SK Capital Partners has completed a strategic investment in Ecopol, a leading developer and producer of biodegradable films and delivery systems. SK Capital has acquired a majority interest in the company, while Ecopol's CEO, Mauro Carbone, retains a significant stake and remains as CEO. The new Board of Directors includes industry leaders with expertise in sustainable materials and consumer packaged goods. The partnership aims to accelerate Ecopol's growth and bring more sustainable solutions to global markets.
Holmen Iggesund has launched the Creator Kit Beauty, a paperboard packaging solution that addresses the evolving demands of the beauty industry. The kit focuses on four beauty trends and offers sustainable material options. It aims to foster co-creation and knowledge sharing among brand owners and stakeholders.
SIG has launched the SIG DomeMini, a unique on-the-go carton bottle that combines the convenience of a plastic bottle with the sustainability benefits of a carton pack. Made from FSC-certified paperboard and designed for recycling, the SIG DomeMini offers an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bottles. It features an ergonomic design, easy opening and reclosing, and is suitable for various consumers. The SIG DomeMini 12 Aseptic filling machine allows for efficient and flexible production. The initial market launch is in China, with plans for expansion to other countries.
Metsä Group is conducting a pre-study for the construction of a mill in Rauma, Finland, to produce Muoto fibre-based packaging. Muoto is a wood-based alternative to plastics and aluminium, offering lightweight, strong, and recyclable packaging. The mill's technical feasibility and economic profitability are being assessed, while the production method is being developed at the Äänekoski demo plant. The location in Rauma provides advantages such as raw material supply, energy efficiency, and proximity to the export port.
Stora Enso has appointed Ad Smit as the Executive Vice President of the Packaging Solutions division and a member of the Group Leadership Team. Smit, who has over 30 years of experience in the packaging industry, will start on 1 December 2023 and report to Hans Sohlström, the President and CEO of Stora Enso. David Ekberg, the current Executive Vice President of the Packaging Solutions division, will be leaving the company on 30 November 2023 to pursue new opportunities.
UPM Specialty Papers, Lantmännen Unibake, and Adara have collaborated to create a sustainable packaging solution for frozen bread. They have replaced plastic bags with UPM Asendo™ barrier paper as an inner liner in the cardboard box, ensuring food safety and freshness. The partnership aims to reduce the use of plastic in food packaging and drive innovation in the industry.
The use of paper bags in Polish supermarkets has increased due to consumer habits and the EU's Single Use Plastics Directive. CarrEco Brown, a sustainable and lightweight paper bag solution from Stora Enso, has been a game changer in the market. It offers exceptional performance and strength, allowing customers to reconsider their grammage requirements. The material is made from fresh fibers from sustainably managed forests, ensuring a reliable year-round supply. The solution has improved production efficiency, reduced costs, and helped reduce transport emissions. It is now being developed for other clients with similar goals.
Mondi and Fressnapf have partnered to introduce a new range of recyclable packaging for Fressnapf's SELECT GOLD dry pet food. The packaging, including FlexiBag Recyclable, BarrierPack Recyclable, and Recyclable StandUp Pouches, offers strong barrier properties and is recyclable with other mono-polyethylene films. The collaboration also resulted in expanded colour gamut printing and a more efficient design process. The new packaging aims to contribute to a circular economy and provide a visually appealing and user-friendly solution.
