Plantic and Amcor to collaborate on flexible packaging

Amcor Australasia and Plantic Technologies Limited have announced an alliance to work towards the development of a new biodegradable material, which if successful, has potential to change the mainstream confectionery packaging market and provide manufacturers and retailers with a cost effective, functional and environmentally sustainable packaging solution.

Amcor Australasia and Plantic Technologies Limited have announced an alliance to work towards the development of a new biodegradable material, which if successful, has potential to change the mainstream confectionery packaging market and provide manufacturers and retailers with a cost effective, functional and environmentally sustainable packaging solution. The collaboration will encompass a research program over two years and will seek to build the Intellectual Property (IP) of both companies. Plantic will provide its patented Plantic material: a plastic created from plants, which dissolves rapidly on contact with water. Amcor will use the Plantic material to undertake trials of the resin in a commercial packaging film operation. To date, Plantic materials have been used as a rigid plastic in confectionery and biscuit trays. Plantic’s collaboration with Amcor aims to develop a thin and durable plastic for the flexible packaging of food and confectionery, such as chocolate bar wrappers and over wrap. Plantic is also developing its portfolio of resins to include injection moulding grades. Dr Michele Allan, General Manager Amcor Research and Technology, said: “This alliance combines our state-of-the-art forensic and development capability with Plantic’s expertise in biodegradable product technology. It responds to demand from our customers for an improved biodegradable packaging solution and to consumer demand for environmentally friendly packaging in a broader range of products.” This latest collaboration with Amcor is claimed to further demonstrate the significant potential for use of Plantic materials both in Australia and overseas. In the last three years, Plantic has completed commercial supply deals with Cadbury Schweppes, Lindt and Sprungli and Byron Bay Cookie Company. Plantic has expanded its Melbourne facilities and has offices in the United Kingdom and continental Europe.