Sealed Air Corporation announced price increases ranging from five to eight percent for the majority of its Food Care division’s North American products. The increases will be effective October 2, 2017. “Sealed Air has not had a price increase for Food Care products in North America since 2014, and we are working to minimize the cost adjustments and their impact on our customers,” said Karl R. Deily, President, Sealed Air Food Care; “However, notable increases in our input costs, including a 31% rise in the price of polyethylene since 2016, make changes to our prices necessary in order to continue to deliver the same level of value and innovation to our customers.” The price changes include a five percent increase on all shrink bags, rollstock products, food films and vertical pouch packaging, as well as a six percent increase on unpadded solid plastic trays and an eight percent increase on pre-padded solid plastic trays.

The investment is part of our Packaging’s ambitious growth strategy in East Europe, driving leadership in sustainable packaging solutions across the region and creating value for our customers and partners. The first steps have already been taken by harmonising the business processes of both sites, including quality management and system standardiation. These initiatives are supported by investments in new machinery at both sites increasing quality, productivity as well as innovation capabilities. Reinier Schlatmann, DS Smith Regional Managing Director East Europe: "Our investments in technology, automation, and process improvement, enable DS Smith to drive innovation in packaging solutions. With a strong focus on the transition towards a circular economy, we are reshaping the industry and supporting customer sustainability goals at the same time. DS Smith's commitment in this respect is supported by our development of corrugated packaging that offers alternatives for problematic plastics. The investments in Austria significantly strengthen our position in the market and make a long-term contribution to the environment and economy.”

Hilex®, a Novolex® brand, announced the introduction of the ProWAVE® Tote, a new recyclable, reusable tote bag that makes e-commerce even more convenient for supermarkets, restaurants and retailers — as well as their customers. The innovative new bag, made with 20% recycled content, is designed for curbside pickup, home delivery or carryout use. The bag features folded handles and a double-ply top that provides stiffness so the bag stays open, making loading easier and more convenient. The rectangular bottom optimizes the use of storage in a vehicle’s trunk or back seating area. The reusable bag is ideal for hot, frozen or refrigerated items. “The ProWAVE Tote is carefully designed to meet the needs of e-commerce retailers and customers alike,” said Frank Lawson, Vice President of Sales for Novolex. “It makes life easier and more convenient for everyone.”