Our single-use disposable packaging world is about to change. And this time the change is being fueled by consumer demand.

Trends are funny. Some trends seem to quickly grab the attention of the public, only to fizzle out after the launch of the next trend. In retail, this is most notable with the latest kids’ toy — as soon as the holidays have passed so has the hype.

In the competitive retail space it is imperative for brands to stay on top of evolving trends and consumer behavior. Thanks to technology, businesses have access to greater freedom and flexibility, enabling them to optimize packaging for a better customer experience.

J&J Snack Foods is an innovative national leader in the snack food and frozen beverage industries. To protect product quality, J&J Snack Foods turned to Mettler Toledo Safeline and installed three X-ray systems — one X33 model, and an unusual two-lane X36 model in 2018.

Digital print technology does not need a separate plate for each print run — unlike offset and flexo printing. Instead, all colors are printed in a single pass. Not having to constantly replace plates is a big cost and time saver.

For most of the past decade, consumers around the world have increasingly shifted their spending from brick-and-mortar to online stores, appreciating the convenience and immediacy of digital shopping. But that trend could be reversing as members of Generation Z begin flexing their economic muscle.

While many brands are striving to create lighter, more environmentally friendly and innovative packaging solutions, there are still too many products on the market today that are heavily over-packaged or over-engineered. 

With automation, the cloud and new innovative printing solutions, there are many ways to create new and unique labels. Here, we cover an automation solution that boosted a label printer’s production by 50%, a label management system stored in the cloud, a barcode printer that prints a packing list and shipping label on a single label, and a new adhesive.

Dow's Packaging Innovation Awards once again includes an independent judging panel of packaging professionals representing major brands, converters, OEMs, media and industry associations.