As the digital shift advances rapidly and consumer behavior changes significantly, it has become increasingly important for businesses to offer optimized services to customers by effectively leveraging consumer touchpoints. This includes enhancing customer and purchasing experiences by making use of smartphones and other digital devices in product marketing. Toppan’s new NFC-enabled packages make it possible to provide a range of interactive customer experiences linked to smartphone apps.

A wireless NFC-based connection is established when a smartphone is in close proximity to the package. No Bluetooth pairing is required. Pad-type switches embedded in the package allow consumers to enjoy interactive experiences, pressing or tapping to produce sounds or control content on the smartphone screen via a compatible app. LEDs and other additional components can be incorporated into the package to meet needs based on the purpose or conditions of use.

The structure of input-output devices such as antenna modules and switches can be customized, allowing controller modules to be built into various types of packaging, including gift boxes and other paper-based packages, molded plastic, and corrugated fiberboard.

Power for the controller is supplied by the smartphone over the wireless NFC connection, eliminating the need to incorporate a battery into the package. This power can also be used to make LEDs embedded in the package light up. The use of NFC means that a high level of security can be provided, for example, by linking to ID authentication systems to ensure that apps and content are only activated when the unique ID of the NFC tag built into the package is verified.

“These packages are very effective for making the most of touchpoints to provide new experiences to consumers when they purchase products,” said Takamitsu Nakabayashi, senior R&D manager in Toppan’s Security business. “The combination of easily accessible interactive functions and NFC-enabled ID authentication means that this is a solution that provides both outstanding added value and enhanced security for packaging.”

Metsä Board, the leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards and part of Metsä Group, is proud to have been awarded again the Platinum level rating by EcoVadis for the company’s sustainability and corporate social responsibility. With a top score of 83/100 Metsä Board is among the highest 1% of companies assessed in the manufacture of corrugated paper and paperboard and containers of paper and paperboard.

EcoVadis assesses companies covering four themes: Metsä Board was in the top 1% of companies for Environment, Labour & Human Rights and Sustainable Procurement and in the top 4% for Ethics.

“At Metsä Board, responsibility is an integral part of our daily operations – now and in the future. This time I was especially glad about our improved scoring in Sustainable Procurement as the whole value chain is important for leaders in sustainability. We have ambitious sustainability targets for 2030 covering both our own operations and the supply chain. For example, our goal is to achieve 100% fossil free mills with zero fossil CO2 emissions and 100% fossil free raw materials by the end of 2030,” says Mika Joukio, CEO, Metsä Board.

EcoVadis operates a platform allowing companies to assess the environmental and social performance of its suppliers on a global basis. The methodology and criteria used are in line with international Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) standards including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), UN Global Compact, and ISO 26000.

Metsä Group

Metsä Group leads the way in the bioeconomy. We invest in growth, developing bioproducts and a fossil free future. The raw material for our products is renewable wood from sustainably managed northern forests. We focus on the growth sectors of the forest industry: wood supply and forest services, wood products, pulp, fresh fibre paperboards, and tissue and greaseproof papers.

Metsä Group’s annual sales is approximately EUR 5.5 billion, and we have around 9,200 employees in 30 countries. Our international Group has its roots in the Finnish forest: our parent company is Metsäliitto Cooperative owned by 100,000 forest owners.

Direct web printers are used as a means of efficient and reliable printing of films within the packaging machine. In addition to the proven DP 2x0 series, MULTIVAC has now developed two cost-effective entry-level models, the DP 110 and DP 130 direct web printers, where no sacrifices have to be made in terms of optimum hygiene and maximum safety standards. Both models can be installed on all thermoforming packaging machines from the R 0xx to R 5xx series.

The compact and space-saving design leaves the loading area completely free. Since no enclosure is required due to the stepper motor drives used, this means that access to the printer is quick and easy.

