Profit Squeeze

Published: September 30, 2005

The European flexible packaging market accounted for just under one-quarter of the world flexible packaging market of €39 billion in 2004. But growth levels are below those experienced in other regions. As substantial structural change in the sector is predicted, this article provides some of the background to these predictions and explores the driving forces for change.

Totani Establishes U.S. Subsidiary

Published: September 06, 2005

Totani Corp. has established Totani America for the sale and service of Totani machinery and replacement parts in Green Bay, WI.

Testing for Toxins in Packaging

Published: August 31, 2005

In September the Toxins in Packaging Clearinghouse (TPCH) is planning to commence a pilot testing program, funded by the EPA, to randomly test product packaging for toxic materials that violate state laws.

First Glance

Published: August 31, 2005

Innovative packaging from: Flexicon, Protective Packaging Corp., and The Cloth Envelope Co.

Churning Out Quality

Published: August 31, 2005

It can be tricky to develop a business formula that will yield worldwide customers short runs, imported prices, and quick deliveries. But president Harley Frank and chairman H. Alan (Bud) Frank of Admiral Packaging (formerly Union Industries) believe they’ve found one that does precisely this. It also gives the firm a competitive edge in traditional flexible packaging applications as well as an opportunity to expand into a new non-packaging niche. Contributing to this achievement is a new solventless laminator.

Continuing Squeeze on Converter Profitability

Published: August 07, 2005

"The European Flexible Packaging Market 2005" is the latest edition in PCI's series of annual studies on the European flexible packaging market. It updates historical data and provides market analysis and statistics for 2004 and forecasts to 2009. The 250 page study is based on original field research, conducted across Europe in early-2005.

Pouch vs. Bottle

Published: July 31, 2005

Would you drink water out of a pouch? CLP Industries has begun marketing a laminate pouch that offers consumers portability and convenience when transporting water. And the company obviously feels there’s a big market for it.

Obesity: Can Packaging Help?

Published: July 31, 2005

It's no secret that people around the world are getting fatter. The causes of overweight and obesity are multi-factorial. Food safety agencies like the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) continue their efforts to address diet, health, and agricultural policy.

First Glance

Published: July 31, 2005

Innovative packaging from FLEXcon, KNF Flexpak, and Field Boxmore.

PRIMAFLEX C is W&H's Most Successful Flexo Press Introduction

Published: July 03, 2005

In the 12 months following the introduction of the PRIMAFLEX CM and PRIMAFLEX CS flexographic sleeve presses, Windmoeller & Hoelscher has sold 35 presses worldwide, making it the most successful launch of any flexo press in the company's history.

A Communication from the PLACE Div. of TAPPI

Published: June 30, 2005

Lidding applications for peelable seal roll applied coatings, the effect of chlorine dioxide sachets and modified atmosphere packaging on quality of fresh chicken breasts, evaluation of low voltage electron beam processors using thin film dosimetry techniques, and analysis of new flame treatment technology for surface modification and adhesion promotion.

Seeking a Converting Superhero

Published: June 30, 2005

Not everyone can be Superman, but most people would like to be a hero. This column will tell the people who work in the flexible packaging and converting industries how to do that. Following is a look at some common wish list items people in these industries have expressed at various meetings in recent years. If you see something below you think you can accomplish or solve, you will be a hero.

COF in Printed Packaging

Published: June 30, 2005

Automatic packaging operations require a specific range of lubricity to process packaging products. Printing inks contribute to the package lubricity and affect both the static as well as kinetic coefficient of friction (COF).

Globally Speaking

Published: June 30, 2005

With just a single plant located in Oaks, PA, Global Packaging may not appear to be a global reckoning at first glance, but the company’s diverse flexible packaging solutions, which include laminated and surface-printed roll stock and side-weld bags, are supplied to consumer product companies in the US and Canada.

Materials

Published: June 30, 2005

New products from: Brushfoil, Spinnaker Coating, Uvitec Printing Ink, Sun Chemical, Bayer Films Americas, Rayven, Kurz Transfer Products, Klöckner Pentaplast of America, and Toray Plastics (America).