Positive forecasts for transparent barrier film and aluminium foil packaging

A study, conducted recently by the market research company Smithers Pira, showed that global demand for transparent plastics barrier films is to grow at an annual average rate of 3.9% reaching 1.9 million tonnes in 2021. The consumption of flexible aluminium foil packaging is expected to increase at an average annual rate of 2.5% per year reaching almost 3 million tonnes by 2021.

For over a decade packaging films have been the fastest-growing global packaging segment. As well as being cost-effective to manufacture, their light weight and low volume provide good benefits in logistics and waste disposal. Moreover, they can be used in a large number of areas, due to their good barrier properties and relatively long durability. The reason for this boom in transparent barrier films, says the study, is a change in demand patterns among consumers. The innovative packaging can even be used in microwave ovens, making it very handy for everyday use. Furthermore, there is now an increasing focus on packaging transparency and sustainability. Although Western Europe is still producing the majority of protective films – around 35% of the world market – the study says that the main factor in the anticipated growth will be the steady technological development of the Asian Pacific region.

Thanks to an innovative aluminium seal, the K 470 universal box from Zarges can protect its content even under

Zarges GmbH in Wellheim is the world’s first manufacturer to make aluminium boxes with the protection standard IP 67. The company’s new version of robust K470 boxes does more than protect packaged products fully against dust and water jets. Thanks to its innovative mixed system of a closure and hinge with uniform pressure distribution, the lid remains tight for at least 30 minutes under one metre of water. Even after transportation by air the aluminium box can be opened without any problem. This means that vulnerable items, too, can be shipped under extreme conditions. The Zarges K 470 IP 67 box is available in 20 different sizes. Its innovative special seal is made from cellular rubber – an achievement that has been certified by TÜV and which is patented.

 Aluminium instead of plates. Every Thursday until the end of May the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) invites guests to a special lunch at the prestigious Grapevine Restaurant near the EU Parliament in Brussels. This so-called Alunch is aimed at young professionals and students. The only condition is that each person who comes must hand over an aluminium bottle top for recycling. In return, young guests are given a free meal. Instead of porcelain, all dishes are served in aluminium containers – quite unusual for this prestigious restaurant. The purpose of the campaign, says Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA, is to show “the value of aluminium closures and in fact the entire range of products made from aluminium foil”.