Original research in a new white paper from Avery Dennison explores how innovative pressure-sensitive labels help enable packaging circularity throughout the value chain 
MENTOR, Ohio, April 7, 2025—Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE:AVY) — A 1% increase in recycling rates can reduce approximately 2,000 tons of plastic waste annually in multi-billion bottling applications1… Nearly all global consumer package goods (CPG) brands have a goal of 100% recyclable packaging by 2030…Recycled rigid plastics are over 70% less emissions-intensive than their virgin plastic counterparts…. 
These are just a few of the metrics cited in a new white paper titled “Pressure-sensitive labels and their role in making packaging circular,” commissioned by Avery Dennison, a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. The white paper further reports that most CPG growth comes from green brands and shows how pressure-sensitive labels can be part of the solution. It explores the state of packaging sustainability among brand owners, including how future technology innovations can deliver tangible benefits. 
“The white paper is a research-based reference document for CPG brands currently making sustainable packaging decisions.” said Ryan Yost, president, Materials Group at Avery Dennison. “CPG companies are facing growing pressure from consumers, retailers, regulators, investors and employees to prioritize the circular economy, and packaging innovations are part of their strategies to meet stakeholder expectations. Our white paper provides hard data based on independently conducted interviews with CPGs worldwide, as well as recognized source materials and insights from Avery Dennison teams working with customers, recyclers, legislative bodies and industry associations worldwide where the company operates. We see it as a practical tool for CPGs to address circularity challenges — a new source of research information.” 
1 MIT; APR; Sustainable Plastics
Key findings include: 
● Brands are relentlessly pursuing circularity. Nearly all global CPG brands have a goal of 100% recyclable, reusable and compostable packaging by 2030. 
● Sustainable products represented about 31% of CPG’s growth between 2013 and 2023, despite only accounting for approximately 18.5% of CPG’s sustainable market share. ● Consumers perceive packaging as one of a brand’s most controllable and visible sustainability elements. In fact, approximately 31% of consumers believe that “brands investing in sustainable packaging” is one of the top three ways to address environmental issues.2 
● While progress continues to be made in packaging production, use and disposal, global plastic consumption has quadrupled over the past 30 years, accounting for 3.4% of global greenhouse emissions and 350 million tons of waste, 40% of which comes from packaging.3 
● Legislation is driving changes in packaging. For example: Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in Europe is mandating that packaging is Designed for Recycling (DfR) and that at least 10% of beverage packaging is reusable by 2030. 
● The recycling of packaging and reuse/refill models can make a significant difference. For example, recycled rigid plastics such as PET and HDPE are over 70% less emissions-intensive than their virgin plastic counterparts.4 
● A new generation of pressure-sensitive labels has a novel “clean-release” functionality that allows superior and clean separation of the label and inks during the recycling process. This method ensures higher quality recycled materials, which in the case of rigid plastics, like PET and HDPE, allows the upcycling of the reused plastic for the production of new bottles, reducing the need for virgin materials and increasing brands packaging circularity. 
Methodology 
The data in this document was taken from interviews completed in 2024 with consumer packaged goods companies, recyclers and other external experts in more than nine countries, including the United States, Brazil, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy, India and China. Additionally, reviews of global industry and market reports, packaging studies and third-party testing results were conducted. It also draws on interviews and interactions with customers, recyclers, government officials, legislative bodies and industry associations worldwide where the company operates. 
To download the white paper, visit https://www.makingpackagingcircular.com. 
About Avery Dennison 
Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification 
2 2023 Bain Sustainability Survey (n= 23,374)
3 OECD (2022), Global Plastics Outlook Economic Drivers, Global Plastics Outlook: Policy Scenarios to 2060 4 MIT; APR; Sustainable Plastics 
solutions company. We are Making Possible™ products and solutions that help advance the industries we serve, providing branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers. We design and develop labeling and functional materials, radio-frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and offerings that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience. Serving industries worldwide — including home and personal care, apparel, general retail, e-commerce, logistics, food and grocery, pharmaceuticals and automotive — we employ approximately 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Our reported sales in 2024 were $8.8 billion.
 

When Chespa set out to increase automation in its flexo platemaking operation, the company chose to implement ThermoFlexX Catena+ from XSYS. This end-to-end, one-touch solution has boosted efficiency, improved plate quality and minimized human errors, helping to reinforce Chespa’s position as a prepress innovator.         

Willstaett, Germany. 8 April 2025 – Headquarters in Chorula, Poland, Chespa sp. z o. o. comprises 18 companies in seven countries, offering a wide range of products and services for the printing industry, including reprographics, photopolymer plates and packaging management, as well as graphic inks and cutting dies. The award-winning prepress expert supplies flexo plates to printers across Europe, utilized to produce high quality flexible packaging and corrugated boxes for numerous global brands. 

Chespa is a close industry partner for XSYS, supporting technology development, such as the nyloflex® FTL plate, and participating in collaborative print trials. Over the past 20 years, the two companies have worked together to drive innovation in flexo and find targeted solutions that address evolving market demands. The installation of a ThermoFlexX Catena+ line at Chespa’s in Chorula/Poland  site allows the company to continue leading the way in flexo platemaking and bring higher value to its customer base.

“We have great faith in XSYS as a technology partner, having established a close cooperation over many years. Our latest project has been the implementation of full automation with the Catena+ plate processing line which I can safely say has established a highly efficient production process for us,” said Marek Siekiera CEO of the Chespa Group. “We chose this particular solution to address a variety of challenges, such as diversity of production machines and lack of process automation, knowing it has been proven in the market under real production conditions, with great success.”

Unifying platemaking in a connected workflow, ThermoFlexX Catena+ includes the ThermoFlexX TFxX80 Laser, the Catena-E LED exposure unit, and Catena-WDLS washer, dryer and light-finisher, with Catena-R rotating the plates between the two. As such, Catena+ is a true hands-off solution without any operator intervention required from initial loading to the collection of the final print-ready plate at the finish. Furthermore, the system is very easy and intuitive to run, with the ThermoFlexX Graphic User Interface displaying all the key parameters and information on a full HD touch-screen.

“Our main objective was to increase productivity and minimise the risk of human errors made by operators at various stages of the process. This has been achieved with the Catena+ solution. The operation of the new instalation has translated into higher productivity and more efficient raw material management of the photopolymer plates” explained Marek Siekiera CEO of the Chespa Group. “In addition, the upgrade from our previous traditional system to Catena-E with UV LED exposure is delivering better image reproduction and consistent high plate quality, which allows our customers to run their presses faster with less stops needed for cleaning.”

To ensure a smooth transition at Chespa, the installation ran concurrently with the existing systems without disruption, as technicians efficiently completed all implementations. The XSYS team was involved from the very beginning, first by offering advice during the decision-making, then with technical support throughout installation, and finally with training of the operators as the new system came online.

Marek Siekiera CEO of the Chespa Group stated, “An important aspect of this investment is that the Catena+ solution gives us an entire system developed by a single supplier, not a combination of different modules from various sources. The installation proceeded smoothly, and we are highly satisfied that we have made the right decision by installing fully automated plate processing with this stable and low-maintenance system. We’re already contemplating the possibility of purchasing our next Catena+ line from XSYS.”

“We treasure the great working partnership with Chespa because they bring a huge amount of experience to the table, and we’re honored that they have reaffirmed their trust in XSYS’ technology. As a leader in the market, they understand the high value Catena+ offers and we can already see the huge impact this innovative technology is having on the business,” commented Ralph Johannpeter, Sales Manager DACH.

