Irish Packaging Directory 2024

2 Sector Overview

David Little, Chair of The Irish Packaging Society and Managing Director of Leonard Little & Associates Ltd, advises on what real sustainability looks like when it comes to packaging, and reveals details of a brand new booklet which aims to introduce key aspects of the evolving field of Sustainable Packaging and Packaging Waste Management.

6 Cartonboard

The outcome of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation discussions will hopefully put in place a reliable legal framework as a base for long-term investments across the European cartonboard industry, writes Winfried Mühling, Director of Marketing and Communications, Pro Carton.

10 Krones

Krones has unveiled the next evolutionary step in filling beer and CSDs into glass bottles with its Modulfull HES.

12 Irish Paper Packaging Circularity Alliance

The Irish Paper Packaging Circularity Alliance is setting out to promote the benefits of fibre packaging and to change consumer behaviour and improve packaging practices throughout the country.

14 Mid Cork Pallets & Packaging

Continuous improvement and development have been key to year-on-year growth at Mid Cork Pallets & Packaging.

18 Plastics

Urgent action is required to increase availability of circular feedstocks if Europe is to meet its ambition of using 25% of plastics from circular sources in new products by 2030, according to a new report from Plastics Europe.

21 Smurfit Kappa

It was another eventful year for Smurfit Kappa, as their committed and dedicated people continue to provide innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for their customers.

24 Repak

Zoë Kavanagh, CEO, Repak, examines the potential challenges of meeting our new EU plastic recycling targets, but explains that it is also a massive opportunity for Irish business to increase its recycling rates.

26 PPWR Agreement

March 2024 saw the EU Council presidency and the European Parliament’s representatives reaching a provisional political agreement on a proposal to make packaging more sustainable and reduce packaging waste in the EU.

Aluminium Foil

2023 saw a challenging market for European aluminium foil across all segments, according to the latest figures from the European Aluminium Foil Association.

Flexible Packaging

Prices of flexible packaging materials in Europe steadied on high levels at the end of 2023, although most are below the peaks from mid-2022.

Packaging Design

Shayne Tilley, General Manager of Logo and Brand at VistaPrint, on the packaging design trends that are offering brand owners the opportunity to tell their story in innovative,

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Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

WHAT REAL PACKAGING SUSTAINABILITY LOOKS LIKE…

David Little, Chair of The Irish Packaging Society and Managing Director of Leonard Little & Associates Ltd, advises on what real sustainability looks like when it comes to packaging, and reveals details of a brand new booklet which aims to introduce key aspects of the evolving field of Sustainable Packaging and Packaging Waste Management.

For all businesses, CSR (corporate social responsibility) and driving sustainability are of increasing importance, which is highlighted by the ever-increasing amounts of legislation and regulations. This increase in regulation adds complexity and a requirement for technical understanding that is not easily fulfilled by one’s existing complement of staff. As a result, we are seeing a real increase in demand for Sustainability Officers and technical support on legislation, sustainable production and sustainable packaging.

All products have a carbon footprint. From raw material extraction (Scope 1) to product manufacture and use (Scope 2) towards final end of life (Scopes 2 & 3) when the product is discarded or recycled. For product

carbon footprint analysis, the formula consists of Scope 1, 2 and 3 elements along its life cycle. Packaging typically falls into Scope 3.

Packaging has its part to play, but packaging is by no means the biggest proportion of CO2e (carbon footprint equivalent) per food type. The biggest allocation of the CO2e of a finished product comes from the growing /farming or maturing phase of the product. There is a small carbon footprint impact in processing and a little bit on packaging at the end, depending on the food type. While accepting packaging has its part to play, as you can see from the green flashes on the graph below, depending on the food type, packaging has quite a limited impact in general. I think packaging suffers from being so visible in retail situations and in our homes’ recycle bins. As you can see from Graph 1, choosing different food types to buy and consume can have a much greater impact on reducing the carbon footprint, than tweaking the packaging. Rightly, we all need to play our part and reduce our carbon impact in our

life, in our business and in our industry. Similarly, the top economies need to take the lead and show and promote best practice to the rest of the world. Taking a selfish approach as individuals or countries will be a race to the bottom and we will have unstoppable global warming, with God knows what consequences! Graph 2 above shows the urgency…

EMBRACING THE SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE

Trying to increase sustainable packaging, retailers and brand owners are correctly driving for more recycled content, reduced plastic content

with mono-materials and better recyclability. The industry is embracing this challenge and where possible, is removing unnecessary packaging, offering more recycled content, simplified laminate structures, and light-weighted packaging. However, there is still more to be done; we need to consider, and put more emphasis on, Removing, Reusing / Refilling and Rewarding.

There are some products, like dry powder sachets, that will never be easily recycled, as maintaining product integrity in that format needs good barrier properties, which mostly leads us to using paper/plastic/foil

Graph 1: Average carbon footprint of food production, processing and packaging (Source: Packaging and Wasted Food Report 2017)

Graph 2: Atmospheric CO2 has been rising since 1960 (Source: Guardian).

film laminates. It will take time for the packaging industry to develop more sustainable solutions for some products. Removing is not just about removing unnecessary packaging; it’s also about potentially removing a viable product from the market, but a product that is unsustainable, a product that for the size, the price point etc. is using too much packaging, is too hard to recycle or is not in the optimum format. Retailers needs to take the lead here. This is a difficult thing to do, because you already have a customer base for that product and those customers like it and use the product. I think we are going to eventually get down to being told to take these formats off the shelf and replace in a different packaging format or take them off the market. Therefore, wouldn’t it be better if we started as a food & drink sector to consider in advance if every pack is presented in its optimum format, designed for circularity, and not just for the customer, who more and more is looking for convenience over and above everything else. We need to educate the end-customer and start to make tough decisions. We should really be on a war footing with Climate Change; it’s that serious. Action is needed now and one part of it is following the Sustainable Packaging Principals below.

These are fairly self-explanatory; however, Respect, I think, needs a bit more clarity. Respect to me includes respect for the environment, for the production process, a drive towards circularity and reducing waste throughout the process, but it is also

about responsible supplier selection. This is another area of contention. We have been guilty of sourcing at the lowest cost, which often, if we checked, may well have the highest carbon footprint. For instance, importing packaging or widgets from China, with a large carbon footprint, when we could have got them in Europe. I believe the carbon footprint needs to be taken into the buying decision and should be considered as important as the monetary considerations. We are where we are due to greed, short termism and only chasing shareholder value. With Corporate Social Responsibility, companies will need to make decisions on a broader base, e.g. “Here are the monetary metrics, and here are the environmental impact metrics, and the social impact metrics; now, let’s make a decision knowing all the facts”. Don’t forget buying more local will be better for the local / regional employment and economic figures and consume less carbon in shipping etc.

Packaging design for circularity focuses on Reduce, Remove, Refill, and under format choice, Reuse. In other words, you might change the type of substrate (glass / paper / metal / plastic), moving from a flexible film wrap of biscuits to a tin for Reuse or a stand-up pouch of olives back to a glass jar for instance. Under the material choice, the focus is on Recycle, so here you are looking at the same substrate type but altering or changing the material spec. to aid recyclability, or use a higher recycled

content, or maybe by removing or reducing a complex laminate structure, if possible.

SUSTAINABILITY & FOOD WASTE

It’s all well and good to want to make your packaging more sustainable; however, what you don’t want is to increase food wastage. As you can see from the graph on the next page, food waste is hugely impactful on carbon footprint and potentially choosing a lesser, but more sustainable spec., could reduce the shelf-life or increase packaging waste. Testing and knowing the impact of the new spec. is crucial in understanding the barrier properties - moisture vapor transmission rates (MVTR) and oxygen transmission rate (OTR) - and assessing the equivalence or difference to your existing packaging.

Changing specifications can also impact on the pack seals, requiring changes in pressure, temperature, dwell time and probably impacting on runability. Bad seals will add to pack failure and reduced shelf life. Therefore, in making pack changes, two things are really important: (1) you have a baseline, a ‘control’ based on a specification that is currently working, and (2), you need to carry out extensive product/pack testing of the new more sustainable material, because in our eagerness to make our product more sustainable, we cannot inadvertently increase food waste. World food wastage per year is about 1.3 billion tons, with Ireland accounting for about one million tons.

Good packaging helps to prevents food waste.

If food waste was a country, it would be number three in the world in CO2e emissions after China and USA.

RIGOROUS TESTING OF NEW MATERIALS

Testing new materials is essential and can be done with a combination of internal tests and external laboratory tests to ensure things like seal strength and barrier properties are up to the required standard etc. Regarding having a good baseline, what you need in this case as a packer/filler, is a detailed current specification with performance tolerances from your existing packaging supplier for all your layers of packaging,

Graph 3: Sustainable Packaging Principles

be it primary, secondary or tertiary packaging. If you have that detail, this then becomes the ‘control’ where you know for instance the BCT (box crush test) or the recycled content, or the barrier properties, the seal strength, the burst strength etc. of your packaging. With this detail, you now can now make comparative decisions based on the expected performance and help to speed up the NPD process and improve the outcome.

These specs are also useful to control internally, as your customers/ retailers will continue to require more advanced specifications in order to meet their own obligations. The days of relying on supplier specifications are gone, in my opinion. Packers/ fillers should work with their suppliers, manage their own specs and request the relevant information to meet their needs. This does require a technical understanding but puts you in control of your packaging performance and will make things easier in the end.

THE BENEFITS OF TECHNOLOGY

Technology can help. Imagine if we all used a similar format and standard, presenting all material data in the same form, wouldn’t that make sense? There is a growing community of industry stakeholders adopting the groundbreaking Open 3P standard (Streamline data capture, enhance compliance). The Open 3P Data Standard could transform the

way you manage packaging data. The standard is a free to use, open standard, developed and maintained by Open Data Manchester. Its goal is to standardise the reporting format of the material ingredients, content, composition etc. Data is added at each stage of the supply chain (as much as companies wish), so each level has access to the previous level’s detail, from, for instance, plastic pellet to the finished printed retail flow wrap. With large scale acceptance, this will create specification information accessibility in a standardised format.

The benefit of the material specification access will bring transparency in composition, recycled content etc., and bring efficiencies for converters, packers/ fillers, retailers and waste recovery operations. Wouldn’t it be handy if all retailers used the same specification / reporting format? I think it makes sense, and hopefully the food & drink industry buy into it. Check it out at www.open3p.org

NEW RESOURCES ON SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, having internal packaging expertise and knowledge will help drive these projects and processes. To help, The Irish Packaging Society offers a range of training courses and has created a booklet which aims to introduce key aspects of the evolving field of Sustainable Packaging and

Packaging Waste Management. The booklet is a collaborative effort between The Irish Packaging Society, connecting and educating professionals in various packaging domains, Dar Ltd, a specialist micro-consultancy with extensive experience in packaging producer responsibility and sustainable environmental management, and Leonard Little & Associates Ltd.(Est. 1976), a packaging consultancy and packaging training company.

The booklet will be published in April 2024 and will be available to download by members of The Irish Packaging Society and available to view by all, on our website (www.irishpackagingsociety.ie).

The plan is that the booklet will be updated in-line with legislation every six months or so.

Major changes will be required by the packaging and packaging waste industry to deliver best practice, as we take on board a number of challenges to align with international and European Union policy and law requirements to manage climate change and the transition to a circular economy etc.

The booklet is intended to be a helpful guide to navigate the terminology and complexities for packaging design and purpose, in line with policy and legislation requirements. Look out for it on our website: www.irishpackagingsociety.ie

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DAVID LITTLE is Chair of The Irish Packaging Society and Managing Director of Leonard Little & Associates Ltd (Est. 1976), a packaging consultancy and training company. David has over 35 years’ experience in the packaging industry.

David is a Print / Packaging Technologist, Consultant and Lecturer in Packaging in the UK, EU and Ireland. He is a member of the Leadership Team of The Packaging Society (UK), and a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3).

Graph 4: Why we need food packaging (Source: Windmuller & Hulscher, via FAO of United Nations).

PACKAGING INDUSTRY: Back to normal?

The outcome of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation discussions will hopefully put in place a reliable legal framework as a base for long-term investments across the European cartonboard industry, writes Winfried Mühling, Director of Marketing and Communications, Pro Carton.

The packaging industry – be it cartonboard, plastics, metal, glass, or any other substrates –took with relief that the trilogy discussions ended with a decision on a new regulation for packaging and packaging waste.

It is too early to discuss the exact outcome, however; more details need to be confirmed before the regulation will be finally approved by the Council and the European Parliament. A committed legal framework will end the given uncertainty and create a sound base for future-oriented investments.

ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT EASES BURDENS

The strict actions of central banks played a crucial role in controlling and reducing the double-digit inflation that stifled the European economy. The implementation of stricter monetary policies, primarily through interest rates, brought back a sense of control. Forecasts for 2024 indicate a significant decline in inflation,

Winfried Mühling, Director of Marketing and Communications, Pro Carton.

expected to fall well below 3% across Europe. This estimated decrease, with two or three further interest rate cuts, gradually moves towards the return to the central banks’ target range of 2%, deemed essential for long-term economic stability and financed investments.

This period of high inflation marked a first-time challenge,

particularly for younger generations. Gen Z consumers, having never witnessed such levels of inflation, found themselves confronting a phenomenon previously only read about in textbooks. Soaring shelf prices for essential goods reduced purchasing power, forcing them to tighten budgets, leading to consumer reticence. Consumer behaviour shifted noticeably, with a growing preference for private label alternatives and a general pause on expensive purchases. This careful approach by consumers reflected a desire to prioritise meeting basic needs and ensuring financial security to be prepared for even more challenging times.

2023: ANOTHER CHALLENGING YEAR

Across Europe, consumer purchasing power weakened, leading to a subsequent decline in sales across different consumer segments. Early 2023 further strained the market as businesses continued to adjust inventory levels following the pandemic’s disruptions. Substantial

stock levels of packaging material had built up during the pandemic as a consequence of overstocking. The subsequent unstocking impacted the entire value chain, affecting all types of packaging substrate demand.

2023 was subsequently classified as another challenging year for the entire packaging industry. Pro Carton members’ mills used the times of forced standstill to advance necessary maintenance activities and invest in upgrades of the installed equipment to further improve output and to secure further reduction in CO2 emissions.

Some of Pro Carton’s member mills located in Scandinavia can already boast a net zero manufacturing process for cartonboard production. Pro Carton strongly believes investing in a sustainable future will create a timely financial return, as inflation decreases and consumers have more spendable income. This will require substantial investments in new technologies. These are investments the industry is ready to take, based on a reliable and steady legal framework.

To highlight the successful path that the cartonboard industry is on, the results of Pro Carton’s 2023 study on the carbon footprint of cartonboard acknowledge this progression and highlight the collaboration across the industry. Between 2018 and 2021, we revealed a staggering 24% reduction of CO2 equivalent emissions from cradle to grave. The investments in further reducing usage of fossil energy sources are paying dividends. Also, a strong focus on reducing waste at all production stages added to these substantial improvements.

Here we need to mention the combined efforts of the entire value chain, starting with pulp producers, via cartonboard manufacturers to folding carton producers. More than 60 production sites reported their emissions as a base for this report, which was a substantial contribution.

2024: THE “NEW

NORMAL”

Cartonboard will play a major role in Europe’s transition to a circular economy. Fibre based packaging has

The European cartonboard packaging industry is poised for a period of sustainable growth, driven by consumer preference, and supported by the upcoming implementation of PPWR legislation. (Image from Metsä Group).

Spain-based Alzamora Group’s luxurious three-dimensional spherical packaging solution for beauty brand GERnétic was crowned Carton of the Year at the 2023 European Carton Excellence Awards (ECEA).

been a leader in terms of the circular economy for decades and we have continued to improve and invest in these over recent years.

All Pro Carton’s members actively provide their best resources to contribute to cross industry alliances, such as 4evergreen. The challenges that lie ahead are too complex to be solved by one company alone, and we are very fortunate that our industry understands this. Our industry is based on an efficient collection and recycling system for fibre-based products. The industry has already committed to raise the bar even further for fibre-based packaging recycling rates, to levels of 90% by 2030. In fact, we are already leading the industry, with an 82% recycling rate across Europe (Eurostat). Harmonised and separate collection systems of fibre-based packaging material will help to boost recycling rates and the quality of recovered materials.

