Converter Magazine https://convertermag.com Converting, printing and packaging industry news Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:10:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://convertermag.com/wp-content/uploads/cropped-converter_favicon-32x32.png Converter Magazine https://convertermag.com 32 32 Hugo Beck to launch new sleeve wrapper for sustainable transport packaging at interpack https://convertermag.com/hugo-beck-sleeve-wrapper-sustainable-transport/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:10:24 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36499 Manufacturer of horizontal film and paper packaging machines, Hugo Beck, will unveil a brand new machine solution at interpack 2026 at stand A74 in hall 11: the compact sleeve wrapper paper S for sustainable transport and secondary packaging in paper.

As the packaging industry continues to seek practical alternatives to plastic shrink film and excessive cardboard, the new paper S enables a tight kraft paper wrap with or without tray, providing a secure and resource-conscious transport packaging solution across a range of industries, including FMCG producers and retail-ready packaging operations.

The launch of the new sleeve wrapping solution further expands Hugo Beck’s growing portfolio of sustainable paper packaging technologies – now with a focus on transport packaging applications. This reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to developing machine concepts that support reduced material consumption without compromising product and transport safety or operational efficiency.

The paper S has been developed as a compact operator and maintenance friendly sleeve wrapping system that can be installed inline within existing production lines or operated as a standalone solution. Its space-saving design makes it suitable for facilities with limited floor space.

The machine wraps products in or without a tray in kraft paper with overlap and optimised hot-melt gluing to ensure a tight and stable pack. This creates bundles for secure transport and handling, helping manufacturers transition away from shrink film or cardboard systems while maintaining product stability throughout the supply chain.

In addition to cost savings on material, the paper S enables energy savings compared to heat-based shrink wrapping processes. Optional add-ons such as digital printing units, labelling systems or additional automation components can be integrated to tailor the machine to specific customer requirements.

The paper packaging solution has been developed in close collaboration with Mondi, a global leader in sustainable packaging and paper, to ensure reliable processing and a well-matched interaction between paper substrate and machine technology. Therefore, the new sleeve wrapper will be running with Mondi’s Ad/Vantage StretchWrap paper of only 70 gsm on the Hugo Beck stand A74 in hall 11.

Combined with its very low weight, this uncoated kraft paper offers high puncture resistance and stretch characteristics, which lead to an exceptional tensile energy absorption, while being industrially compostable and recyclable in conventional paper streams.

Visitors to interpack are invited to see live demonstrations of the new sleeve wrapper on the Hugo Beck stand and discuss with the experts on site the company’s comprehensive machine portfolio for sustainable film and paper packaging.

“This introduction of the paper S in close collaboration with Mondi as a holistic solution represents a logical next step in our sustainable packaging strategy,” said Jonas Beck, managing director at Hugo Beck.

“It builds on our continuous development of paper packaging technologies over recent years. Following the launch of the paper X series targeting multiple industries together with dedicated e-commerce packaging solutions, we have steadily expanded our sustainable offering alongside our established film-based solutions. Our aim is always to support our clients to meet evolving market and regulatory demands in terms of increased sustainability. With the paper S sleeve wrapper we are offering a practical solution for reducing plastic usage and minimising cardboard consumption in transport packaging while maintaining the reliability and performance our clients expect from our technology.“

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Konica Minolta to showcase Higher Education print and digital solutions at the LUPC & SUPC Conference 2026 https://convertermag.com/konica-minolta-higher-education-lupc-supc/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:21:39 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36496 Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd will be exhibiting at the LUPC & SUPC Conference 2026, which takes place on Wednesday, 25th March at Convene 133 Houndsditch in London.

The event is being hosted by the London Universities Purchasing Consortium and Southern Universities Purchasing Consortium and will bring together procurement leaders and framework suppliers for a day of sector insights, networking and best‑practice sharing across Higher Education and the wider public sector.