About XSYS
Headquartered in Willstaett, Germany, XSYS operates globally and remains one of the largest suppliers offering both flexographic and letterpress prepress solutions, including plates, sleeves, processors, workflow solutions, and expert professional services, designed to help these industries move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and profitability, and a reduced environmental footprint.

In recognizing our endeavor to bring more brilliance into the packaging industry – into the lives of our customers and colleagues – XSYS has achieved a Gold Medal rating from EcoVadis for its sustainability. This distinction goes beyond our commitment to protecting the environment by also evaluating our dedication to social responsibility, diversity, and human rights.

The broad XSYS portfolio comprises some of the industry’s best-known brands of consumables (nyloflex® and nyloprint® plates), plate processing equipment (Xpress, ThermoFlexX, and Catena), surface screening software (Woodpecker), plate mounting (rotec®), and washout solvents (nylosolv®). 
 

The Weedon Group, the UK’s leading independent corrugated packaging manufacturer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Colin Cutts as its new Group Managing Director.

This leadership transition follows the Weedon Group’s successful integration into the Zeus Packaging Group in April 2024, under the long-standing guidance of John and Peter Weedon. With their retirement in March, the Group extends its sincere thanks to John and Peter for their outstanding leadership and dedication over the years.

Colin brings more than 30 years of experience in the packaging industry, having held senior roles across Sales and General Management. His deep expertise in packaging, point-of-sale (POS), and display solutions positions him well to lead the Weedon Group into its next phase of growth.

Colin’s appointment marks a significant strategic milestone for the Group, as it continues to strengthen its market presence and pursue new opportunities for innovation and expansion.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

About Zeus Packaging

Zeus Packaging is a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, committed to innovation and excellence in serving a diverse range of industries. With a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction, Zeus Packaging delivers high-quality, eco-friendly packaging products to clients worldwide. Serving in 38 countries and with 61 locations, Zeus truly is a global packaging solutions provider.

Company’s Hamba Flexline stands out for its clean, even filling and peroxide sterilization capabilities proven to extend product shelf-life.

IMA Food North America – a food & beverage equipment leader whose solutions comprise long-established brands like Gasti, Hamba, Hassia, Fillshape, Corazza, Erca, AlphaMAC and Intecma – offers the Hamba Flexline, a high-performance, fully servo-controlled fill-seal machine with industry-leading sterilization technology. Rated for high-speed operation and featuring a sturdy, hygienic stainless-steel construction, the system stands out for its clean, even filling and peroxide sterilization capabilities proven to extend product shelf-life. 

Despite its ample set of attributes, the Hamba Flexline’s distinguishing feature is its industry-leading aseptic production. Following an ionization station that removes potential static loads, the insides of all cups are treated with hydrogen peroxide and subsequently dried with sterile air. During this process, the cups are elevated to achieve satisfactory decontamination of slats and cups underneath the cup rim. For applications not requiring hydrogen peroxide, the system can also be designed to utilize UV and pulsed light technology.

Further downstream, the machine also can incorporate lid sterilization elements, including an optional light decontamination system with 90-degree pick and place movement. Between runs, filling nozzles can be cleaned via clean-in-place (CIP) or sterilize-in-place (SIP) options. 

The Hamba Flexline is marketed to food companies who place an emphasis on freshness optimization and presentation. Product applications include yogurts, spreadable cheeses, puddings, baby foods, and a variety of other foodstuffs housed in cups. A nod to increasingly eco-conscious packaging materials selection, the machine’s disinfection stations can be designed to accommodate a wide range of cup and lid substrates, including PET, PP and paper.  

The Hamba Flexline is as versatile as it is robust: the machine can run from 4-12 cups per cycle in either single- or double-lane setups. This allows the system to fill and seal as many as 57,600 cups per hour, while remaining flexible enough to handle cups up to 180mm in diameter and 150mm in height. Automatic format changes, simple push-button recipe control, and the ability to change lids without line stoppage further enhance production efficiency.

“The Hamba Flexline is the flagship solution that solidifies IMA Food as a true leader in enhanced, sterilizable fill-seal cup technology,” said Patrick Carroll, President of IMA Food North America. “In a food category where brand differentiation can be difficult to achieve on busy supermarket shelves, the shelf-life extension and sophisticated clean-fill presentation made possible by the Hamba Flexline helps our customers build trust and brand loyalty.”
 

About IMA Food North America

IMA Food North America serves the dairy and food industries with several brands of the IMA group (Corazza, Erca, Fillshape, Gasti, Hamba, Hassia and Intecma) and offers a portfolio covering nearly all areas of packaging machine application, including:

•    Filling and sealing machines (FS) for preformed cups and bottles
•    Forming, filling and sealing machines (FFS) for packaging products in the food, dairy, and beverage segments (filled up to the aseptic level)
•    Filling systems for flexible stand-up pouches with and without spout for dairy, food, beverage and personal care sectors
•    Wrapping machines for packaging butter, fresh cheese, soup cubes, yeast, margarine, etc.
•    Aseptic vertical and horizontal form, fill and seal machines for stick packs / pouches (with corresponding dosing systems)
•    FFS machines for packaging single portions of coffee, honey, jam, etc. 
 

With PharmaGuard®, a PP-based, recyclable blister packaging solution, SÜDPACK MEDICA paved the way for greater sustainability in the pharma-ceutical industry. But that was just the beginning. The film manufacturer is already developing the next generations of its future-proof packaging sys-tems that combine sustainability with exceptional quality and reliability. Through its development partnership with IMA, SÜDPACK is working to en-sure that these new mono-material structures can be processed on cus-tomers’ existing blister lines with the same efficiency, product protection, and packaging reliability as conventional PVC/PVDC solutions.
While current regulations do not yet require recyclable packaging or recy-cled content in the pharmaceutical sector – as they do in the food industry – pharmaceutical companies would be well advised to start preparing for fu-ture packaging requirements now. To make the transition to sustainable blister packaging as easy as possible for customers, SÜDPACK and IMA are actively developing market-ready solutions. Their goal is to ensure that the new materials can be seamlessly integrated into customers’ existing ma-chinery. 
The development of PharmaGuard was undoubtedly a milestone in phar-maceutical packaging. This innovative packaging concept sets new standards in terms of sustainability, quality, and performance. However, maintaining this high level of performance presents a real challenge, as PP- and PE-based mono-materials introduce entirely new requirements for the packag-ing process. 
At SÜDPACK, polypropylene (PP) is the preferred polymer ... 
… for oral solid dosage packaging. PP-based structures, such as Phar-maGuard, stand out due to their intrinsic water vapor barrier, low specific weight, high transparency, and excellent push-through performance. This material is free from phthalates, nitrosamines, PFAS, and halogens and meets the strict requirements of USP 661 and the International Pharmaco-poeia. Most importantly, unlike conventional PVC/PVdC blister solutions, PP-based packaging concepts can be integrated into existing recycling streams. A Sphera LCA study, commissioned by SÜDPACK and verified in ac-cordance with ISO 14040/44, has confirmed that PP has a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional composite materials such as PVC/PVdC and aluminum, as well as PET-based mono- and multi-layer materials.
A relentless focus on customer requirements 
What may seem like a seamless solution is actually the result of years of de-velopment by the pioneering film manufacturer. However, to ensure that the new high-performance films run smoothly on customers’ existing blister lines, the machine manufacturer’s expertise is also indispensable. The pri-mary goal of this partnership is to minimize the time, effort, and costs asso-ciated with retrofitting existing machines, while ensuring the same level of quality, speed, and efficiency as conventional films in the packaging process. As a result of their close collaboration during the development process, both partners – and most importantly, their customers – can now benefit from greater opportunities to analyze and optimize material performance for blister packaging applications.
To better define future-proof, sustainable packaging solutions and foster closer cooperation with material suppliers and customers, IMA has estab-lished a network of analytical laboratories through its OPENLab initiative. For example, during the development of PharmaGuard, IMA’s extensive ex-pertise in thermoforming, sealing layer design, and printing helped elevate the material’s performance beyond that of conventional PP films. 
The OPENLab: data-driven analysis
The OpenLAB plays a key role in helping customers gain a comprehensive understanding of how materials behave on IMA machines. It also helps identify key factors that ensure consistent, high-quality results, including optical properties and process stability. 
One of its most valuable assets is a detailed database of material structures, correlated with test results across different systems. Additionally, the OPENLab allows a dual approach to troubleshooting – any issues encoun-tered during testing are analyzed in-house from both a machine and mate-rial perspective, allowing for precise adjustments and solutions. Moreover, the lab helps identify market trends for various IMA applications by evaluat-ing new sustainable materials. 
Ultimately, thanks to data-driven insights, SÜDPACK and IMA can ensure that the recyclability and performance of mono-materials meet both market demands and internal packaging standards. This makes it easier for cus-tomers to transition to more sustainable packaging concepts.
 

