The French Ministry of the Environment has decided against introducing a mandatory national deposit-return system for plastic bottles, opting instead for voluntary regional collection schemes run by local authorities. France's current separate collection rate for single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers stands at about 58.3%, well short of the 90% by weight the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation requires by 1 January 2029, and analysts say the exemption route, which needs over 80% collection in both 2026 and 2027, is out of reach without a deposit system.
Why this mattersFrance's opt-out limits the recycled PET and aluminium available to converters and leaves the country short of the PPWR's 90% collection requirement for 2029.
- French Ministry of the Environment ruled out a mandatory national deposit system for plastic bottles in September 2026.
- France's separate collection rate for single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage containers is about 58.3%, versus the PPWR target of 90% by weight by 1 January 2029.
- A PPWR exemption from the deposit requirement needs proof of over 80% collection in both 2026 and 2027 plus a plan to reach 90%.
- Local government associations France Urbaine and the Association des Maires de France backed the decision, citing reliance on existing kerbside sorting and the cost of reverse vending machines.
- Portugal launched its national deposit system, Volta, on 10 April 2026, covering plastic, aluminium and steel containers up to 3 litres with a EUR 0.10 deposit.
- The UK plans a synchronised deposit-return launch on 1 October 2027 with a uniform 20p deposit on PET and metal containers.
Converter All4Labels has launched StarShine, a fully digital label line using on-demand metallization technology called EcoLeaf, replacing cold-foil metallic finishes with spot-applied metal flake and no offcut waste. Henkel Consumer Brands has already applied the technology to several home and personal care lines including its Le Chat detergent brand in France and hair care products. The labels are designed to wash off cleanly during PET, HDPE and polypropylene recycling under RecyClass protocols, and All4Labels cites up to an 80% emissions reduction versus traditional metallic foil.
Why this mattersA commercially deployed foil-free metallization process could cut waste and emissions across a widely used label finish, pressuring incumbent cold-foil suppliers and converters.
- All4Labels built its StarShine label line around EcoLeaf on-demand metallization technology
- Henkel Consumer Brands has applied StarShine to its Le Chat detergent brand sold in France and to hair care lines
- EcoLeaf spot-prints a chemistry-activated binder so metal flake sticks only where needed, eliminating foil substrate and offcut waste
- All4Labels cites up to 80% lower emissions than traditional metallic foil finishes
- StarShine labels meet RecyClass protocol for washing off cleanly during PET, HDPE and polypropylene bottle recycling
- Production runs across All4Labels sites in Italy, Germany, the UK, Romania and France
Metallised-paper specialist Eurobrillance is investing EUR 7.5m (USD 8.6m) in new machinery, a building extension, automation, a new ERP system and AI to support growth it expects to double this year. The company plans to add 35 jobs, taking headcount from 62 to 97, after growing staff from 31 in September 2025 to 62 today.
Why this mattersThe expansion signals continued demand for plastic-free metallised and barrier paper solutions as brand owners seek alternatives to plastic laminates.
- Investment of EUR 7.5m (USD 8.6m) covers new machinery, a building extension, automation, a new ERP system and AI
- Headcount rose from 31 employees in September 2025 to 62 today, running seven days a week on three shifts
- Company plans 35 further hires: 28 in production, three in logistics, two in maintenance, two in quality control
- Around 90% of production is exported, split 46% within the EU and 44% outside the EU
- Eurobrillance expects to double its business this year versus the prior year
- Company has partnered with Treviso-based Plastigraf since 2024 to strengthen European market access
South Africa's trade minister Parks Tau has ordered the International Trade Administration Commission (Itac) to review tariff protection for the domestic pulp and paper sector against rising import penetration. The review follows separate requests from Sappi and Mondi for tariffs on newsprint and office paper imports, and comes after Mpact issued retrenchment notices in its carton board business. Itac will assess import injury, exchange rate movements and the effect of US trade policy before recommending measures.
Why this mattersTariff protection would reshape competitive conditions for South African paper producers against cheap imports and a stronger rand.
- Trade minister Parks Tau ordered Itac to review the paper and paper products tariff structure on 18 September 2026.
- Sappi asked earlier in 2026 for a 5% tariff on newsprint imports, warning the local print industry risks extinction without it.
- Mondi has sought trade protection against cheap office paper imports, including for its Rotatrim brand.
- Itac will also investigate an import surveillance system; representations are due by 15 October 2026.
- A government notice states more than USD 2.03bn (ZAR 33bn) has been invested in the sector over the past seven years.
- Mpact issued retrenchment notices in its carton board business earlier in 2026, citing cheap imports and a stronger rand.
An HKIAC-constituted tribunal on 31 August 2026 rejected an attempt by Greatview Holdings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Greatview Aseptic Packaging (HKEX: 00468), to set aside an emergency arbitral award won by Swiss aseptic packaging firm Wintipak AG, leaving the award in force. The award, together with a Hong Kong High Court enforcement order, bars Greatview Holdings and affiliates, including Shenzhen-listed Shandong NewJF Technology Packaging, from soliciting Wintipak's customers under a framework agreement. Wintipak separately alleges that Greatview's 17 August 2026 quarterly disclosure on its trading suspension omitted mention of Wintipak's proceedings against it.
Why this mattersThe ruling curbs Greatview's ability to compete for aseptic-carton customers under the framework deal and raises disclosure questions while its shares remain suspended.
- Tribunal decision of 31 August 2026 rejected Greatview Holdings' bid to set aside the emergency award
- Emergency award originally issued 21 November 2025, corrected 16 December 2025, by an HKIAC tribunal
- Hong Kong High Court granted an enforcement order on 30 December 2025 mirroring the award's terms
- Order binds Greatview Holdings and affiliates including Shenzhen-listed Shandong NewJF Technology Packaging Co., Ltd. (301296.SZ)
- Award bars Greatview Holdings from soliciting or contracting with Wintipak's customers for products under their framework agreement
- Wintipak AG alleges Greatview's 17 August 2026 quarterly update omitted Wintipak's legal proceedings against Greatview Holdings
PJSC Lambumiz, a Russian food packaging maker, has begun the construction approval process for a new aseptic packaging workshop serving the dairy and juice industries, with documentation being prepared for the Moscow Architecture Department. The company states the first stage is due for commissioning in summer 2026, with full completion by 2027, covering about 14,000 square metres of production and warehouse space and up to 50 new jobs.
Why this mattersThe plant adds domestic capacity in a Russian aseptic carton market that is growing and reduces reliance on imported packaging for dairy and juice producers.
- Lambumiz has completed engineering surveys and urban planning work for the new workshop.
- Documentation is being prepared for approval by the Moscow Architecture Department.
- The project totals about 14,000 square metres of production and warehouse space.