Printing technology

There are three different printing technologies available, thermal transfer, inkjet and thermal inkjet, all of which provide a reliable printing process. Users of MULTIVAC TTO (thermal transfer) printers also benefit from cost savings in ink ribbon consumption. These printers can be turned through 90 degrees, so that they can print in both the pack running direction and across the packs. This means that the most advantageous print direction for ink ribbon consumption can always be selected.

Uniform operating concept

All MULTIVAC direct web printers are specially designed for the particular packaging machine, and they therefore form a perfect unit as regards design and controls. The shifting indexers as well as the MULTIVAC printers can be operated directly via the control terminal of the packaging machine. The operating parameters are saved via recipe management and automatically transferred at every batch change. This ensures that there is rapid conversion to other products and pack sizes, which in turn provides a high level of line availability.

If MULTIVAC printers are used, operators also benefit from automatic print layout management via the MULTIVAC HMI control terminal. When the recipe for a particular product is called up, the correct print layout is also loaded automatically. Operating errors can therefore be prevented from the start.

Perfectly coordinated consumable materials

So that the optimum printing results are achieved, MULTIVAC offers a comprehensive range of consumable materials, which is constantly being expanded. All the materials meet the highest quality standards and are perfectly tailored to the particular printing system.

New to the range is the MULTIVAC Standard Plus XL thermal transfer ribbon, which achieves a running length of up to 1,200 metres thanks to the reduced thickness of the carrier material. This means that the number of necessary roll changes is reduced, which in turn reduces downtime and increases the efficiency of the packaging line.

If however there are greater demands in terms of cycle output and printing accuracy, MULTIVAC is still able to offer the DP 2x0 direct web printers for all models of MULTIVAC thermoforming packaging machines. Their modular concept ensures that the widest possible range of technical and commercial requirements are met perfectly.

Natural kraft paper is the most durable of the traditional packaging materials. It is used where full strength is desired, such as in industrial bags, shopping bags, inner plies of multiwall sacks, or plain wrapping paper. Kraft fibers are also used to make corrugated board liners. The best white paper is bleached kraft paper.

The kraft paper is useful for the applications requiring strength, printability, and appearance, such as flour and sugar bags, stickers, and envelopes

How Is Kraft Paper Made?

Kraft paper is produced using the Kraft process, which requires the chemical conversion of wood into wood pulp like other paper processing processes. Lignin and cellulose are the structural elements of wood. Since lignin does not make decent material, it must be isolated from the cellulose. Wood chips are cooked in a "white liquor" made of sodium sulphide and sodium hydroxide to do this. They separate the lignin and cellulose, resulting in solid wood pulp and a "black liquor." The wood chips have been reduced to a pulp and are being filtered to remove any larger parts. The pulp is cleaned to eliminate any remaining cooking liquors before being shaped into various paper products.

Types of Kraft paper

Kraft paper differentiate based on their method of processing that is White and brown kraft paper.

• Brown kraft paper

The color of brown kraft paper comes as a natural product from the wood pulp. If kraft paper were to be bleached, that would increase the cost to produce it and weaken it by destroying those fibres that make it as durable as it is.

• White Kraft paper

Whitekraft paper is more potent than conventional paper.The processing makes white kraft paper of bleaching with sulphonate.Bleached kraft paper is also essential if you want to protect your product packaging against yellowing over time.Compared to brown kraft paper, the bleached kraft papers have around 15% less strength and a higher cost, but they are helpful where the impression of better cleanliness or high-quality printing is needed. The pulp can be bleached using a variety of techniques. Until recently, chlorine bleaching was the most popular method of bleaching. However, the finding that chlorine bleaching contained trace amounts of dioxin caused significant improvements in this traditional procedure.

Kraft paper can also be made from different kinds of wood. Certain woods like bamboo and pine aren't often used in the making of traditional paper. Pine is too resinous, and bamboo takes a long time to be correctly processed,making it cost-prohibitive for most ordinary uses. However, both of these types of common woods make excellent use of the kraft paper process.  

