RPC MattersRPC – THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT

April to June 2019

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR CHEMICAL PACKAGING Working in partnership with RPC bpi nordipac, leading global chemical company Songwon Industrial Co Ltd has become one of the fi rst chemical companies in the world to package its products in 20kg polyethylene (PE) bags made with 50% recycled PE.The recycled material is sourced from a variety of different waste streams, including pre-used industrial printed bags. In addition, all of the solvents that are required for de-inking are also recycled continuously in a closed loop process.

The new bags have been successfully trialled over the last 12 months to ensure they meet Songwon’s quality standards and its customer requirements for strength, colour stability and handling. As a result, the company will continue the smooth transition to this new form of sustainable packaging.

“This collaboration puts Songwon in an optimal position to better help our customers meet their sustainability targets,” comments Cord Manegold, Global Business Manager Main AO’s and Blends at Songwon.

Songwon is committed to creating more sustainable solutions whilst continuously striving to conserve resources and is keen to develop new opportunities with like-minded companies. “With RPC bpi nordipac, we have found an innovative partner who can support us to live Songwon’s vision of sound and sustainable growth for all our stakeholders in harmony with the interests of our planet and its

people,” says Songwon’s CEO, Maurizio Butti.

RPC bpi nordipac’s Key Account Manager, Business Unit Chemical Industry, Christian Knappik, comments: “Songwon is the very fi rst chemical company to use packaging fi lm with such high recycled material content for their PE-bags. We are pleased to share our expertise with them and help extend the reach of such technology, in order to contribute to preserving the environment for all of us.”

CLOSURE TECHNOLOGY HELPS RELAUNCH OF ICONIC BRAND The advanced technology and global reach of the RPC Bramlage Division were critical factors in its selection by Johnson & Johnson to produce the new closures for the company’s relaunched range of Johnson’s baby products.

Representing a major repackaging and range rationalisation for this worldwide and iconic brand, the packs provide a more modern appearance on-shelf that refl ects the new global formulations for the products, based on cutting-edge science and parental preferences.

For this project, RPC Bramlage has leveraged one-stop shop synergies by developing and producing all the injection moulds required for the production.

The disc closures are manufactured and assembled using the company’s patented IMPP (In-Mould Pick and Place) technology, where the disc is assembled onto the body of the closure inside the mould in a single process. The fl ip-top closures use the IMC (In-Mould Closing) technique for the closing of the lid inside the mould. Both solutions provide a quicker and more cost-effective production method, offering reduced lead times and faster speed to market.

In addition, the availability of RPC Bramlage’s worldwide

manufacturing locations on four continents provided the necessary reach to supply the 35 or so manufacturing lines where Johnson's baby products are fi lled around the world, as part of a controlled global roll-out.

The stylish lightweighted closures complement the new bottle designs and combine reliability, protection and functionality with ease of use for the consumer.

“The partnership approach among our three main suppliers was crucial to the success of this launch,” comments France Depaix, J&J Senior Director of Packaging Development R&D Global Baby & EMEA region, who led the packaging redevelopment project.

“RPC Bramlage’s experience in closure manufacture was a crucial element in the collaborative and simultaneous design process that delivered the packs to market in record time.”

RPC bpi nordipac t +49 5492 88 0 e info@nordfolien.com

RPC Bramlage t +49 4442 881 0 e sales@rpc-bramlage.de

INHALER ENSURES COMFORT AND RELIABILITY RPC Formatec, part of the RPC Bramlage Division, has extended its range of state-of-the-art inhalers with the introduction of a new optimised breath-actuated pressurised Metered-Dose Inhaler (pMDI).The PneumoHaler incorporates an advanced mechanical system to activate the device. Importantly, if the mouth piece is closed, the inside spring of the actuator is not under compression, helping to ensure long-term reliability of operation. The system can be easily adapted for different valves and different types of canisters.

The inhaler’s rounded design with large mouthpiece provides easy handling and maximum comfort for the user. A dose counter/indicator enables patients to keep track of their treatment.

The base actuator unit of the PneumoHaler is supplied pre-assembled with the dose counter/indicator in place. Manufacturers therefore need only to place the fi lled canister inside and attach the top cover for a fast and effi cient fi lling and assembly process.

RPC Formatec t +49 97 766 0911 e info@rpc-formatec.de

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TOP-QUALITY PCR PAILS PROVIDE SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS RPC Superfos has introduced a number of initiatives to further enhance its packaging solutions incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) polypropylene.The company has worked with recycled materials for over 10 years and today offers a range of PCR pails in many shapes and sizes including its popular Paintainer®, SuperCube®, SuperLift®, and SuperFlex® containers.