- First-stage commissioning is scheduled for summer 2026, full completion by 2027.
- The project will create up to 50 new jobs.
- Lambumiz reported 2024 revenue of RUB 2.75 billion, up 7.1%, with a 19% EBITDA margin.
S&P Global Ratings raised Packaging Corporation of America's long-term issuer rating to BBB+ from BBB on 16 September 2026, citing leverage held below 2.0x despite the debt-funded acquisition of Greif's containerboard business earlier in 2026. The agency also cited three containerboard price increases implemented in 2026, most recently USD 140 per ton effective 1 September, as supportive of the credit profile. The company will hold a call on third-quarter results, the first full quarter reflecting all three price rises, on 22 October 2026.
Why this mattersA one-notch upgrade despite a large debt-funded acquisition signals rating agencies' tolerance for containerboard consolidation leverage, a reference point for peers.
- S&P Global Ratings upgraded Packaging Corporation of America's long-term issuer rating to BBB+ from BBB on 16 September 2026.
- Leverage has stayed below 2.0x even after the 2026 acquisition of Greif's containerboard business.
- Three containerboard price increases were implemented in 2026: USD 50, USD 70 and USD 140 per ton, the last effective 1 September 2026.
- Q2 2026 net sales were USD 2.08bn, up 6.7% year on year from about USD 1.95bn, reflecting the first full quarter of Greif containerboard assets.
- Q2 2026 adjusted EBITDA margin rose to 20.5% from 18.9% a year earlier.
- A conference call on Q3 2026 results is scheduled for 22 October 2026.
Mpact has sold its industrial property in Paarl, Western Cape, for USD 11.4m (ZAR 185m) to Inofort, a joint venture between Inospace 5 and Fortress Real Estate Investments, through subsidiary Mpact Paarl Property. Proceeds will go towards settling existing debt under Mpact's portfolio optimisation strategy. The 29,541 sq m site remains leased to Sinica Versapak, the former Mpact Versapak tray and film business, until October 2029.
Why this mattersThe disposal releases capital from a non-core asset while the site stays leased to Sinica Versapak to October 2029, preserving rental income.
- Mpact sold its Paarl, Western Cape property for USD 11.4m (ZAR 185m) via subsidiary Mpact Paarl Property.
- Buyer Inofort is a joint venture between Inospace 5 and Fortress Real Estate Investments, acquiring the site as a going concern.
- The 29,541 sq m property had a net book value of USD 5.48m (ZAR 89.2m) at end-December 2025.
- The property generated rental income of USD 1.20m (ZAR 19.6m) in the 2025 financial year.
- Proceeds will go towards settling existing debt as part of Mpact's portfolio optimisation strategy.
- Sinica Versapak leases the site under a five-year agreement expiring October 2029.
Advance Paper Box Ltd, a Winnipeg folding carton manufacturer, has ordered a Koenig & Bauer Rapida 106 41-inch seven-colour press with coater, described as the largest single capital investment in its 50-year history. The press, which includes AI-supported colour control and inline inspection, is due for delivery in early 2027 and will become the company's flagship line, expanding capacity for brand-owner customers across North America.
Why this mattersThe order shows independent North American carton converters continuing to invest in multi-colour, data-driven presses to meet brand owners' multi-SKU packaging demands.
- Advance Paper Box Ltd is an independent folding carton manufacturer based in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
- The company has operated for more than 50 years.
- It has purchased a Koenig & Bauer Rapida 106 41-inch seven-colour press with coater.
- The press is described as the largest single capital investment in the company's history.
- Delivery is scheduled for early 2027.
- The press features Instrument Flight, an AI-supported automated colour control system.
Supremex is spending approximately USD 4m to expand and modernise folding carton and e-commerce packaging operations at three US facilities. The programme adds a six-colour offset press with in-line UV coating and new converting equipment at Indianapolis, relocates and upgrades a printing press at its Chicago envelope plant, and adds e-commerce packaging capacity at Naperville. President and chief executive Stewart Emerson said the investment will be funded from existing cash flow and existing credit facilities.
Why this mattersThe investment reduces Supremex's reliance on subcontractors and builds in-house folding carton and e-commerce capacity as it diversifies beyond its core envelope business.
- Total capital investment is approximately USD 4m across three US facilities
- Indianapolis facility gains a six-colour offset press with in-line UV coating plus converting and finishing equipment
- Chicago Envelope facility receives a relocated and upgraded printing press
- Naperville facility adds e-commerce packaging capacity
- Investment funded from existing cash flow and existing credit facilities
- Supremex operates nine plants in Canada and four in the United States, employing about 1,000 people
Smurfit Westrock's German unit has introduced ShelfSmart.AI, a tool that assesses how packaging designs perform against rivals on retail shelves. It combines shelf photography, 3D store models and eye-tracking data, and was used in a redesign for dairy brand Molkerei Ammerland. The launch was announced on 16 September 2026 in Hamburg.
Why this mattersA data-based shelf-impact service gives Smurfit Westrock a way to differentiate its design offering as brand owners compete for retail shelf attention.
- Smurfit Westrock Deutschland launched ShelfSmart.AI on 16 September 2026 in Hamburg.
- The tool analyses shelf visibility and competitive impact using market data, digital visualisation and physical testing.
- It draws on existing shelf photography, 3D store models and eye-tracking studies.
- The tool was applied in a packaging redesign for dairy company Molkerei Ammerland.
- Boris Maschmann, CEO of Smurfit Westrock Deutschland, presented the tool.
Maharashtra's Social Justice and Special Assistance Department has centralised school milk supply for more than 65,000 students onto 200 ml aseptic Tetra Pak cartons of flavoured milk, ending local fresh-milk sourcing by individual hostels and schools. Parag Milk Foods and the Warana dairy cooperative won a three-year e-tender contract at USD 0.28 (INR 26.40) per pack, split by administrative division. Nutritional experts and student groups have questioned the switch from fresh to flavoured milk on health and cost grounds.
Why this mattersThe programme gives organised dairies a large, fixed-price institutional outlet for UHT aseptic cartons, reinforcing demand for cold-chain-free packaging in public procurement.
- The scheme, launched 15 September 2026, covers more than 65,000 students in 449 government hostels and 92 residential schools in Maharashtra.
- Parag Milk Foods and the Warana dairy cooperative won a three-year supply contract at USD 0.28 (INR 26.40) per 200 ml aseptic carton.
- Parag Milk Foods serves the Mumbai, Nashik, Pune and Latur divisions; Warana serves Nagpur, Amravati and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
- The scheme replaces local fresh-milk procurement by individual institutions with centralised aseptic flavoured-milk cartons.
- The approved price and procurement conditions are fixed for three years with no provision for interim rate changes.
