Weekly Roundup: Huhtamaki launches monomaterial flexibles range, Google begins Single-Use Plastics Challenge

28 Apr 2023 ---This week in packaging, Huhtamaki launched three monomaterial flexible packaging solutions, and ProAmpac opened the Petfood Forum show in Missouri, US. Meanwhile. multiple companies released their 2023 Q1 results. 

In brief: Launches and releases 
Huhtamaki launched three new monomaterial flexible packaging solutions designed for recycling. The materials are released in three alternative material solutions: Paper, PE and PP Retort. With a monomaterial share of at least 90%, Huhtamaki says the products use fewer materials than conventional complex and multi-layered materials  The innovations will be showcased at Interpack 2023, where Huhtamaki will present its game-changing technologies in the Huhtamaki blue room, which is open to both existing and new Huhtamaki customers. 

Google launched its Single Use Plastics Challenge, which invites F&B companies to test plastic-free packaging solutions in its US micro kitchens and cafes. The challenge is hosted in collaboration with foodservice management company Canteen and other partners. Google says that products must meet US federal, state and local food safety regulations, plus Google Food program standards for health, environmental, social and financial considerations.

Vizzy Hard Seltzer’s limited edition packaging.ProAmpac opened the Petfood Forum conferences in Kansas City, Missouri, US, highlighting its Pro-Evo Recyclable and Quadflex Recyclable, the latest additions to the ProActive Recyclable suite of products. Pro-Evo Recyclable is a multi-wall paper SOS bag that is approved for curbside recycling. Quadflex Recyclable is a film-based flat-bottom quad packaging solution that is perfect for high-speed filling lines. 

Vizzy Hard Seltzer announced the launch of a new limited-edition summer flavor: Vizzy Orange Cream Pop Hard Seltzer and the debut of “Flavor For Every Vibe,” a fresh advertising campaign featuring bold, never-before-seen TV ads and a nationwide packaging glow-up. 

In brief: Business news 
Huhtamaki released its 2023 Q1 results, showing net sales stable at €1.047 billion (€1.05 billion). Adjusted EBIT was €92 million (€98 million); reported EBIT was €87 million (€94 million). Meanwhile, the company’s annual meeting of shareholders was held, at which it was decided that an aggregate dividend of €1.00 per share be paid based on the balance sheet adopted for the financial period ended on December 31, 2022.

Ardagh Metal Packaging announced that its board of directors had approved a quarterly cash dividend of US$0.10 per ordinary share. This is payable on June 28, 2023, to shareholders of record on June 14, 2023. 

International Paper released its Q1 net earnings, showing a loss of US$172 million (US$0.49 per diluted share) and first-quarter adjusted operating earnings (non-GAAP) of US$185 million (US$0.53 per diluted share). “International Paper operated well in the first quarter while navigating a challenging and dynamic macro environment,” said Mark Sutton, CEO. “We also returned US$319 million to shareowners.”

Pulpac partnered with Curt G. Joa, to meet North America’s rapidly growing demand for sustainable packaging. Joa has been an expert in engineering and custom machine manufacturing for the disposable hygiene market for almost a century, and will provide the Dry Molded Fiber production platform “PulPac Modula” specialized to the US market.

By Louis Gore-Langton