Heinz Ketchup, other Kraft Heinz brands including Heinz Mustard, Heinz Mashups, and Heinz BBQ Sauce, will convert to the SimpliCycle valve by the end of the year. Testing was coordinated and administered by both companies to ensure the consumer experience was equally matched in the conversion.

Cascades is pursuing its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and is once again innovating by becoming the first company in its category in Canada1 to launch 100% recycled plastic packaging that is also recyclable*, for the entire Cascades Fluff & Tuff® line. Creating this resistant, environmentally friendly packaging made from recycled materials has been a major project for the company, requiring several months of research and testing. Deployment of this new packaging will be completed by the end of 2021. In addition to all these attributes were the results of a life cycle analysis conducted by an independent firm of Cascades' polyfilm, confirming that the option containing 100% recycled resin reduces the impact on climate change by 76% compared with its virgin resin equivalent. These results clearly support the recycled option.

Smurfit Kappa has announced it is investing $22 million to expand its corrugated plant in Culiacan, North-West Mexico. It demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to the Mexican market with expanded capacity, capabilities and products offerings for local customers in the fresh produce segment. The investment will modernise and expand the plant, with the installation of high-tech state of the art machinery and the construction of a new 10,900m2 building that will include a new corrugator and an automatic Rotary Die Cutter (RDC) that will be fully operational by the end of 2021. The facility will produce corrugated boxes made with a moisture barrier that helps resist condensation. These new offerings will also result in more sustainable operations at the facility with reduced use of paper that is 100% recyclable and can be reused at Smurfit Kappa mills.

Sonoco ThermoSafe and Korean Air announced a global partnership agreement for the leasing of the new Pegasus ULD® temperature controlled bulk shipping container. The agreement enables pharmaceutical freight forwarders access to Pegasus ULD® containers directly from Korean Air. Korean Air and mutual clients will also have access to other Sonoco ThermoSafe containers as part of this agreement. Sonoco ThermoSafe will support this partnership by adding ICN airport to its global service network. Services including ground handling, repairs, and preconditioning of Pegasus ULDs at ICN will be provided through Sonoco ThermoSafe’s global partnership with Unilode. Sonoco ThermoSafe’s Pegasus ULD® is the world’s first FAA and EASA-approved passive bulk temperature-controlled ULD container for pharmaceutical use, which enables it to speed through international air freight handling and customs processes at the lowest possible cost. With a focus on sustainability, the Pegasus is engineered with composite materials, offering a lighter solution that is also substantially more damage-resistant than traditional metal containers. Additionally, the Pegasus ULD® contains a fully integrated, FAA-approved telemetry system, providing real-time, cloud-based data on payload and ambient temperature and key environmental factors, precisely synchronized with GPS location.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in July decreased one percent compared to July 2020. They were up two percent when compared to the same seven months of 2020. The operating rate was 84.2 percent, down 1.5 points from July 2020 and up 4.0 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of July increased 8,000 short tons from the previous month and were essentially flat (+672 short tons) compared to July 2020.

Second Quarter Financial Highlights and Recent Events * Total revenue increased by 8.7% to $51.8 million, from $47.7 million in the second quarter of 2020. * Envelope segment revenue was up 7.6% to $35.2 million, from $32.8 million in the second quarter of 2020. * Packaging and specialty products segment revenue increased by 11.1% to $16.6 million, from $14.9 million in the second quarter of 2020. * EBITDA1 at $8.6 million, up 24.1%, from $6.9 million in the second quarter of 2020. EBITDA margins stood at 16.5%, up from 14.5%. * Net Earnings at $3.4 million (or $0.12 per share), up from $1.9 million (or $0.07 per share) in the second quarter of 2020. * Recorded $0.8 million of assistance from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (“CEWS”) program. * Purchased 488,100 shares for total consideration of $1.1 million as part of the Company’s Normal Course Issuer Bid (‘’NCIB’’). * Mary Chronopoulos was appointed CFO and Corporate Secretary effective May 31, 2021.

Amcor announced the launch of a proprietary healthcare lidding technology that will be utilized for combination products – those consisting of two or more regulated components (device, drug or biologic). This latest innovation from Amcor is based on a patented inert film development and laminate design. It provides a lidding solution that can withstand heat sterilization, the process of preserving and sterilizing items, while preventing drug uptake into the packaging. The packaging solution is ideal for combination healthcare products, such as devices with an Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) that forms the basis of a medicine. It ensures machinability, integrity after sterilization, as well as a convenient peel opening for patients. The features of the new product complement Amcor’s existing healthcare portfolio, which range from lidding for demanding sterilization environments to high barrier overwraps protecting eye droppers and medications for the eye. Amcor collaborated with Johnson & Johnson Vision over the course of several years to develop the lidding technology for use with contact lenses. ch company contributed specific skills and perspective, notably Amcor’s expertise with film extrusion, lamination and conversion for healthcare, and J&J Vision’s expertise on ophthalmic device packaging requirements.

Sonoco announced it will raise the price for all paperboard tubes and cores by a minimum of 8 percent, effective with shipments in the United States and Canada, on or after September 10, 2021. “Significant market tightness and additional inflationary cost pressures to our primary raw materials (uncoated recycled paperboard and adhesives) make this increase necessary,” said Doug Schwartz, Division Vice President and General Manager, North America Tubes and Cores. “Despite these market and supply chain challenges, we remain committed to maintaining the quality and service that our customers have become accustomed to when working with Sonoco.”

Second Quarter 2021 Highlights (as compared to second quarter 2020): • Revenue increased 40.7% to $376.7 million primarily due to organic growth in certain film, woven, and tape products, including continued strength in products with significant e-commerce end-market exposure such as water-activated tape and dispensing machines. • Gross margin increased to 23.7% from 21.3% primarily due to a favourable product volume/mix and an increase in the spread between selling prices and combined raw material and freight costs. • Net earnings attributable to the Company shareholders decreased $0.1 million to $14.3 million primarily due to (i) an increase in finance costs mainly due to the 2018 Senior Unsecured Notes Redemption Charges(2) and the non-recurrence of a gain in the second quarter of 2020 resulting from a fair value adjustment to the Company's contingent consideration related to the Nortech Acquisition(3) and (ii) an increase in selling, general and administrative expenses mainly due to increases in both variable and share-based compensation. The unfavourable impacts were largely offset by an increase in gross profit. • Free cash flows(1) decreased by $28.8 million to $6.4 million primarily due to the decrease in cash flows from operating activities and an increase in capital expenditures as compared to minimal capital expenditures in 2020 as a precautionary measure given market uncertainty caused by COVID-19.

Cascades Sonoco, a joint venture between Cascades Inc. and Sonoco Products Company, announced its Birmingham facility has been certified SQF (Safe Quality Food), a GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) benchmarked certification standard. Widely applicable to nearly every stage of the food supply chain, SQF certification addresses not only farming and packhouses, but everything from food manufacturing to animal feed and pet food production. GFSI recognition has been considered the gold standard for food safety certification and harmonizes food safety standards under one umbrella to reduce risk to both producer and consumer while also managing costs, developing competencies and capacity and creating an international platform for collaboration, exchanging knowledge and networking.

Novolex® has acquired Vegware, a rapidly growing international provider of compostable foodservice packaging headquartered in Edinburgh, U.K. Vegware’s teams in both the U.K. and U.S. are expected to join the Novolex family. The Vegware brand will remain intact as part of Novolex’s Eco-Products portfolio of brands and will continue to sell its products under the Vegware label. “Vegware is an excellent company and its addition to Novolex is an exciting step to growing our global compostable products footprint,” said Stan Bikulege, Chairman and CEO of Novolex. “We are pleased to welcome the Vegware team to the Novolex family and maintain our momentum of supporting brands that meet society’s expectations for sustainable products.” Vegware was founded in Edinburgh in 2006 by Joe Frankel. Headquartered in Scotland, it has operations in the U.K., EU and the United States. The company sources renewable, plant-based materials to manufacture cups, cutlery, tableware and takeout packaging designed to be commercially composted with food waste. Sold in more than 70 countries, Vegware products are known for their quality, performance and design.

Second quarter 2021 net income from continuing operations was $20.7 million ($0.61 per diluted share) compared to net income from continuing operations of $14.3 million ($0.43 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2020. Net income from ongoing operations, which excludes special items and discontinued operations, was $16.1 million ($0.48 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2021 compared with $16.0 million ($0.48 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2020. *Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") from ongoing operations for Aluminum Extrusions of $19.7 million was $6.4 million higher than the second quarter of 2020 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for PE Films of $9.0 million was $6.5 million lower than the second quarter of 2020 *EBITDA from ongoing operations for Flexible Packaging Films of $8.3 million was $1.8 million higher than the second quarter of 2020

Sonoco announced it is implementing a price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in the United States and Canada, effective with shipments beginning September 7, 2021. Sonoco said the price increase was in response to continued tight market conditions as strong demand across the Company’s U.S. and Canada mill network has resulted in order backlogs remaining at near historic highs as well as unprecedented inflationary pressures on papermaking.