- Nutritional experts and student-advocacy groups have objected to the shift from fresh to flavoured, sweetened milk.
Elopak has completed a share buy-back programme launched on 9 September 2026, repurchasing 500,000 own shares on Oslo Børs at an average price of NOK 36.4012 per share for a maximum aggregate value of NOK 22,500,000 (USD 2.4m). The shares are intended to cover obligations under the company's long-term incentive plan, taking Elopak's total holding of own shares to 689,585, or 0.26% of share capital.
Why this mattersThe programme covers Elopak's long-term incentive obligations from treasury shares rather than issuance, leaving the capital structure and free float effectively unchanged.
- Elopak repurchased 500,000 shares at an average price of NOK 36.4012 each.
- The programme, launched 9 September 2026, had a maximum value of NOK 22,500,000 (USD 2.4m).
- The shares are earmarked to meet obligations under Elopak's long-term incentive plan.
- Elopak now holds 689,585 own shares, equal to 0.26% of its share capital.
- The buy-back was conducted on Oslo Børs and disclosed under the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
The Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority has approved a supplement to the demerger and listing prospectus for WISA Group Plc, the entity UPM-Kymmene is spinning off onto Nasdaq Helsinki. The supplement confirms Lasse von Hertzen, previously interim CFO, as permanent Chief Financial Officer of WISA. The demerger is planned to complete on 31 October 2026, with WISA shares expected to start trading on 2 November 2026.
Why this mattersThe spin-off creates a separately listed entity carved out of UPM, letting investors value the unit independently of the parent group.
- Finnish FSA approved the prospectus supplement on 18 September 2026
- Demerger of WISA from UPM-Kymmene planned to complete 31 October 2026
- WISA shares expected to begin trading on Nasdaq Helsinki on 2 November 2026 or shortly after
- Lasse von Hertzen appointed permanent CFO of WISA Group Plc, having served as interim CFO
- WISA's Group Leadership Team now comprises seven senior executives including CEO Tuija Suur-Hamari
- Appointees remain in current UPM roles until the demerger takes effect
Irving Forest Products, a subsidiary of J.D. Irving, is expanding its Ashland Sawmill in Maine to double annual lumber production capacity from 130 million to 250 million board feet. The USD 112.9m modernisation is backed by federal and Maine New Markets Tax Credit programmes and is expected to create or retain 220 permanent jobs.
Why this mattersAn extra 120 million board feet a year enlarges a North American softwood lumber source and deepens J.D. Irving's integrated position in Maine.
- Irving Forest Products, a J.D. Irving subsidiary, is modernising its Ashland Sawmill in Nashville Plantation, Maine.
- Annual lumber production capacity will double from 130 million to 250 million board feet.
- The project is expected to create and retain 220 permanent full-time jobs.
- Financing includes USD 112.9m of combined federal New Markets Tax Credit and Maine New Markets Capital Investment Program allocations.
- The tax credit allocations were placed via seven Community Development Entities including TD Community Development Corporation and Mascoma Community Development.
- TD Community Development Corporation provided USD 10m in NMTC allocation and supported USD 49m of NMTC investments for the project.
AV Nackawic will halt operations at its pulp mill in Nackawic, New Brunswick, next month, leaving about 350 employees out of work. The company has described the shutdown as temporary. The mill is one of the community's largest employers.
Why this mattersThe stoppage takes a pulp mill out of regional supply and idles about 350 workers in a small New Brunswick community.
- About 350 employees at AV Nackawic will be out of work from next month.
- The company describes the shutdown as temporary.
- AV Nackawic is one of the largest employers in the community of Nackawic, New Brunswick.
Crown Holdings' Brazilian unit, Crown Embalagens, will invest about USD 97m (BRL 500m) to expand its beverage can plant in Ponta Grossa, Parana state. A commitment agreement with the Ponta Grossa municipality was signed on 1 September 2026, and the project is expected to make the site Crown's largest can operation in Latin America. The expansion is expected to create more than 300 jobs.
Why this mattersThe expansion makes Ponta Grossa Crown's largest Latin American can plant, adding regional capacity that competing can makers must match to hold share.
- Investment estimated at approximately BRL 500m (USD 97m).
- Commitment agreement signed with Ponta Grossa municipality on 1 September 2026.
- Environmental installation licence for the expansion was issued by IAT in February 2026.
- Project includes a new industrial building for production, administrative and support areas.
- Expansion expected to make Ponta Grossa Crown's largest can operation in Latin America.
- More than 300 new jobs expected to be created.
Saverglass has redesigned the Cepage bottle used by Oregon winery Domaine Serene, cutting glass weight by more than 200 grams, a 30% reduction, while keeping the original silhouette. The bottle will be used across Domaine Serene's estate wines in Oregon and Burgundy, unifying the brand's packaging globally for the first time. The change is expected to avoid about 15 metric tonnes of carbon emissions a year and nearly 250,000 pounds of glass transported.
Why this mattersThe redesign shows glassmakers pursuing weight reduction in premium wine packaging without sacrificing brand identity, a template other luxury producers may follow to cut costs and emissions.
- The new Cepage Eco bottle cuts glass weight by more than 200 grams per bottle, a 30% reduction.
- The redesign is expected to avoid approximately 15 metric tons of carbon emissions annually.
- Annual glass transported is expected to fall by nearly 250,000 pounds.
- The bottle will be used across Domaine Serene's estate wines in Oregon and Burgundy, unifying the brand's packaging for the first time.
- The original Cepage bottle design had been in use for more than 35 years.
- Domaine Serene, founded in 1989, is the flagship estate of Evenstad Estates.
Guala Closures has launched an enhanced version of its Alusnap premium aluminium closure, adding advanced embossing and debossing options and a new tamper-evident indicator feature. The upgrade targets counterfeiting in the spirits sector, which the company cites industry estimates put at 25% to 40% of global consumption. The closure is made across Guala's plants in Italy, Ukraine, India and Bulgaria.
Why this mattersAnti-counterfeiting features on closures give premium spirits brands a differentiator as illicit product estimates run as high as 40% of global consumption.
- Alusnap closure upgraded with new embossing, debossing and surface-texture options for aluminium shells.
- New tamper-evident feature called Indicator can now be integrated into the platform.
- Guala Closures cites industry estimates that 25% to 40% of spirits consumed globally may be counterfeit or illicit.
- Alusnap is produced across Guala Closures facilities in Italy, Ukraine, India and Bulgaria.
- Guala Closures reported over EUR 923m in revenue in 2025 with more than 5,000 employees and 39 production facilities.