As a longstanding Crown Commercial Service (CCS) supplier and an award-winning member of the Crescent Purchasing Consortium (CPC) framework, Konica Minolta will be highlighting its extensive experience supporting universities with compliant, cost‑efficient and sustainable print and document solutions. The team will demonstrate how its Office Print and Production Print technologies, alongside its wider digital services, help institutions improve student engagement, streamline operations and reduce long‑term costs.

Visitors to the Konica Minolta stand will also be able to explore the company’s low‑carbon and energy‑efficient print portfolio, designed to help universities meet their sustainability commitments while maintaining high‑quality output and reliable service performance.

Jason Connolly, business leader – public sector at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) commented, “Higher Education institutions are under increasing pressure to deliver better student experiences while managing budgets and meeting sustainability goals. Our print and digital solutions are built to support these priorities, and our place on key frameworks ensures universities can procure them quickly, confidently, cost-effectively and compliantly.”

The LUPC & SUPC Conference will feature keynote sessions on procurement transformation, sustainability and organisational resilience, alongside an exhibition of more than 60 framework suppliers. Konica Minolta’s team will be available throughout the day to discuss upcoming projects, framework procurement routes and sector‑specific challenges.

For further details on the LUPC & SUPC Conference visit: www.supc.ac.uk/eventbrite-event/lupc-and-supc-conference-2026/

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Pro Carton comment on Global Recycling Day 2026 https://convertermag.com/pro-carton-comment-on-global-recycling-day-2026/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:32:55 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36489 By Winnie Muheling, director of marketing & communications at Pro Carton

Global Recycling Day (18 March) is an opportunity to recognise how recycling powers circularity in practice – closing the loop between production, consumption and regeneration. The latest Pro Carton European Consumer Packaging Perceptions Survey, released this month, confirms that consumers increasingly view “ease of recycling” as the number one priority when it comes to sustainable packaging, and, by extension, of brand trust.

Our 2026 research found that more than one in three Europeans have switched brands due to packaging concerns (37 per cent), while ease of recycling has become the top packaging requirement for 64 per cent of Europeans. This clear signal shows how packaging has moved from being a functional protection to a driver of product value, perception and loyalty.

What’s especially encouraging is that consumers are backing up their expectations with action.  Almost six in ten Europeans (59 per cent) say they are recycling more household waste, while 62 per cent believe recycling is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change.

Fibre-based materials such as cartonboard have become a clear favourite and now command 87 per cent consumer trust when it comes to successful recycling – more than any other material – and 84 per cent of Europeans say they would prefer cartonboard over plastic when given the choice.

Even in a cost-of-living context, where affordability remains an important factor in purchasing decisions, sustainability and recyclability are still key priorities. This alignment between environmental values and economic realities shows how important circular solutions are for today’s consumer. As we celebrate Global Recycling Day, one message stands out: accelerating circularity depends on collective trust – in materials, systems and the brands that help make recycling work for people and the planet.

AdobeStock 1613869291

Visit Pro Carton to read more: https://www.procarton.com/

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Sappi at Interpack 2026: future-proof packaging papers in action https://convertermag.com/sappi-interpack-2026-future-proof-packaging-paper/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:16:30 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36484 At Interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf, Sappi will present its comprehensive portfolio of future-proof paper packaging solutions, demonstrating how experience, reliability and technical expertise provide certainty in a rapidly evolving packaging landscape.

Under the theme “Future-Proof Packaging Papers,” Sappi will highlight its flexible packaging solutions, including Guard Pro OHS and Guard Pro OMH, Guard Twist and Guard Duo, barrier papers crafted to meet the packaging needs for food, tea and especially confectionery applications such as chocolate.

As brand owners and converters navigate regulatory change, material transitions and increasing performance expectations, Sappi offers proven solutions, consistent quality and dependable supply delivered at industrial scale, supported by deep technical knowledge and regulatory expertise.