Kirk Group has partnered with XSYS and Hybrid Software to deliver new industry-leading flexo plate innovation to RollsPack, in Melbourne. The Australian reprographics expert leveraged a powerful combination of technologies, utilizing nyloflex® plates, ThermoFlexX imaging, Velvet Screening, Woodpecker surface patterns and Catena+ automated processing, to create a tailored solution for the award-winning packaging supplier. 

Willstaett, Germany, 08 April 2025. Established in 1972, Kirk Group is known throughout the industry as an innovation leader. The reprographics company, headquartered in Sydney, works with global brands and major printing companies across the ANZ region and into Asia, supplying graphic services and image carrier solutions for packaging production. Manufacturing sites are located in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland, and sales offices in Christchurch, New Zealand, and Mumbai, India, all focused on the company’s stated mission “to bring inspiration and innovation to marketers and brands.”

With decades of experience in delivering flexo excellence, Kirk Group understands that close collaboration with technology suppliers and customers is key to success. When long-term customer RollsPack Group challenged the team to find a more cost-effective and sustainable way to print high value flexible packaging, they knew exactly where to turn. 

Ben Prout, Group Technical Manager, shares: “Kirk Group has worked with RollsPack for over 20 years, so we appreciate and understand their ambitions, requirements and workflow. For this project, we also drew on the technical expertise and experience of XSYS and Hybrid Software, as well as RollsPack collaborating closely to create a customized solution that not only meets or exceeds the quality of competitors but also offers a more competitive price point.”

To meet RollsPack´s specific criteria, the team carefully considered the combination of plate and specialized screening technologies necessary to achieve the desired outcome. They were able to leverage the versatility of the ThermoFlexX imaging system and Catena+ automated processing line to implement these solutions:
•    nyloflex® NEF D – a high durometer printing plate for flexible packaging developed by XSYS for the efficient creation of flat-top dots and reproduction of surface screenings with UV LED exposure.
•    Velvet Screening – a new screening type from Hybrid Software created to meet flexo requirements. As the successor to hybrid XM screening, it uses an advanced dot removal algorithm to reduce harsh edges, leading to smoother and higher-quality prints. 
•    ThermoFlexX Woodpecker Nano – the finest surface micro pattern available for LAMS plates, suitable for platemakers and printers who need high frequency surface screens to increase quality and efficiency while reducing costs.
 

Pushing the boundaries of flexo printing
The nyloflex® plates with Velvet Screening and Woodpecker micro surface patterns provided by Kirk Group ticked all the boxes for RollsPack Group, meeting its demands for quality, sustainability and costs. A family-owned company founded in 1985, it specializes in flexible packaging production, including e-commerce, food, retail, and tamper-evident solutions. 

“This solution offers a lot of potential. Set up times have been reduced significantly due to precise color profiles, and longevity on press is comparable to other major players on the market,” said Print Manager Thanh Huynh. Commenting on the print quality, he added, “There’s a marked difference in the ink laydown on surface print; it’s one of the best I’ve seen in flexibles. Even when printing colors on a white ink base layer, where we typically experience a drop in density – the results with Woodpecker are impressive. In addition, Velvet Screening holds the dots really well, ensuring that there are minimum hard edges.”   

As well as delivering top quality at great cost, RollsPack is also firmly committed to sustainability, developing environmentally friendly products for its customers. “We are dedicated to elevating the market by supplying innovations that benefit our customers and meet their sustainability goals. We successfully achieved the same high-quality print with water-based inks as with solvent-based inks. This drives a constant need to explore new avenues and Kirk Group plays a fundamental role in this endeavor. Together we are pushing the boundaries of brilliant flexo,” concluded Thanh Huynh. 

Easy implementation in any workflow
In this scenario, advanced screening technology and dedicated plate surface structures simplified the challenging task of controlling the dots and the ink behavior on press. ThermoFlexX Woodpecker and Velvet Screening proved their individual strengths, to deliver a successful outcome for RollsPack. Both software solutions are truly open without any extra steps needed, meaning they can be implemented into any workflow. 

Brenton King, Hybrid Software’s Sales Manager for Australasia, expanded on the flexibility of Velvet Screening, “The beauty of Velvet is that the software doesn’t require any proprietary information or special equipment, it just slots into the existing setup. Used at any resolution or ruling, it can be imaged onto the plate of your choice on any CTP device and then processed through your existing exposure frame.” He added, “In this collaboration, Kirk Group simply applied Velvet Screening and then added the Woodpecker surface patterns during imaging. It’s a very clever combination.”

Maximizing opportunities and potential
On the hardware side, Kirk Group relied on ThermoFlexX technology from XSYS, including a Catena+ automated plate processing line installed at the Melbourne site in 2021. Kirk’s Chief Operating Officer Robert Selvaggio commented, “The investment in Catena+ has been a great success story for us. We were among the first in the market to realize the potential of this high performance, one-touch technology which tripled our capacity and elevated plate quality.” He revealed the company’s’ future strategy, “We’re now in the process of installing a Catena+ line in Brisbane and a third one is already planned for Sydney.”  

“Kirk Group has been reaping the exceptional benefits of Catena+ for a few years, and we have witnessed the innovative solutions it enables, such as this special project for RollsPack Group,” said Roy Schoettle, VP, XSYS Asia Pacific. “We are delighted that this partnership has been so successful and look forward to taking the next steps with the team, as they equip all their manufacturing sites with full Catena+ lines.” 

Robert Selvaggio concluded, “Flexo is still the largest printing technology for packaging, both in terms of volume and value, but we must maximize the market opportunities and the potential of each technology on offer. This is why collaboration is crucial for the future of our industry and for our customers.” 

About XSYS
Headquartered in Willstaett, Germany, XSYS operates globally and remains one of the largest suppliers offering both flexographic and letterpress prepress solutions, including plates, sleeves, processors, workflow solutions, and expert professional services, designed to help these industries move forward with increasing innovation, improved productivity and profitability, and a reduced environmental footprint.

In recognizing our endeavor to bring more brilliance into the packaging industry – into the lives of our customers and colleagues – XSYS has achieved a Gold Medal rating from EcoVadis for its sustainability. This distinction goes beyond our commitment to protecting the environment by also evaluating our dedication to social responsibility, diversity, and human rights.

The broad XSYS portfolio comprises some of the industry’s best-known brands of consumables (nyloflex® and nyloprint® plates), plate processing equipment (Xpress, ThermoFlexX, and Catena), surface screening software (Woodpecker), plate mounting (rotec®), and washout solvents (nylosolv®). 