The regional stock exchange BRVM suspended trading in three Ivorian companies, including metal packaging maker SONOCO Metal Packaging, from 16 September 2026 for breaches of financial disclosure rules. SONOCO and coconut processor SICOR failed to publish first-quarter and first-half 2026 results, while sugar producer Sucrivoire did not disclose price-sensitive information. Trading will resume once each company files the required disclosures.
Why this mattersThe suspension cuts off liquidity for one of the region's listed metal packaging producers until it corrects disclosure failures flagged for a second time in a year.
- BRVM suspended trading in Sucrivoire, SONOCO Metal Packaging and SICOR from 16 September 2026.
- SICOR and SONOCO were cited for failing to publish first-quarter and first-half 2026 financial results.
- Sucrivoire was suspended for not disclosing price-sensitive information.
- SONOCO was previously suspended from trading on the BRVM in September 2025 for repeated delays in publishing results.
- Trading resumes once SICOR and SONOCO file the outstanding disclosures and Sucrivoire issues its statement.
- The suspension is temporary and does not amount to a delisting.
Cosmetics packaging developer Coverpla has expanded the ecoBottle line it designed for perfume brand Violet to include 50ml and 100ml sizes, using glass from Bormioli Luigi's ecoLine range. The bottle uses 50% less material than standard designs and is built for refilling and disassembly for recycling.
Why this mattersIllustrates continued brand-owner demand for lighter-weight, refillable glass packaging in prestige cosmetics as a lower-cost route to sustainability claims.
- ecoBottle line now available in 50ml and 100ml sizes
- Glass sourced from Bormioli Luigi's ecoLine range
- ecoLine design cuts material use by 50% versus standard bottles
- Bottle has a screw-on ring enabling refilling and disassembly for recycling
- Coverpla developed the bottle, cap and design range; cover is the Paros model in gold-tinted zamak with the Precious pump
- Collection follows Violet's previous 'Cycle' line
Encirc, the glass container and bottling group owned by Vidrala, has appointed Jonathan Culley as Commercial Director. Culley, who previously worked at Rankin Brothers, Verallia and Bacardi, joins as Rob Turvey retires at the end of 2026 after 14 years as Sales and Marketing Director.
Why this mattersTurvey's retirement after 14 years hands commercial terms on roughly 3 billion Encirc containers a year to an executive drawn from Verallia and Bacardi.
- Jonathan Culley joins Encirc as Commercial Director with over 20 years in drinks, packaging and FMCG, including roles at Rankin Brothers, Verallia and Bacardi.
- Rob Turvey retires at the end of 2026 after 14 years as Encirc's Sales and Marketing Director.
- Encirc employs almost 2,000 staff across three sites: Derrylin (Co Fermanagh), Elton (Cheshire) and Bristol.
- Encirc produces around 3 billion glass bottles and containers annually and can fill up to 500 million litres of bulk shipped beverages per year.
- Encirc is part of the Vidrala Group.
Indian packaging manufacturer Paras Pack will formally launch new blueberry bucket and tube formats at Fruit Attraction in Madrid, responding to grower and distributor demand for pack sizes beyond the standard 125g. The buckets combine a PP body with a recycled-PET lid in 250g and 500g sizes, with a 1kg version still in development, while a 200g tube is made from recycled PET. Commercial manufacturing is expected to begin in mid-December 2026, initially on a made-to-order basis.
Why this mattersLarger recycled-PET formats give berry exporters an alternative to the 125g standard, shifting produce volumes toward rigid packs from mid-December 2026.
- Paras Pack will formally launch blueberry buckets and tubes at Fruit Attraction in Madrid.
- Commercial manufacturing of the new formats is expected to begin in mid-December 2026.
- The bucket has a PP body and recycled-PET lid, offered in 250g and 500g sizes, with a 1kg version under development.
- The 200g tube is made from recycled PET with ventilation holes.
- Interest in larger blueberry formats (200g, 350g, 500g, 1kg) comes from growers and distributors in the Netherlands, Spain, Morocco, Georgia, the GCC, Chile and Peru.
- Paras Pack will also present recycled-PET sauce cups and single-serve produce bowls with dome lids at the same event.
French bio-polymer maker Lactips and US-based SmartSolve Industries have signed a global strategic partnership to commercialise PureNil 0, a 100% plastic-free, water-soluble flexible packaging substrate. The companies began collaborating in 2024 and have taken the material from development to commercial scale, with customers in beauty, personal care, food and beverage. The agreement extends to a joint roadmap for future bio-based, plastic-free packaging materials.
Why this mattersA commercial-scale, food-contact-approved, plastic-free dispersible substrate could give brand owners a viable alternative to conventional flexible plastic packaging, pressuring incumbent film suppliers.
- Lactips and SmartSolve announced a global strategic partnership on 18 September 2026.
- The partnership commercialises PureNil 0, described as the first 100% plastic-free, dispersible, printable flexible packaging substrate.
- PureNil 0 combines SmartSolve's bio-based functionalized paper with Lactips' natural polymer resin technology.
- The material is approved for direct food contact and is already sold to customers in beauty, personal care, and food and beverage.
- The two companies began an R&D collaboration in 2024 and reached commercial scale in under two years.
- The agreement includes a joint innovation roadmap for future generations of bio-based, plastic-free packaging materials beyond PureNil 0.
WERIT, Frontier Agriculture and Wisdom Systems have jointly developed a closed transfer system that lets farmers fill crop sprayers directly from reusable intermediate bulk containers, cutting operator exposure, spillage and packaging waste against pouring from conventional containers. WERIT adapted its 600-litre IBC with a Micromatic valve and a channelled base that reduces residual product to under one litre. The partners say sprayer loading is up to 40% faster than conventional filling.
Why this mattersThe collaboration shows IBC packaging design being engineered around a specific application to displace smaller single-use containers, a template other agrochemical distributors may replicate.
- WERIT adapted a 600-litre IBC with a Micromatic valve and a base channel that cuts residual product to less than one litre.
- Closed transfer reduces operator and site exposure by around 98% compared with open pouring, according to Wisdom Systems.
- Transfer rates reach 35 litres per minute, metered by an electronic flow meter accurate to 0.5%.
- Frontier has expanded the system from a single product in a 1,000-litre IBC to more than 20 crop protection and nutrition products.
- Conventional IBCs can retain 15-20 litres of residual product, according to Wisdom Systems.
- Closed transfer systems allow UK farmers to load sprayers up to 40% faster.
The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court on 16 September 2026 stayed a show cause notice issued to UFlex under Section 74(1) of the state GST Act, which demanded USD 0.40m (INR 3.88 crore) in tax, USD 0.43m (INR 4.08 crore) in interest and a matching penalty for the 2020-21 financial year. UFlex argued the notice lacked the foundational allegations of fraud or wilful misstatement required to invoke that section rather than the ordinary Section 73 procedure. The case is listed for further hearing on 30 November 2026, with the stay in place until then.