The choice between recyclable packaging and alternatives hinges on various factors, including consumption habits, transportation,

storage, and consumer preferences. Building a successful circular packaging ecosystem relies on consumer engagement. Neglecting their preferences in a top-down approach only lengthens the journey, potentially to the detriment of consumer trust. By collaborating with consumers, we can accelerate adoption and create a future that resonates with their values and needs. Informed decision-making is vital for businesses to withstand environmental scrutiny.

Business owners must be empowered to choose the best packaging options aligned with their requirements and consumer preferences, within a framework defined by clear, same time flexible legislation. In a circular economy, diverse packaging solutions are imperative to cater to product demands, with recycled and reusable systems coexisting, guided by scientific research to determine the most environmentally optimal solutions. The path forward should embrace both options rather than adopting an either/or approach.

CONSUMERS SUPPORT CARTONBOARD Consumer preferences for sustainable packaging materials became obvious in our latest Pro Carton Consumer Packaging Perceptions Survey 2024 (available at www.procarton.com/ wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EUSummary-Slides-Final.pdf). We asked more than 5,000 consumers across Germany, Italy, Spain, France and the United Kingdom about their packaging choices.

The recent findings revealed a strong preference for cartonboard packaging over plastic, with 87% of respondents expressing this sentiment - this represents a 1% increase compared to the findings from the previous study conducted in 2022. It clearly demonstrates the preference of consumers for recyclable fibre-based materials from renewable resources.

Climate change remained the biggest concern for consumers in Europe, despite high inflation and the war in Ukraine. Pro Carton found that 68% of consumers mentioned climate change, well ahead of inflation (56%) and warfare (56%). Additionally, the survey findings concluded that

consumers believe they have a clear idea on how to improve the negative impact of climate change. When asked what are the most suitable actions to tackle the negative impact of climate change, consumers were clear to mention increasing recycling efforts and planting new trees. The link between healthy forests and improved global climate becomes increasingly clear in consumer minds.

82% of consumers in Europe feel confident to decide which packaging materials can be recycled. This is another 5% increase compared to our 2022 study. A vast majority (88%) of European consumers reported the significant trust they have in the efficient collection and recycling infrastructure of paper and cartonboard packaging. This level of trust sits well ahead of other materials, such as glass, metal and plastic packaging.

2024 AND BEYOND FOR CARTONBOARD

The European cartonboard packaging

industry is poised for a period of sustainable growth, driven by consumer preference, and supported by the upcoming implementation of solid legislation. This regulation signifies a commitment to a more sustainable future and is expected to provide a firm legal foundation for additional investments in new technologies and innovations. We are likely to see an investment-friendly environment of decreasing interest rates and low inflation. This gives hope that increasing purchasing power will lead to increased demand for packaged products.

The proven environmental benefits of fibre-based packaging are undeniable. Cartonboard truly promotes all aspects of a circular economy, promoting zero waste practices in production and recycling packaging material all over again in an open loop.

Consumer preferences also play a crucial role. We are seeing a continuous increase in favour of recyclable and

sustainable packaging materials, like cartonboard. This presents exciting growth opportunities for the fibrebased packaging industry, not only in established applications, but also in the development and adoption of innovative solutions for entirely new product categories.

In a fragile macroeconomic environment, any forecast can be caught up in reality in a matter of days. We are still looking forward with confidence to sustained growth for fibre-based packaging. Our industry will play a major role in Europe’s transition to a circular economy.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the importance of a sustained, diligent effort. Continued focus on research and development, working in tandem to maintain end-user and consumer trust, and co-operating across industry borders, will all be instrumental in securing these new growth areas and solidifying the growth position of fibrebased packaging in the years to come.

EUROPEAN CARTON EXCELLENCE AWARDS CELEBRATE PACKAGING EXCELLENCE

The European Carton Excellence Awards (ECEA) celebrate the crème de la crème of sustainable packaging.

Hosted by Pro Carton and the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA), the coveted awards saw Spain’s Alzamora Group’s luxurious three-dimensional

spherical packaging solution for beauty brand GERnétic crowned Carton of the Year in 2023, whilst Graphic Packaging International’s innovative Boardio fibre-based pack for Perfetti Van Melle Mentos gum won consumers over in the Public Award, as well as taking home the Sustainability Award.

Other awards celebrated innovation, including a premium beauty product that demonstrates tamper evidence using only Sappi virgin fibre cartonboard, eliminating the need for film wrapping, while another folding carton for laundry detergent, formed from MM board and paper recycled cartonboard, successfully tackles the challenge of replacing a plastic tub with a sustainable alternative.

“The European Carton Excellence Award continues to recognise excellence in packaging design, innovation, and sustainability,” noted Winfried Mühling, Head of Marketing & Communications at Pro Carton, who described the Awards as “the most relevant carton packaging competition in Europe”.

For more information about the 2023 winners or to enter the 2024 awards, please visit www.procarton.com

The Boardio fibre-based pack for Perfetti Van Melle is the first time a major global confectioner has created a paperboard bottle in the chewing gum category.

KRONES REVEALS NEXT GENERATION in Liquid Filling

Krones has unveiled the next evolutionary step in filling beer and CSDs into glass bottles with its Modulfull HES.

Krones works continuously to make its products and solutions more and more sustainable. And now the Krones team has succeeded in taking the Modulfill HES beer filler to the next level with respect to flexibility, sustainability and machine output.

The results are outstanding on both oxygen pickup and CO2 consumption.

SETTING NEW STANDARDS

For the first time, Krones is combining the redesigned HES filling valve with a dry-running vacuum pump to synergise the advantages of both systems. For example, a revamped arrangement of the individual functions within the filling valve results in optimised flow conditions. That, combined with “lower” vacuum levels in the filling

process, enables the Modulfill HES to set entirely new standards for oxygen pickup and CO2 consumption in conventional beer filling.

Yet another plus in terms of product quality is the intelligent process-gas control system. A sensor measures the residual oxygen in the headspace of the filler bowl and thus makes it possible to monitor and dynamically regulate oxygen pickup to the desired level.

SHORTENED MACHINE DOWNTIMES

Digital features reduce the need for manual interventions.

Krones has added automation to the probe adjustment and to the CIP cups, which make it possible to achieve the same performance on a more compact machine using the automated CIP

cups. During cleaning, the necessary interventions are reduced to an absolute minimum, which in turn significantly shortens scheduled machine downtimes and increases overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Machine changeover times are likewise shortened due to the use of the latest generation of the MultiGuide Base multi-functional clamping starwheel.

A further digital feature is the automatic filling-pressure control system. Inline measurement of the product temperature inside the filler bowl and information on the CO2 content (based on the product at hand) can be combined to calculate the real saturation pressure and thus regulate the filling pressure. This reduces the need for operator interventions when restarting the machine, for instance in order to prevent foam-over.

The Krones Modulfull HES offers:

• Increased flexibility in production as a result of optimised and automated operator interventions;

• Sustainable filling and capping owing to new media-saving options;

• More compact machine delivers the same performance due to new automatic CIP cups.

Krones’ Modulfill HES sets new standards for oxygen pickup and CO2 consumption in conventional beer filling.

Shaping the future together

It’s important to look beyond the short term, which is why Krones is working on “Solutions beyond tomorrow”. Beverage filling lines, digital services and plastics recycling: Krones’ innovative solutions combine superior performance with sustainability.

IPPCA: PROMOTING CIRCULAR SOLUTIONS

The Irish Paper Packaging Circularity Alliance is setting out to promote the benefits of fibre packaging and to change consumer behaviour and improve packaging practices throughout the country.

The Irish Paper Packaging Circularity Alliance (IPPCA) was formed to promote the benefits of fibre packaging, circularity and plastic reduction initiatives within the packaging industry. With a diverse membership of manufacturers, QSR’s, coffee retailers, industry member associations, including well known national and international brands, IPPCA aims to positively change consumer behaviour and improve packaging practices by advocating for legislative balance and sustainable solutions.

The Government’s ambitious recycling targets for 2025 and 2030 highlight the pressing need for improved recycling infrastructure. IPPCA acknowledges the challenges posed by inadequate facilities and aims to address these through collaborative efforts and most importantly, innovative solutions. Paper recycling in Ireland surpasses current EU targets, making it the optimal choice for scaling infrastructure towards fibre material circularity.

OUR NATIONAL IMPACT

Paper cups have become an integral part of modern life worldwide, offering a convenient means to enjoy beverages on the move. Being made of up to 95% virgin fibre coming from sustainably managed forests, their recyclability

potential remains largely untapped. Unfortunately, due to the lack of onthe-go recycling infrastructure, cups can end up in general waste, limiting future recycling prospects of this highvalue, in-demand material.

The Cup Collective (TCC), launched across Dublin in October 2023, presents a solution by streamlining paper cup recycling on an industrial scale throughout Europe. TCC allows for easy segmentation-at-source by consumers as they separate lids, liquids and cups at the specially designed collection bins, so that waste processing is simplified. With the potential to recycle over 63 million paper cups annually on a national scale, the initiative aims to simplify participation for both consumers and businesses. Central to this effort is a live database used by the scheme to track recycling progress in real time. Cups are collected by Panda Recycling and prepared for shipment to James Cropper, a speciality paper mill with a cup recycling facility in the UK.

Since the launch of The Cup Collective, 72,800 paper cups have been collected in Dublin, with the potential for 219,500 paper cups annually across participating sites. The Cup Collective is now operational in 16 sites in Dublin such as Applegreen,

Bewley’s Tea & Coffee, Butlers Chocolate Cafés, Insomnia Coffee Company and McDonald’s, with many others set to join the scheme.

THE EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets out the EU’s rules for the management of packaging and packaging waste. It states that EU countries must adopt measures to minimise the amount of packaging waste and its environmental impacts. IPPCA welcomes a harmonised approach on the recyclability of packaging.

However, navigating the complexities of the PPWR in Europe poses challenges. The biggest disagreement among negotiators centred around restrictions on singleuse packaging and reuse targets. Initially, the Commission proposed broader restrictions encompassing single-use packaging of all materials. However, the finalised PPWR will only restrict the use of single-use plastic packaging in specific end-uses. IPPCA acknowledges the need to balance compliance with sustainability, advocating tailored approaches for industry-specific concerns.

The Joint Research Center (JRC) released its latest findings, comparing the environmental performance of alternative food packaging to paper packaging in the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) sector. Key findings of the report show that single-use packaging, particularly cartonboard,

• Balance of reuse and recycling: Promote equitable treatment for both reuse and recycling initiatives, avoiding approaches that may exacerbate plastic waste and negative environmental outcomes.

• Recycling targets: Proactively work towards meeting EU recycling targets, leveraging initiatives like The Cup Collective to enhance paper packaging recycling levels.

• Certified standards: Ensure adherence to EU certification levels for paper cups and other paper packaging, addressing false environmental claims and promoting transparency.

outperforms reusable packaging in various environmental impact categories (e.g. climate impact and water consumption), supporting the removal of mandatory reusable packaging targets for takeaway food and beverage packaging.

In Ireland, it is crucial to follow these findings within the framework of existing or future packaging and waste policies. Overlooking these findings, for example with the proposed latté levy, will result in behaviours and outcomes contrary to the legislation’s environmental goals.

ADVANCING CIRCULAR ECONOMY PRINCIPLES

In many economies, the traditional production model follows a linear trajectory: extracting materials, manufacturing products, and ultimately discarding them as waste - a make, use and dispose conveyor belt. The circular economy model prioritises sustainability by promoting sharing, reusing, repairing, and recycling materials within the supply chain.

Two prominent recycling methods - closed-loop and open-loop - play crucial roles in realising the circular economy’s objectives. Closed-loop recycling involves reintegrating manufactured goods back into the same or similar products, such as glass bottles being recycled into new glass bottles. Conversely, open-loop recycling

transforms secondary raw materials into entirely new products. For instance, used paper cups can be repurposed into magazine paper or cup carriers.

To meet stringent safety standards for food and beverage packaging, open-loop recycling is often employed for items like paper cups. This approach aids efficient collection, sorting and recycling processes, maximising the value of secondary raw materials within the circular economy framework.

IPPCA’S KEY POSITIONS:

• Recycling parity: Advocate for policy parity in packaging recycling schemes, prioritising renewable and highly recyclable materials.

E.g. Ensure paper cups are added to the recycling list.

• Collaboration in solutions & policy: Champion collaborative approaches between industry and policymakers, emphasising evidence-based policies and operational efficiency.

CONCLUSION

IPPCA’s initiatives are in line with the Circular Economy Action Plan, supporting the objective of achieving recyclable packaging by 2030.

IPPCA is committed to fostering sustainability within the packaging sector. Through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy for balanced policies, IPPCA strives for a future where packaging practices promote environmental stewardship and adhere to circular economy principles.

We are actively building an inclusive Alliance. For those interested in joining, please reach out to info @ ippca.ie

Pictured at the launch of The Cup Collective are (l-r): Rob Tilsley, Fibre Operations Leader, James Cropper PLC; Dara O’Flynn, Chief Operating Officer, Insomnia Coffee Company; Julie Murray, Head of Coffee Culture, Bewley’s Coffee Ltd; Vasilii Stepa, Area Manager, Butlers Chocolate Cafés; Maria Cassidy, Head of Coffee and Innovation, Applegreen PLC; Derek McNicholas, Corporate Accounts Manager, Panda Ireland; and Helen McFarlane, Sustainability Manager at McDonald’s.

Paper cups have become an integral part of modern life worldwide, offering a convenient means to enjoy beverages on the move, and being made of up to 95% virgin fibre coming from sustainably managed forests, their recyclability potential remains largely untapped.

NEVER STANDING STILL

Continuous improvement and development have been key to year-on-year growth at Mid Cork Pallets & Packaging (MCP).

MCP’s forward-thinking and courageous mindset has led the company to the forefront of its respective industries through pioneering innovative manufacturing techniques, investing in high tech. machinery and setting new standards for quality and sustainability.

Headquartered in Clondrohid, Co. Cork, MCP comprises over 700,000 square feet (and expanding) of pallet manufacturing, storage and packaging distribution, as well as generating electricity and, more recently, offering fulfilment services to its customers.

Founded in 1978 by Johnny Lehane, a former teacher in the Gaeltacht, the company has always been famed for its entrepreneurial spirit and passion.

MCP are renowned for producing the highest quality pallets, manufactured with industry-leading precision in Ireland (both north and

south) across a wide range of sizes, designs etc., ranging from wooden pallets to EPAL pallets and from customised pallets and crates to second-hand pallets. To continue to ensure their quality of product, MCP are currently introducing their third automated pallet manufacturing machine to offer customers greater choice of pallet and timber crates. This new machine will enable MCP to surpass their current manufacturing capabilities of producing approximately 9,000 pallets daily or 2.5 million pallets per annum.

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Another key factor in MCP’s growth in recent years has been the number of successful continuous improvement projects the company has integrated into its operations. “We have never been shy in investing in our processes, products, people or locations,” explains Aidan Harty, Managing Director of MCP. “As a result, we are currently commissioning our third pallet manufacturing machine; we pioneered one of the first Combined Heat & Power Plants (CHP) and constructed multiple new warehouses

at both our sites in Cork and Meath to offer our customers the largest range of pallet, packaging and storage solutions, to name but a few.”

SUSTAINABILITY AS A WAY OF LIFE

In 2019, MCP commissioned one of Ireland’s first Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants. The CHP plant is powered by biomass, which is a biproduct from its pallet manufacturing operations, helping MCP use 13,000 tonnes less carbon per year and generating 1.3 megawatts of green electricity per hour. This electricity is supplied directly to the national grid and can power the needs of up to 1,300 homes. The heat that this plant generates is also utilised by MCP to heat-treat and kiln-dry pallets to ISPM15 standards and power their 10 onsite kilns.

“We feel that we are fortunate in that we have never taken a shortsighted view of the environment or our sustainability obligations or commitments,” stresses Aidan. In fact, MCP boosted their green electricity credentials in the last two years with the installation of a 598KWp solar generation facility on 3,359 square metres (3,000 solar panels) of unused

MCP’s headquarters at Clondrohid, Co. Cork.

MCP are currently introducing their third automated pallet manufacturing machine to offer customers greater choice of pallet and timber crates.

rooftop space, as well as intelligent LED lighting systems, which reduce the company’s CO2 emissions by 265 tonnes a year.

“These efforts help us to use our own solar power energy to run our operations and help us in our quest to move off the grid,” smiles Aidan. “We realise that many companies have only recently added the environment as an agenda item and when we look at how far our company has come down this road already, we are relieved that we were one of the early adopters. However, like everything, we are not going to sit on our laurels and be content with our current operations; we are going to continue to look at ways to improve our service, reduce costs and enable our transition to a carbon neutral operation.”

