Converter December/January digital issue is out now!

Editor’s comment: “Firstly, I would like to wish all our readers a very happy new year; I hope 2017 is successful for you all and that the industry continues to grow in the same encouraging way we’ve seen in recent months. For a look back at 2016’s headlines, including key industry events, the launch of some significant new technologies, and many business acquisitions, see our round-up on page 9.

“Across those industries that have a direct impact on packaging waste, sustainability and recyclability are hot topics. In December I visited Tetra Pak’s site in Italy to hear about its latest aseptic carton, over 80 per cent of which is constructed from renewable materials. The company is currently on a huge journey to eventually use only fully renewable materials for its products. This latest carton package brings Tetra Pak very close to achieving this, and next year should see even further developments as research continues. Then, at the other end of the spectrum, Avery Dennison’s latest scheme has helped increase PET waste recycling as well as save on carbon emissions at one major drinks provider. The company also wants to eliminate 70 per cent of liner waste from the industry value chain.

“Also in this issue, API discusses the use of foils for luxury packaging products to ensure strong shelf-appeal, and how a combination of flexographic and digital printing techniques can deliver new effects and finishes.

“With the adoption of digital technology in more areas across the industry already, it should be interesting to see how this develops throughout 2017. We have even introduced a new feature topic in Converter in our April issue to look into this further.”

You can view this month’s digital issue here.

Jack Cheeseman Editor

jcheeseman@datateam.co.uk / Twitter: @convertermag