Brilliant products and services for brilliant print results and business success.

About Hybrid Software
With offices in Belgium, Germany, US, UK, Spain, France, Italy, and China plus a global partner network, Hybrid Software is an enterprise software development company focused on innovative productivity tools for the graphic arts industry.

Hybrid Software’s CLOUDFLOW workflow, PACKZ PDF editor, iC3D visualization software, and print quality solutions offer a unique set of advantages that include native PDF workflows, enterprise cloud solutions, scalable technology with low cost of ownership, and direct integration with leading MIS solutions and output devices. These products are used by thousands of customers worldwide in all areas of prepress and print, including labels and packaging, folding cartons, corrugated, wide format and digital printing. Hybrid Software is a subsidiary of Hybrid Software Group.
 

AGI Greenpac Limited (NSE: AGI; BSE: 500187), India’s largest manufacturer of container glass, today announced setting up of a state-of-the-art greenfield, high-output and high-efficiency manufacturing plant in Madhya Pradesh with capital expenditure outlay of ~₹700 Crore. This expansion will increase the company's container glass manufacturing production capacity by ~25% to meet the rising demand for high-quality glass packaging products.

The new plant, designed with a planned daily production capacity of 500 tonnes, will produce commercial glass for key sectors including alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, and food. AGI Greenpac anticipates commencing commercial production within 24 months. The timeline demonstrates the company's commitment to efficient project execution and rapid market responsiveness.

Madhya Pradesh provides AGI Greenpac a strategic advantage through its central location, robust infrastructure, and readily available raw materials. These combined benefits will significantly enhance AGI Greenpac's container glass production capabilities and support its strategic expansion across India.

Commenting on the investment, Mr. Sandip Somany, Chairman and Managing Director of AGI Greenpac Limited, stated, “Madhya Pradesh's favorable business environment and strategic location aligns with our growth strategy. This state-of-the-art plant will enable us to meet the rising demand for tailored glass packaging solutions, providing our customers with enhanced quality products and will further expand our share in the Indian container glass market.”

The facility will expand AGI Greenpac's geographical spread, integrating advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainable practices, demonstrating the company's commitment to environmental responsibility and long-term growth. This expansion strengthens the company's manufacturing footprint, complementing its existing glass plants in Telangana. 

Beyond its production benefits, the new plant is projected to create over 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, acting as a catalyst for regional economic development and fostering a vibrant manufacturing ecosystem.

About AGI Greenpac Limited
AGI Greenpac Limited is India's largest manufacturer of container glass, and also provides a comprehensive portfolio of PET bottles and products, and anti-counterfeiting security closures. With seven strategically located manufacturing plants across India, the company serves over 500 globally recognized institutional clients. 
 

BOTTA EcoPackaging is pleased to announce that its Eco-Strong Plant Strapping for pallet has officially received compostability certification. This achievement marks an exciting advancement in the company's ongoing efforts to provide sustainable packaging alternatives while ensuring high performance and reliability.

Crafted from herbal fibers, the Eco-Strong Plant Strapping is not only environmentally friendly but also boasts a tensile strength of up to 220kg, ensuring durability and resistance to cracking and punctures. These attributes make it a reliable choice for demanding packaging applications. Now, with the newly obtained compostability certification, Eco-Strong Plant Strapping for pallet offers a practical solution for companies seeking to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic without compromising the strength and durability required in their packaging processes.

“With the compostability certification of our Eco-Strong Plant Strapping, we’re proving that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand,” said Lara Botta, Vice President of BOTTA EcoPackaging. “This certification adds another layer of trust for businesses looking to adopt packaging solutions that align with their environmental goals, while also meeting the practical demands of their operations.”

This newly certified strapping is fully compostable in industrial composting facilities, providing companies with the confidence they need to integrate it into their waste reduction strategies. Its compatibility with standard packaging equipment ensures it can seamlessly fit into the workflow of a variety of industries, including home appliances, food packaging, textiles, and beyond.

About BOTTA EcoPackaging

BOTTA EcoPackaging is an Italian family company in the corrugated cardboard packaging business for over 77 years. The company has leading and competitive expertise in eco-friendly packaging, recognised internationally. BOTTA EcoPackaging is committed to offering paper-based packaging alternatives to its customers, with the mission to help them attain their sustainability goals. BOTTA EcoPackaging collaborates and cooperates with Universities, Companies, and Start-Ups to address innovation in the packaging industry, believing firmly in an Open Innovation approach. Its strategy is focused on challenging and pursuing the most avant-garde packaging innovations that can be boosted and enhanced to respond to the packaging sector’s needs, their central focus.

FlexiTubes, the packaging tube division of UFlex— India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company—will present its innovative and sustainable tube solutions designed for all sectors of the beauty industry at COSMOPROF Italy 2025. This premier B2B event, dedicated to the dynamic beauty industry, is scheduled to take place in Bologna, Italy, from March 20- 22, 2025.

As the demand for sustainable and customized packaging grows across the beauty sector, UFlex's FlexiTubes has positioned itself as a leader, providing comprehensive packaging solutions that enhance product appeal and elevate the consumer experience. At COSMOPROF Italy 2025, FlexiTubes will showcase range of eco-friendly and innovative tube options, offering advanced aesthetics, superior barrier properties, anti-counterfeit features, and sustainability-focused innovations.

Designed to cater to diverse needs within the beauty industry, FlexiTubes provides 360-degree tube solutions with high-definition graphics achieved through rotogravure reverse printing, available in matte, gloss, dual matte-gloss, holographic metallic, and matte metallic finishes for a premium look. These packaging solutions also emphasize sustainability with reduced plastic usage and a minimal environmental footprint, without compromising on the essential MVTR (Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate) and OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate) properties. FlexiTubes offers customized barrier solutions to meet the specific requirements of each beauty product.

UFlex's FlexiTubes will feature an array of eco-friendly options, including paper-based tubes, fully recyclable tubes, biodegradable tubes, and tubes made from PCR (Post Consumer Recyclate). These solutions demonstrate UFlex's ongoing commitment to sustainability and promoting a circular economy across the beauty industry.

Join us at the FlexiTubes booth, D 17 in Hall No. 20 at the Fair District in Bologna, Italy, to explore an extensive selection of sustainable tube packaging solutions. Discover innovative options like Earthika, Greenika, Kraftika, Remika, and more, all designed to enhance both environmental responsibility and brand impact.

About UFlex Limited:

UFlex is India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company. Since its inception in 1985, UFlex has grown from strength to strength and has built a strong presence across all verticals of the packaging value chain - packaging films, chemicals, aseptic liquid packaging, flexible packaging, holography, engineering, and printing cylinders.

With a 10,000+ strong multicultural workforce across global regions that works toward developing innovative, value-added, and sustainable packaging solutions, the company has earned an irreproachable reputation for defining the contours of the ‘Packaging Industry’ in India and overseas. It provides end-to-end solutions to numerous Fortune 500 clients across various sectors such as FMCG, consumer product goods, pharmaceuticals, building materials, automobiles, and more, in more than 150 countries.

Headquartered in Noida, the National Capital Region, India, UFlex enjoys a global reach with advanced manufacturing facilities in India, UAE, Mexico, Egypt, USA, Poland, CIS, Nigeria, and Hungary.

A winner of various marquee global awards for product excellence, innovation, and sustainability, UFlex is the first company in the world to earn recognition at the Davos Recycle Forum in 1995 for conceptualizing the recycling of mixed plastic waste.

Fully committed to its European partners, thanks to its historic relationship with Heinz Glas, Coverpla has won an exclusive sales partnership for seven major bottles in its supplier’s collection. Coverpla is currently the only player to offer these designs to brands. Available from stock in two formats, they are ready and waiting for personalization to reveal their magic.

