Weekly Roundup: Nestlé inaugurates Institute of Packaging Sciences, Ardagh collaborates with Rockstar Energy for Xbox game promotion

13 Sep 2019 --- In the packaging industry this week, Nestlé inaugurated a first-of-its-kind Institute of Packaging Sciences. Centerbridge Partners acquired pan-European fiber-based packaging supplier, Solidus Solutions. Macfarlane launched 100 percent plastic-free packaging for wine bottles, while Sonoco began a series of recyclable packaging initiatives. Meanwhile, Ardagh collaborated with Rockstar Energy to launch a set of Collectors’ Edition cans related to the release of the Xbox game Gears 5.

In brief: Business news
Advancing its efforts to provide safe and environmentally-friendly packaging solutions to the market, Nestlé inaugurated the Institute of Packaging Sciences, the first-of-its-kind in the food industry. Mark Schneider, Nestlé CEO, says, “Our vision is a world in which none of our packaging ends up in a landfill or as litter. To achieve this we introduce reusable packaging solutions and pioneer environmentally friendly packaging materials. The Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences enables us to create a strong pipeline of sustainable packaging solutions for Nestlé products across businesses and markets.” The Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences focuses on a number of science and technology areas, such as refillable or reusable packaging, simplified packaging materials, recycled packaging materials, high-performance barrier papers as well as bio-based, compostable and biodegradable materials

Centerbridge Partners completed the acquisition of Solidus Solutions from Aurelius Equity Opportunities following the fulfilment of all regulator requirements. Alex Stirling, Senior Managing Director at Centerbridge, says: “The acquisition of Solidus fits well into Centerbridge’s Private Equity strategy of investing in Europe-based market-leading companies with significant growth potential. Centerbridge’s industry expertise and international network will further strengthen Solidus’ position as a pan-European leader in the fiber-based packaging industry.” Centerbridge is a private investment management firm that has approximately US$27billion in capital under management with offices in New York and London.

In brief: Launches
Macfarlane has launched 100 percent plastic-free, biodegradable packaging protection for wine bottles. Retailers who send wine bottles through the mail can now do so in a way that is safe and environmentally-friendly with Flexi-Hex. This design is made from recycled materials and encompasses a concertina-style honeycomb sleeve protector that expands to form an impact-resistant layer around bottles. Laurel Granville, Marketing Director for Macfarlane Packaging, says the Flexi-Hex packaging is not only entirely plastic-free but is also kerbside recyclable.

Meanwhile, Sonoco has introduced its EnviroSense packaging initiative. EnviroSense products include cans made from 100 percent recycled paperboard; rigid plastic packaging containing post-consumer recycled content; mono-material recyclable and flexible pouches; and innovative packaging made from agricultural fibers. Such packaging products aim to reduce environmental impact, optimize package-to-product ratio and shipping optimization and increase the use of recycled content and bio-based materials.

In brief: Research and studies
The desirability for Hydrolcerol as a chemical foaming agent (CFA) from Clariant’s Masterbatches is gaining momentum due to its more durable foam-cell structures. These noticeably cut resin use and reduce part of the weight without a significant loss in mechanical properties. This CFA is currently playing an instrumental role in helping other packaging producers develop more sustainable containers and therefore enhances recyclability and promotes reusability. Material-use reductions of 10 percent or more have been reported in mono-layer and co-extruded bottles and sheet. At the same time, the CFA plasticizes the resin in the processing machine, so less heat is involved in both the melting and the cooling processes. This results in energy savings and reduced cycle times, often by 10-15 percent.

In brief: Trans-industry collaboration
Ardagh has teamed up with energy drink brand, Rockstar Energy, to provide a series of Collectors’ Edition cans to tie in with the release of Xbox game Gears 5. The former’s Coded Tab technology uses an alphanumeric code on the tab underside, which is revealed only upon opening, requiring customer purchase to participate in the promotion. The unique code ties each can with a specific reward, ranging from in-game bonuses like Multi-Player Boost, custom lancers and exclusive banners to premium prizes such as limited-edition Xbox One X consoles and a Gears 5-liveried Ford pick-up truck. Consumers must enter their code onto the promotional website to discover their prize, and the interactive nature of the promotion encourages the consumer to associate the product with winning and fun. Ardagh developed the coating material required for the tab as a unique customization for Rockstar.

In brief: Presenting
Food processing technology supplier GEA will be presenting at the annual Gulfood Manufacturing Fair in Dubai from October 29-31. Itskey processing equipment and packaging exhibits will demonstrate the benefits of automation, optimal process control, as well as the efficient use of resources, energy and labor in food manufacturing.

On the other side of the globe, UPM Raflatac will demonstrate its sustainable labels at this year’s Pack Expo in Las Vegas, US. The company is set to announce several new products and service offerings firsts in the pressure sensitive labeling market. Company experts will provide key information on all labels and offer take-home high-quality label samples. 

By Anni Schleicher