In this issue of Packaging Strategies we have the annual Packaging Outlook, covering flexible and rigid plastics, glass, metal cans, paperboard and corrugated, as well as packaging machinery & automation and packaging design. Also covered is the trend of less is more in beverage branding, how dispensers can make or break a brand experience, one conveying company that’s setting the bar in vertical farming, a dairy manufacturer that moved to plant-based products and more. Enjoy!
Last year many companies collaborated on new materials, machinery compatibility and corporate initiatives, and joined recycling groups. It’s time to look forward, get inspired and realize that sometimes it is better to work with a partner or two.
According to ForMarkets, the global RTD (ready to drink) market is predicted to reach $17.67 billion by 2025, with a growth rate of 7.2% between 2018-2025. As the RTD category continues to grow, consumers are reaching for convenient, better-for-you sources of energy — via protein or caffeine — in sophisticated packaging.
According to a recent survey of 250 brand owners across the consumer packaged goods spectrum by L.E.K. Consulting, 90% of brand owners say packaging is critical to their brand’s success — a way to adapt to industry pressures, including fast-changing consumer tastes and preferences.
In packaging plants across the world, compressed air systems create significant energy waste. Pinhole leaks in air lines, sticky valves and other inefficiencies cost huge consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufactures and small contract packagers alike substantial amounts of money. These also hinder corporate green efforts for responsible energy usage. A key opportunity to solve compressed air issues and boost overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is by thoughtfully implementing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) strategies with scalable PC-based automation technologies.
Elimination diets, increasing scrutiny over the dairy industry and environmental concerns have all contributed to a monumental shift away from dairy. While some dairies have folded under the change in consumer demand, Henry Schwartz made the bold decision to close the doors to his family's 95-year-old dairy and shift to completely plant-based alternatives.
Located in Metro Detroit, Ultimation Industries LLC, a conveyor technology and automation company, has been in business for 30 years. Owner and CEO Jackie Canny was a finalist for Amazon's Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year Award in 2019. The company was also named one of "Metro Detroit&'s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For" in 2019.
In 2020 the Healthcare Compliance Packaging Council celebrates its 30th anniversary. In that time, HCPC has witnessed dramatic changes in the pharmaceutical market, and our mission has evolved to meet the changing landscape of the healthcare industry.
It seems that the U.S-China trade war is slowing. According to National Public Radio, the president agreed to relax some of the tariffs he imposed on Chinese imports. In exchange, Beijing has agreed to buy more American products and make other changes.