To ensure the future of its ready-to-go offer, Coverpla has carved its positioning thanks to long-term relationships with the biggest European suppliers, a constructive strategy built on loyalty. Its bottles are produced by the leading glassmakers including Pochet, Bormioli Luigi, Verescence and Heinz Glas. Coverpla stands by these long-term relationships with proximity manufacturers as a guarantee of quality and secure sourcing. 

Seven signature designs

While products from Heinz Glas have long featured in the Coverpla catalog, the novelty here stands in the glassmaker’s decision to entrust Coverpla with commercial exclusivity for seven of its bottles. Coverpla offers them from stock in 50 and 100ml formats.
With the names Jens, Juicy, Quadri, Style, Trek, Urban and Yoga, they offer a broad range of shapes and styles: minimalist, opulent, thin, tall, square or rounded; some have high shoulders, others thick bases, with varying glass weight. They are perfectly adapted to Coverpla’s mix-and-match offer, and to personalization through décor.
 

Innovative companies often have an interesting history. One tradition-conscious market leader is the German vacuum specialist Leybold. Founded by Ernst Leybold in Cologne in 1850, the company has achieved numerous pioneering milestones and product developments. Now, in 2025, the renowned manufacturer is celebrating its 175th anniversary.

Important Role in Many Areas

Leybold’s core competencies include developing and manufacturing standardized, individual solutions for vacuum generation and process gas conveying, as well as customer-specific vacuum systems. The vacuum pioneer’s components, systems, and services play an important role in many areas worldwide, such as industrial coating, analysis, and research and development processes.

Dynamic Markets, High Demands

With its comprehensive application expertise and the quality of its products and services, Leybold has a significant influence on the efficiency of processes and value chains. This is particularly important at the moment because the market dynamics and global challenges, such as climate change, are especially great.

Areas of Application Undergoing Structural Change

The currently relevant applications of vacuum technology in structural change include metallurgy, the automotive and coating industries, solar, display and food applications, analytics and processes for the production of lithium-ion batteries for electromobility.

Continuation of the Leybold Name

The entrepreneur Ernst Leybold laid the foundations for the company when he moved from Bavaria to the Rhineland in 1850. By registering the company in Cologne, Leybold became the founder of industrial vacuum technology. Even after the sale of the company in 1870, which continued to operate under the name “E. Leybold's Nachfolger', his vision remained intact.

Collaboration with Dr. Wolfgang Gaede

His successors achieved a breakthrough in vacuum technology in 1906 in collaboration with Dr. Wolfgang Gaede: for example, with the basic principle of the turbomolecular pump (1911) and the application of the diffusion pump (1913), both of which are still in use today. The gas ballast device for pumping out vapors, patented in 1935, is also still in use.

Industrial Utilization of the Vacuum

Vacuum metallurgy began in 1913: Dr. Wilhelm Rohn, head of the physical testing laboratory at W.C. Heraeus GmbH, developed a process for melting high-purity metals in a vacuum in Hanau, which was patented in 1918. In 1931, Wilhelm Carl Heraeus succeeded in vaporizing metals on glass, thus paving the way for vacuum coating technology. Subsequently, vacuum technology was increasingly used in process engineering.

Important Brand with Great Appeal

In September 2016, the Swedish company Atlas Copco AB, based in Stockholm, acquired 100 percent of Oerlikon Leybold Vacuum, which is now part of Atlas Copco's Vacuum Technique division. In the multi-brand group with around 53,000 employees and customers in over 180 countries, Leybold is a major brand that plays an important role with its great tradition and reputation.

About Leybold

Established in 1850, Leybold is a pioneer in vacuum innovation. Our inventions have paved the way for many modern-day vacuum technologies, including our range of next-generation vacuum products. We are recognized globally as a leader in the manufacture of vacuum pumps and systems for industrial and scientific vacuum applications, that are supported by our specialized and globally accessible Service solutions.

We are proud to live up to our brand promise - Pioneering products. Passionately applied.

Founded in Cologne, Germany with sales and service locations around the globe. We are a part of the Atlas Copco Group. For more information, visit leybold.com.

Cosmo Specialty Chemicals, a 100% subsidiary of Cosmo First and a one-stop solution for a range of Adhesives, Masterbatches, and Coating Chemicals, has announced the launch of its innovative COSEAL-601 heat seal coating solution. The company’s heat seal coating technology has demonstrated remarkable market performance, consistently outperforming industry benchmarks across various temperature ranges.

Recent performance data shows COSEAL-601 achieving superior sealing strength compared to market alternatives, particularly in the crucial 120-160°C temperature range. The product has demonstrated exceptional versatility across both 2-ply and 3-ply aluminium foil laminated structures, making it ideal for diverse packaging applications.

Backed by strong financial performance and superior technical specifications, the company’s innovative approach has witnessed Cosmo Specialty Chemicals achieving 60% sales growth over last year (Dec 2024 YTD basis) and EBITDA in high teens. 

Mr. Raj Sharma, Business Head of Cosmo Specialty Chemicals, said, “Our COSEAL-601 represents a significant breakthrough in heat seal coating technology. The product’s superior performance, particularly in high-speed manufacturing environments, has resonated strongly with our customers. The impressive growth in our contribution margins reflects our ability to deliver tangible value to our customers’ packaging operations. As we continue to innovate, we remain focused on developing solutions that combine operational efficiency with sustainability.”

The COSEAL-601 coating offers several key advantages with its ready-to-use formulation for immediate application, superior adhesion to aluminium foil laminate structures, optimal sealing performance at 120-140°C, low coefficient of friction with a block-free formulation, enhanced compatibility with high-speed manufacturing and superior resistance to water and oil

The product has been specifically engineered for both 2-ply structures (45-60 GSM Paper/6.35-9µ Foil/HSL coating) and 3-ply structures (45-60 GSM Paper/10-12µ PET/6.35-9µ Foil/HSL coating), offering versatility across different packaging requirements.

About Cosmo Speciality Chemicals
Cosmo Speciality Chemicals is a 100% subsidiary of Cosmo First Limited. The company was established in 2020 with a vision of providing the best and most competitive products through innovations based on sustainable science. With Innovation, commitment to excellence and superior quality products, CSC is a one-stop solution for a range of Adhesives, Masterbatches, Coating Chemicals.

Cosmo Speciality Chemicals is one of the leading manufacturers of masterbatches in India. They produce white masterbatch, filler masterbatch, additive & specialized masterbatches to meet the diverse market requirements of customers in the flexible packaging Industry. Their state-of-the-art testing, analytical, and characterization instruments infrastructure ensures consistent quality. 

Cosmo Speciality Chemicals manufactures a wide range of coatings for excellent ink adhesion, gloss, clarity, durability, and resistance to scuff and scratches for a wide range of packaging, lamination, and synthetic paper applications.

Cosmo Speciality Chemicals is one of the leading adhesive manufacturers in India. The adhesives improve assembly quality while also decreasing production costs. CSC Adhesive Division is now a hub for a portfolio of combined technologies, innovations, expertise, and resources committed to growth in label, packaging, and lamination adhesive products.

CSC Adhesive division innovates technologies that employ a wide range of adhesives to enhance the performance of finished goods. They have a dedicated R&D, manufacturing, marketing, and technical support group for adhesives. The CSC Adhesive group has state-of-the-art analytical, physical, and performance property evaluation and testing capabilities available to help customers develop prototypes and troubleshoot problems.

