ZIEn Inc. (zieninc.com) of Oconomowoc, WI, and HQC Inc. (hqc.com) of Oswego, IL, co-developed a unique patent-pending weld spout / pouch fitment. ZIEn is both a producer of eco-friendly products and a co-packer, for major brands in the small engine and outdoor power equipment industry.

Manufacturers find it advantageous to include items like motor oil and pressure washer pump saver & conditioner with their products. By including these items, manufacturers hope to prevent damage and additional expense to products from consumers forgetting to purchase necessary or incorrect items.

Steve Zimmerman of ZIEn considers flexible packaging as an eco-friendly and economical solution to standard packaging. Flexible packaging can be cost effective while providing safer and more environmentally friendly benefits.

ZIEn contacted HQC, a manufacturer of custom fitments/weld spouts. HQC has in-house capabilities to manufacture shaped prototype pouches along with various designs of pouch fitments. This allows for innovative and unique weld spout / pouch fitments to be inserted (not glued) into the pouch, creating working samples to prove out the product design(s). The sample pouches with fitments can include colored graphics required for marketing. The best design is verified and fitment tooling is constructed. During this part of the process HQC was able to refer ZIEn to companies that have experience to supply the proper film, converting and capable of fitment inserting. Customers choose which supplier best fits their needs. As HQC works with many companies in all markets, it can help direct customers to companies with experience in specific markets.

HQC currently is testing 100% recycled material to further ZIEn’s quest to make a product that is also better for the environment. Stay tuned and be ready for new and inventive products as entrepreneurs like Steve Zimmerman, along with companies like HQC, bring more concepts to reality.