“Thinking sustainably is nothing new to RPC Superfos, and using recycled material is one of our ways of doing so,” confi rms Janni Langkjær Pedersen, Sustainability Communication Manager at RPC Superfos. “Our top-quality PCR pails are perfect for paint, varnishes, building materials and garden products. Equally important, plastic is also durable, light weight, sturdy and makes a signifi cant contribution to a reduced carbon footprint.”

With a new formula, the level of PCR used in these pails can now be very high while at the same time ensuring that the

containers remain fi t for purpose and retain the mechanical characteristics necessary to ensure optimum performance. For this reason, the actual PCR level that can be used for a particular order very much depends on the application and RPC Superfos therefore works in close collaboration with its customers to fi nd the most appropriate solution.

“We have come a long way since we started to use recycled material and our vast experience in the non-food market makes us a very competent advisor to our customers,” explains Stéphane Navoret, Regional Technical Director at RPC Superfos. “Using PCR without monitoring the mechanical characteristics can affect the performance of the packaging. RPC Superfos has developed a new formula which, in specifi c cases, allows us to use a very high level of PCR. However, we thoroughly take the performance and the quality of the packaging as well as all supply chain requirements into consideration. Importantly, we do not overpromise; that is one of our avowed tasks as advisor and business partner.”

PCR material is a valuable resource and RPC Superfos is currently expanding its collaboration with providers of PCR resin material. In addition, the company is working on customer projects along with RPC PLASgran, a leading UK plastic waste recycler and part of the RPC Group, to develop a suitable infrastructure for improving the capture of post-consumer polypropylene.

This venture also involves the development of ways to safely use these recycled materials in new food packaging. For food grade PP, PCR of very high quality is required, and the source must be traceable. Although this is a challenging task for the industry, RPC Superfos has many streams of work to overcome it, using its expertise in developing new sustainable packaging solutions.

RPC Superfos t +45 5911 1110 e superfos@rpc-superfos.com

DRIP-FREE DISPENSINGRPC Promens is producing an innovative dispensing solution for the AdBlue diesel engine fl uid from Brenntag, the global market leader in chemical distribution.Designed by RPC Design, the bespoke 4 litre HDPE bottle provides a drip-free dispensing method for AdBlue, which reduces Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) exhaust emissions and needs to be poured through a separate fi ller hole.

The brief for the pack was to create an original and eye-catching design that was easy and safe to use. The resulting bottle features a distinctive shape which ensures all the liquid drains from the pack, while the ergonomic handle aids the pouring process.

As the liquid can be corrosive, effective non-drip dispensing was essential. The dispensing nozzle’s three injection moulded polypropylene components create a system that automatically dispenses when inserted into the fi lling hole. For smooth and glug-free dispensing the design allows air to pass back into the bottle and automatically

shuts off when the nozzle is withdrawn to avoid spillages. The nozzle incorporates a dust over-cap to prevent contamination and an integrally moulded tamper evident band.

When the nozzle is inserted into the tank, the outer shell slides back and opens the dispensing hole and air return hole. The liquid can then pass into the tank easily without glugging. As the nozzle is withdrawn, the outer shell slides back over the dispensing hole, pushed by integrally moulded plastic springs. This cuts off the fl ow and stops drips.

The pack is made from similar materials and can be easily separated for recycling at the end of its life.

“We wanted an ‘ultimate’ pack for AdBlue that both protected the product while being completely consumer-friendly,” comments Kevin Morgan, Brenntag’s Commercial Director. “We are highly delighted with the solution from RPC.”

The Brenntag AdBlue bottle received a Highly Commended in the Consumer Convenience category at the UK Packaging Industry Awards.

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RPC Promens t +44 1933 411221 e rushden.sales@rpc-promens.com RPC Designt +44 1933 414855 e b.lodge@rpc-design.co.uk

SPREADS ARE CLEARLY DELICIOUSA variety of spreads and pâtés from specialist French manufacturer The Coudène Company are now being packed in 150cc and 200cc polypropylene pots from RPC Bebo Bouxwiller.The 95mm diameter pots provide the excellent transparency that enables the products to be effectively displayed. In addition, their light weight but durable construction combines effective protection with ease of use for the end-consumer.

Established in 1936, the Coudène Company specialises and is market leader in the manufacture of the traditional Brandade De Cod. The company has since introduced a wide range of additional cod-based products, as well as Tapenades, Fish Soups, Tiella and Pissaladière.