LEADING CORRUGATED PACKAGING PROVIDER

MCP have also seen significant growth, particularly in recent years, across their packaging division and the company is Ireland’s leading single source corrugated packaging partner for many SME businesses across the food and drinks, e-commerce and medical sectors. MCP like to stand out from the competition and offer a unique service to their packaging customers, from a full design and prototyping service available in-house, through to management of production and

MCP offer customers a third-party warehousing option, including the storage and distribution of food grade and non-food grade packaging and third-party warehousing of ambient food, packaging and consumer products.

MCP are renowned for producing the highest quality pallets, manufactured with industry-leading precision in Ireland (both north and south) across a wide range of sizes, designs etc.

storage and warehousing, including manufacturing, storage, distribution and more recently, fulfilment.

MCP’s dedicated team work with their customers to create packaging that improves product protection, while also increasing efficiencies, reducing costs and enhancing customer experiences.

“At MCP, we always go the extra mile to deliver unrivalled service that consistently surpasses expectations and therefore, we are able to provide innovative and scalable solutions that support the success and growth of our customers’ business,” Aidan reveals.

DISTRIBUTION, STOCK MANAGEMENT & WAREHOUSING

As a complementary service, MCP also provide their customers with an unrivalled nationwide distribution and stock management service for subsequent re-ordering. In 2022, MCP developed their operations even further, offering some of their existing customers a third-party warehousing option, a side of the business that has expanded ten-fold. As a result, the company expanded its BRCGS certification to include the Storage and Distribution of Food Grade and Non-Food Grade Packaging and third-party warehousing of ambient food, packaging and consumer products. This is

something that is certainly not offered by many packaging suppliers.

Although some of the continuous improvement projects have included large investments, they have also embarked on several projects at ground level, including implementation of a new management information system, warehouse management system and maintenance and spare parts ordering system and the adoption of several lean manufacturing features, which have allowed the company to better analyse

its production processes, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) etc.

“In fact, these improvements have ignited a catalogue of other continuous improvement projects,” Aidan notes. “We have empowered our staff and it has been like a building block for the company and has allowed us to fine-tune our operations across each department.”

At the core of MCP’s business is their dedication to outstanding customer service, with a singular

focus to help their customers protect what matters most – whether that’s protecting their products, safeguarding their supply chain, optimising costs or promoting sustainability, MCP are committed to supporting the success and growth of their customers’ business. “Our unique business model reflects our commitment to excellence and outstanding customer service,” concludes Aidan. “We provide expertise and solutions, while keeping things simple, clear and concise.”

MCP have become a leading single source corrugated packaging partner for many SME businesses across the food and drinks, e-commerce and medical sectors.

MCP comprises over 700,000 square feet of pallet manufacturing, storage and packaging distribution, as well as generating electricity and, more recently, offering fulfilment services to their customers.

NEW REPORT IDENTIFIES CHALLENGES IN CIRCULAR ECONOMY FOR PLASTICS

Urgent action is required to increase availability of circular feedstocks if Europe is to meet its ambition of using 25% of plastics from circular sources in new products by 2030, according to a new report from Plastics Europe.

Plastics Europe published its biennial ‘The Circular Economy for Plastics: A European Analysis’ report on March 19, 2024. Its data provides an overview of European plastics production, conversion, consumption and waste management, and includes an analysis of plastics production from non-fossil sources, and recycling technologies.

The study’s central finding is that circular plastics now account for 13.5% in new plastic products manufactured in Europe. This means that the European plastics system is halfway towards the interim ambition, which was established in the ‘Plastics Transition’ roadmap, to use 25% of plastics from circular sources in new products by 2030.

However, the report’s data also highlights several major challenges that will undermine the plastics system’s progress towards circularity; including growing rates of incineration with energy recovery (+15% since 2018) of plastics waste needed as circular feedstock/that could have been recycled.

“Our latest ‘Circular Economy for Plastics’ report provides essential insights into the transition of the plastics system,” noted Virginia Janssens, Managing Director of Plastics Europe. “This edition is also broader in scope and contains more in-depth data than ever before. Whilst the data confirms the shift to circularity is firmly established and picking up pace, it is frustrating that we still incinerate so much plastics waste when this potential feedstock is desperately needed by our industry to accelerate the transition. Without urgent action to increase the availability of all circular feedstocks for plastics, we cannot maintain the current rate of progress

and realise the ambitions of our ‘Plastics Transition’ roadmap and the EU Green Deal.”

In total, 26.9% of European plastics waste is now recycled, meaning that for the first time, more plastics waste is recycled than is put into landfill; an important milestone in Europe’s plastics circularity journey. However, to meet the growing demand for plastics manufactured from circular feedstocks, we need to massively upscale the collection and sorting of post-consumer plastics waste, and increase the availability of biomass and captured carbon.

Circular plastics content in new products was

13.5%1 in 2022 (7.3 Mt).

When it comes to plastic packaging

The Circular Economy for Plastics: A European Analysis, from Plastics Europe, was published on March 19, 2024.

Virginia Janssens, Managing Director of Plastics Europe.

Circular plastics content in new products was

13.5%1 in 2022 (7.3 Mt).

waste, the recycling rate reached 37.8% in 2022. This rate needs to improve further if we are to achieve the 2018 Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive targets of 50% by 2025, and stay on track for 55% by 2030.

Circular plastics content in new products was

13.5%1 in 2022 (7.3 Mt).

Plastics

packaging, building & construction, and agriculture sectors. However, others, including automotive and electricals and electronics, are falling behind.

Europe’s share of global plastics production

Plastics waste incineration with energy recovery increased by

The report found that in 2022, circular plastics were produced from several sources: the largest source (13.2% of all plastics produced) was mechanically recycled, while only 1% came from bio-based feedstock, and 0.1% was chemically recycled. (2022). If this continues, Europe will become increasingly dependent on imports and its ability to invest in circularity and support the transitions of the many downstream sectors and value chain partners that rely on plastics, will be undermined.

26.9%2

Plastics recycling rate reached Almost 25% of plastics waste is still sent to landfill.

DRIVING ADVANCES IN CIRCULARITY

To maximise recycling rates, we need to significantly increase investment in sorting and recycling capacities, including in chemical recycling. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes to increase separate waste collection and other mandatory measures to incentivise mixed waste sorting will be very important, the report notes. Fostering market demand for circular plastics resins can also play a vital role in encouraging the necessary investment. Chemical recycling, as a complement to mechanical recycling, is essential to maximising the resource potential of plastics waste currently being sent to landfill and incineration. The transition to a plastics circular economy cannot be achieved without a continent-wide roll-out of chemical recycling technology.

The data also highlights that the uptake of circular plastics is not uniform but varies by industry sector. The strongest demand comes from the

“The continent-wide rollout of chemical recycling, as a complementary solution to mechanical recycling, is essential to meet ambitious mandatory recycled content targets for applications and industries that require high-quality plastics,” stressed Virginia Janssens. “To incentivise the necessary investments and ramp up the deployment of chemical recycling in Europe, we urgently need a green light and clarity from EU policy makers. We need legislative acceptance of chemical recycling and the adoption of a Mass Balance attribution method based on a fuel-use exempt model.”

Europe’s share of global plastics production dropped from 22% in 2006 to 14% in 2022.

The report stresses how Plastics Europe’s members are already driving major advances in the circularity of their operations, including investing in cutting-edge recycling technologies, renewable energy and producing more plastics from biomass and CO2. They are also working closely with their value chain partners to deliver new systems thinking, higher performing products, eco-design innovation and new infrastructure.

plastics content ambitions by 2030 sorting centres. The measurement is now done when the recycling actually takes place, according to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) (EU) 2018/852. The substances have been removed from the sorted materials.

The report also shows that Europe’s share of global plastics production decreased from 22% (2006) to 14%

The roadmap prioritises what the industry, as plastics producers, can do to further accelerate this transition, but also provides recommendations to policy-makers as to how they can support the transition through the creation of an enabling policy and regulatory framework:

• Incentivising circular plastics production and conversion: increasing the availability of circular feedstock for plastics production and setting minimum mandatory circular content targets in new plastics products is essential for incentivising investment and innovation, and key in sectors such as automotive and electrical and electronics.

Circular plastics economy (Source: Plastics Europe, The Circular Economy for Plastics: A European Analysis).

• Chemical recycling: to unlock investments and stimulate innovation, policy-makers need to give a green light to this essential technology. To do so they should, for example, adopt a Mass Balance attribution method (as already

Circular plastics content in new products was

1 in 2022 (7.3 Mt).

Plastics recycling rate reached

26.9%2

Plastics waste sorting and recycling

used in sectors like renewable energy and wood, and for fair trade cocoa and chocolate) for calculating chemically recycled content in new plastic products, and introducing more ambitious recycled content targets for sensitive applications.

Plastics waste incineration with energy recovery increased by +15%

estimated that 32.3 Mt of post-consumer plastics waste1 was collected in 2022. shows that, for the first time, the share of post-consumer plastics waste collected separately is higher compared to mixed collection streams, reaching 50.7% (16.4 Mt). This is a positive development recycling rates for separately collected plastics are 13 times higher than those collected via mixed the case of plastics packaging, post-consumer waste is currently almost only recycled if collected

Plastics waste sorting and recycling

streams containing plastics, and mandatory measures to incentivise mixed waste sorting should be implemented. Municipal waste incineration should also be included in the revised EU ETS system, the potential of chemical recycling as an alternative to landfilling and incineration should be properly recognised and carbon capture should be obligatory for remaining waste incinerators after 2040.

For the first time, more post-consumer plastics waste is being recycled than sent to landfill, accounting for 26.9%2 (8.7 Mt) of waste treated in 2022.

Europe’s share of global plastics production dropped from 22% in 2006 to 14% in 2022.

Plastics recycling rate reached

26.9%

It is estimated that 32.3 Mt of post-consumer plastics waste1 was collected in 2022. The report shows that, for the first time, the share of post-consumer plastics waste collected separately is slightly higher compared to mixed collection streams, reaching 50.7% (16.4 Mt). This is a positive development since recycling rates for separately collected plastics are 13 times higher than those collected via mixed streams. In the case of plastics packaging, post-consumer waste is currently almost only recycled if collected separately.

The report shows that, for the first time, the share of post-consumer plastics waste collected separately is slightly higher compared to mixed collection streams, reaching 50.7%.

• Phase-out of landfill and incineration: to accelerate this process, whilst avoiding the shifting of plastics waste from landfill to incineration, existing EU legislation, including the Landfill Directive, needs to be properly implemented and enforced. Minimum and steadily increasing landfill and incineration taxes should be introduced on all waste

• European competitiveness: a level playing field needs to be urgently created to restore the plastics sector’s competitiveness through, for example, the development of a comprehensive EU equivalent to the US Inflation Reduction Act, and the creation of a harmonised and consistent regulatory framework across the EU Single Market.

should urgently initiate a Clean Transition Dialogue with the plastics industry, which looks at the enablers, investments, roadblocks and solutions for reaching a circular, net zero and sustainable plastics system in Europe.

For the first time, more post-consumer plastics waste is being recycled than sent to landfill, accounting for 26.9%2 (8.7 Mt) of waste treated in 2022.

“Separate collection“ means separation of waste by end-users into different collection containers to facilitate recycling.

Plastics recycling rate reached

26.9%

cut-offs of insulation, flooring or wall-covering boards). quantities were previously measured upon leaving the sorting centres. The measurement is now done when the recycling actually takes place, according to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) (EU) 2018/852. The point therefore lies after impurities and unsuitable substances have been removed from the sorted materials.

• Public procurement: considering its economic importance, it can play a crucial role in promoting circularity by, for instance, prioritising circular plastics content in public tenders.

• Waste management and recycling: incentivising the massive additional investments in separate collection, sorting and recycling infrastructure and technologies that are required is vital. More specifically, separate plastics waste collection needs to be significantly increased through, for example, Extended Producer Responsibility schemes, and mandatory measures to incentivise mixed waste sorting as a complementary solution to separate collection of plastics waste.

COLLABORATION IS KEY Collaboration between all actors within the European plastics system, and with policy-makers and regulators, needs to be intensified. To support this objective, the

Commission

“Separate collection“ means separation of waste by end-users into different collection containers to facilitate recycling.

For the first time, more post-consumer plastics waste is being recycled than sent to landfill, accounting for 26.9% (8.7 Mt) of waste treated in 2022.

“The European plastics system is too big, complex, and interconnected for any part of it to successfully deliver a competitive, circular and net zero system alone,” said Virginia Janssens. “We need to find better ways of listening, talking and deepening our collaboration. To boost this essential collaboration, we call on the European Commission to urgently establish a Clean Transition Dialogue to look at the roadblocks and solutions for creating a competitive circular plastics system in Europe together.”

The report is available to download at: https://plasticseurope.org/knowledgehub/the-circular-economy-for-plasticsa-european-analysis-2024/

SMURFIT KAPPA: Creating the Future Together

It was another eventful year for Smurfit Kappa, as their committed and dedicated people continue to provide innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for their customers.

Amid a difficult environment for the industry in 2023, mainly due to de-stocking and a lack of economic activity in certain sectors, Smurfit Kappa saw progressive improvements because of its performance-led culture.

“Our people continue to live values of loyalty, integrity, respect and safety at work, with a relentless focus on delivery and quality for customers, ensuring that Smurfit Kappa will have an unrivalled advantage across our 36 countries,” revealed Smurfit Kappa Group CEO, Tony Smurfit.

The company, headquartered in Dublin with European headquarters in Amsterdam, is a leading provider in sustainable packaging, offering a range of products including paper, board, packaging, bag-in-box solutions, displays and containerboard. This past year has been the second-best year in the company’s 90-year history, reaping the benefits from their decades of experience in innovation and dedication when it comes to sustainable solutions for customers. Tony Smurfit praised the efforts of their skilled team, which has delivered the company into a position where “we’ve never been in better shape financially, strategically or operationally”.

SIMON COMMUNITY

Although one of the world’s leading packaging suppliers, when it comes to Smurfit Kappa, responsibility starts in the community. To reflect this, Smurfit Kappa Ireland recently launched their charity partnership for 2024 with the Simon Community. Across the country,

each Smurfit Kappa plant was involved with various fundraisers and activities for the charity, which included a collective Christmas jumper day and awareness sessions with a member from a local Simon Community branch. This commitment to their charity partners and communities coincides with the group’s sustainability target of spending €24 million on social investments over the next five years. The company is dedicated to many other sustainability targets, including a 30% reduction in waste sent to landfill by 2025, net zero emissions by 2050 (55% intensity reduction in fossil CO2 emissions in their global paper and board mill system by 2030) and 1% reduction of their water usage annually.

Conor Timmons, Regional General Manager – Corrugated, Ireland, stressed that “each of our seven companies in

Smurfit Kappa Ireland contributes to supporting social, environmental and community initiatives”.

At the Cork plant, 2023 was a busy year for community involvement, including support for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths) education in local schools, renovating the local community centre and providing financial support for Cork Mental Health.

SUSTAINABILITY

The company continues to exhibit innovation when exploring new paper-based solutions to replace plastic box packaging. Recently, Smurfit Kappa created a sustainable packaging solution to transport bees for Biobest, a world leader in biological crop protection and pollination. When Biobest approached the packaging

Pictured as Smurfit Kappa Ireland donate a cheque to the Simon Community are (l-r): Anthony Carroll, Conor Timmons, Catherine Kenny, Jason Cannon, and Muirgheas Griffin.

giant, the emphasis was on an insulated, weather-resistant box to transport live bees. The boxes were to be robust and able to withstand long periods outdoors to be used for outdoor pollination. The collaboration was a huge success, with Peter Van Leent, Sustainability Manager at Biobest, acknowledging Smurfit Kappa’s “same deep commitment to sustainability”.

Smurfit Kappa, along with Two Sides, the print and paper advocacy association, will continue to advocate for EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) as part of Europe’s Green Deal objective. In November, the EU parliament voted in favour of the PPWR, which encompassed multiple measures to reduce packaging waste. In December, the EU council reached an agreement on a proposal for a regulation on packaging and packaging waste. Both institutions will begin to start negotiating the final legislation under the current Belgian presidency. The adopted positions

of both institutions is positive for Smurfit Kappa, a company that places sustainability at the centre of its operating model.

“We don’t have to reinvent the wheel,” explained Saverio Mayer, CEO, Smurfit Kappa Europe. “Sustainable packaging, 100 percent renewable, recyclable and biodegradable already exists.”