Your one stop shop for diverse packaging needs

At the heart of Sappi’s Interpack presence is its flexible packaging portfolio, showcasing one of the industry’s broadest range of recyclable, mono-material papers. Sappi has strategically organised its offering into three distinct segments to meet diverse market needs, providing clarity and confidence when selecting the right solution.

The SEAL range delivers heat-sealable papers designed for primary and secondary food and non-food packaging applications. These recyclable papers, which offer excellent heat sealability, superior mechanical strength and first-class printability, include Seal (Silk, Silk G, Seal Pure Silk), Seal Natural and Seal Light (Natural, Gloss).

The GUARD range provides essential barrier protection against water vapour, grease and mineral oil with or without heat-sealability, featuring Guard M, Guard MS, Guard Duo and Guard Twist variants. These papers are designed for products and packaging types that require good barrier properties, such as baking powder, pasta, rice, cereals, sweets, chocolate, ice cream cones or sleeves, tea, etc.

The GUARD PRO range with Guard Pro OHS, Guard Pro OHG, AvantGuard and with the new product Guard Pro OMH represents Sappi’s most advanced high-barrier papers, offering protection against oxygen, water vapour, grease and MOSH and MOAH with or without heat-sealability.

At Interpack 2026, Sappi will promote Guard Pro OHS, available in both Gloss and Natural uncoated versions. In addition, Sappi will present the high barrier paper Guard Pro OMH to the international packaging community. All these high barrier papers are designed for products that require utmost barrier properties, such as all kinds of chocolate products, powder coffee additives, tea, seasonings, soluble drinks, cheese, etc.

Sappi Interpack 02From transit to touchpoint

Beyond flexible packaging, Sappi’s portfolio extends across the entire packaging value chain.

Sappi will also showcase its Fusion liner and Algro paperboard ranges, high-performance materials designed to elevate packaging from transit to touchpoint. From durable containerboard solutions that protect, optimise logistics and enhance presentation, to premium paperboards that deliver outstanding print brilliance, excellent converting and increased shelf impact, Sappi’s packaging portfolio not only performs, but creates presence, emotion and distinction where it matters most.

In addition, the stand will feature its Parade Label wet glue label papers used in beverage and food labelling. The range demonstrates high print quality and consistent runnability, supporting fast labelling speeds, strong shelf impact and efficient processing, including in returnable bottle systems where wash-off performance is critical. Designed for demanding, high-speed production environments, the range delivers consistent print performance and reliable runnability, helping brands and converters reduce variability, safeguard process stability and maintain efficiency, including in returnable bottle systems where dependable wash-off performance is essential.

Together, the solutions on show demonstrate how Sappi’s material expertise translates into reliable, scalable applications across packaging and labelling. They also underline the advantage of consistent colours, shades and brand appearance across product categories and touchpoints, enabling brand owners to maintain a strong and unified identity.

Expertise that goes beyond the product

Europe’s packaging industry is no longer shaped by sustainability ambitions alone, but by how effectively companies align performance, circularity and cost competitiveness under increasingly demanding market conditions. At the same time, our customers face growing pressure on margins and operational efficiency. Success therefore depends on anticipating change early and translating it into scalable, fit-for-purpose solutions that deliver both environmental and commercial value.

Against this backdrop, Sappi’s value extends far beyond the paper itself. Customers benefit from expert consultancy supporting every stage of the packaging journey, from material selection and printability optimisation to regulatory compliance and food contact requirements.

Technical teams work closely with converters and brand owners on machine runnability, barrier performance validation and the transition from plastic to paper-based structures. This partnership approach reduces risk, shortens development timelines and ensures smooth implementation at scale.

“Our flexible packaging portfolio represents the future of sustainable packaging,” explains Flavio Froehli, vice president marketing & sales at Sappi Europe. “As Europe’s packaging market faces tighter recyclability standards, extended producer responsibility schemes and rising performance requirements, success depends on solutions that run efficiently on existing filling lines, protect products effectively and meet recovery criteria, without eroding margins. With proven, recyclable solutions that do not compromise on performance and keep total cost of ownership in balance, we provide customers with the exact paper solution for their specific demands and application needs, while supporting their sustainability goals.”