RPC Bebo Bouxwiller t +33 3 88 71 78 00 e contact@rpc-tedeco-gizeh.com

PAILS SHAPE UP RPC Superfos’s ability to provide different-shaped and sustainable packs has proved to be a winner for Italian company Carioca SpA. Carioca produces a range of popular felt-tip pens and crayons used by creative children and adults around the world. They are sold in more than 60 countries and the product and its packaging must be able to compete in what are fi ercely competitive markets. For Israel, therefore, the company saw an opportunity to step up its offering by changing the shape of the packaging

for 48 Jumbo felt-tip pens from a round container to a square UniPak pail from RPC Superfos’s standard range.

“The Israeli Market was new for Carioca and our local competitor uses a round pail for a similar product,” explains Carioca SpA’s Marketing Director, Dr Giorgio Bertolo. “So, to be more attractive, we decided to try out the square shape. We are pleased with the UniPak pail. It appears to be the best solution on the market in terms of price and quality, and the feedback we have received from retail and end-users is positive.”

For user-convenience and product protection, a clear foil wrapped around the pail keeps the felt-tips in place. The colourful decorations on the pail are created using In-Mould Labelling, rendering a razor-sharp and scratch-resistant graphic image.

In Italy, Carioca has replaced an existing round thermoformed pack with a round injection moulded UniPak pail with a lid and a red handle, which is also from the RPC Superfos standard range.

“The round UniPak pail which we now use on the domestic market meets our needs as it has the perfect height and diameter and can contain exactly 100 felt-tip pens,” says Dr Giorgio Bertolo. “All in all, both new solutions for the Italian and the Israeli markets respectively represent a refreshing renewal of the look of our packaging and we are satisfi ed with the result.”

The UniPak pails also offer another distinct advantage, being manufactured in mono-material polypropylene. This makes them 100% recyclable, which is a key benefi t for the development of a circular economy.

RPC Superfos Region French/South East t +39 0 542 670 480 e italy@rpc-superfos.com

PUT SUSTAINABILITY TO THE TEST RPC bpi nordipac has produced a special promotional bag to demonstrate the suitability of its NOREC® recycled material for the creation of high-quality and functional packaging.The NOREC® Recycling Process for post-industrial and post-consumer packaging waste produces high-class NOREC®

Recycling Material (part of RPC’s SUSTANE™ family) that is suitable for reuse in consumer and other types of packaging. Bags can be produced with up to 80% recycled content and are themselves fully recyclable, making them suitable for closed loop systems and delivering signifi cant reductions in CO2 emissions.

The fi lm provides an identical performance to bags made from virgin materials, combining effective product protection with the availability of high-quality printing for effective branding. Its strength and durability make it suitable for mini-bales and handled bags.

To request a sample bag, please email Sebastian Pohlmann, sebastian.pohlmann@nordfolien.com

RPC bpi nordipac t +49 5492 88 0 e info@nordfolien.com

BOTTLE TURNS CELEBRATIONS UPSIDE DOWNA jar in the shape of a champagne bottle from RPC PET Power is the ideal gift packaging solution to create a true eye-catcher on shop shelves.The 500ml Bottle Shaped Jar has been designed to stand on its cap, allowing the top to be shaped to resemble a champagne cork. The base has a diameter of 63mm with an RTS neck fi nish, making the jar easy to combine with standard closures.

The wide mouth makes the jar both easy to fi ll and access for a wide range of chocolate and confectionery products. The clarity of the PET helps to ensure products stand out on-shelf, and a choice of attractive decoration options can reinforce branding and consumer appeal.

A similar 625ml jar is also available from RPC PET Power’s standard collection, offering the possibility to create family ranges.

PET Power t +31 76 503 8283 e info@petpower.eu

NO WASTED OPPORTUNITY FOR USER-FRIENDLINESS ESE World has launched a new design for its 240 litre PL bin with several innovative features and options that provide the utmost fl exibility for waste and recycling collection schemes.The container’s additional footstep, the availability of three different wheel sizes and a special lid-in-lid option provide important ergonomic benefi ts. For example, the lid allows waste to be inserted from either side, meaning users and waste workers no longer need to turn these potentially heavy containers around.

Where further manoeuvrability is required – for example where space is restricted – the 240 PL is the only bin in this popular size to offer an optional third wheel. This makes turning on the spot effortless, while a brake ensures that the bin remains in place on steep slopes.

Equally important, a variety of small but very effi cient marking solutions have increased the user-friendliness and accessibility of the container, particularly for the visually-impaired. Different

ESE World PD&M t +49 2762 9839 811 e marketing@ese.com

kinds of marking clips enable communication between user and waste management provider. These can indicate the waste stream, show if the bin needs to be emptied, and on which day of the week collection is due. The clips can also be embossed with Braille or text, a technology which has already been successfully implemented in the Danish municipality of Silkeborg.