About Cosmo First Limited:
Established in 1981 and founded by Mr. Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First is a global leader in specialty films and an emerging player in speciality chemicals (Masterbatches, Adhesive, & Coating), Cosmo Plastech and Cosmo PPF, along with a digital-first Omni channel Pet care business under the brand name ‘Zigly’. Cosmo First is into D2C, B2B2C and B2B businesses and has operations in India, Japan, Korea, Europe, and the Americas. Visit www.cosmofirst.com for more details.
 

UFlex Ltd., India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian company to receive approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its recycling process. This approval allows UFlex to use recycled polyethylene (rPE) in food packaging, marking a major step in reducing plastic waste and supporting global brands in meeting their sustainability goals.
UFlex’s recycling process is categorized as super-clean recycling, with the ability to de-ink post- consumer recycled (PCR) materials by more than 95%, making it one of the most advanced processes worldwide. This certification adheres to international standards and contributes to the global shift toward a circular economy, reinforcing UFlex’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
To further strengthen its recycling infrastructure, UFlex is investing INR 317 crores (USD 38 million) in advanced recycling technologies. This includes the establishment of two new recycling plants at its Noida facility in India, with a combined annual capacity to process 39,600 metric tons of plastic waste. These plants will significantly boost the production of rPET and rPE materials for use in food packaging, aligning with India’s growing emphasis on sustainability and its evolving legislative framework.
“In line with our commitment to support the Government of India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, we are proud to announce this significant investment to strengthen our recycling capabilities. The Indian government has set ambitious targets for the collection, recycling, reuse, and use of recycled content in plastic packaging to promote sustainable packaging. Our enhanced recycling operations will empower brand owners to meet their EPR commitments and set a global benchmark for sustainable packaging,” said, Mr Jeevaraj Gopal Pillai, Whole Time Director, Director - Sustainability, President - Flexible Packaging and New Product Development, UFlex Limited.
He further stated, “Innovation and sustainability have always been at the heart of our journey. Three decades ago, when recycling was still an emerging concept, we envisioned a future where waste could be transformed into value. Our early investments in recycling multi-layered plastic waste, once thought to be impossible to recycle, proved that innovation could drive meaningful change.”
He added, “With the first-ever USFDA approval for an Indian company in food-contact recycling, we are proud of how far we have come. This milestone is not only a proud moment for UFlex but also for India, as it highlights our country’s growing leadership in sustainable innovation and underscores its potential to make significant contribution to the global sustainability agenda. Additionally, we have applied for USFDA certification to recycle polypropylene (PP), which will position UFlex as the first company in the flexible packaging industry with the technology and capacity to recycle all three materials—PET, PE, and PP—for use in food packaging. We are excited to collaborate with global brands to help them meet the growing consumer demand for sustainable products while reducing plastic pollution.”
 
At present, there are no specific guidelines for the use of recycled polyethylene (rPE) content in food packaging. However, there is a mandatory requirement under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations to incorporate recycled content in packaging. UFlex, in collaboration with industry players, is actively engaging with government bodies such as FSSAI and BIS to help develop the necessary guidelines for the safe and sustainable use of rPE content in food packaging in India. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the industry adheres to the highest standards in food packaging while contributing to a circular economy.
Currently, UFlex has recycling plants in India, Poland, Egypt, and Mexico, processing post-consumer multi-layered mixed plastic (MLP), multi-layer aseptic packaging (MLAP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste. It is the only Indian company working on innovative solutions for flexible MLP and PCR applications both in India and globally.
Through the conversion of post-consumer waste into high-quality, food-safe materials, UFlex is driving innovation while reinforcing its commitment to a circular economy.
For queries: corpcomm@uflexltd.com
About UFlex:
UFlex Limited is India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company. Since its inception in 1985, UFlex has grown from strength to strength and has built a strong presence across all verticals of the packaging value chain - packaging films, chemicals, aseptic liquid packaging, flexible packaging, holography, engineering, and printing cylinders.
With a 12,000+ strong multicultural workforce across global regions that works toward developing innovative, value-added, and sustainable packaging solutions, the company has earned an irreproachable reputation for defining the contours of the packaging industry in India and overseas. It provides end-to-end solutions to numerous Fortune 500 clients across various sectors such as FMCG, consumer product goods, pharmaceuticals, building materials, automobiles, and more, in more than 150 countries.
Headquartered in Noida, the National Capital Region, India, UFlex enjoys a global reach with advanced manufacturing facilities in India, UAE, Mexico, Egypt, USA, Poland, CIS, Nigeria, and Hungary.
 

Cosmo Films, a global leader in specialty films for packaging, lamination, labelling, and synthetic paper vertical, has been honoured with the prestigious SIES SOP Star Awards 2025, further cementing its position as an innovative packaging solutions provider.

The SIES SOP Star Awards were instituted in 2017 to recognise the talent in the Packaging Sector for its continuous efforts in Innovation, Creativity and New Developments across various product segments such as Beverage, Food, Health & Personal Care, and Pharma among others.

The 8th Edition of the SIES SOP Star Awards witnessed an impressive participation of over 200 entries, with Cosmo Films successfully securing recognition in two critical categories under Packaging Materials & Components. The company’s two ground-breaking products that merited the awards are – ‘Metallized BOPP For High-Speed Packaging’ and ‘Next Generation UHB-HR MO’ High Heat Resistance BOPP Film For Replacing METPET Mono Carton Packaging Application.

Mr Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First, commented on the achievement: “This prestigious award is a recognition of Cosmo Films’ innovative packaging solutions. Both of our entries under the Packaging Materials & Components category validate our continuous commitment towards innovation and sustainability in the packaging industry. Our latest developments highlight our ability to create advanced solutions that address evolving market needs and environmental considerations. I’m thankful to the jury for their vote of confidence in us and for winning this very prestigious industry award.”

This recognition follows Cosmo Films’ previous success at the SIES SOP Star Awards, strengthening the Company’s reputation for delivering cutting-edge packaging technologies. The awards highlight Cosmo Films’ strategic focus on developing products that not only meet but also exceed the usual industry standards.

Cosmo Films remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of packaging technology, investing consistently in research and development to create eco-friendly, high-performance solutions for global brands.

About Cosmo Films:
Cosmo Films is a global leader in specialty films for packaging, lamination, labelling and synthetic paper. With engineering of innovative products and sustainability solutions, Cosmo Films over the years has been partnering with worlds’ leading F&B and personal care brands and packaging & printing converters to enhance the end consumer experience.  With manufacturing units in India and warehousing in different parts of the world, the Company has been at the forefront of developing customer-centric solutions to deliver the finest product and service experience, backed by innovation, people, and processes.

About Cosmo First Limited:
Founded by Mr Ashok Jaipuria in 1981 as Cosmo Films, today Cosmo First is a multinational conglomerate with 5 major business verticals. The flagship company, Cosmo Films, is a global leader in specialty films for packaging, lamination, labelling, and industrial and synthetic paper, serving over 5000 customers across 100+ countries. The other verticals include Cosmo Speciality Chemicals (Masterbatches, Adhesives, & Coating), Cosmo Plastech (Rigids - IML Containers and Specialty Sheets of PP / PET and HIPS) and Cosmo PPF (Automotive Paint Protection Films), along with a digital-first omni-channel pet care business, Zigly. Cosmo First is into D2C, B2B2C and B2B businesses and has operations in India, Japan, Korea, Europe and Americas. Visit www.cosmofirst.com for more details.
 