The Mayr-Melnhof Group (MM) has completed the acquisition of the Kwidzyn plant, Poland, agreed in mid-February 2021, with the approval of all relevant competition authorities. The acquisition of Kwidzyn is part of MM's strategy to grow high-quality virgin fiber board (FBB) with innovative, sustainable and cost-efficient grades. In addition, MM diversifies the product portfolio by integrating an attractive pulp and paper production with a focus on uncoated fine paper (UWF) and packaging kraft papers. In line with the expanded product range, the MM Karton division is renamed MM Board & Paper. "I am pleased that we are entering two new core businesses with uncoated fine paper and packaging kraft paper. MM Kwidzyn will drive our innovations for more sustainable packaging solutions in the growing virgin fiber board market and also create attractive new perspectives through the integration of pulp and paper at a European location with cost advantages. We look forward to a successful collaboration with our new colleagues, ”comments Peter Oswald, CEO of the MM Group.

Berry Global Group, Inc. is again demonstrating its worldwide leadership in the design, development, and production of patient-centered healthcare solutions with the announcement of plans to establish a second manufacturing facility and global healthcare center of excellence in Bangalore, India. Planned for development near Berry’s existing Bangalore operation, the new facility will enable the company to extend its R&D expertise and scale up production in several key healthcare sectors: ophthalmic, nasal pumps, inhalation, and injectable administrations. The increased capacity will also enhance supply in India and throughout South Asia, addressing some of the fastest growing healthcare market geographies.

Highlights • Strong financial performance, good momentum ◦ Higher sales volumes, higher average selling prices and effective cost control ◦ Underlying EBITDA of €709 million, with margin of 19.5% ◦ Cash generated from operations of €552 million ◦ Balance sheet at 1.5x net debt to underlying EBITDA • Investing through-the-cycle ◦ Completed acquisition of Olmuksan, strengthening our position in the fast growing Turkish corrugated market (€88 million on an implied 100% EV basis) ◦ Good progress on capital investment projects, delivering growth, sustainability benefits and enhanced cost competitiveness (€286 million capital investments in the period) ◦ Approved €125 million upgrade and expansion of Kuopio containerboard mill (Finland) and further investment in corrugated plants to support strong growth in eCommerce • Launched Mondi Action Plan 2030 (MAP2030), our sustainability framework for the next decade • Signed €750 million revolving credit facility aligning financing with MAP2030 and extending debt maturity profile • Interim dividend declared of 20.0 euro cents per share • Well-positioned for growth in packaging markets, with cost-advantaged asset base, strong financial position and unique portfolio of sustainable solutions

The net sales growth is primarily attributed to increased selling prices of $533 million due to the pass through of inflation, organic volume growth of 5%, and a $147 million favorable impact from foreign currency changes. These increases were partially offset by prior quarter divestiture sales of $62 million. The organic volume growth was primarily due to organic growth investments and continued recovery of certain markets that had previously been facing COVID-19 headwinds. The operating income decrease is primarily attributed to a $42 million unfavorable impact from price cost spread, and a $12 million increase in selling, general, and administrative expense, partially offset by a $24 million increase from the organic volume growth, and a $23 million favorable impact from foreign currency.

Notable items in the third quarter include: *Record net sales of $4.8 billion increased 14% compared to the prior year quarter *Net income of $250 million increased 40% compared to $179 million in the prior year quarter *Record third quarter North American per day box shipments increased 9% compared to the prior year quarter *Successfully implementing published price increases across all major paper grades; pricing realization outpaced inflation in the quarter *Generated net cash provided by operating activities of $751 million and Adjusted Free Cash Flow of $554 million compared to $740 million and $508 million, respectively, in the prior year quarter *Reduced total debt by $270 million

Graphic Packaging Holding Company announced that it has published its 2020 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report and launched a new ESG website that is interactive and designed for real-time dissemination of information. In the most recent report, Graphic Packaging outlines the many initiatives underway at the Company to further drive sustainability across operations and innovation in product development with the end consumer in mind. "We continue to advance our ESG program while delivering innovative packaging in support of the move to a more circular economy," said President and CEO, Michael Doss. "Significant progress and positive developments across all facets of our operations and with our people were accomplished over the past year. Our Diversity & Inclusion strategy continues to drive robust conversation, and we have implemented new programs to ensure continual progress. Employees are engaged as we grow as a workforce and provide new learning and development opportunities. Our efforts to limit impacts of our operations on the environment are driving results. We achieved further progress towards our environmental goals in 2020."

Last year, the e-commerce industry grew nearly three times more than in 2019 — and this record-breaking order volume remains strong in 2021. Since March 2020, fulfillment centers have continued to work past capacity, as consumers increase their expectations surrounding lightning-fast and damage-free home deliveries. In February, Digital Commerce 360 and Bizrate found that 68 percent of consumers would be more inclined to place an order if fast shipping was available. And it’s not just e-commerce companies affected by demand — retailers are bearing the brunt, too. The same survey reported that 26 percent of shoppers ordered online for same-day delivery from major brick-and-mortar stores, almost double the rate from August 2020. As fulfillment managers look at every possible solution to meet demand, automation solutions like Pregis’ Sharp bagging systems are taking center stage, thanks to their benefits in reducing costs, increasing efficiency, and sustainability.

Net sales approximated $1.7 billion in the second quarter of 2021 which represented a $242 million increase from the prior year period. Higher average selling prices contributed $27 million to net sales. Adjusted for divestitures, shipments in tons increased 18 percent as higher sales volumes and favorable mix boosted revenues $255 million. Net sales benefited $79 million from favorable foreign currency translation. Recent divestitures reduced net sales by $111 million and revenue from technical services declined $8 million reflecting lower engineering project activity. Segment operating profit was $232 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $99 million in the prior year period.

Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its new commercial-scale clean room for blown film, supporting its growing healthcare business in rigorous healthcare and pharmaceutical applications. The ISO 7 class clean room can produce nine-layer blown films. The new installation fully encloses commercial-scale production of Berry’s proprietary nine-layer blown film from extrusion to packaging, a first in the United States. The addition further enhances Berry’s ability to supply more sensitive applications such as sterile intravenous solution bags, pharmaceutical packaging, medical equipment manufacturing, and microchip packaging. Installed in Berry’s existing Dalton, Georgia, facility, the clean room provides a controlled environment, complete with FDA-approved lubricants and contact surfaces, and a 100 percent inspection system for real-time defect detection for quality assurance.

Amcor plans to invest over $10 million in MSU’s School of Packaging – the largest investment in the history of the university’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR), under which the School of Packaging sits. The funding, which forms part of Amcor’s commitment to supporting the next generation of responsible packaging talent, will be used to help the school further its high academic standards and enable facility modernization upgrades that ensure students have access to state-of-the-art technology. The partnership between these two leading organizations will also support the creation of an Endowed Chair of Packaging Sustainability to drive forward further research and innovation in the topic. Ron Delia, Amcor CEO, said, “This is an important investment in the future of the packaging industry, which will be defined by responsible, sustainable packaging solutions. MSU already attracts the greatest talent in the industry and Amcor is committed to fostering the boldest thinkers as they make ground-breaking advancements in more sustainable packaging solutions.”

David Timm, president of Pregis’ performance flexible operations, has established several pivotal roles focused on creating a whole new customer experience model. These include: Russ Joseph, vice president of sales; Beth Scherpenberg, vice president of sales operations; Chad Perre, vice president of technology, and Jonathan Quinn, director of market development and sustainable flexible packaging. In their respective positions, the team will be responsible for delivering operational excellence, gold standard customer service and performance-oriented, customer-driven solutions with sustainability at the forefront.

Interfor Corporation announced that it is expecting production disruptions at its B.C. Interior sawmills during the third quarter of 2021 due to the ongoing impacts of wildfires and other factors on log supply. “The wildfires in the B.C. Interior and the related provincial state of emergency and governmentmandated curtailment of all forest harvesting activities are expected to have a significant impact on Interfor’s operations in the next several weeks or more. This is an active situation, and we are closely monitoring the implications for our operations. We are also doing what we can to help, working cooperatively with the provincial wildfire service and local communities to support the firefighting efforts. At this time there are over 230 Interfor staff and contractors and over 90 pieces of contractorowned heavy equipment dedicated to assisting the B.C. Wildfire Service in their efforts,” said Andrew Horahan, Senior Vice President of Western Operations at Interfor. Based on current information, Interfor is expecting to curtail a minimum of 50 million board feet of production across its B.C. Interior operations in August, with the possibility of further downtime in September and beyond, depending on evolving weather conditions.

