As we step into 2024, let’s take a peek at the major highlights from the packaging scene. The year 2023 was bustling with significant events and trends that left a lasting mark on the industry’s landscape. Now, join us on this blog post adventure as we dive into these pivotal moments together.
Strategic Acquisitions and Divestitures
Early in the year, Stora Enso acquired De Jong Packaging Group for €1.02 billion, significantly expanding its presence in the European packaging markets. This acquisition increased Stora Enso’s influence in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and the UK. Additionally, Stora Enso sold its paper production site in Maxau, Germany, for around €210 million. It demonstrated a strategic focus on streamlining operations. Sealed Air’s acquisition of Liquibox for $1.15 billion in February marked another significant deal, and it highlighted the industry’s consolidation trend.
Sustainability and Circular Economy Focus
Image source: Packaging Europe
The Sustainable Packaging Summit 2023 emphasized the need for collaboration and harmonized guidelines across Europe to achieve true circularity in packaging. The discussion highlighted the challenges in balancing rigid recycling criteria. It also emphasized the protection of the Single Market and the need for enhanced recycling processes.
Innovations and Trends at Pack Expo 2023
Pack Expo 2023 showcased sustainability as a dominant theme. Innovations like Scrapp’s consumer-facing app for recycling, Evowave’s edible seaweed-based cups, and Paperfoam’s injection-molded products were notable highlights. In addition, the event also emphasized the growing trend of ‘fiberization’ in packaging, with companies like WestRock and 3M presenting paper-based solutions like WetTech corrugated board and Scotch Cushion Lock.
AI and Automation in Packaging
Image source: Amazon Science
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation have become crucial in the packaging industry. For instance, Amazon has used AI to significantly reduce cardboard waste by optimizing packaging sizes. This technology is increasingly being used for sustainable material selection and production line efficiency.
EU Regulations on Packaging Waste
The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive underwent significant revisions, aiming to make all packaging on the EU market reusable or recyclable by 2030. A notable target is the reduction of packaging waste by 15% per capita by 2040, compared to 2018 levels. These revisions are pivotal in shaping the industry’s sustainability and waste management practices
Advances in Fiber-Based Packaging
Image source: Releaf Paper
Ukrainian start-up Releaf Paper developed a process for turning cellulose fibers from fallen leaves into paper packaging products, receiving a €2.5 million grant from the European Commission. This advancement is part of a broader trend towards paper-based packaging solutions, with companies like Paboco and Stora Enso innovating in this space.
Partnering with experts who speak packaging professionally
At INNORHINO, we have a team of experienced packaging specialists, designers, and in-house engineers who are dedicated to elevating your brand to the next level. We provide innovative packaging solutions that cater to your needs. Interested in collaborating with us? Send us an email at hello@innorhino.com!
This article is written by: Sharon Y. Yu – INNORHINO Design Team
Image source: INNORHINO, unsplash, pexels
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