In addition, as with all its standard two- and four-wheel containers, ESE can produce the 240 PL standard bin from recycled plastics. This considerably reduces the container’s carbon footprint and saves resources.

DELIVERING EFFECTIVE E-COMMERCE SOLUTIONS The recent success of the Garcon Wines’ postal wine bottle has underlined RPC M&H Plastics’ longstanding expertise in the development of e-commerce and mail order packaging solutions.Having recognised the opportunities that online sales would bring to the retail sector, RPC M&H Plastics has recently developed an extensive portfolio of standard e-commerce specifi c products. The packs are designed to fi t through a standard European letterbox (ISO EN 1374:2013), which means customers do not need to be home all day in order to receive their delivery.

The range of packs available includes fl exible tubes, jars, and bottles with a wide choice of closure options, suitable for a variety of end markets. All offer a secure and robust solution to ensure that products can be safely delivered in pristine condition.

In addition, RPC M&H Plastics is working with specialist corrugated packs producer Saxon Packaging to assist customers in sourcing optimum protection during transit, together with the ability to ship multiple items or families of products within a single delivery.

RPC M&H Plastics t +44 1502 715518 e marketing@mhplastics.com

POTS MAKE THE PERFECT PARTNERSHIP RPC Bebo Plastik has been named a Development Partner of the Year in the recent 2018 Supplier Partner Awards from global packaging company TricorBraun.The award was in recognition of the collaboration between TricorBraun, RPC Bebo and RPC Bramlage Morgantown in the development of two pots for California-based baby food manufacturer Initiative Foods.

The multilayer barrier pots in 4oz and 4.5oz sizes with accompanying lids provide product protection and extended ambient shelf-life to maintain freshness and quality, while their durable but light weight construction ensures easy handling for the consumer.

The cups are produced by RPC Bebo Bouxwiller in France and the lids by RPC Bebo Plastik in Bremervörde, Germany.

RPC Bebo Plastik t +49 4761 8600 e sales@rpc-bebo.com RPC Bebo Bouxwiller t +33 3 88 71 78 00 e contact@rpc-tedeco-gizeh.comRPC Bramlage Morgantown t +1 610 286 0805 e sales@wiko-usa.com

ENSURING FISH QUALITY RPC Sæplast has introduced an upgraded version of its market-leading container and lid for the harvesting and transportation of fi sh stocks.The design of the Sæplast DXS335 1,000 litres PUR container has been enhanced to become a more compact and streamlined functional container which improves handling. The reusable cold chain material handling container has been specifi cally designed for the seafood industry and is manufactured using a 100% food grade polyethylene double wall shell with a polyurethane insulation core.

The DXS335 continues to deliver the perfect storage conditions that maintain the freshness and quality of shrimp, herring, bait and a wide variety of other fi sh species. As fi sh are vulnerable to temperature changes, accurate temperature control is essential. When fi lled with a slurry ice mix, the DXS335 container will keep fi sh at the correct temperature throughout their storage and transportation to the processing plant.

Improperly stored fi sh will spoil more quickly and become unsafe for consumption. The DXS335’s temperature-controlled transportation solution therefore delivers both product safety and quality benefi ts for complete peace of mind.

The DXS335 container measures 122cm in length and is 109cm wide and119cm high. As with all Sæplast products, the container can be branded through specialised colours and with the incorporation of logos for ease of identifi cation. Furthermore, the DXS335 is also available with a variety of tracking options including barcodes, QR codes and RFID technology.

RPC Sæplast Americas t +1 506 633 0101 e sales.sj@saeplast.com

“Our relationships with our supplier partners are absolutely critical, so it’s important that we recognise the best of the best and celebrate our joint success,” said Mark O’Bryan, Chief Operations Offi cer, TricorBraun. “As TricorBraun continues to grow, we look to partner with suppliers who consistently deliver high-quality products, who invest in their capabilities, and who

continue to innovate so that they evolve with us and we can better serve our customers.”

ALL’S WELL FOR SUPPLEMENT PACKS The Medipac container range from RPC Astrapak Plastop has been developed to meet the wide-ranging requirements of the prescriptive medicines and wellness supplements markets.With products coming in a variety of shapes and sizes and requiring a multitude of doses, the choice of containers in the Medipac range – 145ml, 175ml, 260ml and 340ml – makes them ideal for all types of tablets, capsules and supplements, and

RPC Astrapak t +27 87 742 0710 e sales@rpc-astrapak.com

SLEEK SOLUTION FOR HEALTHY SNACK The EasySnacking™ pot from RPC Superfos is providing a Norwegian dairy with an innovative and image-enhancing packaging solution.Organic dairy Rørosmeieriet was seeking a pack that would support the creative profi le of the dairy. The company is now using the sleek EasySnacking™ pot for its Niste range of yoghurt with muesli topping, as well as for sour creams.