Automation NTH, a leading automation system integrator specializing in solving complex life sciences, medical device and med tech manufacturing challenges, will showcase a precision automation solution for complex medical device assembly at INTERPHEX NYC, April 1-3. At Booth #3061, the company will provide live demonstrations of its custom-designed Vision Guided Robotic Wire Insertion Machine, a precision solution that can meticulously control movement with less than 0.001” (25 µm) tolerance in all axes. The machine was engineered to address the tight-tolerance assembly of two common medical device sub-components: stylets and cannulas.
Stylets are flexible metal wires often as miniscule as 0.010” (0.254mm) in diameter. Cannulas are hollow, exceedingly narrow tubes with inner diameters of approximately 0.013” (0.3302mm). Cannulas are frequently used to house needles or stylets for IVs and syringes. 
Assembling such constructions brings several challenges, precision first and foremost. The wire insertion process requires accuracy of ± 21 µm, angular tolerance of 1.5°, and robot movements with ± 5 µm accuracy. From a quality control standpoint, stylets must not touch the inner wall of the cannula, which could damage the stylet. Variability is also a concern, as stylets differ in key attributes such as wire bends, angles, and lengths. Considering this, any machine solution must be exceptionally flexible.
Automation NTH solved these challenges by utilizing a Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm 4 (SCARA 4) axis robot, along with two tabletop-mounted servo motors permitting independent motion. The configuration allows the machine to tilt the syringe, holding the cannula in the Theta X and Theta Y directions to handle angle variability in the stylets. To accommodate for stylet variability, the machine utilizes vision to guide the robot into position, then aligns the cannula with the stylet for insertion.
Automation NTH’s Vision Guided Robotic Wire Insertion machine incorporates a robotic gripper, which picks a cannula from a nest and threads it into the syringe body, fixing it into place. A corresponding robotic arm then picks a stylet from the nest and moves it to an approach position, presenting it to inspection cameras that record and measure offsets.
The system thus employs a delicate feedback loop between the robot, camera, and servo motors. The cameras record and measure, while the robots adjust the stylets and cannulas as needed based on this information. The process is then repeated until the stylet is lined up within ± 21 µm, achieving this incredibly tight tolerance via a “progress until perfection” setup.
“This Vision Guided Robotic Wire Insertion machine demonstrates Automation NTH’s ability to create innovative solutions for complex, high precision assembly applications,” said Peter Sarvey, Head of Sales at Automation NTH. “We look forward to showcasing the machine’s extraordinarily precise handling and assembly capabilities to attendees at INTERPHEX NYC.”
 

About Automation NTH 
Founded in 1999 and headquartered outside of Nashville, TN with a facility in San Diego, CA, Automation NTH is a trusted partner in automation for manufacturers. Our expertise transforms your manufacturing operations from manual processes to semi-automated and fully automated production. Whether scaling up from individual work cells or introducing fully integrated production lines, we deliver solutions that drive cost savings, enhance efficiency, and minimize risks. With a strong focus on robotics and controls, we ensure timely delivery of projects with strict adherence to budget. Our innovative approaches improve production capacity, product quality, and enable operator autonomy. Our services include: Custom Automation, Equipment Optimization, and Automation Consulting. Let us turn Automation into your Competitive Advantage! 
 

If a wind or solar installation doesn’t last as long as its expected 20-30 year service life, is it really a sustainable use of resources? With corrosion as a key enemy of wind and solar longevity, Cortec® reminds manufacturers and investors not only of the importance of proper materials selection during the design phase, but also of the benefits of a few simple corrosion preventative steps during shipping and maintenance.

Shipping Solar and Wind Components Corrosion-Free
One of the first corrosion prevention tasks is to get solar panels and wind turbines to the jobsite in like-new condition. This can be challenging when fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and even salt spray heighten the risk of corrosion during the journey. The right protective packaging can eliminate this problem.

ESD Packaging for Sensitive Solar Components
When packaging photovoltaic equipment, manufacturers should think of protecting ESD (electrostatic discharge) sensitive components such as bypass diodes, as well as the metal supports, frames, wires, and electrical contacts that could be subject to corrosion. EcoSonic® VpCI®-125 HP Permanent ESD Films and Bags take care of both concerns. Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors in the film inhibit corrosion on a variety of ferrous and non-ferrous alloys, including galvanized steel, aluminum, and brass; while permanent static-dissipative properties help reduce or eliminate static buildup in the package.

Outdoor Shipment of Large Wind Components
In the case of wind turbine components, size, rather than ESD protection, is one of the big issues. Large wind turbine shafts, rings, and hubs often receive the brunt of attack from harsh weather because they may be transported on open truck beds or stored onsite for several years until installation is completed. Fortunately, VpCI®-126 HP UV Shrink Film and MilCorr® VpCI® Shrink Film are two anticorrosion films designed to hold up well in outdoor conditions and available in sizes large enough to shrink wrap giant components. If needed, additional protection can be added, such as VpCI®-368 D removable coating for more vulnerable surfaces and/or Desicorr® VpCI® Pouches for additional corrosion protection plus desiccant action within equipment and packaging voids.

Corrosion Prevention in Control Panels
Once solar panels and wind turbines are put into service, the job of corrosion protection is not over. Solar panels and wind turbines are inherently equipped with wires and electrical contact points that merge inside control boxes potentially subject to the ingress of oxygen, humidity, and chlorides. Placing a small self-stick device such as the VpCI®-105 or VpCI®-111 Emitter inside is an easy and effective way to guard against corrosion surprises that would require early repair or replacement of any exposed electrical contact points within the panel. Similar to VpCI® films, these devices release corrosion inhibiting vapors that diffuse throughout the space and adsorb on metal surfaces (ferrous and non-ferrous) to which they are attracted. It is much easier to replace these once every two years as part of routine maintenance rather than risk the potential of corroded metal contacts that could interrupt operations and require more extensive repair.

Extra Coatings for Structural Protection
In some cases, extra coatings may be desirable on various structural components. For instance, wind turbine base bolts are especially prone to corrosion and are good candidates for VpCI®-368. Although classified as a removable coating, VpCI®-368 offers such heavy duty corrosion protection that it is often used in offshore platform layups. If (unlike normal) solar panel frames and supports are made of carbon steel rather than corrosion resistant aluminum or galvanized steel, an extra protective coating such as EcoShield® VpCI®-386 or a primer/topcoat combo such as VpCI®-396 and VpCI®-384 is definitely in order to reduce solar structural corrosion. In some extreme conditions, owners may even find supplementary coatings warranted for an additional layer of protection on aluminum or galvanized steel in the severest environments. In these cases, a wash primer such as VpCI®-373 should be used before top-coating for better adhesion.

Keep Renewable Energy Sustainable
While the suggestions above do not cover all possible corrosion concerns for wind and solar energy, they are good places to start for basic corrosion prevention. Protecting solar and wind components during transit is critical to getting off to a good start, while protecting control panels and vulnerable structural components as part of routine maintenance can promote desired longevity by reducing corrosion at some of the easiest points to address. Contact Cortec® to learn more about protecting solar and wind components during shipping and maintenance to maximize the sustainability of renewable energy.

Company also will showcase a high-speed serialization station for bottles of various shapes and sizes; a versatile unit for in-depth manual inspection of a wide range of containers; and an adjustable station for streamlined case aggregation.

Antares Vision Group – a technological partner in the digitalization of products and supply chains for companies and institutions, and a leader in traceability and inspection for quality control – will offer live demonstrations of a high-speed system providing 100% inspection and leak detection for liquid-filled glass containers at INTERPHEX NYC, April 1-3 in New York. At its Booth #2821, Antares Vision Group also will showcase a high-speed serialization station for bottles of various shapes and sizes; a manual station suitable for a wide range of containers; and a standalone module for semi-automatic case aggregation.

