During the Covid-19 crisis, some packaging firms struggled while others thrived, if their products were deemed essential. The more flexible packing firms quickly switched production lines in response to demand for hand sanitiser and other antibacterial items.

This article was first published in the October 15th 2020 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.

From April 2022 a plastic packaging tax will apply to all plastic packaging being either manufactured or imported into the UK containing less than 30% recycled plastic the government has announced. This tax will be charged at a rate of £200 per tonne where less than 30% recycled plastic is used in packaging. According to Jemac Packaging, businesses that import or manufacture less than 10 tonnes of plastic packaging over the period of 12 months will not have to pay the tax.

Companies aiming to plan ahead of the new tax may want to consider Storopack. Storopack AIRplus Recycle film contains a minimum 50% of recycled plastic and is available in void, cushion, bubble and wrap mediums. With its recently extended range of AIRplus Recycle films, customers have now started to convert to this environmentally friendly packaging option.

With e-commerce continuing to grow year on year and with ever changing customer demand Automated Packaging Systems, part of Sealed Air, has launched the Autobag 650H to complement its range of Autobag systems that have brought efficiency and productivity to packing operations in the fast moving and fast growing e-commerce sector. Whereas the Autobag PS125 OneStep and the Autobag 850S have focussed on bringing efficiency to the outbound packing process, the Autobag 650H brings productivity and efficiency to an area that is often seen as a non-productive part of the online retail fulfilment sector – the returns department.

When SGL Co-packing, part of the Keswick Enterprises Group, was looking to modernise its systems and improve the visibility, flexibility and service provided to its customers, the firm turned to Nulogy. The software was introduced into SGL to deliver greater stock control and improved access to quality records. With many contract manufacturing and packing providers adjusting their operations during the pandemic, Nulogy has ensured its software not only provides robust labour management, inventory and traceability controls, but also allows contract packers to better manage infection control protocols on the shop floor.

Southgate has announced the launch of the BP222, a new sleek and lightweight manual water activated tape dispenser. Water activated tape, also referred to as gummed paper tape, is fast becoming the most popular form of carton sealing. Environmentally conscious and having a superior bond to conventional non-recyclable plastic tapes, it is a must have for the packaging communities’ race to a circular economy.

Kite Packaging is introducing the paper bubble dispenser box. 100% recyclable and the ideal solution for pick, pack and despatch areas, this compact solution includes the popular paper bubble in a portable dispenser box. Produced from biodegradable and recyclable materials it is extremely easy to use and is an ideal sustainable and cost-effective solution for companies needing to protect delicate goods.

It is great to see packaging firms thriving during these challenging times.

George Simpson

Features Editor

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