Once again, Smurfit Kappa has recently been recognised as a leading ESG performer by Morningstar Sustainalytics for the third year running. The company has been placed first against its paper packaging peers, with a ‘Low Risk’ score of 10.7. Morningstar Sustainalytics is one of the leading ESG rating companies in the world, with over 14,000 companies assessed across 42 industries. Garrett Quinn, Company CSO at Smurfit Kappa, commented that the strong ESG ratings “reflects our ongoing dedication to delivering best-in-class ESG performance for all our stakeholders”.

INVESTMENTS

Smurfit Kappa continue to invest in new machinery to enhance the customer experience. 2023 was a significant year for Smurfit Kappa Cork customers, with the introduction of three new machines to manufacture solid board divisions. Smurfit Kappa Cork is now one of three Smurfit Kappa plants that manufacture solid board, along with sister sites in Scotland and Germany.

There was also continued expansion outside of Ireland, as part of the company’s strategic goal to provide the most innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to their customers. Their investment into their Mold plant in North Wales increased capability, flexibility and speed, making it the largest box factory in the UK. The investment included state-of-the-art equipment that reduced CO2 per tonne emissions by 15%, as well as an extra 10,000 trees, shrubs and bushes and a three-acre nature trail for staff and the local community.

Smurfit Kappa calls for EU Council to support Europe’s circular economy.

The Biobest sustainable new bee packaging creates a buzz.

In South Europe, the company announced an investment to double the Spanish Bag-in-Box plant capacity, the investment will introduce even more enhanced energy waste management systems and lead to significant savings in energy consumption. These developments will further strengthen the sustainability of the plant’s operations and its product portfolio.

The company is also continuing its expansion in Northeast Europe with the acquisition of Asterias, one of the largest printing houses in southern Poland. Asterias offers a comprehensive portfolio of innovative packaging solutions, including graphic design, prototyping, printing and laminating, to deliver a final product.

WELLBEING MAP LAP

Smurfit Kappa’s UK & Ireland employees participated in a virtual walk across the world in a bid to support healthy lifestyle choices and behaviours. In the most recent edition, teams raced across a virtual map of Ireland and the UK. Upon passing a town or large city, images and information concentrating on history and culture were available for each team. It was a great success, with 656 participants completing 242 million steps over a four-week period. Each week, a winning team was chosen to donate to the charity of their choice.

BEST WELLBEING IN THE WORKPLACE STRATEGY

Smurfit Kappa’s plant in Lurgan recently received the ‘Best Wellbeing in the Workplace Strategy’ Award at the Irish Workplace and Employment Awards for their continuous efforts into wellbeing, physical and mental health for their employees. The plant has a dedicated wellbeing committee, with health champions who create and implement ideas to improve the wellbeing of their fellow employees, as well as trained mental health and physical health first aiders throughout all shifts. The wellbeing team also launched their ‘It’s Time to Talk’ programme, where two colleagues have a monthly interview on their life outside work, which has helped employees to familiarise themselves and know their colleagues on a personal level. The Award is a testimonial to the increased focus on health and wellbeing over the last number of years, and the management team look forward to seeing what the wellbeing committee’s next innovative idea is.

IN MY SHOES CHARITY CAMPAIGN: Connecting Children Through Kindness

In another charity campaign, Smurfit Kappa Ireland designed boxes to facilitate an appeal to send thousands of shoes to children in South Africa. The ‘In My Shoes’ campaign was a huge success, with pupils in 350 national schools donating their pre-loved runners and shoes. Ciaran

McHugh is the organiser of the campaign and founder of ‘In My Shoes’, resulting from an idea when he visited Cape Town and noticed the amount of children walking around and playing sport in their bare feet. Ciaran noticed that “the children faced a lot of challenges, but they had no shoes”. According to the campaign manager, Catherine McGee, the benefits of the campaign will help with “improved school attendance, enhanced safety, boosted self-esteem and access to after-school sports”.

In 2019, Ciaran’s initial goal was 500 shoes, but 2,500 shoes were donated. In 2020, Ciaran aimed to collect 5,000 shoes but he received 15,000 donations. In 2023, there was 20,000 shoes donated, which were placed into specially designed cardboard boxes supplied by Smurfit Kappa for the campaign. The donating children also chose to write messages in the shoes, hoping that the recipients enjoy the footwear and telling them what sport had been played in the shoes. The campaign’s strapline is ‘Connecting Children Through Kindness’, with Ciaran McHugh noting how the campaign gives Irish children a chance to learn about gratitude and giving, with some schools setting up their own student council and organising the whole projects themselves. As the 2024 campaign approaches, Smurfit Kappa is looking forward to another fruitful contribution for the charity.

‘In My Shoes’ appeal to donate shoes to children in South Africa.

PLASTIC PACKAGING RECYCLING AND YOUR BUSINESS

Zoë Kavanagh, CEO, Repak, examines the potential challenges of meeting our new EU plastic recycling targets, but explains that it is also a massive opportunity for Irish business to increase its recycling rates.

In 2018, the European Union updated a number of directives covering waste as part of its overall Circular Economy Package. As a result of these changes, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC) was amended with higher targets for packaging reuse and recycling to help increase recycling rates for all packaging placed on the market across Europe.

In 2020, the Irish Government published an amendment to SI 282/2014 - European Union (Packaging) Regulations 2014. This amendment (S.I. No. 322/2020) increased recycling targets for packaging in line with the new European legislation.

Zoë

As a result, Ireland’s recycling targets for 2025 and 2030 have increased for packaging overall, as well as for each of the individual packaging materials placed on the Irish market.

A CHALLENGE FOR IRELAND

At present, Ireland meets all of the previous EU targets set in the Packaging & Packaging Waste Directive. In fact, we already exceed 2025 targets for Wood (66%) and Paper & Cardboard (75%). In the case of glass recycling, we already exceed our 2030 targets with a current recycling rate of 85% (Source: Waste Packaging Statistics for Ireland - https:// www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring--assessment/waste/ national-waste-statistics/packaging/).

However, the new plastic packaging recycling targets will be more challenging for Ireland to meet and present an opportunity for Ireland to change the way in which we manage these often complex materials, which currently have a recycling rate of 33% (Source: Repak estimates for 2022).

To achieve the new EU targets of 50% by 2025 and 55% by 2030 will require a dramatic change by all stakeholders in order to capture more of this material. This will require behavioural change amongst consumers, changes to how the materials are handled by businesses and treated by the waste industry, as well as investments in local plastic recycling infrastructure here in Ireland.

Table 1: Current and Future EU Packaging Recycling

Waste contractors have a significant role to play in helping you to maximise recycling at your premises.

Kavanagh, CEO, Repak.

THE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

As a packaging compliance scheme, Repak funds the recycling of packaging waste in order to help Ireland meet its packaging recycling targets. A significant opportunity still remains to capture more plastic and other packaging from commercial premises.

Currently this is often not possible due to poor waste segregation practices on site as a result of:

• Recyclable plastic packaging being discarded in business general waste bins.

• Material being too contaminated when placed in a recycling bin, making it unsuitable for recycling.

• Waste collection infrastructure or services that do not meet the current needs of businesses.

Although this is a concern, it must also present a significant opportunity to increase plastic packaging recycling rates, given that circa 50% of all packaging waste generated in Ireland arises at commercial premises.

Ireland’s recycling targets for 2025 and 2030 have increased for packaging overall, as well as for each of the individual packaging materials placed on the Irish market.

WHAT CAN YOU DO: LEGAL OBLIGATIONS ON BUSINESSES:

The Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD introduced incentivised charging for waste collection in the commercial sector. Since July 1, 2023, there are legal obligations on Irish businesses when it comes to the segregation of packaging waste.

Regulation 5 of the European Union (Packaging) Regulations 2014 as amended states that:

• Producers should ensure that packaging waste is separated at source, by material type.

• Packaging waste should be collected by a contractor for the purposes of recycling.

This change will bring the commercial sector in line with the residential sector for whom incentivised pricing has been in place since 2017. Under the updated regulations S.I. No. 104 of 2023, all waste collection companies will be required to provide a residual, mixed dry recyclable and bio-waste bin to all their commercial customers.

It is important, therefore, that your business is segregating all recyclable packaging. Plastic packaging materials, such as plastic pallet wrap, shrink hoods, case wrap and pallet sheets, should be separated from other types of waste. If in doubt about what your waste contractor will accept in the recycling bin or in bales, ask them for their assistance.

It is also essential that these recyclable materials are kept as clean and dry as possible, so that they are suitable for recycling at the point of collection.

WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT FROM YOUR WASTE CONTRACTOR

Waste contractors have a significant role to play in helping you to maximise recycling at your premises. It is therefore critical to ensure that they are providing the following offering:

1. At least a three bin service for recycling (General Waste, Organic Waste and Mixed Dry Recycling). E.g. Black, Brown and Green bins.

2. Support in order to source-segregate by material where possible, such as through baling of plastic film, bottles and the separation of other recyclable items such as drums or barrels. These items are usually manufactured from highly recyclable plastics such as Polyethylene (LDPE or HDPE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or Polypropylene (PP).

3. A breakdown of what the waste contractor is doing with your waste, showing:

• what materials are being recycled,

• what materials are being recovered or disposed,

• food waste collected,

• the associated cost of all of the above.

This can usually be provided on a monthly basis and can help you track trends over the year to see how well you’re managing and any further improvements that might be needed.

The more material that is being recycled, the lower the cost. In fact, it is important to note that source-segregated material that has been baled is often collected free of charge.

WHAT TO DO IF THERE ARE ANY SHORTFALLS IN THE CURRENT ARRANGEMENTS

If you are having challenges achieving good segregation on site due to the bins or balers you currently have, it is important to engage with your waste contractor, who can advise on how you can improve this and implement the changes within an agreed timeframe. It is also important to note that improvements in recycling rates will not only help the environment but can reduce costs for your business.

Evaluate and review your waste services on a regular basis. A list of waste contractors (Repak approved recovery operators) is available on our website at www.repak.ie

If you need any additional support, you can also contact our packaging services team here at Repak at preventandsave@repak.ie or call us on 01 467 0190.

If you are having challenges achieving good segregation on site due to the bins or balers you currently have, it is important to engage with your waste contractor.

PPWR AGREEMENT TO Pave The Way For Future

The EU Council and European Parliament have agreed a deal to make packaging more sustainable and reduce packaging waste in the EU.

March of 2024 saw the EU Council presidency and the European Parliament’s representatives reaching a provisional political agreement on a proposal for a regulation on packaging and packaging waste. The aim is to tackle the increase in packaging waste generated in the EU, while harmonising the internal market for packaging and boosting the circular economy.

Packaging production and packaging waste management is an economically complex and important sector, generating a total turnover of €370 billion in the EU. As such, it plays a significant role and has the potential to transform Europe into a clean, sustainable, circular economy, in line with the European Green Deal. However, even though recycling rates have increased in the EU, the amount of waste generated from packaging is growing faster than the amount recycled. Over the past decade, the amount of packaging waste has increased by nearly 25% and is expected to increase by another 19% by 2030 if no action is taken. For plastic packaging waste, the expected increase is 46% by 2030.

The current EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive was first adopted in 1994 and has been revised several times. It lays down rules for EU member states to ensure that the packaging placed on the EU market meets certain requirements and to adopt measures to prevent and manage packaging waste, in order to achieve recycling targets for different types of packaging waste. However, several assessments of the Directive have shown that it has not succeeded in reducing the negative environmental impacts of packaging.

Against this backdrop, in November 2022 the Commission put forward a proposal for a regulation on packaging and packaging waste that would replace the existing Directive. The Parliament and Council adopted their positions on the proposed regulation in November and December 2023, respectively, and the Council and Parliament struck a provisional deal on March 4, 2024.

The provisional agreement will now

be submitted to the member states’ representatives within the Council (Coreper) and to the Parliament’s environment committee for endorsement. If approved, the text will then need to be formally adopted by both institutions, following revision by lawyer-linguists, before it can be published in the EU’s Official Journal and enter into force. The regulation will be applied from 18 months after the date of entry into force.

WHAT DOES THE PPWR MEAN?

The proposal considers the full lifecycle of packaging. It establishes requirements to ensure that packaging is safe and sustainable, by requiring that all packaging is recyclable and that the presence of substances of concern is minimised. It also lays down labelling harmonisation requirements to improve consumer information. In line with the waste hierarchy, the proposal aims to significantly reduce the generation of packaging waste by setting binding

re-use targets, restricting certain types of single-use packaging and requiring economic operators to minimise the packaging used. The deal reached in March is provisional, pending formal adoption by both institutions.

SUSTAINABILITY REQUIREMENTS AND RECYCLED CONTENT IN PACKAGING

The text of the provisional agreement maintains most of the sustainability requirements for all packaging placed on the market and the headline targets proposed by the Commission.

It strengthens the requirements for substances in packaging by introducing a restriction on the placing on the market of food contact packaging containing per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) above certain thresholds. To avoid any overlap with other pieces of legislation, the colegislators tasked the Commission with assessing the need to amend that restriction within four years of the date of application of the regulation.

The provisional agreement maintains the 2030 and 2040 headline targets for minimum recycled content in plastic packaging. The co-legislators agreed to exempt compostable plastic packaging and packaging whose plastic component represents less than 5% of the packaging’s total weight from those targets. The Commission will have to review the implementation of the 2030 targets and assess the feasibility of the 2040 targets. The agreement also calls on the Commission to assess, three years following the entry into force of the regulation, the state of technological development of biobased plastic packaging and, on the basis of that assessment, to lay down sustainability requirements for biobased content in plastic packaging.

The new rules would reduce unnecessary packaging by setting a maximum empty space ratio of 50% in grouped, transport and e-commerce packaging, and requiring manufacturers and importers to ensure that the weight and volume of packaging are minimised, except for protected packaging designs (provided that this protection was already in force by the date of entry into force of the regulation).

RE-USE RARGETS AND RE-FILL OBLIGATIONS

The text sets new binding re-use targets for 2030 and indicative targets for 2040. The targets vary depending on the type of packaging used by operators: alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages (excluding wine and aromatised wines, milk and other highly perishable beverages), transport and sales packaging (excluding packaging used for dangerous goods or large-scale equipment and flexible packaging in direct contact with food) and grouped packaging. Cardboard packaging is also generally exempted from those requirements.

The agreement introduces a general renewable five-year derogation from the attainment of the re-use targets under specific conditions, including that:

• the exempting member state exceeds by 5 percentage points the recycling targets to be achieved by 2025 and is expected to exceed by 5 percentage points the 2030 recycling targets;

• the exempting member state is on track to achieve its waste prevention targets;

• the operators have adopted corporate waste prevention and recycling plans that contribute to achieving the waste prevention and recycling objectives set out in the regulation.

The new rules also exempt microenterprises from attaining those targets and introduce the possibility for economic operators to form pools of up five final distributors to meet the re-use targets on beverages.

DEPOSIT RETURN SYSTEMS (DRS)

Under the new rules, by 2029, member states must ensure the separate collection of at least 90% per annum of single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers. To achieve that target, they are required to set up deposit return systems (DRSs) for those packaging formats. The minimum requirements for DRS will not apply to systems already in place before the entry into force of the regulation, if the systems in question achieve the 90% target by 2029. Ireland introduced its own Deposit Return Scheme on February 1, 2024. The co-legislators agreed to add an exemption from the requirement

to introduce a DRS for member states if they reach a separate collection rate of above 80% in 2026 and if they submit an implementation plan with a strategy for achieving the overarching 90% separate collection target.

RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN PACKAGING FORMATS

The new rules introduce restrictions on certain packaging formats, including single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables, for food and beverages, condiments, sauces within the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) sector, for small cosmetic and toiletry products used in the accommodation sector (e.g. shampoo or body lotion bottles), and for very lightweight plastic bags (e.g. those offered at markets for bulk groceries).

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CHALLENGING 2023 FOR ALUFOIL

2023 saw a challenging market for European aluminium foil across all segments, according to the latest figures from the European Aluminium Foil Association.

Demand for European aluminium foil remained well below 2022 levels throughout 2023 as all segments, both at home and abroad, recorded double digit falls in the final quarter of the year. Overall total shipments were 14,6% lower compared to the year before (2023: 831,700 tonnes; 2022: 973,300 tonnes) with exports down 22%, according to figures just released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

This reflects the very soft market conditions seen throughout the period, which were a combination of very high stock levels and weak demand in all sectors and end applications. Higher prices and interest rates have forced end consumers to limit their spending, which directly affects foil in packaging and household goods particularly.

