SÜDPACK Planova®: Bio-based PLA film for fresh herbs and cut flowers
Whether fresh cut flowers, potted herbs, or cut herbs, horticultural products need to be both optimally protected and attractively presented at the point of sale. With Planova®, SÜDPACK offers a bio-based, biodegradable PLA film solution that is highly transparent, breathable, and dimensionally stable. It is particularly well suited to producing tapered packaging known as conical sleeves.
According to forecasts (by Kings Research), the global market for cut flower packaging is expected to grow from around USD 6 billion today to more than USD 8.5 billion over the next six years. In Germany, more than two-thirds of all cut flowers are already sold in prepackaged bunches, primarily through the food retail trade, garden centers, and gas stations. The global market for fresh potted and cut herbs is growing just as rapidly, with food retailers and garden centers also dominating sales in this segment.
A changing retail landscape
Restrictions on the use of conventional plastic films, the steadily growing volume of packaging waste, and the increasing focus on more environmentally responsible packaging solutions are prompting the industry to rethink its approach. There is growing demand for solutions capable of meeting the PPWR requirements that will take effect from 2030.
Bio-based, high-performing, and resource-efficient
With its PLA-based Planova films, film manufacturer SÜDPACK offers a product line that combines environmental benefits with high performance. The bio-based material is made from renewable raw materials such as sugarcane or corn starch and helps reduce the use of fossil resources. When assessed across their entire life cycle, bio-based plastics can therefore make a significant contribution to more resource-efficient material choices. PLA is also compostable under industrial conditions.
Protects, showcases, and keeps products fresh
Despite its low thickness, Planova film offers excellent dimensional stability, reliably protecting fresh products during handling and transport. Delicate blossoms, stems, and herbs are protected against breakage and damage, while the film's high transparency and brilliant gloss provide a clear view of the product and showcase its freshness, quality, and color. The packaging is therefore ideal for enhancing the premium appeal of high-quality bouquets and organic herbs in supermarkets, garden centers, and florist shops.
Planova films are available in thicknesses ranging from 15 to 100 μm and widths from 200 to 2,300 mm. For conical sleeves used in horticulture and floristry, one option is a 25 μm film that offers excellent dimensional stability despite its low thickness. The films also offer excellent printability, enabling customized designs for applications such as branding, variety identification, and consumer information.
Planova from SÜDPACK is a film solution that combines functionality and attractive product presentation with the use of renewable raw materials. It is ideal for premium flower and herb packaging where protection, freshness, and visual appeal must all be ensured.
About SÜDPACK
SÜDPACK is a leading manufacturer of high-performance films and packaging solutions for the food, non-food, and medical goods industries, as well as customer-specific compounds for technically demanding applications.
The family business, which was founded by Alfred Remmele in 1964, is headquartered in Ochsenhausen. The production sites in Germany, France, Poland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands are equipped with the latest plant technology and manufacture to the highest standards. The global sales and service network ensures a high degree of proximity to the customer and comprehensive technical support in more than 70 countries.
With its innovative Development and Application Center at its headquarters in Ochsenhausen, SÜDPACK offers its customers an optimal platform for developing tailor-made solutions and performing application tests.