Georgia-Pacific is expanding its manufacturing footprint for curbside recyclable paper padded mailers to support growing demand for more sustainable shipping envelopes. The new locations in Jonestown, Pennsylvania, and McDonough, Georgia, will expand availability of the mailers in the Northeast and Southeast to customers including Amazon. GP is also adding a third production line at its first mailer manufacturing site that opened in the Phoenix area in 2020. Georgia-Pacific’s expertise in paper making and paper-based packaging, and support from its research and development team, have contributed to the company’s success in its first manufacturing location and served as drivers in the expansion plans.

Second Quarter 2021 U.S. GAAP Summary: Net sales of $1.3 billion increased 15% as reported. Currency contributed $46 million, or approximately 4%, to net sales growth, as compared to second quarter 2020. Net earnings in second quarter 2021 were $109 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, as compared to net earnings of $100 million, or $0.64 per diluted share, in second quarter 2020. The effective tax rate in second quarter 2021 was 29.7%, as compared to 30.8% in second quarter 2020.

The Mayr-Melnhof Group (MM) has completed the acquisition of Kotkamills, Finland, agreed in December 2020, with the approval of all relevant competition authorities. With the acquisition, MM strengthens its position on the virgin fiber board (FBB) market with an attractive range of barrier board solutions that can replace PE (polyethylene) -coated board. MM is also entering the growing market for cardboard for paper cups (cup stock). The acquisition complements MM's established market position in recycled cardboard. In addition, MM is diversifying its product range with Saturating Kraft Paper / Impregnation paper, in which Kotkamills is one of the world's leading producers. "MM Kotkamills will play a strong and dynamic role within MM as an innovator in cardboard for modern paper cups, the water-dispersion-based coating of which is already carried out on-line in the cardboard machine. Our medium-term goal is to bring the sales volume to a capacity of around 400,000 t of carton per year. We look forward to a successful collaboration with our new colleagues, "comments Peter Oswald, CEO of the MM Group.

Mondi is rolling out a comprehensive portfolio of corrugated packaging solutions for the online grocery market across Central Europe. Using its wealth of experience in eCommerce packaging, Mondi has created clever new solutions for the diverse needs of grocery retailers who can now deliver a variety of goods, from perishable food to wine bottles in fit-for-purpose packaging. All boxes in the eGrocery portfolio are fully recyclable and meet customers' requirements of sustainability, cost efficiency and product protection. Mondi’s latest eGrocery packaging solutions include: Pick&ShipBox – a one-pack solution for all channels. It adapts to multiple requirements and offers convenience features such as easy lifting and opening. PantryBox – for quick and easy filling and closing. It is strong, stackable, and suitable for carrier shipping or click & collect. RecipeBox – for doorstep delivery of fresh produce and groceries. It has an integrated lid and optional holes for better ventilation. EatsBox – for smaller local deliveries by bike or scooter. It is lightweight and offers a quick filling option. Click&LoadBox – for click & collect of mixed grocery orders. It has handles for loading into cars and carrying home. Click&EnjoyBox – for holiday, gift or seasonal promotion packs. It has compartments for tall products like bottles, with an easy handle carrier. Click&CarryBox – for heavier mixed orders, providing strength and stability. It has an integrated handle for easy carrying.

Pratt Industries announced it would invest $400 million in a new 100% recycled paper mill in Henderson, Kentucky. This represents the largest single investment by the company in its history and will create more than 320 full time jobs plus an additional 700 in the construction phase. “It will be the world’s most advanced, environmentally-friendly 100% recycled paper mill,” said company owner and executive chairman Anthony Pratt. “And it means Pratt Industries will have built 6 of the last 8 paper mills in the United States.” Construction on the 450,000 sq ft mill would begin next March with a startup date scheduled for Fall 2023.

pladis, the global snack company behind some of the UK’s most loved and iconic brands, has been on a mission to substantially reduce its environmental impact by updating the packaging of various products to more ecological alternatives. This is part of the company’s sustainability agenda, which reflects its commitment to making all its packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025. Most recently, pladis has made steps forward to move toward more paper-based solutions – its Mini Cheddars and Cheeselets ranges now use Sonoco’s EnviroCanTM with paperboard end. Cracker Crisps and Mini Twiglets are also set to use EnviroCanTM later this year. “Sonoco’s EnviroCan™ with paperboard end meets the recycling requirements of the UK, which is great for our brand and the consumer, who can have peace of mind when disposing of the packaging in household waste recycling bins,” says Christopher Owen, Marketing Controller at pladis UK&I.

Greif, Inc. announced that it is expanding its CorrChoice – Concord sheet feeder operations. The company plans to acquire and install by the spring of 2022 an Engico Jumbo Flexo Folder Gluer from Haire Group that converts corrugated scored sheets into boxes. The three color, 188” machine offers flexibility with 66” and 99” die cut cylinders and will be the third jumbo press in Greif’s CorrChoice sheet feeder network. This investment enables Greif to continue its growth with new and existing strategic customers throughout the southeastern United States while enhancing customer service through diminished lead times. The expansion is also expected to create up to 30 new jobs in Cabarrus County where the CorrChoice – Concord sheet feeder is located

Huhtamaki, a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions for consumers around the world, has achieved an important technology breakthrough in developing next generation sustainable tube laminates. Working in partnership with LyondellBasell, Plastuni Lisses (Groupe Somater) and Groupe Rocher, Huhtamaki is launching a tube laminate with more than 40% recycled content from renewable based plastics. The laminate is primarily suitable for product applications in the cosmetics, personal care, oral care, and food sectors. The new laminate makes a significant contribution to fully circular flexible packaging solutions for these sectors. Working across the value chain where every partner has its own responsibility, LyondellBasell as the resin supplier, Huhtamaki as the laminate manufacturer, Plastuni Lisses as the tube maker and the leading cosmetics, home care and apparel company Groupe Rocher as the brand owner, Huhtamaki has successfully developed its next generation of tube laminates. For this innovative project, Huhtamaki focused on facilitating the incorporation and use of recycled materials creating recyclable products which increase the circularity of laminated tubes. To this end, it used resins from LyondellBasell’s innovative CirculenRenew polymers that are produced with renewable feedstock from bio-based sources from waste and residues such as used cooking oil, using a mass balance approach. These are certified under the ISCC PLUS standard.

Second Quarter 2021 Summary *Reported sales grew 16% driven by strong core sales growth and positive currency effects *Core sales (excluding currency effects) increased 10% mainly on double digit core growth in Beauty + Home and Food + Beverage, driven by increased demand for our innovative dispensing solutions along with price adjustments related to rising input costs *Reported earnings per share totaled $0.81 (an increase of 29% compared to the prior year) *Reported net income totaled $55 million for the second quarter (an increase of 32% compared to the prior year) and $139 million year-to-date (an increase of 43% compared to the prior year) *Cash flow from operations was $176 million in the first half of 2021 (a decrease of 23% compared to the prior year)

*Second quarter net earnings (loss) attributable to International Paper of $432 million ($1.09 per diluted share), compared with $349 million ($0.88 per diluted share) in the first quarter of 2021 and $266 million ($0.67 per diluted share) in the second quarter of 2020 *Second quarter cash provided by operations of $766 million and year-to-date of $1.3 billion compared with $1.5 billion year-to-date in the same period of 2020 *Ilim equity earnings of $101 million, bringing year-to-date to $150 million *Share repurchases of $57 million, bringing year-to-date to $186 million *Debt reduction of $796 million, bringing year-to-date to $904 million *Monetized remaining investment in Graphic Packaging for approximately $400 million

*Revenue growth of 11% *EBITDA of €781 million with an EBITDA margin of 16.7% *Corrugated growth of over 10% and over 9% versus 2020 and 2019 respectively *Accelerating investment plans to meet customer needs and capitalise on growth *Agreement to acquire 600,000 tonne recycled containerboard mill *Strong and progressive corrugated price recovery offsetting significant input cost increases *Interim dividend increased by 5% to 29.3 cent per share. Tony Smurfit, Group CEO, commented: “I am pleased to report a strong first half performance with revenue growth of 11%, EBITDA of €781 million and an EBITDA margin of 16.7%. Growth in corrugated was over 10% against the same period in 2020 and over 9% on 2019 and we continue to see strong demand for our core products.

BillerudKorsnäs is in a process with the aim of divesting the paper mill in Beetham, UK. The process is ongoing and no binding agreement to divest the mill has yet been entered into. Since BillerudKorsnäs’ machine glazed (MG) paper business has primarily been focused in Skärblacka, the strategic importance of Beetham to the rest of the group has been reduced. Beetham produces kraft paper for packaging of medical equipment, food packaging and other types of industrial applications and has a capacity of around 45 000 tonnes per year. In 2020, the facility had sales of around SEK 480 million.

