Volpak, a Coesia company, specialized in horizontal form-fill-seal solutions for the packaging industry, and Lecta, a premier European manufacturer and distributor of specialty papers, have embarked on a collaborative project aimed at testing and validating sustainable materials for packaging applications.
Origins and Objectives of the Partnership
The partnership between Volpak and Lecta stemmed from a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the packaging industry increasingly shifts towards eco-friendly solutions, manufacturers must adapt and innovate. Lecta, leveraging its expertise in specialty papers, recognized the importance of collaborating with Volpak to ensure the effective utilization of new materials on existing packaging machinery. This collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between material innovation and practical application, ensuring that eco-friendly papers meet the operational requirements of modern packaging lines.
Sustainability and Market Trends
The transition towards sustainable packaging is being primarily driven by regulatory pressures and consumer demand. A Bain & Company report reveals that 71% of European consumers and a similar percentage of US consumers prefer purchasing sustainable products, with a preference for minimal or recyclable packaging (Bain). Additionally, a study by NIQ and McKinsey indicates that 92% of shoppers consider sustainability a crucial factor when choosing a brand, reflecting the increasing consumer expectation for eco-friendly packaging solutions (NIQ).
To align with these consumer preferences and contribute to reducing the environmental impact of packaging, Volpak and Lecta are focusing on paper-based packaging, recyclable and in line with circular economy principles.
Development of Eco-Friendly Papers
Lecta has introduced barrier products to the market suitable for various packaging applications such as flow packs, sachets, and wrapping materials like butter wrappers. Continuously innovating, Lecta combines different barrier properties and heat-sealability to meet specific packaging needs.
Lecta has been leading the development of specialty and graphic papers to cater to diverse industrial requirements. Leveraging its technological know-how and production capabilities, the company has created new functional metallized, uncoated, and coated one-side papers with barrier properties. These papers maintain eco-friendly characteristics while providing essential protections – barriers against water vapor, grease, oxygen, and alcohol. Notably, these papers are recyclable and can be processed in standard paper recycling circuits, aligning with circular economy principles.
Applications and Potential Markets
The primary focus of this joint project is to explore the use of Lecta’s sustainable papers in flexible packaging, covering various sectors and extending to food service items like cups, showcasing their broad applicability.
Testing at Volpak’s Pouch Lab
Volpak’s role in this project includes conducting rigorous tests to assess the performance of these materials in real-world scenarios. These tests are carried out within Volpak’s “pouch lab,” an internal research and development facility designed to evaluate the machinability and durability of new materials. The pouch lab enables Volpak to simulate actual production conditions and ensure the seamless integration of environmentally friendly papers into existing packaging processes without compromising efficiency or quality.
Project Timelines and Ongoing Testing
The collaboration is structured around several phases, starting with the initial development and testing of materials. Presently, both companies are involved in extensive trials using actual products to evaluate the effectiveness of the new papers. These tests are crucial for identifying potential improvements and obtaining certifications for commercial use.
Volpak and Lecta are committed to a continuous process of innovation. Lecta’s product, innovation, and factory teams are dedicated to expanding the range of barrier products and enhancing their performance. At the same time, Volpak leverages its technical expertise and market insights to ensure these materials meet the high standards required for packaging applications.