DROP IN DEMAND

Even thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, were not immune from the drop in demand. Year on year deliveries fell almost 16%. Exports were particularly affected, down 30% in the year. But normally resilient domestic deliveries were well below the final quarter of 2022, down 16% - although this was slightly better than Q3 - and 13% over the year as a whole.

Volumes for thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, were down by 12% across 2023. Exports fell 4%, but again deliveries to Europe were 13% lower than the previous year. In Q4 alone, deliveries of these gauges were down by 20%, with another sharp decrease in exports, which declined by more than 40%. This category of products makes up a smaller volume of the total production; therefore its impact on overall output figures is less.

It was noted that even foil used for technical applications (automotive, construction) had its worst quarter in Q4 2023, reflecting a general downturn in car production and building activity, due to continuing supply chain difficulties as well as weak demand, fuelled by continued high interest rates.

CAUTIOUS OPTIMISM FOR 2024

“While uncertain economic conditions and continuing supply chain issues,

such as disruption in the Red Sea, do not make these results unexpected, they are, nevertheless, not what the industry wants to see continuing for too long,” revealed Bruno Rea, Chair of the EAFA Roller Group. “As customer stock levels are now at very low levels, there is very cautious optimism in the sector, supported by market demand slightly picking up since Q1. Lower interest rates and stabilising economic circumstances certainly help to stimulate the strengthening demand further.”

ABOUT EAFA

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) is the main trade association, specifically representing companies engaged in the rolling and rewinding of aluminium foil and the manufacturing of semi-rigid alufoil containers and household foil in Europe. With its more than 40 members, the organisation represents the total aluminium foil rolling market in Europe.

For more information, visit www.alufoil.org

PRICES STABILISE FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

Prices of flexible packaging materials in Europe steadied on high levels at the end of 2023, although most are below the peaks from mid-2022.

Flexible packaging materials stabilised in 2023, albeit at high levels, but mostly they remained below the record highs seen in mid-2022, according to the latest figures from Flexible Packaging Europe.

The final three months of 2023 saw a mixed set of results in prices for the basket of flexible packaging materials used to assess markets across Europe. While there were gains in the price of HDPE, up 7% on the previous quarter, and LDPE, up 8% in the same period, other results were patchier.

The continuing weakness in demand and now the volatile situation in the Middle East, adding to the Ukraine war uncertainties, have had a negative impact on the outlook for 2024. There was a modest decline in the price of 7-micron aluminium foil (4%) . Elsewhere 60gsm one-sided coated paper fell 7% against the Q3 figures while both BOPP 20-micron film and 12-micron PET film remained unchanged. A modest rise of 1% for 15-micron BOPA film completes the end of year figures.

While prices continue to drop or stabilise, most are still well above the benchmark price from Q4 2020. 60gsm one sided coated paper, 15-mircon BOPA film, 12-micron PET film, HDPE and LDPE generally remain between 30-40% above that benchmark, and aluminium foil remains 60% higher. Only 20-micron BOPP film is returning towards the 2020 measure, at 13% above that price. However, all these prices are well off the peaks seen in mid-2022.

UNEVEN PRICING

“Prices paid in Europe for flexible packaging materials were uneven in Q4. They decreased for both alufoil and one-side coated paper. Alufoil price declines were mainly due to conversion cost reductions. Paper pricing tended to be stable for small and medium-size customers, while some large buyers agreed reductions,” according to Santiago Castro, Senior Research Analyst, Films and Flexible Packaging at Wood Mackenzie.

“For BOPET and BOPP, prices remained stable on average. With demand flat, some attempts by suppliers to increase prices were rebuffed. BOPA prices rose marginally in Q4, driven mainly by increases in the price of PA6 resin,” he continued.

“As for Q1 2024, consumer demand is expected to remain subdued. Inventory rebalancing has mostly ended. The situation in the Red Sea is putting pressure on imported raw materials, which could well drive prices up.”

CONTINUOUS UNCERTAINTY

Guido Aufdenkamp, Executive Director of FPE, commented, “The combination of very high stocks along the supply chain and pressure on end-consumer demand due to high inflation was not favourable for flexible packaging manufacturers and caused a decline of deliveries in 2023. There is continuous uncertainty due to the various conflicts in and around Europe and throughout the world, but recovery of the European economy, dropping inflation in most regions and stabilisation of retail sales volumes should have a positive overall influence. The industry is cautious optimistic for 2024 when comparing the demand of flexible packaging with last year.”

ABOUT FLEXIBLE PACKAGING EUROPE

Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE) is the industry association representing the interests of more than 80 small, mediumsized companies, and multinational manufacturers. Those operate with workforce of 57,000+ people at more than 350 sites all over Europe. The member companies account for more than 85% of European sales of flexible packaging made of different materials, mainly plastics, aluminium, and paper. More than half of all food products sold on the European retail markets are packed with flexible packaging. More info at www.flexpack-europe.org

DEVELOPMENT: RRESTING

Packaging Design Trends to Connect with your Customers

Shayne Tilley, General Manager of Logo and Brand at VistaPrint, on the packaging design trends that are offering brand owners the opportunity to tell their story in innovative, striking ways.

Fresh packaging design trends are emerging across 2024, offering new ways for businesses of all sizes to showcase their products. It’s a time of exciting transformation, where visual appeal meets functionality in the packaging aisles and online spaces.

This year’s packaging design trends range from the understated charm of minimalist designs to the bold statement of vivid colours, each with the potential to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. They’re a reflection of shifting consumer tastes and a chance for brands to tell their story in new, visually compelling ways.

For business owners, small and large, these trends are more than just a chance to refresh your look; they’re an opportunity to connect with customers, differentiate your products and stand out in a crowded market. Whether you’re planning to revamp your existing packaging or launch something brand new, these trends are ripe with inspiration for your next packaging venture, helping you to make a lasting impression.

1. Interactive Packaging

Brands are no longer solely concerned with pushing products; they’re concentrating their efforts on crafting experiences. This is evident in every aspect of product marketing, including the packaging.

Gone are the days when a product’s casing merely served to protect or inform. Today, it actively engages, delights, and serves a dual purpose. Interactive packaging, also dubbed as ‘smart packaging’, comes in a variety of shapes and forms. The big idea is to make your packaging multifunctional, allowing consumers to further interact with your brand. Hopping on this 2024 packaging design trend is easy for a business of virtually any nature; just pick a format that works best for your brand and your product.

Some interactive packaging formats include:

• Physical interactivity: This is where design shines. Think of packages that transform or can be repurposed, either for prolonged brand interactions or functional interaction with the product. For instance, a cereal box that can be folded into a board game, or a wine bottle label that’s a puzzle, revealing a message as pieces are rearranged.

The Olio D’olive interactive packaging design concept by Design Studio Bob. This virgin olive oil bottle has a very simple and cheap anti-drip system integrated into its packaging.

• Sensory engagement: Some interactive packages appeal to our senses in innovative ways; scratch-andsniff labels, materials that change texture with heat, or even audio elements that play upon opening.

• Sustainability meets interaction: In a nod to environmental concerns, some brands have introduced packaging that can be planted to grow flowers or herbs, or materials that change colour to indicate when contents are past their prime.

• Technological integration: This could mean QR codes or NFC (Near Field Communication) chips embedded into packaging. When scanned or touched by a smartphone, they can launch an augmented reality experience, provide detailed product information, or even offer a virtual tour of the manufacturing process.

In fact, the last one is so prominent, it’s a 2024 packaging design trend of its own.

2. Augmented Packaging

While interactive designs focus on blending form and function to delight at first touch, augmented packaging delves deeper, intertwining the tactile with the digital for a multisensory experience.

QR codes, once a simple tool for information retrieval, have been reinvented and stylishly integrated into packaging designs.

But it’s more than aesthetics and communicating basic information; it’s about deepening the brand-consumer connection. As soon as that code is scanned, consumers are whisked away into an extended brand universe. It could be a heartfelt personalised message, an exclusive discount or a unique coupon that pops up, creating moments of genuine surprise.

Good examples include Enosophia, a Croatian wine brand, who designed wine bottles with interactive labels that play music once scanned, or Ace Squad, an energy drink brand who gamified their packaging design by placing a QR code that unlocks a funky AR game.

As a business owner, you don’t have to hire a developer to help you create a QR code. All you need for a fashionforward label is a great idea and a QR code generator.

Enosophia, a Croatian wine brand, designed wine bottles with interactive labels that play music once scanned.

3. Hyper Contrast

From the evolution of interactive design to the world of augmented experiences, it’s clear that packaging in 2024 isn’t playing it safe. Hyper Contrast is where the drama of design unfolds. Picture Mondrian reborn in the year 3000: angular shapes juxtaposed with a palette that screams audacity. It’s not just about colours; it’s about clashing them with purpose.

In a way, Hyper Contrast is a shelf equivalent of Dopamine Dressing (the practice of finding joy in the things you choose to wear). It’s designed to uplift and draw attention. Because in today’s world, first impressions aren’t just lasting; they’re echoing.

Hyper Contrast, the on-shelf equivalent of Dopamine Dressing.

Times China Hyper contrast packaging design; Source: Packaging of the World.

4. Saturated Pastels

The area of Saturated Pastels is another equally striking, yet distinctly fresh arena. While Hyper Contrast played with stark juxtapositions to seize our attention, Saturated Pastels masterfully tweak the conventions we’ve come to expect from pastel shades. Traditionally soft and subdued, pastels have been dialled up a notch, now embodying a vibrancy that’s both playful and potent.

These colours aren’t just a nod to the bright neon and acid hues popular in recent years. They capture a nuanced blend - softer, more youthful, but no less impactful. The very essence of this trend lies in its paradox: the colours are gentle, yet they shout.

“This look and feel aligns with a trend that is influencing our branding, called ‘Dopamine Colours’,” noted Megan Morahan, Global Creative Director – Product Creation & Experience, VistaPrint. “It represents a surge of vibrant colours that can be observed in fashion, beauty, home interiors, and more. Bright shades complement bold maximalist styles. Even motifs not typically associated with colour exude renewed energy and life through unexpected, vivid tones.”

Loving Earth: Saturated Pastels packaging design by Soul Studio (Source: Packaging of the World).

Saturated Pastels packaging design from Fizi.

Chow Cacao: an excellent example of the Saturated Pastels trend.

5. Brutalist Type

Just after the previous two packaging design trends have made their mark with vibrant collisions of colours, Brutalist Type provides a stark contrast. In this trend, the words themselves become the focus.

It’s reminiscent of monumental architecture where simplicity and grandeur meet. Imagine standing at a distance in a store, and among all the decorated packages, a singular, bold typeface calls out to you. That’s the essence of Brutalist Type. It screams ‘less is more’.

By minimising the frills and focusing solely on the typeface, brands are making a statement, challenging conventions and standing out. The limited colour palette, which is often muted or subdued, ensures the product name or message isn’t lost amid busy graphics.

“Simple, block-like and structured, Brutalist Type takes learnings from the architecture world to create a simple but striking packaging design and adds a sense of stark elegance,” explains Justin Hamra, Art Director at VistaPrint.

Oisix Milk, Brutalist Type trend by MMX on 99designs by Vista.

Botanicologie, is a perfect example of the Brutalist Type trend (Credit: Loribal on 99designs by Vista).

Saffron Gold, an example of the Brutalist Type trend (Credit: Acid League).

6. Discreet but Deluxe

The design world has been flirting with another understated trend: Discreet but Deluxe. In an era where everything seems designed to shout for attention, this trend whispers, and it’s the allure of that whisper that draws you in.

In the age of oversharing, there’s a renewed appetite for the mystique, a certain attraction to what remains unseen. Social media has been awash with unboxing videos, and while these displays often involve grand gestures and elaborate presentations, the Discreet but Deluxe trend is almost a counter-movement. It’s for those who relish the anticipation, the drawn-out moment of discovery. It’s the art of storytelling through packaging; each layer peeled back reveals a chapter, urging the consumer to continue.

“In the world of packaging, there’s power in subtlety,” reveals Justin Hamra, Art Director at VistaPrint. “Enter Discreet but Deluxe, the art of concealing treasures within and crafting a memorable product experience between you and your customer.”

Brands are leaning towards heavier stocks and unique finishes, which almost serve as a promise, a guarantee of the luxury inside. When everything is overt, a splash of secrecy feels almost revolutionary. And the seamless unboxing experience? It’s a testament to the fact

that real luxury is thoughtful, ensuring that everything, down to the very first moment of contact, feels special.

‘Quiet luxury’ is still in vogue. It might be discreet, but its impact is undeniably deluxe.

A fine example of the Discreet but Deluxe trend by ADD778 on 99designs by

Puffs Donuts, as designed by Senchy on 99designs by Vista: Discreet by Deluxe.

The New Social Discreet but Deluxe packaging design by EWMDesigns via 99designs by Vista.

Vista

7. Flat Graphics

The Flat Graphics trend is all about clarity and simplicity; think clean lines and unadulterated colours.

What began as a dominant force in the digital design space has gracefully transitioned into the world of packaging. We’re talking about the resurgence of Flat Graphics. It’s the epitome of ‘simpler is better’, boasting clear illustrations paired with understated typography and colour palettes.

And why is this trend a winner? Its minimalist charm doesn’t just look stellar digitally; it shines brightly in print, fitting seamlessly across various packaging forms, from boxes and mailers to hang-tags and bags. It’s the silent charisma in a market often clouded by noise and extravagance.

“I’ve always been drawn to Flat Graphics and influenced by Swiss minimalism,” explains Megan Morahan, Global Creative Director - Product Creation & Experience, VistaPrint.

“I love the concept of simplifying something complex and expressing it in its simplest form. The beautiful and clever, simple illustrations, combined with expressive colours and seemingly straightforward yet expressive fonts. This style is regaining popularity in branding as well as packaging.”

Feel Good Tea, a fine example of the Flat Graphics trend (design Raveart on 99designs by Vista).

Stateside Growers’ Wheatgrass Powder, a perfect example of the Flat Graphics trend from Wooden Horse on 99designs by Vista.

8. ’50s Comeback

Flat Graphics have marked their territory, but they aren’t the sole blast from the past making waves in 2024. Dialling the clock back even further, the ’50s era, with its quaint charm and unique design language, is making a compelling return in the packaging world.

In the ‘50s Comeback trend, illustrations sporting simple line drawings from that golden decade take centre stage. These designs sweep away the sternness and wrap you in a cozy embrace of familiarity. There’s something inherently comforting about the retro vibe, and when seasoned with today’s aesthetics, the result is packaging that’s a visual treat, echoing both trust from days gone by and the allure of modern flair. Retro, revisited and reimagined!

Craft Soda from Minnesota’s Northern Soda Company, a fine example of the ’50s Comeback trend, from Pepper Pack Design on 99designs by Vista.

Bringing back those 1950s vibes, Little Giants, designed by Lucadia on 99designs by Vista.

9. Translucent Play

Brands are setting aside traditional die-cut windows and embracing transparent and semi-opaque packaging. This isn’t just a move to showcase the product; it’s an effort to craft a narrative from the inside out.

“With a perfect blend of textures, colours, and the product’s own dance within its casing, this design approach ensures the exterior resonates harmoniously with its contents,” reveals Justin Hamra, Art Director at VistaPrint. “It’s not merely about catching an eye; it’s about providing a 360-degree view that invites potential buyers into a full product experience, even before they make a purchase.”

For those seeking a dynamic shift in shelf appeal, this is the trend reshaping the design conversation.

“Certain products are too aesthetically pleasing to keep hidden,” Justin continues. “Translucent play employs minimalist graphics and deliberate typography to provide a stylish frame, allowing the spotlight to shine on what’s inside. Because, in the end, it’s what’s inside that counts.”

CONCLUSION

It’s clear that these creative directions offer more than just aesthetic appeal; they’re a gateway to building deeper connections with your customers. Each trend we’ve uncovered is an opportunity for brands, especially small businesses, to tell their unique stories, evoke emotions and stand out in a busy market.

These trends can serve brand owners well as a source of inspiration and a tool for growth. By aligning your packaging with these fresh and vibrant designs, you can make every customer interaction count, leaving a lasting impression that goes beyond the shelf.

ABOUT VISTAPRINT

VistaPrint is the design and marketing partner to millions of small businesses around the world. For more than 20 years, they have helped small businesses look and feel credible through high-quality marketing products and solutions that include signage, logo apparel, promotional products, flyers, postcards, business cards, websites and digital marketing. With VistaPrint, small businesses are able to create and customise their marketing with easy-touse digital tools and design templates, or by receiving expert graphic design support.