Experience the evolution from paper to application

At Hall 8a, Booth B35, Sappi brings the evolution from paper to application to life through a continuous display of real-world packaging formats across confectionery, tea, food including bakery products and dairy, as well as beverage and non-food packaging.

Building on Sappi’s ‘department store-inspired’ concept, the stand features curated product displays and practical examples that connect materials directly to real-world packaging applications. Conceived as a narrative from production to performance, the stand guides visitors from paper reels and sheets through to finished packaging solutions, with furniture, lighting and decorative elements all made from paper as a physical demonstration of what paper can do.

At the booth, visitors can explore how barrier papers protect chocolate and soluble drinks, how premium paperboard and containerboard enhance shelf presence for high-end food, beverage and non-food applications, and how label solutions combine design impact with dependable performance in demanding beverage applications. The stand demonstrates how consistent material quality translates into cohesive brand presentation across every touchpoint.

A central feature of the booth is the Sappi Café, a live application space where visitors can enjoy hot tea, coffee or an ice cream while discovering how paper can protect, perform and delight. Served with a cinnamon roll packed in a groundbreaking solution that combines Sappi’s premium Algro Design paperboard with high-barrier paper, the offering demonstrates a 100 per cent paper-based, mono-material, recyclable solution for food applications. From ice cream cone sleeves and wraps to tea packaging solutions, the Sappi Café showcases how paper-based packaging can deliver the required barrier properties, handling comfort and standout design, translating technical performance into tangible, everyday consumer experiences. For in-depth discussions, visitors can book a meeting with one of Sappi’s experts to address specific technical, regulatory or transition challenges. Do not miss out, book your meeting in advance via Microsoft Bookings and secure dedicated time with one of Sappi’s packaging specialists.

All Sappi papers are manufactured from renewable resources, are recyclable in the paper waste stream as mono-materials, and are suitable for direct food contact. The complete range is available as FSC Mix Credit (FSC™-C015022) or 100 per cent PEFC certified (PEFC/07-32-76) on request and subject to availability, supporting Sappi’s commitment to sustainable forest management.

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Amcor and Voslauer strengthen sustainability with customised tethered cap solution https://convertermag.com/amcor-voslauer-sustainability-tethered-cap/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 10:18:55 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36481 Amcor, a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions, is supplying Vöslauer Mineralwasser with a tethered version of Vöslauer’s customised closure for its iconic bottle designs.

This latest development with one of Austria’s leading mineral water brand underlines the strong partnership between Amcor and Vöslauer and their shared commitment to developing packaging that combines functionality, inclusivity, sustainability and design excellence.

Vöslauer’s new tethered closure opens to a wide angle and clicks into place to keep it away from the face and support a comfortable drinking experience for the consumer. For maximum convenience, the closure is also easy to replace on the top of the bottle for reclosing. Keeping the closure on the bottle – mandatory for single-use bottles up to 3 litres under the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive – significantly reduces the likelihood of littering and can support higher collection and recycling rates in countries with the appropriate recycling infrastructure in place.

“We appreciate that our customers have high standards and our commitment to quality is as evident in our packaging as it is in our mineral and flavored waters,” said Mag. Yvonne Haider-Lenz of Vöslauer Mineralwasser. “We value our longstanding collaboration with Amcor and the company’s ability to support our ongoing sustainability commitments.”

As part of these commitments, Vöslauer was also the first company in Austria to introduce Amcor’s Secure Flip sports cap. This features a non-detachable tamper-evident band that is retained within the closure after opening as an alternative to a detachable tab, which is often discarded. The Secure Flip incorporates an ergonomically designed thumb tab that enables intuitive one-handed opening and opens to a stable angle of up to 180o to provide easy access to the spout.