“Opting for the EasySnacking™ pot brought Rørosmeieriet both novelty and branding value,” explains Trond Vilhelm Lund, Rørosmeieriet’s CEO. “The sleek and characteristic design ensures our products stand out on the shelf and makes it easier for consumers to recognise our Niste yoghurt. We are thrilled with the EasySnacking™ design as it supports our creative profi le and allows us to take a lead in the market, even though we are not among the biggest players.”

The EasySnacking™ pot provides the ideal pack for a healthy and quick meal to be enjoyed on the go. The pack contains natural yoghurt, or natural yoghurt with a lingonberry blend at the bottom, while the crunchy muesli with dried fruit is conveniently placed in the lid. The pack is handy and re-closable and incorporates a spoon under a tear-off label in the lid.

For organic sour cream, Rørosmeieriet uses a version of the EasySnacking™ pot which comes with a fl at lid and no spoon.

In addition to its user-friendly features, the EasySnacking™ pot also provides a solution for increased sustainability.

“We appreciate that the pots from RPC Superfos are 100% recyclable as they are made from nothing but PP (polypropylene);

the best possible type of plastic which makes good sense for our organic products,” says Trond Vilhelm Lund.

“Rørosmeieriet is known for being one step ahead of the competition and using responsible and sustainable packaging solutions is and will be important for us in the future.”

RPC Superfos Region Nordic t +47 6936 5418 e norway@rpc-superfos.com

LID COMBINES SAFETY AND EASE OF USE A bespoke lid produced by the RPC Bramlage Division is helping to deliver product safety, pack integrity and consumer convenience for a leading German supplier of infant milk formula.

DMK Group, Germany’s largest dairy, has selected the gas tight composite can Sealio® from A&R Carton for the branding of its Humana infant milk products. In consumer tests, the pack outperformed the competition, being easy to hold, open and dose from with one hand while keeping the baby on the other arm.

The hinged fl ip-top lid from RPC Bramlage provides easy opening and recloses tightly to prevent moisture or any unwanted foreign bodies from entering. In addition, an integrated scoop holder ensures easy and accurate dosing and minimises contamination. A tamper-evident seal over the lid opening provides further consumer reassurance of the quality and integrity of the contents.

The dark blue coloured lid complements the branding and decoration of the carton pack to maximise on-shelf impact and appeal.

The lid represents the culmination of a one-year development programme between RPC Bramlage and A&R Carton.

ght composite can Sealio® fromcts. In consumer tests, the pack dose from with one hand while

RPC Bramlage t +49 4442 881 0 e sales@rpc-bramlage.de

LOCAL SUCCESS SOLVES A WORLDWIDE PROBLEM The high levels of technical competence within RPC Ace have been aptly demonstrated in a major fi ve-year project between RPC Ace Shanghai and Schneider China to establish localised production of Schneider’s Argos CT bobbin to help alleviate a global shortage.RPC Ace Shanghai’s contribution focused on four specifi c areas that showcased the company’s capabilities in integrated multi-technology applications, in-mould visible pressure sensors, insert-moulding with high-precision stamping, and auto-feeding.

A key challenge for the thin-wall injection moulding process is the 0.5mm average wall thickness of the bobbin, with the thinnest part less than 0.4mm, meaning the risk of the part warping during moulding is high. This was overcome through the application of an in-mould vision pressure sensor.

For the insertion of the bobbin’s ‘golden wire’ – which requires suffi cient torque to achieve the necessary coil welding requirements – RPC Ace Shanghai’s innovative high-precision insert moulding technology enables the mould to integrate stamping, cutting and coiling marking.

Equally important, RPC Ace Shanghai’s experience in accurate and complicated mould fabrication was crucial to meeting the higher precision levels for some of the bobbin’s dimensions, for example where the CPK (Complex Process Capability) is greater than 1.33.

RPC Ace Shanghai was also able to apply an innovative smart automatic feeding system to stabilise the tolerances of the bobbin’s ‘golden wire’ insert to between +0.1 - 0.5mm.

The entire project underlines the strong working partnership that was established between Schneider China and RPC Ace Shanghai, comprising initial brainstorming, design fi nalisation, process testing and troubleshooting, in-mould structure and feeding system optimisation, and OEE ramp-up. This led to the project receiving the Innovate Golden Prize in Schneider China’s 2018 GSC China Best Recognition awards.