Why this mattersAn interim stay, not a decision on the merits; the case tests whether the fraud provision can be used once the ordinary assessment window has closed.
- The High Court granted a stay on 16 September 2026 on a notice issued under Section 74(1) of the J&K GST Act.
- The notice demanded USD 0.40m (INR 3.88 crore) in tax, USD 0.43m (INR 4.08 crore) in interest and an equivalent penalty.
- The dispute follows a GST audit of UFlex's Bari Brahmana plant for the 2020-21 financial year.
- UFlex argued the notice disclosed no foundational facts of fraud, wilful misstatement or suppression.
- The notice was issued six days before the 31 August 2026 outer limit under Section 74(2).
- The case is listed for further hearing on 30 November 2026, with the stay continuing until then.
Krones has started production at a new bottling equipment plant in Karnataka, India, built at a cost of about USD 32.9m (INR 3.15bn). The 30-acre site makes ErgoBloc bottling systems and related bottle-making machinery for the Indian market, with capacity of up to 100,000 bottles per hour and around 400 new jobs. Krones plans to progressively increase local manufacturing of equipment and components at the facility.
Why this mattersLocal manufacturing lets Krones compete on cost and lead times in India, one of its fastest-growing markets, against regional machinery makers.
- Plant located in Karnataka, India, on a 30-acre site with about 16,000 sqm of building space
- Investment of about USD 32.9m (INR 3.15bn)
- Facility produces Krones ErgoBloc bottling systems and related bottle-making equipment for the Indian market
- Production capacity of up to 100,000 bottles per hour
- Plant expected to create about 400 local jobs
- Krones plans to phase in higher local production of equipment and components, including ErgoBloc assembly, dry-end equipment, blow-moulded parts and spare parts
Krones will present new high-throughput filling and cleaning technology at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai in November 2026 and at BrauBeviale in Nuremberg, including a PET filler rated at up to 104,000 bottles per hour and a can filler rated at up to 135,000 units per hour. The Bavarian machinery maker, which reported EUR 5.66bn revenue in fiscal 2025, is also introducing a glass-bottle filler entering series production at the end of 2026 and ultrasonic pallet-cleaning equipment aimed at cutting water and energy use.
Why this mattersHigher-throughput fillers and resource-saving cleaning technology let beverage producers raise line output while meeting tightening water and energy targets.
- ErgoBloc L PET filler handles up to 104,000 bottles per hour using two modular filling and capping units
- Modulfill Bloc FS-C can filler rated at up to 135,000 units per hour
- Modulfill HES glass-bottle filler processes up to 78,000 bottles per hour, with series production starting end of 2026
- Krones reported EUR 5.66bn (USD 6.49bn) revenue in fiscal 2025
- Subsidiary Steinecker is showing a dynamic fermentation process for alcohol-free beer at BrauBeviale in Nuremberg
- Lavasonic HI ultrasonic technology is aimed at cutting water and energy use in pallet cleaning
Veralto reported second-quarter 2026 sales growth of 7.6% year on year and adjusted EPS growth of 19.4%, with free cash flow of USD 328m. The company raised full-year adjusted EPS guidance to USD 4.35-4.43 per share, an increase of 12%-14%, and completed the bolt-on acquisition of UV water treatment company Alpha UV. Management expects core sales growth to accelerate to 5%-6% in the second half, led by the Water Quality and Product Quality & Innovation segments.
Why this mattersPackaging-line equipment sits in Veralto's PQI segment, which grew core sales 2% in the quarter, well behind the water business driving the guidance upgrade.
- Full-year adjusted EPS guidance raised to USD 4.35-4.43 per share, up 12%-14% year on year.
- Veralto completed the bolt-on acquisition of Alpha UV, a UV water treatment company.
- Q2 2026 total sales grew 7.6% year on year, with core sales growth of 4.2%.
- Core sales rose 5.7% at Water Quality and 2% at Product Quality & Innovation in Q2 2026.
- Adjusted EPS rose 19.4% in the quarter; free cash flow was USD 328m.
- Veralto has repurchased more than 5 million shares for approximately USD 480m so far this year.
German end-of-line machinery maker Meurer Verpackungssysteme has introduced two secondary packaging machine lines that replace plastic shrink-wrap with recyclable paper sleeves or low-material tape, built on a Rockwell Automation motion-control and visualization architecture. The company says eliminating heat-shrink tunnels cuts packaging line energy consumption by up to 90% while machine efficiency during commissioning exceeded 99%, above its standard 98% guarantee. Both machines fit within the footprint of existing shrink-wrap lines, allowing retrofits without plant reconfiguration.
Why this mattersA drop-in paper alternative to shrink-wrap, fitting existing line footprints, removes a retrofit barrier for food producers cutting plastic and energy in secondary packaging.
- Meurer Verpackungssysteme developed two secondary packaging machine configurations: an enclosed paper sleeve system and an adhesive tape unit using minimal paper or plastic banding.
- Eliminating thermal shrink tunnels cut packaging line energy consumption by up to 90% versus film-wrapping operations.
- Paper-handling platforms achieved sustained machine efficiency above 99%, surpassing Meurer's standard 98% performance guarantee.
- The machines coordinate cutting, feeding, perforation and sealing across up to 18 synchronized motion axes using Rockwell Automation control architecture.
- Machines fit within the standard floor space of older shrink-wrap equipment, enabling retrofits without layout changes.
- Software is built on modular programming aligned with the OMAC packaging standard.
Poly-clip System Deutschland Vertriebs- und Service GmbH and Process-Pack Deutschland GmbH have merged their sales and service operations into a newly founded entity, Lanitech GmbH, effective 1 September 2026. Poly-clip System GmbH & Co. KG continues as an independent manufacturer and technology partner, while Lanitech bundles clipping, processing, packaging and taste-and-technology solutions for food producers.
Why this mattersBundling sales and service across clipping and processing brands lets food-machinery suppliers offer line-level solutions rather than single machines, a model rivals may need to match.
- Lanitech GmbH was newly founded, combining operations effective 1 September 2026
- It merges the former Poly-clip System Deutschland Vertriebs- und Service GmbH and Process-Pack Deutschland GmbH
- Poly-clip System GmbH & Co. KG remains an independent manufacturer of clip closure machinery and consumables
- Lanitech covers four areas: clipping, processing, packaging, and taste & technology
- Spare parts stocking is centralised at the Sulzbach site
- Kristian Blomqvist is managing director of Lanitech GmbH
Mark Andy Print Products has introduced the Color Smart Program, a technical service to improve colour consistency and repeatability for label and packaging converters, effective 18 September 2026. The offer bundles on-site evaluation, press fingerprinting, calibration, product recommendations and documented standard operating procedures, and applies to Mark Andy presses as well as equipment from other manufacturers. It debuts formally at the Loupe Americas 2026 trade event.