“Closures play a critical role in drinks packaging, protecting the products and ensuring safe and easy access, and in this way can help to influence brand perceptions,” said Sarah de la Mare, product line director for closures at Amcor Rigids Packaging Solutions International. “We are delighted to work with Vöslauer in the continuing development of innovative solutions that support both their product and sustainability goals.”

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
FESPA 2026: eurolaser demonstrates large-format precision cutting for printed materials https://convertermag.com/fespa-26-eurolaser-large-format-precision-cutting/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:11:56 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36473 From 19 to 22 May 2026, eurolaser will present solutions for the industrial cutting of printed non-metal materials at FESPA in Barcelona, Hall 3, Stand A140. The focus will be on large-format laser systems, intelligent camera technology and automated processing solutions designed to deliver maximum precision. The systems are suitable for a wide range of materials, from textiles and films through to plastics, wood, MDF and cardboard.

Live demonstration: Automated cutting directly from the roll

Live camera scan displayed in software interfaceAs a live application, eurolaser will demonstrate the fully automated cutting of large-format printed textiles directly from the roll. The Conveyor System enables continuous, tension-free material feeding and a seamless production process. The solution is designed for industrial environments where repeat accuracy and economic efficiency are key.

The technology on show represents a material-independent processing concept. In addition to textiles, printed film sheets, acrylic prints, wood-based materials, MDF boards, plastics and cardboard can be cut precisely and without contact. The laser operates without tool wear and ensures consistently high edge quality, regardless of contour complexity or batch size.

POSITION camera scan of printed material

POSITION+ professional: Contour recognition within seconds

3XL 3200 processing over 3 m wide printed roll

A central element of the presentation is the camera-based scanning system POSITION+ professional. It detects printed contours and the exact position of the material within seconds and matches them with the stored cutting data.

Deviations caused by print tolerances, material stretch or shrinkage are compensated by software control. This ensures contour-accurate cutting along the printed design and provides a high level of process reliability. The system is particularly relevant for applications in display production, shopfitting, signage and high-quality point-of-sale solutions.

Automation and modular expansion

In addition to the Conveyor System, eurolaser will provide information on further automation options such as the Shuttle Table and the Twin Table System. These solutions enable loading and unloading during operation and significantly increase machine utilisation.

Thanks to the modular system design, the laser systems can also be combined with routing and knife modules. This allows mechanical processing steps to be integrated alongside laser cutting and enables the processing of additional materials within one platform.

Marking solutions such as the Ink Printer Module, Ink Marker Module and Label Module further allow components to be printed, marked or labelled during the cutting process, supporting efficient downstream production workflows.

With its presence at FESPA 2026, eurolaser will demonstrate how a wide variety of printed materials can be processed with precision, automation and economic efficiency.

Visitors can meet the team in Hall 3, Stand A140.

Further information is available at www.eurolaser.com

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Contiweb Joins Eurosac, strengthening position in paper sack manufacturing solutions https://convertermag.com/contiweb-joins-eurosac/ Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:58:41 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36470 Contiweb, a specialist manufacturer of web-handling equipment and provider of integrated technical solutions for web offset printing, web inkjet printing and packaging production, has announced that it has officially become a member of Eurosac, the European Federation of Paper Sack Manufacturers. The membership marks an important step in building closer relationships with manufacturers and actively contributing to the industry.

With a proven track record in high-speed, high-efficiency production environments, Contiweb has successfully applied its expertise to the paper sack sector in recent years. Working with several Eurosac members, Contiweb’s non-stop unwinding equipment has driven substantial gains in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), improved machine reliability and significantly enhanced operator ergonomics. These positive results have reinforced the company’s commitment to the paper sack market.

By joining Eurosac, Contiweb strengthens its role in advancing innovation across the paper sack and packaging industries. The company’s proven expertise in auto-splicing, fluid application and drying technologies offers Eurosac members practical support in improving production efficiency, reliability and profitability.