Benefits of Using Kraft Paper in Custom Packaging

Using kraft paper saves money on the packaging because it adds less weight to the box. Its natural texture, durability, and stability provide additional security. It is also Eco-friendly kraft paper is directly made from unbleached pulp. Most kraft boxes are made from recycled kraft paper. Moreover, kraft paper packaging is cost-effective;whenchoosing a coated unbleached brown paper or corrugated cardboard and throw it into your garden, it'll start to naturally compost.

Within a few weeks, it will have disappeared back into the ground, and (providing that there are no nasties in ink) there will be no trace of your brown packing paper left. This process doesn't release any harmful chemicals into the soil, either.

Kraft Paper Packaging

Pure brown paper is a famous product packaging material.Because of its versatility as a packaging material, it can save your company time and money.

Corrugated cardboard made of kraft paper is the default shipping option for many reasons.

• It's lightweight
• It's durable
• It's cheap
• It can be custom printed

Corrugated kraft boxes add a little additional weight to the object because they are lightweight.

Maintaining the item's total weight ensures that you incur or pass on less delivery costs to your buyer.Kraft paper is a perfect addition to the packing materials because it is durable, but it is also great for wrapping items to secure them.

Custom printed butcher paper is an excellent choice for brands that want to take advantage of the 'natural' texture of kraft paper while also creating an unboxing experience.

Here you will have many different options for how to prepare, print and package your product. We also understand that you want to keep costs low but still create an affordable, beautiful presentation for your customers.

If you're interested in using kraft paper for your company's custom kraft packaging boxes, talk to us first. We have the skills, expertise and equipment necessary to take your product packaging from a conceptual vision to a finished product ready to be unboxed by your customers.

Everything we do is intended to improve the value and understanding of your product. Still, no matter what you're selling or what business you're in, our knowledgeable packaging experts will work with you to better appreciate your vision and bring it to life.

Suppose you want to produce a natural, environmentally sustainable, and appealing box, or you want to highlight your forward-thinking, eco-minded mission. In that case, kraft paper is a perfect way to show off the simplicity, "homemade-ness," and organic qualities of your product in a single concise packaging style.

Get a free estimate for designing and packaging

Contact us today for more information on this or on our many other food packaging choices.

We have a team of creative designers who can adequately produce your sustainable packaging in such a way that your name, your story and your perception of your market are authentic and thoroughly reflected for your goods to rise above your competition.

Come and find out more about our complete packaging and print design services for a cheap, no-obligation quote today!

Whenever it concerns businesses and enterprises, the demand for product packaging is essential. To be honest, everyone keeps blabbing about how the packaging must be top-notch, but it’s not possible if you don’t choose the right packaging company. With this being said, the users need to understand how and what sort of services the company needs in terms of packaging. So, in this article, we are sharing how you can choose the correct packaging company for the brand packaging!

Manufacturers vs. Solution Providers

Manufacturers

When it comes down to the packaging, the manufacturing location matters. To begin with, every manufacturer has a unique set of certifications, expertise, and processes to design diverse packaging. However, the question remains consistent; how can you curate the well-integrated decision for the packaging? With this being said, the businesses need to compare the companies that are potentially beneficial for you. 

For instance, the companies can keep a closer look at the processes and certifications as it helps derive if the manufacturer is right for product packaging. In case one manufacturer is offering high-quality graphics, quick response time, and timely delivery while the other manufacturer is offering sustainable efforts, low error rates, and FSC certification, you will need to weigh different options. 

Solution Providers

First things first, you need to keep in mind that not all the companies will offer identifiable services, and manufacturers will only provide the production services. In simpler words, you will need to outsource the designers and engineers for optimizing the desired packaging. The service providers will offer the production services, as well as the project cycle management. With this being said, the service providers will have the capacity to guide through the design process, logistics, and more. 