RPC Ace Shanghai t +86 21 5743 6636 e grace.guo@acemold.com

A BOX OF DELIGHTS The RPC Bramlage Division has introduced a special Promotion Box that showcases a selection of cosmetic and personal care packaging solutions from its extensive ranges.The box underlines RPC Bramlage’s capabilities in handling a wide variety of product types and also demonstrates how the different pack designs and sizes can be successfully utilised to create a family range.

Packs on display comprise the 75ml Exclusive deostick, 50ml Magic SL Twist Up, newly-developed 50ml Magic Star Twist Up, 15ml Diamond Jar and 30ml and 50ml Empress Jars. State-of-the-art production techniques ensure a high-quality construction and fi nish to support a premium image, and all combine effective product protection with ease of use.

A wide choice of decoration options – such as colour matching, hot stamping, metallizing, lacquering, silk screen printing, labelling, sleeving and pad printing – means packs can be fully

individualised to create a strong brand identity on-shelf.

For a sample box, please contact sales@rpc-bramlage.de

RPC Bramlage t +49 4442 881 0 e sales@rpc-bramlage.de

RESEALABLE

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CONTROL

enables brands to maintain continuity, regardless of the dose.

The containers are produced by RPC Astrapak Plastop to strict healthcare standards. The 100% polypropylene (PP) construction provides a light weight yet robust pack that is impact resistant and long-lasting to ensure maximum product protection. An optional liner in the closure delivers additional protection against degradation during transport, while for enhanced consumer safety the screw-on closure incorporates a tamper-evident sealing band.

The Medipac’s classic rounded shape and surface fi nish creates an attractive appearance on-shelf. A large decorative area means products can be fully personalised for effective branding using either screen-printing or self-adhesive labels.

In addition, the 100% recyclability of PP enables companies to meet sustainability targets. Applications for recycled PP include spatulas, cutting boards, storage bins and shipping pallets.

PROJECT HELPS PREVENT FOOD WASTE AT HOME A survey conducted by the Danish Technological Institute has shown that 14% of Danish household food waste stems from meal leftovers. Although these can be reheated, very often this is in a microwave oven, and the survey identifi ed that many fi nd the uneven heating of this process makes the food less savoury so that it still ends up in the bin.In an attempt to alter this behaviour, RPC Superfos has contributed to the development of a new multifunctional plastic storage box which ensures a more even distribution of the microwave heat. This development project has been run together with Imerco, a Danish chain of retailers of household and home decoration products, and the Danish Technological Institute. The new plastic storage box makes

re-heated leftovers tastier and thus helps to reduce food waste at household level.

Such an initiative provides another example of plastic packaging’s ability to prevent food waste - in itself recognised as a major environmental problem - and make an important contribution to the development of a circular economy.

Plastic packaging protects products which have taken a lot of time and resources to produce. Plastic is light weight, durable and fl exible, properties that are extremely valuable when it comes to transporting food products while keeping them fresh and intact at the same time. In addition, products sold loose have been found to contribute to greater instore waste, in some cases leading to increases of 20%. Without convenient plastic packaging, damage and loss would occur to goods throughout the logistics and retail chain, causing a negative environmental impact.

“Food wastage in the food supply chain would increase dramatically if we gave up plastic packaging as we have not yet seen any better - and more sustainable - alternatives,” points out Janni Langkjær Pedersen, Sustainability Communication Manager at RPC Superfos.

“While excessive packaging must be avoided, we cannot ignore the fact that plastic packaging has outstanding features for keeping foods fresher for longer and protecting them from damage.”

More information on plastic’s contribution to reducing food waste and some of its other environmental benefi ts can be found in a series of information sheets available on the RPC Group website (www.rpc-group.com).

RPC Superfos t +45 5911 1110 e superfos@rpc-superfos.com

Leading spring water and beverage producer Radnor Hills has moved its shrink wrapping of bottled water to RPC bpi protec’s X-EnviroShrink fi lm which contains a minimum of 30% post-consumer recyclate (PCR) as well as being 100% recyclable itself. This follows the company’s recent move to bottles with 51% recycled plastic (RPET) and ensures it is fully in line with the latest government proposals for plastic packaging by utilising one of the most sustainable solutions for the collation and multi-packing of goods.Using the Sustane recycled polymer from RPC bpi recycled products, X-EnviroShrink’s ultra-low carbon footprint enables it to set a new standard in shrink fi lm technology, combining recycled content with the full recyclability.