Continuous paper technology enabling true non‑stop output

Contiweb’s auto-splicing systems are designed to optimise production performance and operational reliability. For instance, in industrial sack lines, including cement bag production, uninterrupted output is essential. Seamless, automatic reel changes with Contiweb technology ensure non-stop production and maximize efficiency. As a result, operators can prepare the next reel while production continues, reducing downtime and improving overall productivity.

Delivering exceptional process flexibility, Contiweb technology allows manufacturers to handle a wide range of materials with ease, delivering consistent quality regardless of paper properties. Its systems handle all major paper types used in sack production – including sack kraft paper, industrial paper grades and recycled papers. Sack kraft paper provides the strength needed for heavy‑duty industrial sacks used in construction, chemicals, agriculture and food ingredients, while recycled papers support sustainability goals.

Driving innovation to boost future-ready paper sack production

“Another important aspect of our Eurosac membership is that it enables us to further develop and introduce innovative technologies for the paper sack industry,” says Pim Cornelissen, product manager at Contiweb. “We are currently working on new projects in the fields of advanced drying and non-stop unwinding, including tuber splicing solutions, that will help paper sack manufacturers increase efficiency, reliability and output. These innovations are designed to support future production requirements while delivering tangible operational benefits on the shop floor.”

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
Industry leaders join Innovation Awards 2026 judging panel at London Packaging Week https://convertermag.com/awards-2026-judging-panel-london-packaging-week/ Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:45:24 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36464 London Packaging Week welcomes a new group of industry-leading judges for the 2026 Innovation Awards, setting the stage for the year’s most creative and sustainable packaging entries.

London Packaging Week has announced a distinguished group of new judges for the Innovation Awards 2026, sponsored by Nuon, bringing expertise from some of the world’s leading brands in beauty, consumer goods, drinks and luxury packaging. Their appointment underlines the awards’ commitment to recognising excellence, creativity and sustainability across the industry.

The newly confirmed judges for 2026 include:

Aaron Buttler Boots No7

Aaron Buttler – Boots No7

Aaron Butler, global design & iconicity leader at No7 Beauty Company; and Daniel Goodwin, senior packaging technologist at Superdrug. Both bring extensive knowledge of Personal Care & Beauty innovations. Kim Palmer, head of packaging innovation at Trinny London, will also evaluate entries in this sector, with a particular focus on premium and reusable formats.

In the Food and Consumer Packaging categories, Caroline Elms, director of procurement at Pladis, and David Bellamy, environment policy manager at the Food & Drink Federation will assess design, functionality and sustainability, while Carla Rae, senior procurement manager at PZ Cussons, will provide further insight into every day and seasonal consumer goods.

For Premium and Luxury packaging, Alex Higgs, packaging development specialist, will lend expertise in high-end materials and immersive consumer experiences, alongside Isobel Carlill, sustainability manager at Moët Hennessy. Sophia Waywell, innovation manager at Pernod Ricard, completes the panel, offering insight into innovative premium and luxury drinks packaging.

Christelle Anya, content & community director at London Packaging Week, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome such an exceptional group of judges to the Innovation Awards 2026. Each brings deep sector expertise and a wealth of knowledge in design, functionality and sustainability, helping us recognise the most innovative and inspiring packaging solutions across the industry. Their participation reinforces the prestige of these awards and the high standard of entries we aim to showcase this year.”

judging day 2These new judges join 14 existing panel members, forming a 22-strong group of industry leaders and experts. The established judges include Alfredo Ruiz Pose from Glenmorangie, Cain Hayward-Hughes from Starbucks, Chris Allinson from Diageo, Christelle Anya from Easyfairs, Eva Lagarde from Re-sources, Lisa Meade from Kingfisher, Michael Carroll from Muller, Michelle Atkinson from Carlsberg Britvic, Nikki Grainge from Marks & Spencer, Paul Jenkins from The PackHub, Simon Elmer from William Grant & Sons, Victoria Brownlie from the British Beauty Council, and Global Packaging Development Director, Raphael Ferri. Together, this diverse panel brings unrivalled expertise across luxury, beauty, drinks and consumer goods packaging, ensuring every entry is judged with rigour, insight and sector-specific knowledge.