Metsä Board invests EUR 210 million in increasing folding boxboard capacity at its Husum mill in Sweden. The company is responding to growing demand for sustainably produced packaging materials that support the circular economy. The investment strengthens Metsä Board's position as the leading producer of folding boxboard in Europe. Metsä Board has made an investment decision to increase the annual folding boxboard capacity by 200,000 tonnes at its Husum integrated mill in Sweden. At present, the annual folding boxboard capacity of the paperboard machine BM1 is 400,000 tonnes, and after the investment it will rise to 600,000 tonnes. Additional capacity will enter the market during 2024–2025. The investment value is approximately EUR 210 million, divided in 2021–2024 and mainly in 2022–2023.

January–June 2021 (compared with 1–6/2020) • Sales were EUR 1,049.5 million (945.2). • Comparable operating result was EUR 191.3 million (94.2) or 18.2% (10.0) of sales. Operating result was EUR 185.6 million (100.3). • Comparable earnings per share were EUR 0.42 (0.19), and earnings per share were EUR 0.41 (0.21). • Comparable return on capital employed was 19.3% (10.7). • Net cash flow from operations was EUR 150.7 mil-lion (152.3). METSÄ BOARD’S CEO MIKA JOUKIO: “The year 2021 has been very good for Metsä Board. Demand for our fresh fibre paperboards has been strong in all our products and in all our main markets. Sales prices have risen during the first half of the year and we see the same trend continuing in the third quarter. The order books for paperboards remain at an exceptionally high level, which also supports the outlook for the rest of the year.

Huhtamaki and Syntegon, the German processing and packaging technology provider, announce a breakthrough innovation for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. Push Tab® paper, the first paper-based tablet packaging, is made from renewable FSC™ certified paper and is designed to meet the stringent safety requirements of regulated pharmaceutical packaging. It provides customers a more sustainable alternative to traditional push-through packaging made of thermoformed PVC and aluminium and also helps to reduce environmental impact throughout the value chain. Push Tab® paper tablet packaging has more than 75% paper-based material sourced from FSC™ certified suppliers in Europe. Combining it with advanced barrier coating technology, Huhtamaki successfully makes the sustainable paper packaging sealable without compromising the safety, functionality, or protective properties compared to traditional mono PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) blisters. A special mechanical treatment allows consumers to push the tablet through easily without damaging the product inside. The material is further processed and formed with Syntegon's unique paper shaping technology and machinery.

Net income for the first six months of 2021 was $167.8 million as compared to net income of $135.8 million for the first six months of 2020. Net sales for the first six months of 2021 increased $380.0 million, or 17.2 percent, to $2.59 billion as compared to $2.21 billion for the first six months of 2020. This increase was primarily a result of higher unit volumes in each of the Dispensing and Specialty Closures and Metal Container segments, the pass through of higher raw material costs, the impact of favorable foreign currency translation and a more favorable mix of products sold in the Dispensing and Specialty Closures and Custom Container segments, partially offset by lower volumes in the Custom Container segment and a higher percentage of smaller cans sold in the Metal Container segment.

Smurfit Kappa Group plc agrees to acquire Verzuolo, a containerboard business in Northern Italy, for a cash consideration of €360 million. The Verzuolo mill owned by the Burgo Group, is situated close to the port of Savona in the northwest of Italy. The PM9 machine was newly constructed in 2002 and converted into a 600,000 tonne capacity recycled containerboard machine in 2019. Verzuolo is highly complementary to SKG’s existing business and is strategically positioned to serve both the Southern European region and other markets ensuring we continue to provide the best service to our corrugated customers. The acquisition will deliver significant synergistic benefits including technical and production optimisation, and increased containerboard integration within the Group. The cash consideration will be funded from the Group’s existing resources. It is expected that the acquisition will complete during the fourth quarter, subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approval.

Graphic Packaging Holding Company reported Net Income for second quarter 2021 of $38 million. This compares to second quarter 2020 Net Income of $52 million. Michael Doss, the Company's President and CEO said, "Strong demand continued across our markets in the second quarter as consumer preferences are driving conversions to our fiber-based packaging solutions. Increased consumer mobility and consumption outside of the home resulted in higher sales in our Foodservice markets up 22% year over year, while Food, Beverage and Consumer markets continued to show healthy growth of 4%. Our teams worked tirelessly to meet customer demand, and we swiftly implemented pricing actions to offset rising commodity input costs which impacted our results in the quarter. We expect to generate significantly higher Adjusted EBITDA in the second half of 2021 driven by price-cost recovery from the successful execution of approximately $400 million of implemented and recognized pricing actions, and continued momentum from organic sales growth and strong productivity. As we address the near-term inflationary headwinds, we remain unwavering in our commitment to introduce new and innovative packaging solutions across global markets supportive of the move to a more circular economy." Net Sales increased 8% to $1,737 million in the second quarter of 2021, compared to $1,611 million in the prior year period.

Packaging Corporation of America reported second quarter 2021 net income of $207 million, excluding special items. Second quarter net sales were $1.9 billion in 2021 and $1.5 billion in 2020. Commenting on reported results, Mark W. Kowlzan, Chairman and CEO, said, “Demand in our Packaging segment remained very strong. Our mills and plants continued to do an outstanding job of meeting our customers’ needs while managing through certain material and chemical availability issues, a tight labor market, various freight and logistics challenges, as well as the planned maintenance outages at four of our mills during the second quarter. The mills executed the planned outages extremely well and, with the help of the No. 3 machine at the Jackson Mill, provided our plants the necessary containerboard to achieve an all-time record for total box shipments. We were also able to build some much-needed inventory; however, our weeks-of-inventory supply was at a new low for this time of year ahead of an expected very busy second half. The sales groups in both the Packaging and Paper segments are doing a great job of implementing our previously announced price increases, and we continue to deliver on the numerous initiatives and capital projects to reduce costs and improve efficiencies across all of our mills and corrugated products plants. These efforts are extremely important as we continue to experience significant cost inflation across the Company as well as logistics challenges with both our inbound and outbound freight needs.”

Timm will be responsible for delivering operational excellence and growth of Pregis’ blown film and converting operations in the new Anderson, South Carolina facility, as well as the Grand Rapids, Michigan location. The company recently announced a $80 million investment in the new South Carolina operation which will be serving food, CPG, medical, and converter market segments with engineered, customer-focused flexible packaging solutions tailored to the dynamic needs of brand owners and suppliers. “We view growth in specialty films as one of our top strategic imperatives. As the leader of this business, Dave will be charged with delivering on our aggressive goals through organic business growth and strategic expansion. He will oversee the significant investments we’ve made in our operations and build out a center of excellence with the vision of being the first choice in the market. As we look to the future, Dave will reinforce the Pregis Purpose to ‘Protect, Preserve, Inspyre’ by innovating, providing manufacturing excellence and delivering flexible packaging solutions that are driven by our Pregis 2K30 sustainability plan,” said Kevin Baudhuin, president and CEO, Pregis.

Sales of $4.7 billion in the second quarter of 2021 increased 2 percent versus the prior year. Organic sales decreased 3 percent as volumes declined 4 percent while the combined impact of changes in net selling prices and product mix increased sales approximately 1 percent. In North America, organic sales decreased 11 percent in consumer products and 4 percent in K-C Professional. Second quarter operating profit was $613 million in 2021 and $925 million in 2020. Results were impacted by lower sales volumes and $345 million of higher input costs, driven by pulp, other materials and distribution costs. Other manufacturing costs were higher, including inefficiencies from lower production volumes. Results benefited from higher net selling prices, $115 million of cost savings from the company's FORCE (Focused On Reducing Costs Everywhere) program, $30 million of cost savings from the 2018 Global Restructuring Program and lower marketing, research and general expense.

Q2 2021 in brief: *Net sales increased 10% to EUR 877 million (EUR 797 million) *Reported EBIT was EUR 75 million (EUR 70 million) *Reported EPS was EUR 0.50 (EUR 0.44) *Comparable net sales growth was 14% at Group level and 20% in emerging markets *The impact of currency movements was EUR -35 million on the Group’s net sales and EUR -4 million on EBIT. H1 2021 in brief: *Net sales increased 2% to EUR 1,679 million (EUR 1,642 million) *Reported EBIT was EUR 147 million (EUR 153 million) *Comparable net sales growth was 6% at Group level and 13% in emerging markets *The impact of currency movements was EUR -81 million on the Group’s net sales and EUR -8 million on EBIT

Net sales for the second quarter of 2021 were $1.38 billion, up 11.0 percent from last year's second quarter sales of $1.25 billion. This growth was driven by an improvement in volume/mix, higher selling prices mostly implemented to offset inflation and a favorable impact from foreign exchange. GAAP net loss attributable to Sonoco in the second quarter of 2021 was $(334.1) million, or $(3.34) per diluted share, a decrease of $389.3 million, compared with income of $55.2 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, in 2020. Gross profit was $262.7 million in the second quarter of 2021 compared to $248.0 million in the same period in 2020. Quarterly gross profit as a percentage of sales declined 92 basis points year over year to 19.0 percent.

