Graphic Packaging combines benefits of Composipac(R) and Z-flute(R)

The innovative solution brought together the high strength and strategic lamination of its Z-flute paperboard package with the visual impact of its Composipac product.

20/03/06 When Kraft Foods North America, Inc. needed packaging with a premium look for one of its premium cracker products, Graphic Packaging International responded by combining two of its proprietary technologies into a material which is so unique it has been honored by the Association of Industrial Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators (AIMCAL) with the group's highest award - "Metallized Product of the Year."

The award was presented on Thursday, March 16 at AIMCAL's Winter Management Meeting at the Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona.

"Kraft's Nabisco Entertainment Cracker is an upscale product that is made in four flavors - vegetable, wheat, original water, and pepper poppy water - and is packaged for the club channel in four 40-ounce cartons per case, with each carton containing eight individually-wrapped sleeves," says Chuck Tarlton, account executive for Graphic Packaging.

"Kraft wanted a package that would literally carry the load for this product - as an in-store billboard, as a disappearing pallet display, and as a material tough enough to withstand shipping, stacking, and consumer handling."

The innovative solution developed by Graphic Packaging brought together the high strength and strategic lamination of its Z-flute paperboard package with the visual impact of its Composipac product - namely, reverse gravure printing on metallized polypropylene film which is then laminated to the paperboard.

"The result is a package that provides exceptional strength and superior high definition graphics, plus unmatched protection from tearing, scuffing, and moisture," adds Tarlton. "And there is no secondary packaging, so the product becomes a disappearing pallet in stores."

The special "Composipac Z-flute" material, which was introduced by Kraft during the last quarter of 2005, is already having a dramatic impact on the market with both consumers and competitors.

"Nabisco Entertainment Crackers are achieving unprecedented sales levels and at least one of Kraft's major competitors is responding by moving ahead with its own product packaging changes," notes Tarlton. "In addition, Kraft is expanding its Nabisco Entertainment Crackers to the food service channel."

AIMCAL serves as a global forum for the flexible metallizing, coating, and laminating industry. It has more than 219 member companies worldwide and association offices are located in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

Graphic Packaging International (GPI) is a leading provider of paperboard packaging solutions to the beverage, food and other consumer products industries. The Company's customers include some of the most widely recognized companies in the world. GPI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Graphic Packaging Corporation.

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