Last year’s London Packaging Week Innovation Awards attracted a host of leading brands and showcased some of the most creative and forward-thinking packaging across the industry. Standout winners included Heights’ Vitals+ in the Consumer Pack category, Hotel Chocolat’s Extra-Thick Easter Egg in Food Packaging, and Curtis Packaging and Trinny London’s Christmas 2024 Gift Bag in Beauty Accessories. SLG Brands’ Rhyme & Reason Haircare and Daisyface’s Skincare range were also recognised for their innovation and sustainability.

Drinks brands were celebrated with Hendrick’s Gin’s Whimsical Watering Can, Hennessy X.O ‘Spirit of Travel’ Collection, and Ardbeg Prestige’s The Abyss. Luxury packaging innovation was recognised with Macallan’s A Study in Oak by Ephemerus Concepts and Bill Amberg Studio, while sustainability took centre stage with PA Consulting and Diageo’s Dry Moulded Fibre Bottle. Additional commendations went to major brands including Lush, Charlotte Tilbury, Innocent Drinks, Starbucks, Hermes, and Flora Food Group, illustrating the awards’ broad appeal across everyday, premium, and luxury products.

LPW25 InnovationAwards 12thDeadline 50 2

Entries for the Innovation Awards 2026 are open until Friday 24 April 2026, with winners to be revealed at London Packaging Week on 16 & 17 September 2026 at the Excel, London. Winners and finalists will be showcased to a crowd of industry leaders and influencers, offering an unrivalled platform to highlight innovation and inspire the wider sector.

For full details and to submit entries, visit www.londonpackagingweek.com/innovation-awards

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
kp talent shines at FPA Awards https://convertermag.com/kp-talent-shines-at-fpa-awards/ Tue, 10 Mar 2026 09:36:05 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36459 Klöckner Pentaplast (kp) is proud to announce that account manager, Alex Curran, has won the Rising Star Award at the Foodservice Packaging Association (FPA) Awards 2026, while Darren Tickle, site manager at its St Helens facility, was named runner-up in the Unsung Hero category.

The awards, presented on 5 March at The Grand Hotel in Brighton, celebrate outstanding individuals who are making a significant impact across the foodservice packaging sector.

kp fpaaThe Rising Star Award recognises young professionals in the first five years of their careers who are already making a meaningful contribution to their companies and the wider industry. Alongside national recognition, the award includes an FPA contribution to a Packaging Higher & Degree
Apprenticeship at Sheffield Hallam University.

Since joining kp, Alex has quickly established himself as a dynamic force within the business, building strong customer relationships and demonstrating a proactive approach to operational problem solving. After becoming an account manager, he has continued to raise the bar, managing national distributor accounts with maturity, clear communication and a strategic mindset.

Commenting on the win, Daniel Tudela, senior commercial vice president at kp Food Packaging, said: “On behalf of the business, I’d like to congratulate Alex on winning this award. Since joining kp, he has stood out as a dynamic force and quickly built a strong foundation in customer relationships and operational problem-solving. After becoming an account manager, he has continued to raise the bar, managing national distributor accounts with maturity, clear communication and strategic focus.

“Whether visiting customers, exploring new product opportunities, or supporting colleagues, Alex leads by example and makes a meaningful contribution to our business. He’s had a remarkable journey so far and is a brilliant example of what can be achieved early in a career through passion
and commitment. He’s exactly the kind of person who represents the future of our industry.”

fpa awardsIn addition to Alex’s success, Darren Tickle was recognised as runner-up in the FPA’s Unsung Hero Award category, which celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to drive their teams, communities and organisations forward.