Flint Group Packaging Inks, one of the largest ink and coatings suppliers to the global print and packaging industry, has enhanced its solvent-based range of inks and coatings for European customers. The new ONECode range is designed simplify the flexible packaging printing process, reducing process waste and increasing ease in doing business. "Under the ONECode brand, we have built a new product hierarchy including six new brands," says Kim Melander, Vice President & General Manager for Packaging Inks Europe, "These ink systems, developed to unlock the complex landscape of flexible package printing, to connect, clarify, and bring transparency to the flexible packaging printing industry.” Mr. Melander continues, “Flint Group Packaging Inks’ ONECode range will guarantee printers and converters innovative, reliable, and sustainable ink solutions that deliver the highest performance possible from your most simple to your most demanding applications.”

Scott® 24 Hour Sanitizing Wipes – Kimberly-Clark Professional's pre-saturated wipes with a patented formulation – has been named the winner of the 2021 World of Wipes (WOW) Innovation Award at the WOW International Conference. A team of technical specialists from The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry ( INDA ) chose Scott® 24 over 23 submissions. The product was honored for its innovation across the entire wipes value chain. Scott® 24 Hour Sanitizing Wipes are registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for disinfecting against numerous strains of bacteria and viruses – including SARS-CoV-2[1]. These pre-saturated wipes quickly disinfect and maintain surface sanitization against bacteria for a full 24 hours, even after multiple touches.[2]

The two companies will partner to provide circular solutions to the market. The investment in a complete recycling solution is set to significantly improve recycling throughout Central and Eastern Europe. The partnership, that follows a comprehensive feasibility study, sees the introduction of a large-scale carton repulping line at Stora Enso’s Ostrołęka production unit in Poland. The line will triple the annual recycling capacity of used beverage cartons in Poland from 25 000 to 75 000 tonnes. This will allow recycling of the entire volume of beverage cartons sold in the country and the ones coming from neighbouring countries, including Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The total investment is EUR 29.1 million. Stora Enso will invest EUR 17 million into a new repulping line that will recover the carton fibers. Tetra Pak along with Plastigram will invest a total of EUR 12.1 million to build an additional line. It will recover and separately recycle the polymers and the aluminium, using a patented separation technology. Both lines will be operational in the beginning of 2023.

Pregis is announcing a $80 million investment in a new, state-of-the-art blown film extrusion facility in Anderson, South Carolina. Headed by industry veterans, the 168,000 square foot facility will feature multiple newly-installed lines that will be producing the latest engineered films to be used downstream to manufacture performance-oriented, packaging solutions for food, CPG and medical applications. The plant will also include a world-class film laboratory to develop and test materials. In keeping with Pregis’ previously announced 2K30 environmental goals, the Anderson facility will also feature the latest in energy-efficiency in manufacturing and other plant functions.

DS Smith has proposed sale of its De Hoop paper mill in the Netherlands to De Jong Packaging for a cash consideration of €50 million (c. £43 million). The mill produces c.370k tonnes of mainly heavier grades of recycled paper per annum. The sale supports our strategy to have a “short paper” position in Northern Europe where there is a greater amount of external paper capacity available to the Group and also further aligns our internal paper production with our priorities in light-weight fibre-based packaging solutions for FMCG and e-commerce customers.

Unilever, together with Mondi, have developed a new high barrier paper-based packaging material for Unilever’s Colman’s dry Meal Maker and Sauces range by reducing plastic, increasing paper content, and consequently ensuring recyclability in the existing UK paper waste stream. By replacing the previous unrecyclable multi-material laminate with recyclable paper packaging, Mondi supports Unilever in its sustainability targets. The aluminium, as well as all unnecessary plastic layers of the previous material, were eliminated. This resulted in a new packaging solution with paper content of 85% and an ultra-thin functional plastic layer that seals the packaging, and provides barrier protection for the food. Mondi and Unilever’s R&D teams identified this layer as the minimum acceptable protection needed to ensure a long shelf life while maintaining high quality and reducing food waste.

Solenis, a leading global producer of specialty chemicals, is joining forces with Pulpex Limited and its global consortium partners to collaborate on the ongoing evolution of the Pulpex eco-friendly paper bottle. Pulpex is a new world-leading sustainable packaging technology company established by venture management firm Pilot Lite and spirits producer Diageo. The company has developed the world’s first widely recyclable PET-free paper bottle made from sustainably sourced pulp. As a technology partner, Solenis will provide chemical solutions to optimize the PET-free paper bottle, including surface treatments to enhance its functional and visual properties. The Pulpex technology allows for embossing, debossing, labeling and direct printing with food-safe colored pigments and dyes to fit brand needs.

Total packaging papers & specialty packaging shipments in June increased three percent compared to June 2020. They were up two percent when compared to the same six months of 2020. The operating rate was 90.2 percent, up 1.6 points from June 2020 and up 5.0 points year-to-date. Mill inventories at the end of June decreased 17,000 short tons from the previous month and were down 9,000 short tons compared to June 2020.

Total containerboard production in June increased nine percent compared to June 2020. It was up five percent when compared to the same six months of 2020. June 2021 production of containerboard for export decreased 15 percent compared to the same month last year; it was down 25 percent year-to-date. The containerboard operating rate was 92.7 percent, up 1.4 points from June 2020 and up 1.4 points year-to-date. Mill inventories of containerboard at the end of June decreased 74,000 short tons from the previous month and were down 76,000 short tons compared to June 2020.

Total boxboard production in June remained essentially flat (-0.1 percent) compared to June 2020. It was also essentially flat (-0.2 percent) when compared to the same six months of 2020. The boxboard operating rate was 92.7 percent, down 1.0 points from June 2020 and essentially flat (+0.4 pts.) year-to-date. Solid Bleached Boxboard production in June decreased eight percent compared to June 2020. It was down four percent when compared to the same six months of 2020. Recycled Boxboard production in June increased five percent compared to June 2020. It was down one percent when compared to the same six months of 2020. Unbleached Kraft & Gypsum production in June increased five percent compared to June 2020. It was up six percent when compared to the same six months of 2020.

Every barista knows that serving the perfect take-away coffee is not just about the coffee, but also about the entire customer experience. Packaging plays an essential role in delivering the best experience for consumers. “We have been observing take-away coffee aficionados and have focused on developing innovative sustainable packaging solutions to overcome the obstacles standing in the way of the ultimate experience. Whether your coffee is hot or cold, we have figured it out. Let me tell you how,” says Neal McCone, Category Director, Quick Service Restaurants and Specialty Coffee, Fiber and Foodservice Packaging at Huhtamaki.

With the rise of e-commerce, many brands are experiencing leakages, costly returns and brand reputation damage when trying to force traditional brick-and-mortar liquid packaging formats through the rigors of the online fulfilment supply chain. Liquibox and WestRock, two leaders in sustainable packaging, present a Ships In Own Container (SIOC) bag-in-box solution for Amazon that delights consumers, reduces waste and ensures products arrive undamaged. The combination of Liquibox's first-to-market recycle-ready Liquipure™ flexible packaging, its wide portfolio of dispensing taps and fitments and WestRock's high impact Meta® box designs, means the most optimal e-commerce liquid format is now within reach for beverage, liquid food and home care brands that want to grow in online retail. Through this partnership, customers have access to a turn-key solution to start selling online in no time that covers everything from packaging, service and testing needs to the filling and mandrel case forming equipment. Bag-in-box is one of the fastest growing segments in the liquid packaging market, expected to reach over 2 billion liters of global volume annually by the year 2024 (source: GlobalData).

Paperboard production at the Metsä Board Husum mill has resumed to normal production levels following a fire at the pulp mill's wood chip conveyor on 18 June. The mill's folding boxboard line (BM1) and white kraftliner production line (BM2) have reached full production levels. The paperboard production was run at lower-than-normal capacity during the pulp mill’s standstill. Production at Husum pulp mill's hardwood pulp line has restarted this past weekend and production at the softwood pulp line is currently estimated to restart by the end of this week. Normal pulp production levels are expected to be resumed within the next week.