Modern Botanicals Small Batch Handmade Gin, a fine example of the Translucent Play trend, from Kirill D. on 99designs by Vista.

Niu Beer Translucent play packaging design by NiceLab Studio; Source: Packaging of the World.

IRISHPACKAGING and print directory 2024

PRODUCT & SERVICE INDEX

ALL PLASTIC SILOS & IBC’S

AIC Plastics

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

SCHÜTZ (Ireland) Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

AGV SYSTEMS

Krones UK Ltd

BAGGING

Antalis Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

BAG GLUING

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

BAG SEALING

Carabay Packaging Products

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Versatile Packaging Ltd

BAG SEWING

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

BAKERY CAKE CONTAINERS

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Celtic Sales Company Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

BANDING

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

BARCODING / TRACEABILITY

Advanced Labels

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Codico Distributors Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

GS1 Ireland

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

BARCODE GUIDELINES

GS1 Ireland

Holfeld Graphics

JMC Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

BARCODE PRINTING & QUALITY

VERIFICATION

Advanced Labels

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Codico Distributors Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Colorman Ireland Ltd

GS1 Ireland

Holfeld Graphics

JMC Packaging Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

BINS

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

BIODEGRADABLE MATERIAL

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

Papertech Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

BRAND DEVELOPMENT

Antalis Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

BULK PACKAGING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

CALIBRATION

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Holfeld Graphics

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

CARTON ERECTORS/CLOSERS

Antalis Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

CASE SEALING (TAPING)

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

CHECKWEIGHERS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

CODING & MARKING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Codico Distributors Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

GS1 Ireland

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

COLD CHAIN PACKAGING

Carabay Packaging Products

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

COLOUR MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

CoLab Packaging

COMPOSTABLE BAGS, FILMS & SHRINK SLEEVES

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

CONSULTANCY

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Leonard Little & Associates Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

CONTAINERS

BAGS

Fabric

Consort Case Company

Irish Papers Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Jute

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Laminates

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

Interpac

NPP Group Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Paper

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Greiner Packaging Ltd

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Interpac

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Pre-Made Bags - Plain/Printed

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Recycled Bags

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Shabra Plastics / Recycling Ltd

BARRELS/DRUMS

Fibreboard

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

Metal

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Plastic

Carabay Packaging Products

Charles Tennant Ireland

Consort Case Company

Donoghue Packaging

Gem Plastics

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

SCHÜTZ (Ireland) Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Wooden

Donoghue Packaging

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

BLISTER / CLAMSHELL PACKS

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

BOTTLES

Glass

Alpack Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company Ltd

Charles Tennant Ireland

Gem Plastics

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

BOXES

Cake

Alpack Ltd

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Cans

Antalis Ltd

Charles Tennant Ireland

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

Composites

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

Corrugated

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

SAICA Packaging Ireland

SAICA Pack Lurgan

SAICA Pack Warrenpoint

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

EPS

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Metal

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

Paper

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

CoLab Packaging

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Plastic

AIC Plastics

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Rigid Presentation Boxes

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Snack Boxes

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Dollard Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Wooden

AIC Plastics

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

Paardekooper Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

BUCKETS/TUBS

Plastic

Alpack Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company Ltd

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Greiner Packaging Ltd

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

Metal

Charles Tennant Ireland

Com-Plas International

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

CARTONS

Cardboard

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Com-Plas International

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Waddington Europe

Plastic

AIC Plastics

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Greiner Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

Waddington Europe

CASES

Corrugated

Antalis Ltd

Alpack Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Com-Plas International

Consort Case Company

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

SAICA Packaging Ireland

SAICA Pack Lurgan

SAICA Pack Warrenpoint

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Metal

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Consort Case Company

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

AIC Plastics

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Polystyrene

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Wooden

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Paardekooper Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

CLOSURES

Metal

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Gem Plastics

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Charles Tennant Ireland

Consort Case Company

Gem Plastics

Greiner Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Taps

Antalis Ltd

Gem Plastics

The Packaging Centre Ltd

CRATES

Plastic

AIC Plastics

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Wooden

AIC Plastics

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

JARS

Glass

Alpack Ltd

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Greiner Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

PAPER CARRIERS

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Ginger Packaging LtdIrish Papers Ltd

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

POUCHES

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Ginger Packaging LtdIrish Papers Ltd

Interpac

Nelipak Healthcare Packaging

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

RECYCLED SACKS

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Shabra Plastics / Recycling Ltd

SACKS

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Troy Packaging

SACKS HEAVY DUTY

Antalis Ltd

Interpac

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Troy Packaging

TRAYS

Aluminium

AIC Plastics

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Paper

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

CoLab Packaging

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

McGowans

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Plastic

AIC Plastics

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Nelipak Healthcare Packaging

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Thorn Environmental Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

TUBES

Cardboard

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Smufit Kappa Ireland Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Paper

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Troy Packaging

VIALS

Glass

Com-Plas International

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

Plastic

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

CONTRACT PACKAGING

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Canpak Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

McGowans

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Shabra Plastics/Recycling Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

CONTRACT PACKING

Canpak Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

JMC Packaging Ltd

QPM Ltd

CONVERTER

Carabay Packaging Products

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

EuroFoil Teo

Thorn Environmental Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Waddington Europe

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

DANGEROUS GOODS PACKAGING

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

SCHÜTZ (Ireland) Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

DANGEROUS GOODS PACKAGING

TESTING

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

DESIGNERS/CONSULTANTS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

DISTRIBUTION

Carabay Packaging Products

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

DRUM & KEG WASHERS

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

ECOMMERCE FULFILMENT

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

FIBC

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

FLEXO PLATES

Alphagraphics

FLOW WRAPPERS

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

FLOW WRAPPING

Canpak Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

FMCG PACKAGING

Advanced Labels

Canpak Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Interpac

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

Waddington Europe

FOAM IN PLACE

Donoghue Packaging

Troy Packaging

FOOD GRADE PACKAGING

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

FORM FILL & SEAL

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Troy Packaging

FULFILMENT

Canpak Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

GRAPHIC DESIGN

NevPak

Troy Packaging

HAND ASSEMBLY

Canpak Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

INDUSTRIAL WASHING SYSTEMS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

INSPECTION SYSTEMS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

IRISH PRE-STRETCH FILM

MANUFACTURERS

Carabay Packaging Products

Thorn Environmental Ltd

KAN BAN

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

LABEL BUREAU

GS1 Ireland

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

LITHO LAM PACKAGING

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PROTECTIVE PACKAGING

Ginger Packaging Ltd

MACHINERY/EQUIPMENT

AUTO CARTONING SYSTEMS

Antalis Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

BAG CLOSING MACHINERY

Antalis Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

CAPPING

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

CASE PACKING

Antalis Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

CONVEYORS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Codico Distributors Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

DRUM LIFTING/REEL LIFTING

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

FILLING

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

LABELLING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Codico Distributors Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

MAP MACHINERY

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

QPM Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

METAL DETECTORS/X-RAY MACHINES

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

NAILING & STAPLING EQUIPMENT

Carabay Packaging Products

Troy Packaging

PACKAGING MACHINERY

Advanced Labels

Abco Kovex Ltd

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

ITW Packaging Systems

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

PROCESS EQUIPMENT

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

SEALERS

Antalis Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NevPak

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

SHRINK WRAPPERS

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

ITW Packaging Systems

JMC Packaging Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

SLEEVING

Advanced Labels

Donoghue Packaging

Krones UK Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

STRAPPING MACHINES

Abco Kovex Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

ITW Packaging Systems

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Troy Packaging

THERMOFORMERS

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

TIPPING/TILTING EQUIPMENT

JMC Packaging Ltd

TRAY SEALERS

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

VACUUM PACKERS

Carabay Packaging Products

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

WEIGHING & CHECKING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

ENVELOPES & MAIL PACKAGING

Antalis Ltd

Troy Packaging

MAIL ORDER BAGS

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

MARKETING ROADMAPS

Colorman Ireland Ltd

MATERIALS HANDLING

Carabay Packaging Products

Fischbein Saxon Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Interpac

QPM Ltd

Toyota Material Handling Ireland

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

MEDICAL / PHARMACEUTICAL

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Interpac

Irish Papers Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

MOULDING

Troy Packaging

NESTED TRAYS, CANS, TUBES

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

NON-WOVEN PP

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

OVER WRAPPING

JMC Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

PACKAGING DESIGN SPECIALISTS

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Donoghue Packaging

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PACKAGING MATERIALS

ADHESIVES

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Alphagraphics

Antalis Ltd

CoLab Packaging

H.B Fuller / NAA Ltd

Krones UK Ltd

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

AIRPAQ ENDCAPS

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

BAMBOO PULP

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

BESPOKE PROMOTIONAL LABELS

Advanced Labels

Antalis Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

McGowans

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

CARD

Advanced Labels

Antalis Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

NevPak

Papertech Ltd

CONVOLUTED FOAM

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

DIGITAL LABELS

Advanced Labels

Antalis Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

FOAM UNDERLAY

Carabay Packaging Products

Troy Packaging

INK

Alphagraphics

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

L SEALING

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

LABELS

Alpack Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Codico Distributors Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

LAMINATES

Antalis Ltd

EuroFoil Teo

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Papertech Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

LEAFLETS

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

LEAFLET LABELS

Colorman Ireland Ltd

McGowans

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

LINERLESS LABELS

Advanced Labels

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

Versatile Packaging Ltd

LITHO LAMINATED BOARD/FLUTE

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

METAL FOILS

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

MISCELLANEOUS

Advanced Labels

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

PAPER

AB Converters Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

EuroFoil Teo

Irish Papers Ltd

NevPak

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

PLASTIC/POLYMERS

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Gem Plastics

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

QPM Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

POLYETHYLENE FOAM

Antalis Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

RFID LABELS

GS1 Ireland

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

TAPES

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

WRAPPING

Abco Kovex Ltd

AB Converters Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Ginger Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

ITW Packaging Systems

JMC Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PACKAGING INTEGRITY TESTING

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Nelipak Healthcare Packaging

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PACKAGING TESTING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PALLETS

AIC Plastics

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Interpac

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PALLET LABELLING

Codico Disributors Ltd

GS1 Ireland

JMC Packaging Ltd

PALLET LINERS

Antalis Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Mid-Cork Pallets and Packaging

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PALLET LINERS (WATERPROOF)

JMC Packaging Ltd

Papertech Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PALLET WRAPPING

Abco Kovex Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

FIBRE/CORE PALLETS

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

PLASTIC CUPS

Carabay Packaging Products

Greiner Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Thorn Environmental Ltd

PLASTIC GLASSES

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

PLASTIC IBC

AIC Plastics

Donoghue Packaging

Gem Plastics

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

SCHÜTZ (Ireland) Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

POLYBAGGING

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

POLYESTER REEL/SHEET MATERIAL

Carabay Packaging Products

Papertech Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

Xtrupak Ltd

POLYURETHANE FOAM

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Industrial Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

P.O.S.

McGowans

NevPak

Xtrupak

PRINT & APPLY LABELLING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Codico Distributors Ltd

Colorman Ireland Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

PRINTED SLEEVES

CoLab Packaging

Colorman Ireland Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

KPS Colour Print Ltd

NevPak

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Waddington Europe

PRINTING

AB Converters Ltd

Benson Box Co. (Irl) Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Codico Disributors Ltd

CoLab Packaging

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

EuroFoil Teo

Irish Papers Ltd

KPS Colour Print Ltd

NevPak

NPP Group Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

Xtrupak Ltd

PRINTING & SIGNAGE CONSUMABLES

Alphagraphics

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

PRODUCT COLLATION

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

PRODUCT SCREENING

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Colorman Ireland Ltd

RECYCLED RIGID APET AND RPET SHEET FILMS

Waddington Europe

Xtrupak Ltd

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

Carabay Packaging Products

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

RESEALABLE

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Irish Papers Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

RETAIL READY PACKAGING

AB Converters Ltd

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Interpac

JMC Packaging Ltd

QPM Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

REUSABLE BAGS

AB Converters Ltd

Abco Kovex Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

ROBOTICS / PALLETISERS

Carabay Packaging Products

Krones UK Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

ROBOTIC PICK & PLACE

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

PRODUCT COLLATION

JMC Packaging Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

SECURITY TAPES

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

NPP Group Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

SERVICES

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

QPM Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

SHIP TO SUPPLIER

Advanced Labels

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

SHRINK SLEEVES

Carabay Packaging Products

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

SHRINK TUBING

NPP Group Ltd

Troy Packaging

SHRINK WRAPPING

Abco Kovex Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company (Cork) Ltd

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

SINGLE SOURCE VENDOR

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

SPECIAL CASES/BOXES FOR TRANSPORTATION, STACKING, STORAGE, PRESENTATION AND ASSORTING & ORGANISING

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

McGowans

Mid Cork Pallets and Packaging

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Smurfit Kappa Ireland

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

STERILE BARRIER PACKAGING

Papertech Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

STORAGE

Carabay Packaging Products

Colorman Ireland Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

SCHÜTZ (Ireland) Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

STRAPPING

Abco Kovex Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

ITW Packaging Systems

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

STRETCH FILM

Abco Kovex Ltd

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Celtic Sales Company Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

ITW Packaging System

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

QPM Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

The Packaging Centre Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

STRETCH TUBING

Antalis Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

SUPPLIER TO THE TRADE

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Com-Plas International

Holfeld Graphics

JMC Packaging Ltd

McGowans

NevPak

NPP Group Ltd

QPM Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

SUPPLIER OF FLEXIBLE PLASTIC & PACKAGING

AB Converters Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Interpac

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Papertech Ltd

QPM Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

TAGS

Advanced Labels

Antalis Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Troy Packaging

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

TAMPER EVIDENT PACKAGING

Advanced Labels

Antalis Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

CoLab Packaging

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Irish Papers Ltd

Interpac

JMC Packaging Ltd

NPP Group Ltd

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

T.S. O’Connor & Son Ltd (Bags.ie)

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

TESTING FACILITY (ISTA LAB)

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

THERMOFORMABLE PACKAGING

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Corcoran Products (Irl) Ltd

JMC Packaging Ltd

Nelipak Healthcare Packaging

Obeeco Ltd

Paardekooper Ltd

Papertech Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Waddington Europe

Xtrupak Ltd

THERMOFORMABLE SHEET

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Consort Case Company

Troy Packaging

Versatile Packaging Ltd

Waddington Europe

Xtrupak Ltd

TRACK & TRACE SOLUTIONS

GS1 Ireland

NPP Group Ltd

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Troy Packaging

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

TRADE MANUFACTURERS

Consort Case Company

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

TRAINING

GS1 Ireland

JMC Packaging Ltd

Leonard Little & Associates Ltd

Troy Packaging

TRANSPORT/LOGISTICS /WAREHOUSING

Advanced Labels

Dollard Packaging Ltd

Donoghue Packaging

Irish Papers Ltd

McGowans

NPP Group Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

TRAY PALLET IBC WASHERS

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

TURNKEY PROJECTS

Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Paardekooper Ltd

QPM Ltd

Weber Packaging Solutions Ltd

VACUUM FORMED PACKAGING

AiP Thermoform Packaging Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Consort Case Company

Irish Papers Ltd

QPM Ltd

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

Versatile Packaging Ltd

VACUUM LIFT AIDS

Troy Packaging

WASTE MANAGEMENT /RECYCLING

Bunzl Irish Merchants Ltd

Carabay Packaging Products

Donoghue Packaging

Interpac

Quitmann O’Neill Packaging Ltd

Repak Ltd

Shabra Plastics / Recycling Ltd

Thorn Environmental Ltd

Troy Packaging

UN1F1ED² Global Packaging Group

We are an AA+ BRC Accredited Label Printer suppling quality labels to Irish business for over 30 years in our purpose built facility in Dublin.

Supplying the Retail, Food, Beverage and Phar maceutical sector with labels, plain or printed up to 8 colours on one of our digital or flexographic presses. We use a wide range of Adhesives and materials including compostable and recycled materials.

IRISHPACKAGING and print directory 2024

COMPANY LISTINGS

ADVANCED LABELS

Address: Unit 126 Baldoyle Ind. Est. Baldoyle, Dublin 13.

ABB LTD (ROBOTICS BUSINESS)

Address: Orion House, Maidstone Road, Kingston, Keynes, MK10 0BD, UK.

Tel: (0044)1908 350 300

Email: robotics@gb.abb.co.uk

Web: www.abb.com/robotics

ABCO KOVEX LTD

Address: Swords Business Park, Swords, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (01) 807 7600

Email: sales@abcokovex.com

Web: www.abcokovex.com

Business: Manufacturer and distributor of end-of-line packaging, materials and machinery.