Why this mattersThe service addresses converters' shortage of skilled press operators by standardising colour set-up as brand owners tighten quality tolerances.
- Mark Andy Print Products launched the Color Smart Program on 18 September 2026, available immediately
- The five-step process covers listen, evaluate, recommend, calibrate and document stages
- Program bundles press fingerprinting, calibration, product recommendations and documented operating procedures
- Service works across Mark Andy presses and equipment from other manufacturers
- Formal public debut is scheduled for the Loupe Americas 2026 trade event
Optima has received the German Packaging Award 2026 for its SpeedCare Line Smart machine platform, which serves manufacturers of OTC, personal care and home care products. The platform uses a format-independent conveyor system enabling tool-free format changes in under 20 minutes and outputs of up to 240 packages per minute.
Why this mattersThe award recognises flexible, quick-changeover filling technology that lets brand owners run smaller batch sizes economically, a growing requirement as product ranges fragment.
- SpeedCare Line Smart won the German Packaging Award 2026.
- The platform enables tool-free, largely automated format changes in under 20 minutes.
- It can process different container types and formats on the same line, with or without a puck.
- Maximum output is 240 packages per minute.
- The platform targets OTC, personal care and home care product manufacturers.
Durst Group has appointed GMG Americas as an authorised reseller of its Open Software Initiative (OSI), extending distribution of the vendor-neutral print-software portfolio across the Americas. GMG Americas will sell OSI's Prepare prepress-automation tool and Produce RIP and colour-management software alongside its own colour products. The partnership was unveiled on 17 September 2026 ahead of PRINTING United Expo 2026 in Las Vegas.
Why this mattersThe tie-up extends the reach of Durst's open, vendor-neutral software layer into a competitor's US distribution channel.
- GMG Americas becomes an authorised reseller of Durst's Open Software Initiative (OSI) for the Americas.
- GMG Americas will resell OSI's Prepare prepress-automation and Produce RIP and colour-management products.
- Announcement made 17 September 2026 ahead of PRINTING United Expo 2026 in Las Vegas.
- OSI is described as the vendor-neutral integration layer of Durst's Kyveris platform.
Veritiv has launched TempSafe RxShield, a compact cold chain packaging product for specialty pharmacies handling refrigerated GLP-1 therapies and other temperature-sensitive drugs. The package weighs about 240 grams, holds up to four 10 mL vials, maintains refrigerated temperatures for up to 30 hours and is validated to ISTA 7E standards; it is now available through Veritiv's US cold chain distribution network.
Why this mattersSurging GLP-1 prescription volumes are pushing pharmacy distributors to redesign cold chain packaging around shipping cost and storage density rather than protection alone.
- TempSafe RxShield maintains refrigerated temperatures for up to 30 hours
- Package weighs approximately 240 grams and holds up to four 10 mL vials
- Product is validated to ISTA 7E thermal performance standards
- Solution is commercially available through Veritiv's nationwide US cold chain network
- Adult GLP-1 use is stated to have risen from 3% in 2024 to 11% in 2026
Terminal Cuenca del Plata (TCP), 80% owned by Katoen Natie, is weighing a civil claim for losses it attributes to dockworker stoppages during 2026, which it puts at 379.5 hours of interrupted activity over 45 days between 1 January and 11 September. TCP estimates combined direct and Uruguayan foreign-trade losses could reach tens of millions of dollars, a figure it has not finalised. Talks with the Supra union on a new collective agreement have been unresolved since the previous deal expired in April; the union says the dispute concerns worker guarantees alone and rejects suggestions it serves outside interests.
Why this mattersRepeated stoppages at Uruguay's only container terminal are pushing volumes to the public quays and Buenos Aires while a rival terminal proposal advances.
- TCP recorded 379.5 hours of interrupted activity over 45 days between 1 January and 11 September 2026.
- TCP estimates combined direct and Uruguayan foreign-trade losses could reach tens of millions of dollars; the amount is not final.
- Freight bodies estimated daily losses of USD 400,000-500,000 during the disruptions, with truck queues delayed up to 18 hours.
- MSC moved part of its Montevideo services to its Buenos Aires terminal.
- TCP is 80% owned by Katoen Natie and 20% by Uruguay's National Ports Administration, and is the country's only dedicated container terminal.
- Montevideo's long-haul container volumes rose almost 5% in the first seven months of 2026.
Procter & Gamble has granted Austrian recycling equipment maker Lindner exclusive global rights to Flexloop, a solvent-assisted mechanical recycling technology for flexible plastic film. The modular process adds a solvent extraction step ahead of conventional washing to strip inks, adhesives and odours from polyethylene and polypropylene films, targeting recyclate for cosmetics, personal care and hygiene packaging. Lindner reports contaminant removal rates of 99.7-99.8% in challenge tests.
Why this mattersHigher-purity mechanically recycled polyethylene could open sensitive, higher-value applications currently reserved for virgin resin, easing recycled-content compliance for flexible-film converters.
- P&G developed Flexloop and has licensed it exclusively and globally to Lindner
- Flexloop is a modular solvent extraction step that integrates into existing Lindner washing and recycling lines
- The process targets flexible film streams including LDPE, HDPE and polypropylene
- Challenge tests using benzophenone and methyl stearate showed contaminant removal rates of 99.7-99.8%
- Target applications include cosmetics, personal care and hygiene packaging
- The technology requires no new processing plant, building on existing mechanical recycling infrastructure
German jam maker Schwartauer Werke's new brand The Jam has won the Red Dot Award 2026 in the packaging design category. The design, developed with agency Berndt+Partner Creality, uses a minimalist glass jar with direct printing instead of a paper label, aimed at winning back Generation Z consumers. The product launched in stores in June 2026 in four varieties, 220g jars, with 60 per cent fruit content and about 39 per cent less sugar than conventional jam.
Why this mattersShows brand owners using glass jar redesign and direct printing to differentiate on shelf, a template other food brands may follow for younger consumers.
- The Jam won the Red Dot Award 2026 in the packaging design category.
- Schwartauer Werke developed the brand to target Generation Z consumers.
- Design agency Berndt+Partner Creality created the brand identity and packaging.
- The jar uses direct printing instead of a paper label.
- The Jam launched in stores in June 2026 in four varieties, 220g jars.
- Product has 60 per cent fruit content and about 39 per cent less sugar than conventional jam.