Aptar Food + Beverage’s Freyung site in Germany is excited to announce the achievement of the ISCC* PLUS Certification, a chain of custody certifications based on the mass balance model, that enables the use of resin from recycled mixed plastics feedstock or bio-based renewable feedstock. Consumer Product Goods (CPG’s) companies around the globe are increasingly searching for recycled polypropylene (rPP) materials for food products, but currently, rPP is not approved for food-grade products in Europe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK. However, for companies in Europe who want access to recycled content polyolefins for food packaging, there is a solution that involves the ISCC PLUS ‘mass balance approach’. Aptar’s approach verifies, along the entire supply chain, the flow of materials.

Huhtamaki, a key global provider of sustainable packaging solutions, is launching Futuro, the first 100% plastic free egg carton for cooked colored eggs, across markets in Europe. This innovation is especially relevant to the German market, where hard-boiled eggs or “Bunte Eier” remain a popular snack and an addition to lunch or dinner, with more than 80 million packs sold yearly. Hard-boiled eggs are currently regularly packed and sold in plastic packaging for sale in supermarkets. “This is a step forward in helping our customers meet their sustainability targets and drive a circular economy. By simply switching to our fiber based Futuro cartons, Germany could eliminate almost 2,400 metric tons of plastic from packaging for eggs yearly”, says Hilbrand van Dijk, Sales & Marketing Manager at Huhtamaki.

Sonoco provided a progress report on Project Horizon, its $115 million investment to transform its corrugated medium machine in Hartsville, S.C. to a state-of-the-art uncoated recycled paperboard operation with annual production capacity of 180,000 tons. “The conversion of our corrugated medium machine (#10 machine) to URB is expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2022, and there are a number of significant construction projects underway that will modernize the infrastructure of the entire Hartsville Mill Complex and allow for more efficient and safe handling of raw materials and finished goods,” said Tim Davis, Division Vice President and General Manager, Paper & Adhesives, U.S./Canada. A key element of Project Horizon is construction of a new stock prep system to provide approximately 650 tons per day of recycled fiber to the rebuilt #10 machine and other Hartsville cylinder machines.

Aptar will leverage YAT’s expansive market insight database, focused on specific consumer skincare needs and skincare profiles, and will use YAT’s in-depth experience in customized turnkey solutions as well as online product distribution and promotion to bring new solutions to market. The collaboration will significantly bolster Aptar’s product and service offerings in China, along with innovation capabilities, by combining Aptar’s expertise in innovative, sustainable and quality manufacturing of packaging solutions together with YAT’s profound understanding of the Chinese consumer, concept design and development expertise, digital marketing capabilities and ingredient based influencer pool, which are increasingly essential in accelerating new product launches that are well received by the market.

Marco Hilty, (49), Ph.D. in Business Administration from University of St. Gallen (Switzerland), has been appointed President, Flexible Packaging and a member of the Global Executive Team at Huhtamaki as of September 1, 2021. He will report to President and CEO Charles Héaulmé and will be based in Ronsberg, Germany. Marco joins Huhtamaki from Rubicon, a software platform that provides smart waste and recycling solutions for businesses and governments worldwide. Prior to Rubicon, he held several leadership roles with Amcor in Switzerland and in the United States, covering Group Sales and Commercial Excellence, lastly as Vice President for Amcor Flexibles in North America. Prior to Amcor, Marco worked as an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company in the United States and Switzerland.

PawPrint™ Pet Food Packaging Papers offer sustainable alternatives for flexible pet food packaging needs. PawPrint™ papers provide pet food brand owners functional yet visually attractive pet food packaging – inside and out- to help them eliminate the need for single-use plastic with a more sustainable alternative. “The marketplace is constantly moving to more sustainable, recyclable and chemical-free options for packaging, including pet food packaging,” said Jeff Murphy, V¬ice President of Ahlstrom-Munksjö’s Food Packaging business. “Our FluoroFree® technology, in addition to our other continuous innovations, are best positioned to help brand owners meet these goals.”

ePac Flexible Packaging announced they have entered into a global agreement with Scantrust to bring smart, connected packaging solutions to brands of all sizes, including small and medium-sized businesses. Through ePacConnect, which was announced in October of 2020, ePac and Scantrust together offer secure, serialized QR codes on all of its packaging and provide access to a suite of Scantrust applications for consumer engagement, brand protection, and track and trace. With ePacConnect, all packaging can be born digital, each with a unique digital identity. When scanned by a simple smartphone camera, every package becomes a gateway to 2-way communication between brands and consumers. The companies expect billions of pouches to be produced with ePacConnect over the coming years.

Tetra Pak has today been recognised as one of the world’s 50 Sustainability and Climate Leaders. The leading food processing and packaging solutions company has been acknowledged for its commitment to pioneer a sustainable future, with a documentary showcasing its fascinating journey. The video features interviews with members of Tetra Pak’s Global Leadership Team, highlighting how the role of food sector in tackling climate change is becoming even more imperative. They explain why accelerating de-carbonisation and collaborations is critical to lead the sustainability transformation of the food packaging industry – addressing complex and multi-faceted challenges such as global warming, circularity and biodiversity. Food is a critical but often overlooked element of the climate issue. The global food system accounts for 26% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions1, while 8% of total emissions are caused by food waste2.

The CANPACK Group is proud to announce that it was awarded a ‘White CSR Leaf’ by POLITYKA weekly, an award that had been assessed in cooperation with Deloitte and the Responsible Business Forum. In addition to receiving this accolade, CANPACK was also recognised as a ‘best practice’ organisation when it came to reducing its carbon footprint. The prestigious ‘White CSR Leaf’ accolade from POLITYKA weekly is awarded to companies that have been the most socially engaged over the last ten years. This year’s jubilee edition focused on company projects that reduced a business’s impact on the natural environment and climate, as well as initiatives to counter the economic and social effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Every year, the ranking is also accompanied by a review of initiatives supporting the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Out of over 100 initiatives supporting sustainable development, the most up-to-date practices that brought measurable and significant effects were recognised.

The new 298,000 square foot facility will be located in McDonough, Georgia and is the latest in a series of investments in protective packaging manufacturing facilities to support e-commerce demand. Pregis recently announced two manufacturing facilities in Texas, one in Bethel, Pennsylvania, in addition to an existing facility in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. The McDonough facility will be producing the recently rebranded Pregis EverTec™ mailer which features lightweight, recyclable all-paper cushioned construction. Pregis is currently looking to fill 80 new manufacturing positions there, with room to expand production and employment opportunities in the future. In total, the new EverTec manufacturing locations are expected to create approximately 450 new jobs.

Smurfit Kappa Group, one of the world's largest integrated manufacturers of paper-based packaging products with operations in Europe and the Americas, is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of Cartonbox, a folding carton company located in Monterrey, in the north-east of Mexico. The acquisition represents an important milestone for the Company as it strengthens its participation in the paper packaging solutions business in Mexico, expands its footprint to four folding carton locations in the country, and reaffirms its commitment to paper-based packaging as the core strategic business for the Company.

BillerudKorsnäs is introducing two new low grammages of their flagship cartonboard product, CrownBoard Prestige®. Made at KM7, the world’s most modern board machine, the two new low grammages are particularly interesting for the graphical industry. CrownBoard Prestige® 170 and 200 gsm combine an excellent printing surface with strength and shapeability. The technical properties of the board are due to the capabilities of KM7, including advanced coating technology and state-of-the-art online quality monitoring. Despite the low basis weights, it is a strong board, made of 100% primary wood fibres built up in a 3-ply structure. Thanks to the strength, it is possible to choose a light grammage to reduce packaging weight. With CrownBoard Prestige®, this can be done without compromising packaging performance.

Novolex, an industry leader in packaging choice, innovation, and sustainability, announced it has acquired the business of Flexo Converters USA, Inc. and certain of its affiliates. The intention to acquire was originally announced May 17. Flexo is a manufacturer of stock, custom and recycled paper bags, and sacks. A family-owned business, Flexo was founded in 1994. It is headquartered and has a manufacturing facility in Meriden, CT and an additional plant in Monroe, GA. Flexo products will be sold under the Novolex Duro Bag® brand. The addition of Flexo products to the Novolex portfolio will enable Duro to support customer demand through Flexo’s production capacity. Novolex has seen a significant increase in demand for paper bags and sacks as consumer purchasing patterns have shifted.

Silgan Holdings Inc. announced that, as part of the continuation of its long-term succession planning, its Board of Directors has appointed Adam J. Greenlee as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective September 1, 2021. Mr. Greenlee will also continue as President of the Company. Mr. Greenlee joined Silgan in 2005 and ran its North American Closures operations prior to being appointed Executive Vice President of the Company in October 2007. Mr. Greenlee was named Chief Operating Officer of the Company in 2009 and was appointed President of the Company in April 2019. Tony Allott has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company since March 2006, only its second CEO since its founding in 1987. Mr. Allott will continue to serve as Executive Chairman of the Company. “Adam and I have worked closely together on every major activity of Silgan for the past decade and he has been responsible for the oversight of each of our operating businesses in recent years. Just as importantly, Adam understands and personifies the unique culture of our Company and has consistently shown his ability to deliver results as Silgan has continued on its path of growth and success. While I am sure his leadership will explore new ideas and opportunities, I am equally confident it will be founded on the ideals and principles that have served us so well in the past,” said Tony Allott, Chairman and CEO.