Darren has worked with kp for more than 24 years, starting as a packer on the thermoforming line before progressing to site manager at the St Helens site. During his career, he has played a key role in securing partnerships with major customers and helping the business prepare for incoming
regulatory changes.

He also successfully led a multi-million-pound transition project that secured the future of the St Helens facility and helped establish kp as a pioneer in expanded polypropylene manufacturing in the UK.

Steffen Kast, senior vice president operations, kp Food Packaging, commented: “Darren has established himself as the beating heart of our St Helens facility and a driving force behind some of its most significant transformations. Time and time again, we’ve been impressed by his leadership and his commitment to making processes better, strengthening operational performance and empowering his team.

“His positive attitude and collaborative spirit make him a role model for colleagues, and we are proud to see him recognised by the FPA judges.”

To learn more about kp’s portfolio of award-winning food packaging solutions, visit www.kpfilms.com

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>
DTM launch CLP2200e colour label printer https://convertermag.com/dtm-launch-clp2200e-colour-label-printer/ Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:32:44 +0000 https://convertermag.com/?p=36454 DTM Print, international OEM and solution provider for specialty printing systems, has announced the launch of its new DTM CLP2200e Colour Label Printer.

The DTM CLP2200e has been developed to provide high flexibility, easy system integration and reliable performance for professional colour label production.

A major highlight of this new printer is its broad ink compatibility. The DTM CLP2200e supports dye ink, pigment ink or mixed ink configurations, for example dye-based colour inks in combination with pigment black. This enables users to choose between vivid colour output or enhanced durability depending on the label application.

In addition, it features four separate ink cartridges for cyan, magenta, yellow and black combined with a user-replaceable printhead, a concept already proven with the LX2000e Color Label Printer. This configuration allows users to adapt ink usage and maintenance to their specific production requirements while keeping operating costs under control.

Designed with industrial use in mind, the DTM CLP2200e comes in a compact metal case that can be easily integrated into production lines or space-critical environments. Connectivity options include USB 2.0, Ethernet and a 24 V PLC interface, allowing straightforward integration into automated systems.

For reliable media handling and simplified maintenance, the printer offers a flat label feed path as well as modular access points for cleaning and service. An external label supply feed for larger roll outer diameters increases the productivity. Operation and status monitoring are managed via the DTM CLP2200e Toolbox software and an integrated display on the printer.

“We’re glad that true black is back at DTM Print,” says Lea König, product manager of DTM Print. “With four large ink tanks we can offer a competitive cost per label while staying as flexible as possible with dye ink for superior quality prints and pigment ink for UV resistant labels. Add to that the multiple connection options, along with 210 mm (8.25”) print width and you’ve got everything most companies would ever need. With DTM CLP2200e, there are only benefits and no compromises.”

To meet the typical applications including product labels for beverages, speciality and gourmet foods, gardening, cosmetics, chemical, GHS or supplement labels, DTM Print has developed several media modes, compatible with all different surfaces of the Genuine DTM Label Stock, which brings out the best of this label printer in terms of durability and print quality. DTM CLP2200e is also ideal for private labelling, test marketing, pre-press proofing and retail labelling.

Printer drivers are included for Windows along with BarTender UltraLite DTM Edition and NiceLabel Free DTM Edition Software to create label designs, add barcodes, QR codes and serialisation. Most other popular graphic design programs for Windows can be used to design and print labels.

The DTM CLP2200e Colour Label Printer is priced at € 3,595 (MSRP) and available from DTM Print or through authorised DTM Print partners in Europe, Middle East and Africa.

DTM Print offers customers a three-year warranty for DTM CLP2200e units within the EU, UK and EFTA countries after registering the product on the company website (register.dtm-print.eu). For maximum protection and minimum down times, the DTM Print Warranty Solutions are a great addition.

For the latest packaging news please visit: https://convertermag.com/category/latest-news/\

]]>