DuPont's Cyrel Flexographic Solutions has launched two new plates, Cyrel EASY ESXR and Cyrel EASY FAST EFXR, extending its Cyrel ReNew portfolio to solvent and thermal platemaking workflows. The plates use a photopolymer containing more than 50% ISCC PLUS-certified bio-circular raw material via a mass-balance approach. The products were unveiled on the opening day of LOUPE Americas 2026 in Chicago.
Why this mattersGives label and packaging converters a lower-carbon platemaking option without requiring new equipment, broadening adoption of bio-circular inputs in flexo printing.
- Two new plates launched: Cyrel EASY ESXR (solvent) and Cyrel EASY FAST EFXR (thermal)
- Announced on opening day of LOUPE Americas 2026 in Chicago
- Photopolymer contains more than 50% ISCC PLUS-certified bio-circular raw material
- EFXR plates process in under one hour with no drying step on the Cyrel FAST thermal system
- Cyrel ReNew previously won the Sustainability Excellence Award at FTA FORUM INFOFLEX 2026
Sun Chemical obtained RecyClass certification in March 2026 for its solvent-based nitrocellulose-alternative ink system for flexible packaging. The company pairs its SunUno SoliCycle polyurethane-based inks with RecyClass-certified SunLam lamination adhesives, offering converters a single-source recyclable packaging structure. Sun Chemical sources polyurethane resin through parent DIC and its Sapici unit, acquired in 2022.
Why this mattersCertified NC-alternative inks give flexible-packaging converters a route to meet tightening EU recyclability and PPWR expectations without switching ink suppliers.
- Sun Chemical obtained RecyClass certification in March 2026 for its solvent-based nitrocellulose-alternative ink solutions
- SunUno SoliCycle inks are polyurethane-based, replacing nitrocellulose for flexo and gravure flexible packaging printing
- SunLam ULM lamination adhesives are RecyClass-certified and compatible with flexible PE recycling streams, including coloured PE
- Sun Chemical sources PU resin via parent DIC, a top-10 global PU resin producer, and via Sapici, acquired in 2022
- Sun Chemical is among the first suppliers to gain RecyClass certification for solvent-based NC-alternative inks in Europe
Russian petrochemical group SIBUR has started industrial production of HAGL, a monomaterial polypropylene film for sealing ready-meal trays, developed at its Biaxplen site in Nizhny Novgorod region. The film has been tested at food packaging maker Georg Polymer, which plans a first industrial batch of trays using the material. The launch follows Russian rules requiring packaging producers to fund or carry out recycling, with a target of 100% packaging recycling by 2027.
Why this mattersA mono-PP tray-and-film system that skips sorting could displace PET/PE laminates in Russia's fast-growing ready-meal segment as extended producer responsibility rules tighten.
- HAGL film is made from PP H031 polypropylene at SIBUR's Biaxplen site in Nizhny Novgorod region.
- The film and tray form a monomaterial system that SIBUR says can be recycled without sorting.
- Georg Polymer has tested the film and plans a first industrial batch of trays using it.
- Up to 70% of prepared food in Russia is sold in hermetically sealed polymer trays, according to the source.
- Russia's 2024 waste law amendments require packaging producers to fund or carry out recycling, with a 100% packaging recycling target by 2027.
- Ready-made food packaging accounts for about 30% of Georg Polymer's sales, according to its flexible packaging materials head.
Mercer International is curtailing production this month at its 360,000 tonne-per-year Rosenthal northern bleached softwood kraft mill in Germany, for a mix of scheduled maintenance and market-related reasons. The downtime comes as Mercer continues to switch its Celgar mill from NBSK to unbleached kraft pulp on a weaker NBSK market. US NBSK spot prices to the East and Midwest rose USD 5 per tonne to USD 700-720 net delivered through 11 September 2026.
Why this mattersEuropean downtime and announced Canadian closures are thinning spot NBSK availability, giving producers their first price gain in months.
- Rosenthal has capacity of 360,000 tonnes a year of NBSK pulp.
- The September 2026 curtailment covers both scheduled maintenance and market-related downtime.
- Mercer is shifting Celgar output from NBSK to unbleached kraft pulp on a weaker NBSK market.
- US NBSK spot prices to the East and Midwest rose USD 5 per tonne to USD 700-720 per tonne net delivered through 11 September 2026.
- Preliminary September US NBSK contract list prices were unchanged at USD 1,570 per tonne; SBSK was flat at USD 1,505 per tonne.
- Announced closures of Canfor and Domtar market NBSK mills in Canada have so far had little price impact.
New UK Environment Agency data shows 61.8% of flexible plastic packaging assessed under the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM) received the lowest 2025 rating, according to analysis by circular economy specialist Reconomy. Under packaging EPR (pEPR) fee modulation, due to begin in the scheme's second year, red-rated packaging will cost 20% more per tonne than amber-rated packaging, with Defra's RAM 2027 guidance applying to packaging supplied from 1 January 2027. Large producers with a high share of red-rated flexible plastics could face materially higher PackUK invoices.
Why this mattersFee modulation shifts cost toward flexible-film packaging unless producers secure take-back scheme evidence, pushing redesign and reformulation across UK food packaging.
- 61.8% of flexible plastic packaging assessed under RAM received the lowest (red) rating in 2025, per Environment Agency data analysed by Reconomy.
- Red-rated packaging will cost 20% more per tonne than amber-rated packaging under pEPR fee modulation.
- RAM v1.1 applies to packaging supplied in 2026; RAM 2027 guidance applies to packaging supplied from 1 January to 31 December 2027.
- Total UK packaging tonnage reported by large producers fell 1.2% (about 135,000 tonnes) to 10.97 million tonnes in 2025, from 11.11 million tonnes in 2024.
- Plastic packaging tonnage fell by approximately 52,300 tonnes and glass by around 51,600 tonnes in 2025; aluminium rose by about 8,700 tonnes.
- The first pEPR assessment year began 1 April 2025, with the first invoices issued in October 2025.
California's SB 54 extended producer responsibility law faces two competing lawsuits: 17 US states and a wholesalers' association filed suit on 22 June 2026 arguing the law is unconstitutional, while three environmental groups sued CalRecycle on 2 June 2026 claiming the finalised implementing regulations weaken the law. The litigation leaves consumer product companies operating under SB 54's data reporting, eco-modulated fee and recycling requirements while the outcome remains uncertain. A comparable Oregon EPR law was upheld by a federal court on 27 August 2026, a precedent both sides are watching.
Why this mattersThe outcome will determine whether producers face SB 54's reporting, fee and recycling mandates or a weakened or suspended regime, shaping compliance costs across the US packaging supply chain.
- SB 54, California's Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, was signed into law in 2022.
- CalRecycle finalised revised implementing regulations in May 2026 after a restart ordered by Governor Newsom in March 2025.
- On 2 June 2026, NRDC, Californians Against Waste Foundation and Oceana Inc. sued CalRecycle claiming the 2026 regulations create loopholes weakening SB 54.