Sonoco announced it has entered into a new five-year $750 million revolving credit facility (the “Credit Agreement”) with a syndicate of banks. The Credit Agreement replaces an existing credit facility entered into on July 20, 2017, and reflects substantially the same terms and conditions. “We are pleased to upsize our prior $500 million committed credit facility with a new $750 million revolver and extend the maturity date for an additional five years. This new credit facility provides us with additional financial flexibility and reflects our strong credit profile. It also illustrates the solid relationships with our commercial banks,” said Julie Albrecht, Sonoco Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Nuevopak Global Limited (“Nuevopak”) for approximately $43.8 million in total cash consideration, consisting of $34.8 million to be paid at closing and the remaining amount, subject to certain post-closing adjustments and potential contingent consideration, to be paid within three years from the date of closing. All amounts are in US dollars. Nuevopak designs and develops a range of machines to provide void-fill and cushioning protective packaging solutions. Nuevopak currently supplies IPG with paper dispensing machines and converted paper for protective packaging distribution in North America. Nuevopak is a privately held company headquartered in Hong Kong with subsidiaries in Jiangmen, China and Scheden, Germany that serve customers around the world, providing protective packaging solutions using a combination of world-class innovation and specialized industry experience. This acquisition is expected to further enhance IPG’s protective packaging business and strengthen its product bundle, thereby supporting IPG’s vision to be a global leader in packaging and protective solutions. The acquisition is also expected to enable IPG to secure dispensing machine supply, vertically integrate its paper converting operation, and expand market share in this growing, sustainability-focused market.

Sonoco Protective Solutions announced the expansion of its proprietary Sonopost® packaging technology into Europe. Utilizing current manufacturing infrastructure, strategically located to support this growing opportunity, Sonoco Protective Solutions will expand with a new Sonopost manufacturing operation in Sochaczew, Poland this summer. The Sonopost manufacturing platform uses corner posts made from 100% recycled paperboard to provide a more sustainable packaging solution for large appliances, HVAC units and similar products requiring superior unit protection and exceptional stacking capability. After use, the 100% recyclable corner posts can be bailed with existing paper scrap and recycled in the paper stream, allowing manufacturers to reduce or completely eliminate their plastic packaging waste.

The two companies are strengthening their partnership by developing a 100% recyclable corrugated board solution. Reducing plastic packaging is a major issue in the CSR approach of La Coopérative Agricole de Noirmoutier, a group of producers of high quality potatoes located on the island of Noirmoutier (Atlantic coast). It is with the ambition to replace the plastic bags wrapping its potatoes that the Cooperative contacted DS Smith. With its experience and collaborative spirit, it is with enthusiasm that DS Smith organized several workshops bringing together members of the two companies. The main difficulty was to keep the potatoes in good condition despite the elimination of plastic. Thanks to the expertise of its designers, DS Smith has succeeded in developing a 100% recyclable corrugated board solution that guarantees the conservation and visibility of the potatoes.

Smurfit Kappa has announced the opening of a new International Safe Transfer Association (ISTA) certified lab at its new eCommerce packaging facility in Northampton, UK. This brings with it an expansion of Smurfit Kappa’s network of packaging testing labs and centres that support retailers and producers to develop, test and launch disruptive packaging solutions for eCommerce at minimal risk and with reliable implementation. ISTA certification is often required by online selling platforms such as Amazon, Alibaba or eBay. From its ISTA lab in the Netherlands, Smurfit Kappa has over 14 years of experience and data from testing new and innovative packaging solutions to ensure they are fit for purpose and meet the challenges of the eCommerce supply chain. Most recently, Smurfit Kappa was the first to secure Amazon’s ‘Frustration-Free Packaging’ pre-certification for a three litre Bag-in-Box solution. All this expertise is now also extended into the UK market.

Tetra Pak announces an ambitious investment program dedicated to its factory in Châteaubriant, specialised in the production of caps. Spanning across a three-year period (late 2021-2023), this €100 million project will support the plant’s transition to the production of tethered caps by 2024. Tethered caps help to minimise litter, as the cap will stay attached to the package. This step – that is in addition to the company’s commitment to invest approximately €100 million per year over the next 5-10 years to develop more sustainable packaging solutions - is key to ensuring that Tetra Pak’s customers in Europe will be ready to comply with the Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive, an integral part of the wider approach announced in the Plastics Strategy and an important element of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan.

Taking inspiration from nature, Lecta presents EraCup Natural, a totally recyclable, biodegradable and polyethylene-free paper-based solution for single-use cups. EraCup Natural is the first product in Lecta’s new range of functional papers for nature-friendly packaging aligned with responsible consumption habits in which each decision matters. Manufactured under the most rigorous environmental and food safety certifications, Lecta’s new paper-based EraCup Natural solution is based on a proprietary process that is both polyethylene and bioplastic free. Its unique composition allows the paper to be recycled in standard paper recycling circuits after having been converted and used.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, is increasing capacity for their paper-based MailerBAG range to further replace plastic packaging in eCommerce with a recyclable solution made of responsibly sourced renewable materials. The innovative MailerBAG is now available in three designs, with the flat bottom version complementing the existing range of pinch and folded bottom bags, as each one offers consumers user-friendly packaging with multiple advantages. This includes easy closing for packing, expandability for bulkier goods, and easy resealing functionality for returns. The bags are made from kraft paper, a renewable material, and are completely re-usable and recyclable. MailerBAGs protect products without transporting too much air, meaning less space in storage and transit due to their flexible properties. The bags can be used and shipped worldwide.

Amcor’s Flexibles North America business today announced the installation of a seven-layer blown film line. Amcor’s new machine will produce the company’s recently launched proprietary AmPrima™ PE Plus ultra-clear and heat resistance films. The AmPrima line uses machine-direction orientation technology to produce films that can run at speeds that competitors are unable to match in a recycle-ready solution. These films enable customers to shift to recycle-ready solutions without compromise on performance, product appearance or manufacturing throughput. AmPrima is part of Amcor’s growing portfolio of responsible packaging solutions. In the U.S., when clean and dry, AmPrima can be collected for recycling curbside where available or through existing in-store drop-off locations. These solutions also are prequalified for the How2Recycle® label, which saves customers time, cost and reduces risk in development. The AmPrima line represents another meaningful step forward against Amcor’s effort to make all its products recyclable or reusable by 2025.

Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, is proud to have been awarded again the Platinum level rating by EcoVadis for the company’s sustainability and corporate social responsibility. With a top score of 83/100 Metsä Board is among the highest 1% of companies assessed in the manufacture of corrugated paper and paperboard and containers of paper and paperboard. EcoVadis assesses companies covering four themes: Metsä Board was in the top 1% of companies for Environment, Labour & Human Rights and Sustainable Procurement and in the top 4% for Ethics.

Leading global packaging and paper group Mondi has partnered with German manufacturer VPF, an expert in self-adhesive materials and coatings, to create the world’s first sustainable release liner range made from recycled paper. VPF committed to make their labels more sustainable by producing them from recycled materials. In a next step, they wanted their release liners to also be made of recycled materials and collaborated with Mondi to make this possible. Mondi used their customer-centric EcoSolutions approach to support VPF’s sustainability commitment, and with Mondi’s EverLiner M R, all the components of VPF’s label laminates are now made from recycled materials. Mondi’s EverLiner M R was launched in February and is the first machine-glazed release liner with 70% recycled content on the market. As well as using less fresh fibres, it is available with FSC® or PEFC-certified paper and significantly reduces the CO2e footprint compared to standard liners. This means EverLiner M R is a more responsible release liner solution for labels, tapes, envelopes, and industrial applications.

Tredegar Surface Protection announced that it will implement a resin index based pricing plan that will apply to all products and customers, in response to unprecedented price increases and supply issues for polyethylene and polypropylene resin. This bilateral pricing model, which allows for decreases if resin prices fall in the future, will be effective on all shipments beginning July 1, 2021. Citing growing cost pressures, Dr. Bapi DasGupta, president of Tredegar Surface Protection, said, “While we are seeing cost inflation in many areas, the increase in the cost of our primary raw material is the most challenging, given that resin prices have doubled over the past year. In addition, resin supply continues to be tight as a result of recent force majeure events and issues associated with COVID-19 conditions, including supply chain delays. We continue to focus on cost-control measures across our business and remain fully committed to delivering industry-leading product quality and supply reliability to our customers.”