Across Antares Vision Group’s core strengths of traceability and inspection, the solutions highlighted at INTERPHEX share several commonalities. Perhaps most prominently, each can be deployed as integrated modules into existing production environments, an inherent agnosticism that substantially simplifies incorporation. Concerning traceability specifically, the company’s ultra-secure cloud-based systems enable end-to-end “full stack” connection of the physical and digital worlds, from Levels 1 through 5.

High-speed Visual Inspection & Leak Detection for Liquid-filled Glass Containers

Antares Vision Group’s automatic Visual Rotating Inspection (VRI) system is capable of inspecting up to 400 liquid-filled glass containers per minute. The machine combines sophisticated particle and cosmetic detection that can integrate with high voltage, vacuum, and headspace gas analysis (HSGA) technology-driven closure integrity verification at an exceptionally rapid production pace. 

The VRI allows for the precise detection of cosmetic defects and particles, and also checks fill levels. It can inspect liquids presenting in a wide variety of viscosities, including water-like, oily, suspension, gel, emulsion, lyophilized, and powder products. Vials are also inspected for cosmetic defects such as crimping quality, flip-off color, neck-shoulder sidewalls, and stopper position. Molded glass and plastic containers also can be inspected for particles and cosmetic defects.

A split-infeed screw setup provides smooth and reliable operation, preventing undesired stops and restarts. A main floating carousel with a torque motor-driven inspection platform allows ideal cleanability and single-point product handling (from the neck), providing a constraint-free optical setup and improving detection capabilities through enhanced Field of View (FOV) and Depth of Field (DOF). Optional add-on features include code verification, optical character recognition (OCR)-optical character verification (OCR-OCV), and serialization incorporation.

 
Versatile Automated Serialization Solution for Bottles

Antares Vision Group’s recently introduced Omnivision Bottle Serialization Station offers seamless traceability for round, square or rectangular bottles commonly used in healthcare applications. Capable of handling a wide range of container shapes and sizes at speeds up to 300 per minute, the Omnivision can print unique helper codes on the top or bottom of each bottle, then perform a 360-degree reading of the unoriented bottle surface for recognition of printed serialized data and code association. This unique helper code is then used for subsequent manual or automatic aggregation phases, such as bundling or case packing. The system's seamless product handling ensures superior printing quality, and a lateral belt system provides bottle separation. Optional topsert inspection is available.

Manual Visual Inspection for Any Container Size

Also at INTERPHEX, Antares Vision Group will feature the Easy TB, ideal for the manual visual inspection of small batches - or to help trend and characterize potential defects in combination with semi-automated or fully automated systems. Capable of handling containers up to 52mm in diameter, 110mm tall and with volumes up to 100ml, the flexible unit – so-named for its simple, tool-free format change in under a minute – is suitable for inspecting a wide array of vials, bottles, cartridges, ampoules and prefilled syringes. 

To operate the Easy TB, an operator utilizes a bottom plate to load a container, which is held in firm position by an adjustable top tailstock. The module's inspection features include an advanced lens with adjustable positioning; various lighting position and intensity options (bottom, back, combination, etc.); a PLC-based system to manage bottom plate spinning speed; black and white backgrounds; and a sliding mask for configuring optimal visual inspection conditions.

Versatile Module for Off-Line Semi-Automatic Aggregation

The Top View Matrix Station aggregates cartons to a specific shipping case and prints unique shipping labels. Suitable for carton/bottle-to-case or bundle-to-case aggregation, the module’s signature feature is a 19.6”x11.8” top-view reading window, which employs cameras that automatically adjust to reading additional layers for faster throughput. The unit alerts operators to incorrect or already-picked barcodes and other defects to ensure a higher quality process, and an intuitive touch screen interface allows personnel to quickly change product and shipping information to accommodate customer orders. Semi-automatic operation gives warehouse and distribution operations the ability to cost-effectively go beyond the throughput limitations of manual loading and aggregation.
 

Highlighted offerings include company’s Vial Protect Pack and Light Protect Pack solutions, as well as Shrink Tack Label for secure, tamper-evident syringe marking.

IL Group, a specialist in multifunctional labeling solutions for the pharmaceuticals and healthcare sectors, will showcase several innovative solutions designed to enhance pharmaceutical packaging safety, integrity, and efficiency at INTERPHEX NYC, April 1-3. At Booth #1362, IL Group’s US entity, Iwata Label USA will exhibit its containment and light protection solutions for vials, including Vial Protect Pack and Light Protect Pack, as well as its Shrink Tack Label, a tamper-evident safety label for syringes

The company’s Vial Protect Pack (VPP) series is designed to provide added protection for fragile or high-leverage glass vials, as well as outer surface contamination of cytotoxic medicine. Comprising a glass vial, plastic protector, and Shrink Tack Label, the system delivers both reliable safeguarding and tamper evidence. The label’s adhesive securely bonds the plastic component to the primary container, eliminating any risk of unintended separation and enhancing protection throughout the supply chain. 

The VPP series is available in two configurations: Vial Protect Pack I (VPP I), which features a bottom plastic plate attached to the vial with the Shrink Tack Label for enhanced protection, and Vial Protect Pack II (VPP II), which essentially provides a “container for a container.” The solution combines a thick, tall plastic cup that cradles the primary vial with a shrink-tack label offering reliable tamper evidence. The plastic cup and the primary container are held in place with the label’s adhesive, eliminating any chance for their unintended separation. Both versions incorporate IL Group’s proprietary Shrink Tack Label, a heat-shrinkable PET film with pressure-sensitive adhesive for a secure bond and superior protection.

IL Group also will showcase its Light Protect Pack, designed to maintain drug stability by blocking light with wavelengths as low as 380 nanometers (violet) and with (amber) material as low as 500 nanometers which are also available as part of the lineup. Unlike conventional light-protective solutions, the labeling solution can successfully shield light even for applications using clear glass vials, or syringes (both glass and plastic) allowing visual inspection during the reconstitution process while still providing long-range light protection. This ensures the stability of light-sensitive pharmaceuticals from packaging to administration, enhancing both product safety and usability.

For syringe applications, the company will showcase its Shrink Tack Label for tamper-evident sealing, a critical solution for securing syringe contents and preventing tip cap movement during shipping. The label integrates documentation, sealing, and tamper evidence into a single streamlined process. Its easy-to-open seal enhances user convenience, while a twist-off, irreversibly tamper-evident cap provides an additional layer of security. For products requiring extra protection, an optional UV-blocking feature increases stability. Additionally, label colors can be customized for quicker, easier content identification.

“We are excited to present our latest advancements in pharmaceutical labeling at INTERPHEX 2025,” said Eiji Funabashi, President for Iwata Label USA Inc. “Our Vial Protect Pack, Light Protect Pack, and tamper-evident solutions for syringes are designed to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring safety for healthcare personnel and patients, as well as regulatory compliance and operational efficiency for pharmaceutical manufacturers.”

About IL Group
Based in Aichi, Japan IL Group is a total pharmaceutical packaging solution provider. The company provides precision, often customized labeling solutions for global pharmaceutical and healthcare companies. In addition to its advanced pharmaceutical labeling solutions, IL Group provides clinical trial services, contract packaging services, and a series of high-efficiency labeling machines. Its extensive portfolio includes ISO-compliant roll-on and shrink-tack labels featuring value-added benefits such as tamper evidence, protection against breakage, and light-shielding properties, as well as specialty constructions whose functions range from reliable adhesion in cryogenic applications to detachable elements for ease of medical recordkeeping. 

IL Group’s US entity, Iwata Label USA, combines elevated Japanese quality standards with a keen sense of North American market needs. In Japan, IL Group holds the predominant share of Japan’s pharmaceutical labeling market. Through its three-pole network in the US, Europe, and Japan, as well as various global partnerships, IL Group is poised for further growth and innovation.