90 As it also is in seemingly all other areas of print, sustainability is very much the overarching trend in packaging, with the pressure on printers and their packaging partners to reduce waste, their carbon footprint and environmental impact through the package production process, as well as using planet-friendly packaging in general. With this, Ashe notes the introduction of Plastic Packaging Tax in 2022, the ban on certain single-use plastics coming into place in October 2023 and various other environmental considerations on the horizon such as Extended Producer Responsibility. “We’ve been focusing on bringing sustainable packaging products to market and expanding our existing eco-friendly ranges,” Ashe says, adding: “This year, we have expanded our single wall, double, and e-commerce box ranges as well as our strapping and banding machinery and products. “We recently re-launched our pallet range to ensure it offers eco-friendly timber, presswood, nestable and rackable plastic pallets, giving us one of the most comprehensive and competitive ranges available in the UK.” Go The Extra Mile Remaining on the subject of sustainability, Dufaylite is another market supplier that very much places the environment at the top of its priorities when developing new solutions for this sector. Managing director Ashley Moscrop says more emphasis than ever is being placed on sustainability and, as a result, there is a higher focus on single-type materials to reduce waste. email: news@printmonthly.co.uk September / October 2023 - Issue 344 “Ensuring that any products you offer have true environmental benefits is vital,” Moscrop explains, adding: “Without a doubt, materials that are easy to recycle should be a top priority, along with those that offer a high print quality and good product protection.” Drawing attention to how Dufaylite can help with its portfolio of products, Moscrop picks out a number of new solutions that are now available to the market. These include its thermal, insulated box liners, which he describes as a “real innovation” for the sector. “They are made entirely from our recycled paper honeycomb and are the first paper-based alternative to polystyrene and lambs’ wool on the market,” Moscrop says, continuing: “They complement our environmentally friendly range of ▲ xxxx packaging products and are easy for the consumer to dispose of and recycle. “We have also taken every step to ensure safety and we are the only honeycomb provider in the world with the AA BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard.” As for advice for those looking to enter the packaging industry or expand their presence within this market, Moscrop says the sector presents a real opportunity for commercial printers, and expanding their range of services comes with many benefits. However, in order to make a real success of yourself in this area, he advises targeting certain areas in particular due to the amount of companies already active within the overall packaging arena. “I would recommend specialising in high-end packaging, offering personalisation, and focusing on short-run technologies, because the existing market is crowded and well-established for traditional packaging,” Moscrop says. “This makes it difficult to compete, which is why areas within the high-end or the premium product sector offer more potential and is where people will pay more for creativity in the form of custom, specialist packaging that requires shorter runs. Brands wishing to engage with their customers on a personal level will seek out packaging that specifically fits the bill. “The packaging market is well-established and competitive. If you decide to enter the market, you will need a fresh A ban on certain single-use plastics will come into effect in October 2023 2023 NEED TO KNOW / PACKAGING MATERIALS ▲ Kite Packaging emphasised the importance of sustainability with packaging materials The final product needs to look the part, provide adequate protection for its contents, be sustainable, and appeal to both brands and customers
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