Articles by John Kalkowski

Great packaging is vastly underrated as an art form. Perhaps it's taken for granted because consumers see it and use it every day. Our familiarity makes it easy to forget all the planning and all the exquisite detail that goes into creating compelling packaging that builds everyday products into powerhouse brands.

Global Pouch West returns to the heart of West Coast packaging activity in the fourth year of this growing conference focused on flexible packaging in the Western states.

Merrick Pet Care recently introduced its new Fresh Kisses dental treats for dogs in pouches created by Takigawa Corporation America.

Mission Pharmacal, a family-owned company based in San Antonio, acquired the Dr. Smith’s brand of skin-care products in 2009. The brand was rich in heritage and authenticity.

Hobgoblin, one of the UK’s leading beer brands, is now available in a 5-liter Ardagh Group beer mini keg for both its Ruby and Gold versions. The brand’s owner, Marston’s, chose the Ardagh keg because of its new, smoother “pull and tap” action. This innovation is intended to provide home consumers the same experience of a pint being poured in their favorite pub.

The Double Cola Company has launched a rebranding and new package design for SKI, a citrus soft drink with real fruit and a kick of caffeine.

Earlier this year, media magnate Oprah Winfrey and the Kraft Heinz Company announced a venture to create O, That's Good!, a new line of food products "that will make real, nutritious products more accessible to everyone."

Global Pouch West returns to the heart of West Coast packaging activity in the fourth year of this growing conference focused on flexible packaging in the Western states.

Cruzan Rum's Estate Diamond Distiller's Collection is repositioning the brand with a new identity developed by strategic branding agency Webb deVlam that celebrates its premium quality and 250-year-old Caribbean heritage, as well as sets it apart from fruit-flavored rums.

Now celebrating its 20th year, the Global Pouch Forum will be held June 14-16 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Miami, FL. Known for its strong educational agenda, excellent networking opportunities and extensive flexible packaging exhibition space, the forum attracts a large attendance each year.