Available in both un-printed and printed versions, X-EnviroShrink is the ideal collation shrink for a wide variety of products and markets, from beverage cans and bottles to canned food and cartons. Enabling high-speed packing methods to be utilised as a single or twin lane, it helps manufacturers maximise cost-effectiveness and speed-to-market as goods are shipped to supermarket shelves.

“Ensuring that our activities and products minimise any environmental impact is fundamental to our business,”

comments William Watkins, Managing Director at Radnor Hills.

“When RPC bpi protec approached us with X-EnviroShrink, the ability to integrate further recycled content into our packaging solutions was extremely appealing. We are delighted with the results and the improvements it has made to our sustainability footprint.”

RPC bpi group’s recycling plants reprocess over 135,000 tonnes of waste from industrial, commercial, agricultural and domestic sources, making the company Europe’s largest recycler of PE fi lms and enabling it to provide a truly circular solution to customers.

RPC bpi protec t +44 1905 755000 e worcester@rpc-bpi.com

BOTTLED WATER HAS SUSTAINABILITY WRAPPED

Our locations

Manufacturing countries Countries we sell into

Published by RPC Group Marketing Services, Sapphire House, Crown Way, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 6FB, UK Tel: +44 1933 416528 Email: marketing@rpc-group.com Website: www.rpc-group.com Written and produced for RPC by Nielsen McAllister PR Limited, Derby, UK

For more information on RPC visit www.rpc-group.comFor details of where RPC will be exhibiting visit www.rpc-group.com/media/events Printed on FSC certifi ed paper

MEETING THE HIGHEST FOOD STANDARDS The JJ Precision site of RPC Astrapak has retained its FSSC 22000 certifi cation after a recent audit at its Maxmead, South Africa premises. The FSSC 22000 scheme is recognised by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), enabling RPC Astrapak to use it to meet the requirements of several global retailers and major branded food companies under a single, internationally-recognised food safety management system. It also underlines JJ Precision’s commitment to the highest quality standards throughout its operations.

In addition, FSSC 22000 certifi cation outlines stringent guidelines for the safety teams to follow, providing further confi dence and reassurance in the packaging that the company supplies, particularly for food products.

Quality Assurance Manager Nelash Harinarain credited his team for maintaining such high standards in quality and process within the factory. “Food Safety Coordinator Ashton Ranjith and our entire Quality Team, as well as our external partners Wareham, are instrumental in ensuring that the latest developments on food safety are always implemented and understood,” he comments.

RPC Astrapak t +27 87 742 0710 e sales@rpc-astrapak.com

RPC SUPERFOS SINGLED OUT FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY The municipality of Randers, Denmark, has presented a CSR certifi cate to RPC Superfos Randers in recognition of its continuous social responsibility effort, in particular its commitment to an inclusive working environment with fl exible jobs for people with reduced abilities.The certifi cate showcases that RPC Superfos Randers offers meaningful internships, assessment processes, job training and employment opportunities to marginalised citizens and to unemployed people at the fringes of the job market.

As Company Consultant Michael Kristoffersen from the municipality of Randers explained at the presentation of the certifi cate: “This type of corporate social responsibility is of vital importance both to the individual citizen and to the municipality of Randers, as we need collaborative partners to help them to provide for themselves.”

In attaining the CSR certifi cate, RPC Superfos met fi ve key criteria: the on-going provision of internships, job training, assessment processes and employment opportunities to marginalised citizens; the employment of at least one person in a fl exible job; an active HR policy in staff diversity; a demonstration of orderliness in areas such as salary, working conditions and applicable legislation; and a continuing commitment to prevention and retention.

Employing people in fl exible jobs is not as common as might be expected. Out of 6,000 registered companies in the Randers

area, only 150 have fulfi lled the requirements for obtaining the “Local Supply of Social Responsibility” certifi cate.

RPC Superfos Region Nordic t +45 8710 1112 e randers@rpc-superfos.com

SUCCINCT EXPLANATIONS With so much negative publicity surrounding plastic packaging in the consumer media – much of which is inaccurate or misinformed – RPC Group has put together a series of short videos that aim to give a succinct and balanced response to some of the frequently asked questions on this issue.Topics covered in the four 60 second videos are the call to ban plastics altogether, an explanation of the plastics recycling process, the problems of ocean litter, the reasons behind the use of plastic in food packaging, and an understanding of the role of biodegradable plastics.

“We want to provide viewers with short and reasoned explanations of plastics’ role in packaging, including the benefi ts it brings and how to tackle some of the problems associated with its disposal,” explains RPC Group’s

Sustainability Manager Katherine Fleet.