AB GROUP PACKAGING

Address: Blessington Industrial Estate, Blessington, Co. Wicklow.

Tel: (045) 865 611

Email: jmcginn@abconverters.ie

Web: www.abgrouppackaging.com

Business: Manufacturer of printed bags for the food industry

ACE CORRUGATED

Address: Glabolie, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan.

Tel: (042) 966 5544

Email: sales@acecorrugated.com

Web: www.acecorrugated.com

Tel: (01) 832 1335

Email: sales@alabels.ie

Web: www.advancedlabels.ie

Business: We are an AA+ BRC Accredited Label Printer suppling quality labels to Irish business for over 30 years in our purpose built facility in Dublin. Supplying the Retail, Food, Beverage and Pharmaceutical sector with labels, plain or printed up to 8 colours on one of our digital or flexographic presses. We use a wide range of Adhesives and materials including compostable and recycled materials.

Contact: Our sales team.

ADVANCED PACKAGING MACHINERY LTD

Address: 718 Northwest Business Park (4), Ballycoolin, Dublin 15.

Tel: 00353 (0) 1861 2141

Email: info@test.ie

Web: www.packagingmachinery.ie

Business: Advanced Packaging Machinery Ltd. are an ISO 9001:2015 certified company and Irelands leading supplier of inspection, detection, weighing and packaging solutions. Our products and services are strategically designed to provide optimum performance and exceed your quality expectations.

AIC PLASTICS

Address: The Woodlands, Carrigmore, Ballineen, Co. Cork.

Tel: (023) 884 7333

Email: info@aicplastics.com

Web: www.aicplastics.com

Business: Plastic and aluminium pallets, boxes, totes, storage boxes, stacking containers. Dolav boxes.

Contact: Joe O’Flynn

AIP THERMOFORM PACKAGING LTD.

Address: Unit 1, Ballymaley Business Park, Barefield, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 Y657.

Tel: (065) 686 4486

Email: info@aip.ie

Web: www.aip.ie

Business: AiP Packaging is dedicated to the design and manufacture of customised thermoform products for the Electronic, Pharmaceutical and Retail sectors. The company is driven to provide a quality product using recycled and recyclable materials keeping customers up to date with environmental considerations within the sector.

Contact: John Mulleady, Managing Director

ALPACK LTD

Address: Unit A2, Three Rock Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18.

Tel: (01) 295 7137

Email: sales@alpack.ie

Web: www.alpack.ie

ALPHAGRAPHICS

Address: Unit 3, Beechill Industrial Park, 96 Beechill Road, Belfast, BT87QN.

Tel: +44 28 9049 2249

Email: info@aginks.com

Web: www.aginks.com

Business: Printing, packaging and signage consumables.

ALS IDENTIFY

Address: Unit 6, Plato Park, Damastown Road, Dublin 15.

Tel: (01) 824 2643

Email: info@labelling.ie

Web: www.labelling.ie

AMCOR FLEXIBLES SLIGO

Address: Finisklin Industrial Estate, Sligo.

Tel: (071) 916 1354

Web: www.amcor.com

ANTALIS LTD

Address: Unit 11, Century Business Park, Finglas, Dublin 11.

Tel: (01) 876 3100

Email: dublin@antalis.ie

Web: www.antalis.ie

Business: Paper and packaging merchant.

Contact: Iain Cunningham, Regional Sales Manager

ATLAS PRINT

& PACKAGING LTD

Address: Bray Business Park, Southern Cross, Bray, Co. Wicklow.

Tel: (01) 286 0477

Email: jim@atlasprint.ie

AVERY DENNISON MATERIALS (IRELAND) LTD

Address: Unit 35, Fonthill Business Park, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.

Tel: (01) 642 6500

Web: www.averydennison.com

AVONCOURT PACKAGING LTD

Address: Unit 2, Ballycurreen Ind Estate, Airport Road, Co. Cork.

Tel: (021) 496 5691

Email: info@avoncourt.com

Web: www.avoncourt.com

Business: Vacuum and pressure formed plastic packaging.

BBENSON BOX CO. (IRL) LTD.

Address: Killaloe, Co. Clare.

Tel: (061) 376 119

Email: keith@bensonbox.ie

Contact: Managing Director: Keith Benson

BORAN PACKAGING

Address: Johnstown, Naas, Co. Kildare.

Tel: (045) 852 020

Web: www.boran.ie

Business: Flexible packaging.

BOXPAK LTD

Address: 65 Church Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, BT36 7LR, UK.

Tel: (0044) 28 903 65421

Email: info@boxpak.co.uk

Web: www.boxpak.co.uk

Business: Printed folded cartons and aluminium foil containers.

BOYLAN LABEL & PRINT GROUP LTD

Address: Newfoundwell Road, Yellowbatter, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Tel: (041) 983 4820

Web: www.boylanprintgroup.ie

Business: Heat Set Web, sheet litho printing and flexo roll labels.

BUNZL IRISH MERCHANTS

Address: Unit D9, Horizon Logistic Park, Harristown, Swords, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (01) 816 4800

Email: info@bunzlireland.ie

Web: www.bunzlireland.ie

Business: Bunzl Irish Merchants is a leading supplier of foodservice disposables, washroom systems, hygiene & janitorial supplies as well as beverage and retail solutions within Ireland.

CCAMPBELL PACKAGING LTD

Address: 1 Whitechurch Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14.

Tel: (01) 493 2216

Email: sales@campbellpackaging.com

Web: www.campbellpackaging.com

CANPAK LTD

Address: Unit G, Merrywell Business Park, Ballymount Road, Dublin 12.

Tel: (01) 450 1724

Email: info@canpak.ie

Web: www.canpak.ie

Business: Packaging Service.

Contact: Rory Breen, M.D.

CARABAY PACKAGING PRODUCTS

Address: Unit 1-5, Liosban Industrial Estate, Tuam Road, Co. Galway, H91 C793.

Tel: (091) 773 370

Email: sales@carabay.ie

Web: carabay.ie

Contact: Sales Director: Kenneth Casburn

CELTIC SALES CO (CORK) LTD.

Address: 203 Northwest Business Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

Tel: 01 8293944

Email: sales@celticsales.ie

CHARLES TENNANT IRELAND

Address: Unit J Aerodrome Business Park, Jordanstown Way, Rathcoole, D24 FP89.

Tel: (01) 451 4099

Email: info@ctennant.ie

Web: www.charlestennant.com

Business: Chemical and Packaging Supplier.

CODICO DISTRIBUTORS LTD

Address: Cleaboy Business Park, Old Kilmeaden Road, Co. Waterford.

Tel: (051) 379933

Email: info@codico-distributors.com

Web: www.codico-distributors.com

Business: Printers for the packaging industry.

COLAB PACKAGING

Address: Unit E1 Ballymount Ind Est, Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 WR60.

Tel: + 353 (0) 1 419 6766

Email: hello@colabpackaging.com

Web: www.colabpackaging.com

Business: We service Tech, Pharma, Animal Health, Med Tech, Food & Drink and Gifting sectors. We are a 9001 and 27001 accredited business.

Contact: Sales Director: Antoinette Kelly

COLORMAN (IRELAND) LTD

Address: 1-7 Broombridge Industrial Estate, Broombridge, Dublin 11, D11 X064.

Tel: (01) 882 1100

Web: www.colorman.ie

Business: Printing and Packaging.

COM-PLAS INTERNATIONAL

Address: Unit F5 & F6, Southern Link Business Park, Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland, W91 RT9P.

Tel: +353 (0)45 874 088

Email: sales@complas.ie

Web: www.complas.ie

Business: Packaging products for food, pharma and chemical industries.

CONSORT CASE COMPANY

Address: Unit 17-20 Waterford IDA, Cork Road, Waterford.

Tel: (051) 895 191

Email: info@consortgroup.ie

Web: www.consortgroup.ie

Business: Carrying case manufacturers and contract vacuum formers.

CORCORAN CHEMICALS LTD

Address: 17 Parkgate Street, D08 NRP2.

Tel: (01) 633 0400

Fax: (01) 679 3521

Email: info@corcoran-group.com

Web: www.corcoran-group.com

Business: Distributors of raw materials for the food, pharmaceutical, polymer & chemical industry.

Contact: Sales

CORCORAN PRODUCTS (IRL) LTD

Address: Unit 12, Northern Cross Business Park, Finglas, D11 DC67, Ireland.

Tel: (01) 864 4422

Email: info@corcoran-group.com

Web: www.corcoran-group.com

Business: Suppliers of packaging to the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industry.

Contact: Derek Lennon

CORRUGATED CONTAINERS IRELAND LTD

Address: Beechmount Industrial Estate, Navan, Co. Meath.

Tel: (046) 902 7726

Email: sales@corrugatedcontainers.ie

Web: www.corrugatedcontainers.ie

DDACHSER IRELAND LTD

Address: Blackchurch Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin, D24 C796.

Tel: +353 1 401 3333

Email: dachser.ireland@dachser.com

Web: www.dachser.ie

Business: With our comprehensive European road transport network of system and charter service, as well as a homogeneous structure of branches, subsidiaries and partner companies, we will support you in fulfilling your logistics requirements reliably, cost-effectively and on time. We transport your groupage, your full or partial loads and manage your procurement and distribution, both Europe-wide and national, to the highest level.

DOLLARD PACKAGING LTD

Address: Unit 6-11 Eklad Park, Malahide Road Industrial Park, Malahide Road, Dublin 17.

Tel: (01) 847 0044

Email: sales@dollard-packaging.ie

Web: www.dollard-packaging.ie

Business: Manufacturers of printed Folding Cartons.

DONOGHUE PACKAGING

Address: Donpack Business Park, Bandon, Co. Cork.

Tel: (023) 884 2111

Fax: (023) 884 1211

Email: donpack@donpack.ie

Web: www.donpack.com

Business: Manufacturers of Corrugated, Foam & Wooden Packaging Products.

Contact: David Donoghue

EELLIOTT BAXTER BOARD

Address: Unit 502A, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (01) 401 0008

Email: dublinsales@ebbgroup.com

Web: www.ebbgroup.com

EUROFOIL TEO

Address: Ballyvourney, Macroom, Co. Cork.

Tel: (026) 456 00

Email: info@EuroFoil-Teo.com

Web: www.eurofoil-teo.com

EUROPEAN COMMISSION

Address: 12 - 14 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.

Tel: (01) 634 1111

Email: COMM-IE-INFO-REQUEST@ ec.europa.eu

Web: www.euireland.ie

FFESTO

Address: Unit 5, Sandyford Park, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin 18.

Tel: (01) 295 4955

Email: sales_ie@festo.com

Web: www.festo.com/ie

FLINT PRINT GROUP IRE. LTD

Address: Calmount Park, Calmount Road, Ballymount, Dublin 12, Ireland.

Tel: (01) 574 3000

Web: www.flintgrp.com

GGEM PLASTICS LTD

Address: Ballyhaise Road, Cavan, Co. Cavan.

Tel: (049) 433 1077

Email: sales@gemplastics.ie

Web: www.gemplastics.ie

Business: Manufacture of plastic containers

GINGER PACKAGING LTD

Address: 23C Greenhills Industrial Estate, Walkinstown, Dublin, D12 E654.

Tel: (01) 429 8100

Email: hello@gingerpack.ie

Web: www.gingerpack.ie

Business: We are a family owned business with 70+ years’ experience of providing quality and cost effective packaging solutions across Ireland. We have particular expertise in the supply of food grade, plastic, paper and protective packaging.

Contact: David Cosgrove, Director

GREINER PACKAGING LTD

Address: Killyman Road, Industrial Estate, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, BT 71 6LN, Northern Ireland.

Tel: (0044) 28 8772 3131

Email: Sales.Dungannon@greiner-gpi.com

Web: www.greiner-gpi.com

GS1 IRELAND

Address: Second Floor, The Merrion Centre, Nutley Lane, Donnybrook, Dublin 4.

Tel: (01) 208 0660

Fax: (01) 208 0670

Email: info@gs1ie.org

Web: www.gs1ie.org

Business: Global Supply Chain Standards Body.

Contact: Helpdesk Manager: Karen Murphy Director of Standards & Solutions: Denis O’Brien Chief Executive Officer: Mike Byrne

HHOLFELD GRAPHICS

Address: Unit 3, Jamestown Industrial Estate, Kylemore Way, Dublin, D08 PF1C.

Tel: 01 2855233

Email: customercare@holfeldgraphics.com

Web: www.holfeldgraphics.com

Business: Manufacturer of Flexo plates for Hapa Blister printers, Agents for Axicon, ISO Barcode Verifiers (GS1 128, GS1 Datamatrix, etc.,)

Contact: Managing Director: Rory Connaughton

IID TECHNOLOGY LTD

Address: Unit 4 Newgrange Business Park, Donore Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Tel: (041) 983 3816

Web: www.idtech.ie

Business: High-tech manufacturer of adhesive and non-adhesive materials.

IMS LABELS

Address: 53 Bracken Road, Sandyford Business Park, Dublin 18.

Tel: (01) 295 4544

Email: info@ims.ie

Web: www.ims.ie

Business: Manufacturer of labels, distributor of printing and application label systems.

INDAVER

Address: Ist Floor, The Highline Bakers Point, Pottery Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, A96 KW29.

Tel: (01) 280 4534

Email: info@indaver.ie

Web: www.indaver.ie

INDUSTRIAL PACKAGING LTD

Address: Killarney Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 X3T6, Ireland.

Tel: +353 1 286 4010

Email: sales@industrialpackaging.ie

Web: www.industrialpackaging.ie

Business: Manufacturer of UN Certified Dangerous Goods Packaging, Cardboard Cores & Tubes, Construction Column Formers and Cable Reels.

JINTERPAC

Address: 67E Heather Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin, D18 NV90

Tel: (01) 294 0600

Fax: (01) 294 0602

Email: info@interpac.ie

Web: www.interpac.ie

IRISH PAPERS LTD

Address: Unit 74, Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Dublin 13.

Tel: (01) 839 3144

Web: www.irishpapers.ie

Business: Paper and Packaging goods.

ITW CROP PACKAGING SYSTEMS

Address: IDA Industrial Estate, Courtown Rd, Gorey, Co. Wexford.

Tel: (053) 942 2990

Web: www.silawrap.ie

JFC MANUFACTURING CO. LTD

Address: Weir Road, Tuam, Co. Galway.

Tel: (093) 240 66

Email: info@jfcgroup.ie

Web: www.jfcgroup.ie

JFK DISPOSABLES LTD

Address: Unit 4, Ballinaskea Yard, Dublin Road, Arklow, Co. Wicklow.

Tel: (040) 223 578

Email: info@jfkdisposables.ie

Web: www.jfkdisposables.ie

JMC PACKAGING LTD

Address: 37 Seagoe Industrial Estate, Craigavon, Co. Armagh, BT63 5QE.

Tel: (028) 3839 1723

Email: salesteam@jmcpackaging.co.uk

Web: www.jmcpackaging.co.uk

KKEMPIS SALES LTD

Address: Jamestown Business Park, Jamestown Road, Finglas, Dublin 11.

Tel: (01) 864 1900

Email: sales@kempis.com

Web: www.kempis.com

Business: Manufacturer of paper rolls, specialist paper and stationery.

KPS COLOUR PRINT LTD

Address: Knock, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Tel: (094) 938 8231

Email: anne@kpscolourprint.com

Web: www.kpspackaging.com

Contact: Brendan Salmon, Managing Director

KRONES UK LTD.

Address: Westregen House, Great Bank Road, Wingates Industrial Park, Westhoughton, Bolton, BL5 3XB.

Tel: +44 1942 845000

Email: sales@krones.co.uk

Web: www.krones.com

Business: Packaging, Process & Logistics Equipment Manufacturers.

Contact: Alfred Ackbarow, Head of Sales, UK & Ireland.

LLABEL CRAFT

Address: 10 Dublin Business Park, Dundrum, Dublin 14.

Tel: (01) 295 1855

Email: sales@label-craft.com

Web: www.label-craft.com

LABEL TECH LTD

Address: Unit A2 - A3, IDA Industrial Estate, Santry Avenue, Dublin 9.

Tel: (01) 842 1700

Email: solutions@labeltech.ie

Web: www.labeltech.ie

Business: Manufacture of labels.

LABEL WORLD LTD

Address: Unit 2 Feltrim Business Park, Swords, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (01) 890 0244

Email: sales@labelworld.ie

Web: www.labelworld.ie

Business: Label printer, thermal transfer and foil, barcode, consecutive numbering, adhesives.