Sonoco announced it will raise the price for all paperboard tubes and cores by a minimum of 6 percent, effective with shipments in the United States and Canada, on or after July 26, 2021. “This price increase is necessary due to continued increases in costs for uncoated recycled paperboard (URB), our primary raw material which remains in very tight supply. Additionally, we continue to experience significant inflationary pressures in adhesives, packaging and logistics costs,” said Mike Thompson, Director of Sales and Marketing for Sonoco’s North America Tubes and Cores Division.

Sealed Air Corporation has dedicated more than $30 million in capital to expand global production capacity and invest in new equipment systems to meet the accelerating demand for Automated Packaging Systems (APS) AUTOBAG® brand solutions, an acquisition Sealed Air closed in 2019. The investment is for capacity expansion, “touchless” automation, and proprietary digital printing technologies primarily in SEE’s APS facilities in Streetsboro and Bedford Heights, Ohio and Keyser, West Virginia, and will be completed in 2021. The company will also expand capacity and install new equipment at APS sites in Malvern, UK; Cavite, Philippines; and Qingpu, China.

AptarGroup, Inc. announced that it has entered into exclusive negotiations with respect to a potential acquisition of all outstanding shares of Voluntis (ENXTPA: ALVTX), a pioneer in digital therapeutics. This acquisition would complement Aptar’s existing digital health portfolio of connected devices by adding digital therapeutic solutions and broadening its digital health services across multiple chronic conditions and diseases. Digital therapeutics (DTx) help patients and caregivers treat, manage, or prevent a disorder or disease through evidence-based interventions that are driven by high quality software solutions. Supported by the trend toward personalized healthcare, DTx are used independently or in connection with medications, devices or other therapies to optimize patient care and health outcomes. By acquiring Voluntis, Aptar would have immediate access to an established proprietary platform and algorithms that would drive future digital solutions provided to pharmaceutical and biotech customers as well as other healthcare stakeholders including payers and providers.

The Mayr-Melnhof Group ("MM") and a subsidiary of Oaktree Capital Management, LP's advisory funds have reached a firm memorandum of understanding to transfer MM's virgin fiber board plants in Eerbeek, the Netherlands, and Baiersbronn, Germany, to Oaktree an equity value of EUR 104.6 million plus net debt according to the final invoice. Eerbeek and Baiersbronn together have an annual capacity of around 245kt virgin fiber board (FBB), which is produced on two board machines, and employ around 400 people. Sales in 2020 reached EUR 195 million. The sale corresponds to and is part of MM's strategy to focus on new acquisitions and growth investments.

SCA increases prices on brown and white kraftliner by € 50 per tonne in Europe. The new prices are valid from August, 1, 2021. “Driven by the continued strong market for transport packaging, the global demand for kraftliner remains high”, says Mikael Frölander, VP Sales & Marketing Containerboard.

Huhtamaki introduces Smilepack, a 100% plastic free molded fiber egg carton, in the United States and Brazil. Smilepack cartons are Huhtamaki’s first product designed especially for the U.S. egg industry, providing a sustainable and functional alternative to traditional polystyrene foam or plastic packaging for eggs. In the United States, the egg packaging market is expected to reach $405 MN at a CAGR of 4.38% by 2025*. The Smilepack egg cartons are made with fiber recovered from recycled paper, which can be reused up to seven times. The cartons can be recycled in regular paper stream and they are home and industrially compostable. Smilepack is already in use in the U.S. by a prominent producer and distributor of free-range eggs, whose products are sold in retail stores across the country. It is estimated that by switching to fiber packaging, this company will eliminate around 4.6 million plastic egg cartons, or around 200 metric tons of plastic annually.

ePac Holdings Europe is proud to announce that the company is expanding its European operations into Austria to serve local and regional businesses. Building on the current locations in Silverstone (England) and Lyon (France), ePac Innsbruck (Austria), will be located in Landeck (Tyrol) and will serve Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. Orders can be placed effective immediately, and will be fulfilled by ePac Silverstone or Lyon until the production facility in Austria is completed. Christian Bischofberger, John Peat and Nick Monk become the Managing Partners for ePac Innsbruck. Christian will lead the operation and is a proven specialist in the printing and packaging industry with more than 20 years of experience. He will be supported by John and Nick (Managing Partners of ePac UK Silverstone), who have already gained a lot of experience with the ePac business model through the successful establishment and operation in Silverstone.

Sonoco announced it is implementing a $50 per ton price increase for all grades of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in the United States and Canada, effective with shipments beginning July 15, 2021. Sonoco said the price increase was in response to continuing strong demand across its U.S. and Canada mill network which has driven order backlogs to near historical levels as well as stepped up inflationary pressures from energy, freight, papermaking chemicals and packaging materials.

Smurfit Kappa has announced it will invest €24 million to expand its corrugated plant in Rethel, North-East France, demonstrating the company's continued commitment to its French customer market. The new investment will facilitate the consolidation of two existing facilities at that plant and the installation of a new state-of-the-art corrugator and conversion equipment. This investment will result in environmental improvements at the plant including a reduction in CO2 emissions, with a saving of at least 150 tonnes annually. Phase one of the project, including installation of the new corrugator, is due to be completed in the first half of 2022, with full completion of the investment project expected in 2023. The investment will help to modernise and expand the plant, which will include a new 8200m2 building designed specifically for the installation of the new high-tech corrugator.

Packaging manufacturer PackageMedia, operating in Inkeroinen, Kouvola, created a unique, local cup series called “Images from Kouvola” and “Images from Kotka” for Prisma stores in the Kymenlaakso region; the cups are made from Kotkamills' plastic-free and easy-to-recycle cupstock. The images depict the local attractions, nature, and other sources of pride of these two cities. The Kouvola-themed cups can be purchased in a 25-cup retail package at Prisma in Kouvola, and the Kotka-themed cups are available at the Sutela Prisma in Kotka. It's easy to grab some cups while doing your regular grocery shopping, and a package of cups is always a welcomed and practical gift to bring when visiting a summer cabin. Each city series of cups contains six different images, the number of which varies in the consumer packages, so each family member can choose their own image and use the cup they selected multiple times throughout the summer day without mixing it up with a cup used by someone else. After use, the plastic-free cup is easy to recycle with other cardboard packaging.

The aim of the rebuild is to increase production as well as improve quality and the ecological footprint. Start-up is scheduled for 2023. The scope of supply comprises: *Rebuild of the wire section, including major modifications to the approach flow systems with new pumps, upgrade of three existing headboxes and the hybrid former, as well as a new 2-layer PrimeFlow AT headbox with the latest state-of-the art dilution water CD profiling for better high-end product quality *New press section with two PrimePress X shoe presses for gentle, energy-efficient dewatering and bulk savings at higher dryness *Rebuild of the pre-dryer section with PrimeRun web stabilizers for improved runability *Upgrade of two under-machine pulpers in the area of the press and pre-dryer section *Complete adaptation of the automation system to accommodate the scope of supply *Machine clothings for the complete scope of supply *Assembly, start-up and production assistance. The board machine KM3 has a design speed of 800 m/min and a wire width of 5 m. It produces folding boxboard (chromo duplex quality) with 230–450 gsm.

When award-winning ethical jewellery brand Yala was looking for packaging materials compatible with its values and Certified B Corporation status, it selected Invercote Duo from Antalis. Founded by Kenyan-born Audrey Migot-Adholla, Yala takes the inspiration for its jewellery from modern Africa, combining traditional craft with 21st-century values. It is the first jewellery brand in the UK to be a Certified B Corporation, committed to treating people, communities and the environment respectfully, sustainably and ethically. It is important to Yala that every aspect of the packaging is as low impact and sustainable as possible, which is why they selected FSC®-certified Invercote Duo. Due to its strength, toughness and thickness, Invercote Duo is especially suitable for wine and spirits packaging and point of sale displays and is ideal for the packaging of luxury products such as Yala jewellery. Invercote Duo is manufactured by Iggesund at its mill in Sweden, which has been awarded Platinum for sustainability by Ecovadis, putting it in the top 1% off all 65,000 companies rated by Ecovadis.

Novolex® announced that it has launched a new Chattanooga, Tenn. production line to manufacture compostable cold beverage cups made from a plant-based plastic. The clear cups are made using polylactic acid (PLA), a plastics polymer created from starch-based plants such as corn, sugarcane and wheat straw. The cups will be available from Novolex brand Eco-Products®, a leading provider of foodservice packaging made from renewable and recycled resources. “PLA looks, acts and performs like a traditional clear plastic, yet it is 100% compostable in commercial compost facilities,” said Adrianne Tipton, Chief Technology Officer of Novolex. “It is one more sustainable choice that we are proud to offer our customers.