“We hope customers, consumers and all interested parties will fi nd these useful aids in establishing a clearer picture of the ways in which we can continue to enjoy the many benefi ts of plastics while minimising their impact on the environment.”

The videos can be viewed on the RPC Group website (www.rpc-group.com).

PUTTING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY CENTRE STAGE RPC Group Industry Affairs Director David Baker has been appointed as the new Chairman of PCEP, the Polyolefi n Circular Economy Platform.Established by the European plastics industry, PCEP’s main objective is to encourage and support strong value chain cooperation in order to advance the circular economy through increasing the reuse and recycling of polyolefi n-based products and the use of recyclates as raw material. By working together PCEP aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of polyolefi n (PO) products. Among the association’s key aims are to reach 60% recycling and reuse of collected PO packaging, and to have more than 75% of all PO packaging readily designed for recycling by 2030.

“I am delighted to take on this important role,” comments David. “Polyolefi ns are a signifi cant part of the plastics family and PCEP will ensure polyolefi ns become increasingly circular. My short-term aim will be to support the PCEP Steering Board in its drive to expand its membership to include brand-owners/EPR schemes, retailers and waste management companies in addition to producers, converters and recyclers.”

As well as its focus on packaging design to embrace circular economy principles and increase the recyclability of PO packaging, PCEP will also be seeking to encourage innovation

and the further development of end-use markets to stimulate reuse and encourage demand for recycled plastics.

“These are undoubtedly challenging times for the plastics industry, but we do have a strong sustainability story to tell, not least in our low carbon manufacturing processes which can make a signifi cant contribution to help counter global warming,” continues David.

“At the same time, our industry is very diverse and our supply chains long and involved, so bringing all parties closer together to work towards a set of unifi ed objectives is critical to meeting global sustainability targets and securing a positive future for plastics.”

RPC SIGNS THE PACT RPC Group has become a member of the UK Plastics Pact, the collaborative initiative established by WRAP (The Waste and Resources Action Programme) to create a circular economy for plastics.The Pact brings together the entire plastics packaging value chain to deliver a common vision based on an ambitious set of targets that aims to reduce the amount of unnecessary plastic packaging and build a stronger recycling system, so that plastic packaging can be effectively recycled and made into new products and packs.

The immediate focus is the identifying of priority projects that will deliver the greatest impacts in the short and long term. These include overcoming barriers to increasing the amount of recycled content used in new packaging, developing reusable packaging and working with partners to deal with the issue of un-recyclable black plastic.

The UK Plastics Pact is the fi rst of a global network of such pacts, enabled by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastic Economy initiative.

“We are delighted to be supporting this important

development,” comments David Baker, RPC Group’s Industry Affairs Director.

“A coordinated effort is the ideal way to deliver real sustainability benefi ts and change, tackling the problem of plastic waste while still ensuring the material can maintain its many vital roles such as helping to reduce carbon emissions and providing effective food protection.”

COOPERATION REAPS REWARDSRPC Ace Shanghai recently received an award for FY17/18 Best Management Cooperation Supplier from its customer Hella Electronics China.

The accolade recognised the performance, achievements and continuing commitment of RPC Ace Shanghai and its dedicated Hella Electronics China team, underlining the successful 10-year partnership between the two companies.

It also marked another major milestone in RPC Ace’s ongoing cooperation with its entire customer base, in particular supporting their growth in the Chinese market.

RPC Ace Shanghai t +86 21 5743 6636 e grace.guo@acemold.com

STREAMLINED MANUFACTURING FOR BREWERY

WaveGrip’s innovative multi-packing G1 applicator is helping US craft brewer Tupps Brewery streamline its manufacturing process while also providing a sustainable solution for the multi-packing of its beer cans. The WaveGrip G1 was the perfect choice for the company thanks to a top speed of 100 cans-per-minute (cpm), full automation and its easy-to-use design. The applicator has helped to improve the manufacturing process and, even being run at the current level of 45 - 50 cpm, is providing huge savings in both the cost of materials and in labour.

As well as the improvements in production, the sustainability of the WaveGrip carriers played a large part in the decision-making process for Tupps.

Weighing less than 4g for a standard six-pack and using less material than any other multi-packing solution, WaveGrip is the lightest carrier on the market. Additionally, all WaveGrip carriers are 100% recyclable and meet current US Packaging regulations by being photodegradable.

“Having an environmentally friendly carrier was a huge factor in our decision-making process,” confi rms Keith Lewis, Founder and President, Tupps Brewery. "We were really happy with the sustainability of the WaveGrip solution and its environmental story is important to both us and our customers.”

WaveGrip t +44 1294 842150 e hello@wave-grip.com