06 / 2025

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"TOP TALK PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 20 Interview with Christoph Wöss, Director Global Sales at Erema GmbH Will the turnaround start now?by Heike Fischer Some selected media representatives from the plastics industry were invited to the Erema Group for a K’ 2025 preview event at the beginning of June. In their usual friendly and charming manner, the team led by CEO Manfred Hackl answered the journalists’ questions. Christoph Wöss, the newly appointed Director Global Sales and an expert in PET recycling, was unfortunately not on site. That’s why PETplanet is now taking the opportunity to speak with him! PETplanet: Christoph, you’ve just returned from Peru! What was the reason for your trip? Wöss: Hello Heike! As always, it is a pleasure to talk to you about PET recycling and I thank PETplanet for the opportunity to do so in retrospect. Yes, that’s right, I was in Peru the very week of the K’ preview event. I visited a few Erema customers there and the CMT “Circular Plastics Packaging” conference took place in Lima at the same time. It was and will always be important to me in my new position to find out what was actually happening on the ground. My key takeaways from this trip were that there are many good reasons to hope for more recycling in Latin America. On the one hand, many countries there already have EPR schemes, recycling targets and framework conditions that enable the use of rPET for direct food contact. On the other hand, the Latin American industry has repeatedly suffered setbacks in the form of very high inflation, high interest rates on loans and political instability. However, I have taken away a very positive general mood in the packaging industry as a whole and look forward to the next 1-3 years with optimism. PETplanet: What can Erema expect from its new Director Global Sales? Wöss: Erema is preparing intensively for the next leap towards internationalisation process of plastics recycling. On the one hand, this includes streamlining and optimising internal processes so that a copy in other countries works. We took this step over the past one to two years, making good use of the time during the recession that affected certain areas. At the same time, we need locally harmonised strategies that are aligned with the Erema portfolio and our core values. This is exactly where I come in – I want to spread our opportunities and the Erema spirit to our current and future subsidiaries worldwide so that people outside Ansfelden also want to passionately support our mission ‘Another life for plastic - because we care’. PETplanet: Manfred Hackl reported that the financial year 2024/2025 closed with a 13% decline. A 10% decrease is forecast for 2025/2026. At least, things seem to be picking up again. What are the indicators of this slight upturn? Wöss: Despite the currently challenging market environment, we see clear potential for positive developments – on multiple levels. With its technologies and solutions, the Erema Group covers the entire value chain of mechanical plastics recycling. By combining our expertise, we ensure that our customers remain competitive even in a dynamic market environment. This is reflected in our broad product portfolio, high system availability, and the quality of our service. The plastics industry has increasingly recognised that the share of recycled materials in new products must continue to grow to achieve our shared goal of a functioning circular economy. While the European market has been subdued, the Group experienced positive momentum in North America and Asia. Regulations such as the PPWR (packaging and packaging waste directive), which has come into force in the EU, also give a positive outlook in Europe, provided that competitiveness can increase again. This would mean launching initiatives that combine ecological and economic interests and strengthen the industrial base, like the Clean Industrial Deal in the EU. Just as important are global developments that create reliable framework conditions, such as the rollout of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and legal requirements for mandatory use of recycled materials in new products. However, we are also increasingly noticing that the plastics industry, especially in Europe is not letting itself get down and that there has been a strong sense of optimism, especially since the last PRSE show in Amsterdam. Even though we are plagued by excessive bureaucratisation here in Europe, the various associations are trying to push Brussels in the right direction. Just to name a few, harmonisation of the PPWR and SUPD and of immanent importance for the rPET market will be, that only PET packaging material that was previously placed in Europe counts towards achieving the recycling targets. This means that imports from third countries must not be counted, and this strengthens the European recycling industry in the long term! Personally, I am absolutely convinced that a true circular economy only works if the cycle remains in its own region. It is important to consider the environmental impact of our actions, and it is counterproductive to discuss recycling if we unnecessarily add to the CO2 emissions of rPET by transporting it over long distances. PETplanet: Erema has established a broad foundation in plastics recycling - the right strategy to create balance when necessary. Has there been one division in particular that has supported the company over the past two years? Wöss: Fortunately, no! And that’s exactly where the strength of Erema and the entire Erema Group lies. Our broad positioning across multiple areas of plastics recycling creates a stable foundation – even in challenging times. Internally, we don’t refer to “divisions”"},{"@ID":34

