Smurfit Kappa has received the highest seal of approval for its performance packaging technology from a leading European research institution. The pioneering technology, which Smurfit Kappa invented in 2001, has been endorsed by the Papiertechnische Stiftung (PTS) research and service institute in Germany setting a new industry standard. PTS assists companies with the development and use of fibre-based materials. The PTS validation means that Smurfit Kappa’s test prototcols is now published as an official Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) norm leading to a more scalable and credible approach for corrugated packaging users. Click Read More below for additional information.

Brook + Whittle is excited to announce the acquisition of PouchIt, a flexible packaging manufacturer based in Atlanta, Georgia. Specializing in short run stand up pouches, layflat pouches, and roll stock film, PouchIt provides customers with the fastest lead times in the flexible packaging industry. This strategic move enhances Brook + Whittle's footprint in the Southeast and strategically positions the company deeper in this rapidly growing segment of the packaging industry. "We are thrilled to welcome PouchIt into the Brook + Whittle family. PouchIt's printing and converting capabilities will provide a great springboard to grow our flexible packaging business. This will allow us to provide faster service to our existing customers and expand into new markets," states Mark Pollard, CEO. "Moreover, with PouchIt's flexible packaging expertise, we will be able to spearhead sustainable innovation in this segment."

The European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is setting a new standard in Europe, compelling brand owners and retailers to rethink their approaches to packaging fresh fruits and vegetables. It challenges companies to strike a delicate balance: how to ensure compliance while still delivering the protection, shelf life, and consumer appeal that fresh produce demands. Fiber-based materials play an important role in this shift, offering pathways to help you stay ahead of the curve. The PPWR aims to reduce packaging waste and promote circularity. Key elements of the regulation include: *Recyclability and reusability: Packaging must meet certain recyclability thresholds by 2030 and 2038. Mandatory reuse targets apply for some packaging applications. *Material reduction: Excessive and unnecessary packaging is restricted. *Increased recycled content: Minimum thresholds for recycled content in plastic packaging apply. *Complete bans: Certain single-use plastic packages are prohibited, like those for fresh fruits and vegetables under 1.5 kg in weight.