LAWCO PACKAGING SYSTEMS LTD

Address: Unit 8, 151 Baldoyle Industrial Estate, Baldoyle, Dublin 13.

Tel: (01) 832 6632

Email: info@lawcopackaging.ie

Web: www.lawcopackaging.ie

LEONARD LITTLE & ASSOCIATES LTD

Address: Grafton Buildings, 34 Grafton Street, Dublin 2.

Tel: +353 87 9086123

Email: info@leonardlittleassociates.com

Web: www.leonardlittleassociates.com

Business: -Packaging Consultancy -Packaging Training Courses

Contact: David Little, Managing Director

LETTER-TEC IRELAND LTD

Address: Springhill House, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork.

Tel: (021) 488 3370

Web: www.lettertec.com

Business: Printing and binding.

MMCC CASTLEBAR

Address: Breaffy Road Business Park, Breaffy Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.

Tel: (094) 902 6622

Web: www.mcclabel.com/en/plants/ ie/mcc-castlebar

Business: Printing - digital, litho and personalisation.

MCGOWANS

Address: 3 IDA Industrial Estate, Poppintree, Dublin 11, D11 EPR2.

Tel: (01) 410 6700

Email: hello@mcgowansprint.com

Web: www.mcgowansprint.com

Business: Printing: POS Display, Packaging, Commercial Print, Outdoor, Advertising.

MCLERNON PACKAGING

Address: Fox and Geese House, Naas Road, Dublin 22.

Tel: (01) 450 4121

Web: www.mclernonpackaging.ie

MID CORK PALLETS & PACKAGING

Address: Clondrohid, Macroom, Co. Cork.

Oranstown, Dunboyne, Co. Meath.

Tel: (026) 41311 (01) 825 2059

Email: sales@midcorkpallets.com

Web: www.midcorkpallets.com

Business: Established in 1978, Mid Cork Pallets & Packaging (MCP) is one of the leading manufacturers of pallets, distributor of packaging and supplier of storage solutions in Ireland. With two strategically located manufacturing, warehousing and distribution facilities in Cork and Meath, MCP prides itself on providing a dependable, reliable, efficient and cost effective service to our growing customer base. Contact us today to speak with one of our dedicated Sales team.

Contact: sales@midcorkpallets.com

MLS LTD

Address: Mullingar Business Park, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath.

Tel: (044) 934 3746

Email: info@mls.ie

Web: www.mlslabels.com

Business: Self-adhesive labels

N NAA LTD/H.B. FULLER

Address: Crosslands Business Park, Lr. Ballymount Road, Dublin 12, D12E292.

Tel: (01) 460 0064

Email: info@naa.ie

Web: www.naa.ie

Contact: Sales Manager: Allen Paul

NELIPAK HEALTHCARE PACKAGING

Address: Unit 6D, Mervue Business Park, Mervue, Galway.

Kilbeggan Road, Clara, Co Offaly, R35 F583.

1 Acorn Road, Campsie Industrial Estate, Derry BT47 3GQ, Northern Ireland.

Tel: (091) 757 152 +335 57 933 1888

Email: info@nelipak.com

Web: www.nelipak.com

Business: We are a global provider to the life sciences industry, providing innovative packaging solutions and complementary products and services to the medical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Contact: info@nelipak.com

NEVPAK

Address: Cloneranny House, Cloneranny, Castletown, Co. Wexford.

Tel: 087 2035572

Email: info@NevPak.ie

Web: www.NevPak.ie

Business: Packaging Innovation Group

NPP GROUP LTD

Address: Unit 2, Vantage Business Park, Coldwinters, Dublin 11.

Tel: (01) 880 9299

Email: sales@npp.ie

Web: www.npp.ie

Business: Specialists in Flexible Packaging.

OOBEECO LTD

Address: Annaville Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Tel: +353 1 278 2323

Email: sales@obeeco.ie

Web: www.obeeco.ie

PAARDEKOOPER LTD

Address: Boland Ind Park, Mallow Road, Cork. T23 RHP7

Tel: (021) 430 5844

Email: info@paardekooper.ie

Business: Packaging and Disposables

Contact: info@paardekooper.ie

PAPERTECH LTD.

Address: Unit E12 Calmount Business Park, Dublin 12.

Tel: (01) 460 4363

Email: info@papertech.ie

Web: www.papertech.ie

Business: Specialised technical papers, non-woven, plastic and film laminates (plain and printed) for food, medical and industrial applications.

PPI ADHESIVE PRODUCTS LTD

Address: Waterford Industrial Estate, Co. Waterford.

Tel: (051) 590 400

Web: www.ppiadhesiveproducts.com

Business: Manufacturer of self-adhesive tapes and products.

PRINT & DISPLAY LTD

Address: Unit 80 Cookstown Industrial Estate, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Tel: (01) 413 1400

Email: info@printanddisplay.ie

Web: www.pdvisual.ie

Business: Screen printing of posters and point-of-sale material.

PRO AMPAC

Address: Gweedore Business Park, Derrybeg, Co. Donegal.

Tel: (074) 953 2790

Web: www.proampac.com

PWL

Address: Unit C1, Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow, Ireland.

Tel: (01) 281 2776

Email: dwarwick@pwl.ie

Web: www.pwl.ie

Business: Printed products on paper, board, fabric, leather and plastic.

QQPM

LTD

Address: Unit 12, Robinhood Business Park, Robinhood Road, Dublin 22.

Tel: (01) 450 2421

Email: sales@qpm.ie

Web: www.qpm.ie

QUALPACK LTD

Address: Unit 3, St. Nicholas House, Crossagalla Ind Est, Ballysimon Road, Co. Limerick.

Tel: (061) 440 241

Email: sales@qualpack.net

Web: www.qualpack.net

QUITMANN O’NEILL PACKAGING LTD

Address: St. Brendan’s Road, Portumna, Co. Galway, H53 HX51.

Tel: (090) 97 41148

Email: sales@quitmannoneill.com

Web: www.qonpack.com

Business: Packaging Stockist & Distributors.

Contact: David O’Neill (086) 699 2693

Shane McEnroy (085) 802 2626

Michelle Lucas (086) 044 9974

RREACH PACKAGING

Address: Reach Group, Unit E, Greenogue Logistics Pk, Newcastle Road, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (023) 885 8107

Email: custservices@reachpackaging.ie

Web: www.reach-delpac.ie

REPAK LTD

Address: Red Cow Interchange Estate, 1 Ballymount Road, Clondalkin, Dublin D22 HW67.

Tel: (01) 467 0190

Email: info@repak.ie

Web: www.repak.ie

Business: Repak was established through a voluntary agreement between industry and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government as industry’s response to the producer responsibility obligations placed on Ireland by the EU Directive on Packaging Waste (94/62/EC). Operating on a not-for-profit basis, Repak gives producers legal compliance with their obligation to fund the recovery and recycling of their used packaging. The fees our members pay us are used to fund the recovery and recycling of the packaging on the goods or services they provide to their customers. Repak is the only government approved packaging compliance scheme under the Waste Management Packaging Regulations 2007.

SSAICA PACK IRELAND

Address: Ashbourne Industrial Estate, Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

Tel: (01) 801 0400

Email: michael.shaw@saica.com

Web: www.saica.com

SAICA PACK LURGAN

Address: 16 Robert Street, Lurgan, Co. Armagh, BT66 8BE.

Tel: (0044) 28 3832 4222

Web: www.saica.com

SAICA PACK WARRENPOINT

Address: Newry Road, Warrenpoint, Newry, BT34 3LB.

Tel: (0044) 28 4175 2671

Email: michael.shaw@saica.com

Web: www.saica.com

SCHÜTZ (IRELAND) LTD

Address: Townamore, Killala, Co. Mayo.

Tel: (096) 330 44

Email: info1ireland@schuetz.net

Web: www.schuetz.net

Business: Production and supply of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) and PE Drums.

Contact: John Forkin, General Manager.

SEALPACK LTD

Address: Jamestown Industrial Centre, Inchicore, Dublin 8.

Tel: (01) 453 4387

Email: info@sealpack.ie

Web: www.sealpack.ie

Business: Specialists in labelling solutions for hospital laboratories and medical device sectors.

SHABRA PLASTICS/ RECYCLING LTD

Address: Killycard Industrial Estate, Bree, Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan, A75 AE22.

Tel: +353 42 9749444

Email: info@shabra.com

Web: www.shabra.com

Business: Reprocessors and recyclers of waste plastics PET/LDPE/HDPE Manufacturers of recycled and virgin grade bags. We specialise in PET reprocessing and manufacturing of bags and sacks, Disposable and Catering Products and Paper bags.

Shabra Plastics & Recycling is a closed-loop company, one of the premier Irish companies caring for the environment.

Shabra has historically been the leading recycler and reprocessor of waste plastic (PET/HD/LDPE). We are recognised thought leaders and drivers of the circular economy. We recycle over 10,000 tonnes of waste plastic annually. At Shabra, we manufacture Irish bags and sacks from our own recycled waste plastic. Located in Castleblayney, Co.Monaghan and was founded by Rita Shah and Oliver Brady.

Contact: Rita Shah, CEO

SHERPACK LTD

Address: Templemichael Business Park, Ballinalee Road, Longford, Co. Longford.

Tel: (043) 334 2130

Email: sales@sherpack.ie

Web: www.sherpack.ie

SIGNODE PACKAGING SYSTEMS

Address: IDA Industrial Estate, Courtown Road, Mill Lands, Gorey, Co Wexford.

Tel: (053) 942 2990

Web: www.signodesealstrap.ie

SMARTPLY EUROPE LTD

Address: Belview, Slieve Rue, Co. Waterford.

Tel: (051) 851 233

Web: www.smartply.com

SMURFIT KAPPA IRELAND

Address: Dublin, Lurgan, Cork, Belfast, Galway, Arklow, Display.

Tel: (01) 409 0000

Email: rory.omahony@smurfitkappa.ie

Web: www.smurfitkappa.com

Contact: Rory O’Mahony, Sales Manager

STEWART FOIL LTD

Address: Unit A1, Gateway, Rosemount Business Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

Tel: (01) 885 3881

Email: info@stewartfoil.ie

Web: www.stewartfoil.ie

STP PACKAGING

Address: Unit 17 & 18, City Link Park, Forge Hill, Kinsale Rd, Co. Cork.

Tel: 021 431 1842

Email: sales@stppackaging.ie

Web: www.stppackaging.ie

TBAGS.IE T/A T.S. O’CONNOR & SON LTD

Address: Unit C, 67 Heather Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18.

Tel: (01) 295 5696

Email: info@bags.ie

Web: www.bags.ie

TETRA PAK IRELAND LTD

Address: 3rd Floor, Units 23 & 24, Classon House, Dundrum Business Park, D14 KX83

Tel: (01) 467 8000

Web: www.tetrapak.com

THE IRISH PACKAGING SOCIETY

Address: PO Box IOP 2002, Stradbally, Co. Laois.

Tel: 087 908 6123

Email: info@irishpackagingsociety.ie

Web: www.irishpackagingsociety.ie

THE PRINTWORKS GROUP

Address: Touchdown Business Park, Airport Road, Co. Cork.

Tel: (021) 431 1991

Web: www.printworks.ie

Business: Labels and flexible packaging.

THORN ENVIRONMENTAL LTD

Address: 501, Northwest Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15.

Tel: +353 1 8615001

Email: info@earth2earth.com

Web: www.earth2earth.com

THRACE SYNTHETIC PACKAGING LTD

Address: Ballycumber Rd, Clara, Offaly, Ireland.

Tel: (057) 933 1282

Email: info@thrace.ie

Web: www.thrace.ie/thrace-group

Business: Technical Fabrics & Packaging Solutions.

TROY PACKAGING

Address: Limerick Business Complex, Raheen Business Park, Raheen, Limerick, Ireland. V94 CP26

Tel: (061) 512255

Email: Info@troypackaging.ie

Web: www.troypackaging.ie

Business: Packaging Equipment supplies and Logistics Solutions.

Contact: Ger Clifford, Director

UUN1F1ED2 GLOBAL PACKAGING GROUP

Address: IDA Business and Technology Park, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, T45 KW29.

Tel: (021) 466 9009

Email: customerserviceire@ugpg2.com

Web: www.ugpg2.eu

Business: Packaging solutionsmanufacturing, design and ISO 17025 ISTA testing.

Contact: Sales and Operations Manager: Noel Finnegan

VVERSATILE PACKAGING

Address: Silverstream Business Park, Silverstream, Co. Monaghan, H18 X540

Tel: +353 47 85177

Email: sales@versatilepackaging.ie

Web: www.versatilepackaging.ie

Business: Supplier of packaging supplies and machinery to the food and medical industry.

Contact: Kathryn Farrelly, Sales Team

VOTECH

Address: 274 Alma Road, Enfield, Middlesex, EN3 7BB.

Tel: (0044) 844 3722877

Email: sales@fischbein-saxon.co.uk

Web: www.fischbein.com/eastern

Contact: Sales & Services Manager: Barry Cox

VPK

Address: Galvone Business Park, Galvone, Limerick, V94 HD89, Ireland.

Tel: +353 61 402 500

Web: www.vpkgroup.com

WWADDINGTON EUROPE

Address: Avoca River Park, Arklow, Co. Wicklow, Ireland, Y14 NX44.

Tel: +353 402 41234

Web: www.waddingtoneurope.com

Business: Thermoformed food packaging specialist.

Contact: Brian Gallagher, Business Development Manager Ireland

WATERSHED LABEL CENTRE

Address: Unit 86, Broomhill Road, Tallaght, D24 FTK5.

Tel: (01) 620 5006

Email: info@watershedgroup.com

Web: www.watershed.ie

Business: Label and tape producers.

WEBER PACKAGING SOLUTIONS LTD

Address: Kilcannon Industrial Estate, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Tel: (053) 923 3778

Email: sales@weberireland.com

Web: www.webermarking.ie

XXTRUPAK LTD

Address: Gowna, Co. Cavan

Tel: +353 43 6683464

Email: info@xtrupak.ie

Web: xtrupak.ie

Business: Manufacturing extruded Apet and Rpet sheet films for the packaging and display markets.

ZZEUS PACKAGING

Address: Unit 500 Grants Row, Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

Tel: (01) 401 8900

Web: www.zeuspackaging.com

2023

January 2023

Week 52 1 2 3 4 5

M 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

W 4 11 18 25

T 5 12 19 26

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

S 1 8 15 22 29

July 2023 Week 26 27 28 29 30 31

M 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

W 5 12 19 26

T 6 13 20 27

F 7 14 21 28

S 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

February 2023 Week 5 6 7 8 9

M 6 13 20 27 T 7 14 21 28 W 1 8 15 22 T 2 9 16 23

F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25 S 5 12 19 26

August 2023 Week 31 32 33 34 35

M 7 14 21 28 T 1 8 15 22 29 W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

March 2023

Week 9 10 11 12 13

M 6 13

September 2023

35 36 37 38 39

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28 F 1 8 15 22 29 S 2 9 16 23 30 S 3 10 17 24

April 2023 Week 13 14 15 16 17

M 3 10 17 24 T 4 11 18 25 W 5 12 19 26 T 6 13 20 27 F 7 14 21 28 S 1 8 15 22 29 S 2 9 16 23 30

October 2023 Week 39 40 41 42 43 44

M 2 9 16 23 30 T 3 10 17 24 31 W 4 11 18 25 T 5 12 19 26 F 6 13 20 27 S 7 14 21 28 S 1 8 15 22 29

May 2023

Week 18 19 20 21 22

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27 S 7 14 21 28

November 2023 Week 44 45 46 47 48

M 6 13 20 27 T 7 14 21 28 W 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30 F 3 10 17 24 S 4 11 18 25 S 5 12 19 26

June 2023 Week 22 23 24 25 26

M 5 12 19 26

T 6 13 20 27 W 7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29 F 2 9 16 23 30 S 3 10 17 24 S 4 11 18 25

December 2023

48 49 50 51 52 M 4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26 W 6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29 S 2 9 16 23 30 S 3 10 17 24 31

May 2024

18 19 20 21 22 M 6 13 20 27 T 7 14 21 28

January 2025 Week 12 3 4 5

M 6 13 20 27

T 7 14 21 28

W 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

S 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26 March 2025 Week 9

7 14 21 28

T 1 8 15 22 29

W 2 9 16 23 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

2025

44 45 46 47 48 M 3 10 17 24 T 4 11 18 25 W 5 12 19 26 T 6

2024 YEAR PLANNER 2024 YEAR PLANNER

PLANNER

Visit repak.ie to find out more.