- On 22 June 2026, 17 US states led by Nebraska and the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors sued CalRecycle and the Circular Action Alliance, calling SB 54 unconstitutional.
- CalRecycle estimates packaging accounts for over 50% by volume of California landfill waste.
- On 27 August 2026, an Oregon federal court rejected a similar NAW challenge to Oregon's plastic packaging EPR law.
The European Commission has warned it may suspend exports of plastic waste to Turkey unless Ankara addresses pollution problems identified in a Commission assessment dated 1 September 2026. Turkey received 510,000 tonnes of EU plastic waste last year, 36% of all EU plastic waste exports and 70% of exports to OECD countries, with only around 10% recycled domestically. The Commission has for now opted to engage with Turkish authorities rather than trigger a suspension procedure under the EU Waste Shipment Regulation.
Why this mattersTurkey is the EU's largest plastic waste outlet; a suspension would strand volumes just as a ban on non-OECD exports takes effect on 21 November 2026, tightening the region's recycling capacity.
- Commission assessment dated 1 September 2026 found evidence Turkey's plastic waste treatment could breach EU rules
- Turkey imported 510,000 tonnes of EU plastic waste in 2025, 36% of all EU plastic waste exports and 70% of exports to OECD countries
- Only around 10% of plastic waste is recycled in Turkey, with the rest landfilled, mismanaged or leaked into the environment
- EU export ban to non-OECD countries takes effect from 21 November 2026, which could redirect more waste to Turkey
- The Commission has opted to engage with Turkish authorities for now rather than suspend exports immediately
- A list of non-OECD countries seeking exemptions from the export ban is due to be published in the coming days, with the Commission required to adopt it by November 2026
Australia's environment ministers agreed on 18 September 2026 that packaging reform is an urgent priority, naming soft plastics, battery stewardship and solar panels as initial focus areas under the Circular Economy Roadmap. The communique sets no timetable, no mandatory extended producer responsibility scheme and no recycled-content or collection targets, with officials to report back at a future, undated meeting. Industry reaction split, with Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia welcoming the focus while Boomerang Alliance and WMRR criticised the lack of concrete commitments.
Why this mattersContinued delay to mandatory EPR or design rules leaves Australian packaging producers and recyclers without regulatory certainty for investment planning.
- The Environment Ministers Meeting communique of 18 September 2026 names soft plastics, battery stewardship and solar panels as initial harmonisation priorities under the National Competition Policy.
- The communique sets no timetable, no mandatory extended producer responsibility scheme for packaging and no collection, recycling, recycled-content or reuse targets.
- No date is set for the next Environment Ministers Meeting, at which officials are to report back.
- Ministers agreed packaging must be significantly reduced and designed for recycling, with design standards forming part of reform.
- The federal government confirmed earlier in September 2026 that it will not introduce a new Commonwealth packaging scheme this term.
- NSW has implemented mandatory battery stewardship and intends to finalise mandatory solar panel regulation by the end of 2026, according to WMRR.
Assovetro, the Italian glass industry association, has warned that natural gas prices climbing back above EUR 80 per MWh threaten the competitiveness and production continuity of the sector, urging the government for immediate energy-cost relief. The association says gas covers over 80% of energy needs for many glass producers, whose furnaces run continuously and cannot be shut down to wait for better market conditions. It is calling for decoupled marginal pricing and long-term supply access on terms competitive with US and Asian rivals, warning of a widening cost gap that could trigger plant stoppages, job losses and relocation of capacity.
Why this mattersSustained high gas costs could force Italian glass furnace closures or capacity relocation, tightening European glass container supply for beverage and food customers.
- Natural gas prices have risen above EUR 80 per MWh, prompting Assovetro to warn of risks to production continuity
- Energy accounted for 18.9% of Italian glass production costs in 2024, down from 22.1% in 2023 and nearly 29% in 2022, with peaks of 56% in some cases
- Assovetro president Vitaliano Torno says without visibility on government support, investment and production capacity are at risk
- Vice-president Marco Ravasi calls for decoupling the price of the most expensive marginal quota from the rest of the market and for long-term gas supply access at internationally competitive terms
- European gas can cost up to eight times more than in the United States, while Asian and North African competitors benefit from subsidised energy and lighter environmental and fiscal constraints
- Assovetro represents 70 companies and about 16,000 direct employees; the Italian glass industry produced over 5.5 million tonnes in 2025 generating roughly EUR 9 billion in revenue
The House Energy and Commerce Committee has advanced the Recycled Materials Attribution Act (RMAA) and the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act, both aimed at setting a single US national standard for recycled-content and recycling claims. The RMAA would direct the Federal Trade Commission to update its Green Guides and enforce against unsubstantiated recycled claims, replacing a patchwork of state rules. Both bills now move further through the legislative process in Congress.
Why this mattersA single US federal standard for recycled-content claims would remove compliance costs from state-by-state labelling rules and give manufacturers clearer grounds to invest in recycling technology.
- The RMAA and PACK Act cleared the House Energy and Commerce Committee on 18 September 2026
- The RMAA would require recycled claims to be backed by scientific evidence and direct the FTC to update its Green Guides
- The RMAA is intended to replace differing state recycled-content labelling standards with one national standard
- Rep. Randy Weber said the PACK Act aims to cut compliance costs from differing state labelling and packaging requirements
- Consumer Brands Association and the Recycling Leadership Council issued letters of support for the bills
More than a dozen European packaging manufacturers have filed complaints with the European Court of Justice seeking full or partial annulment of the EU packaging regulation, citing disproportionate provisions and effects on competition. Latvia's Ministry of Climate and Energy has meanwhile set out the requirements that will replace the current directive, covering substances of concern, an expanded packaging definition and a declaration of conformity to be kept for five years for single-use and ten years for reusable packaging. Retailers and food producers expect the biggest changes by 2030, when all packaging must be recyclable and several single-use formats are banned.
Why this mattersA pending annulment action adds legal uncertainty to PPWR conformity documentation and the 2030 recyclability deadline that producers are already budgeting for.
- More than a dozen European packaging manufacturers have filed complaints with the European Court of Justice seeking full or partial annulment of the regulation.
- Declarations of conformity must be kept for five years for single-use packaging and ten years for reusable packaging.
- The packaging definition is extended to items such as permeable tea and coffee bags intended to be discarded with the product.
- By 2030 all packaging must be recyclable and bans on certain single-use packaging types take effect.
- Latvia's State Environmental Service will enforce the rules with the Food and Veterinary Service and the Consumer Rights Protection Centre.
- A Latvian University of Biosciences and Technology study found 22% of packaging lacks material-type information and 10% is oversized.