On the contrary, if you opt for the service providers, the price optimization and quotation management will not be available as they prefer to get the clients what they want. Consequently, service providers will have specific teams focused on certain aspects of product launch. As a result, they will help attain brand unity in your product packaging. 

Cost 

While wandering about the costs, you need to understand that it depends on various factors, such as materials, the number of units to produce, and structural engineering. One needs to understand that packaging costs will differ exponentially with the project. However, it’s pretty easy to optimize the quality of the packaging. The packaging costs will differ with die-lines and finding the right insert materials and boxes. 

Material

In the first place, you must have clicked on the click-baits, such as click here to buy custom packaging boxes with logo, but one needs to ensure that they are using the right material. For instance, your business needs to compare and contrast the materials different providers are offering. In simpler words, choosing the high-quality material that offers improved feel demands choosing the right product packaging company. 

In case you have the packaging specialists on board, they will offer streamlined guidance on material optimization. Similarly, it will empower you to choose the right material that complements the product and overall branding. 

• Mondi’s EcoWicketBag has been recognised in the gold category of this prestigious award, for its overall performance, reduction of CO2 emissions and convenience for the customer.
• The kraft paper packaging is an alternative to plastic packaging, meets hygiene industry standards and adheres to the strictest regulations for wastepaper recycling.
• EcoWicketBag can be used to pack a wide range of hygiene products in single or multi packs, with the potential to make a real difference to the sustainability of this huge global market.

Mondi, a global leader in packaging and paper, has once again won the prestigious EUROSAC Grand Prix Sack of the Year award, this year for its revolutionary EcoWicketBag.

EUROSAC, the European Federation of Multiwall Paper Sack Manufacturers, chose Mondi’s EcoWicketBag for its potential to reduce plastic packaging waste in the global hygiene industry. The packaging needs for this market are huge: the sector includes diapers, sanitary products and toilet and kitchen tissues - and the global diaper market alone is estimated to be worth approximately 65.9 billion U.S. dollars by 2027(1). The vast majority of the products have been wrapped in plastic - until now.

Mondi’s EcoWicketBag design is a paper-based packaging solution that provides an alternative to traditional plastic packaging, replacing it with renewable, recyclable paper. Created from strong virgin kraft paper sourced from sustainably managed forests, it is the first paper wicket bag that runs on existing equipment. It is available in a variety of sizes, is strong enough to handle the filling process and protect the product throughout the supply chain. EcoWicketBag’s design and printability ensure great on-shelf appeal, it is also easy to open and end-consumers know how to dispose of paper correctly.

The packaging industry’s latest innovations are presented each year at the EUROSAC Grand Prix. The main criterion of the competition is that the sack solutions must add value to the industry, whether in terms of innovation, sustainable development, design, high-quality printing or as a customer message carrier.

“We see the EcoWicketBag as a real game changer. This development can be implemented very quickly and responds to our industry’s objectives to produce paper sacks that are made from 100% natural materials and fulfil the same functions as plastic sacks”, explains jury president Matthias Becker-Gröning the jury’s choice.

About Mondi

Mondi is a global leader in packaging and paper, contributing to a better world by making innovative packaging and paper solutions that are sustainable by design. Our business is integrated across the value chain – from managing forests and producing pulp, paper and plastic films, to developing and manufacturing effective industrial and consumer packaging solutions. Sustainability is at the centre of our strategy and intrinsic in the way we do business. We lead the industry with our customer-centric approach, EcoSolutions, where we ask the right questions to find the most sustainable solution. In 2020, Mondi had revenues of €6.66 billion and underlying EBITDA of €1.35 billion.

Mondi has a premium listing on the London Stock Exchange (MNDI), and a secondary listing on the JSE Limited (MNP). Mondi is a FTSE 100 constituent, and has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series since 2008 and the FTSE/JSE Responsible Investment Index Series since 2007.