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 32 FlexBlow announces pharma-grade ROPP 28 preforms for Pharma and other specialist markets Launch of roll-on pilfer proof preform range FlexBlow, a Lithuanian company, has announced that it has launched a new ROPP (roll-on pilfer proof) preform range that includes a pharma-grade 35 g variant. While its ROPP 28 family has been developed initially for the pharmaceutical industry, it has plans for other variants, such as for the personal care and premium spirits markets. FlexBlow, which is headquartered in Kretinga, Lithuania, says that its new ROPP 28 preform is particularly suitable for converters and brand owners that need small to mid-size batches of non-standard preforms and have faced challenges in sourcing consistent, high-quality supplies. The company has established a new, dedicated special preforms production plant and has also launched a digital platform that allows customers to select preforms and compatible closures, while custom development services are available for unique projects. Its range extends beyond ROPP to other specialist preforms include various formats, intended to help customers to achieve their ideal bottle designs. Special solutions The ROPP name is derived from its specially-designed functions for applications that need high levels of security, product safety and integrity, such as pharmaceuticals and food and beverage. An ROPP cap “rolls on” to the bottle and automatically provides a pilfer-proof seal that will indicate when it has been tampered with or has suffered unauthorised attempts to remove it. FlexBlow says that its dedicated ROPP preform production facility has been equipped with advanced production technology that will ensure high quality, consistency and durability, which will, along with its commitment to first-class materials, enable it to deliver its claim that its ROPP family will provide excellent barrier properties and protect the contents from moisture, oxygen and any other external contaminants that could compromise integrity. They are designed to be compatible with a range of closures, which makes them appropriate for a variety of pharmaceutical applications. The company offers hot-fill, widemouth, rPET, biodegradable and fully bespoke formats and is developing 20 g and 10 g variants, for lighter and smaller-format packages. Quality control FlexBlow has deployed advanced quality control processes throughout the manufacturing process. Its injection moulding processes enable precise control over preforms’ dimensions and weight, which ensures consistency in size and shape – crucial for closure compatibility and maintaining packaging integrity. Regular inspections and testing help to ensure that each preform meets required specifications and help to identify and address any potential issues before the preforms are shipped to customers. The company has a strong record of investment in research and development, both to improve its manufacturing processes and to develop new variants of the ROPP preforms. FlexBlow maintains that its commitment to innovation ensures that it meet the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical industry, especially for safety and security of pharmaceutical products. It continues to develop additional variants of the ROPP preforms to cater for different needs, which includes creating preforms with different neck finishes, weights, and barrier properties to meet specific requirements of different products. Ease of access FlexBlow’s latest digital platform, which is cloud-based and therefore accessible from anywhere in the world with an internet connection, offers customers immediate access to a comprehensive range of preforms and closures. Its interface is intended to offer easy navigation through the entire range and to make product selection and ordering as quick and easy as possible. Users can access detailed information about each preform, its exact specifications and compatibility details and thus make informed decisions on appropriateness and quality. The platform also enables access to custom development services for unique projects and enables straightforward collaboration with FlexBlow’s team, to create tailored solutions for particular projects and thus achieve optimised bottle designs. FlexBlow believes that these initiatives will support the market and producers’ transition from traditional packaging materials, like glass or HDPE to PET packaging. www.fl exblow.com PREFORMS Complete ROPP solution with preform, mould, bottle & closure, all by FlexBlow Preform injection machines"},{"@ID":31

"MARKET SURVEY 29 PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net EISBÄR TROCKENTECHNIK GMBH / Wuhrmühle 22 / A–6840 Götzis / T +43 5523 55558-0 / F –50 / [email protected] / www.eisbaer.at RECYCLING Conveying Drying Crystallizing Mixing&Dosing Decontamination Testing Sipa Acme Die Systems PVT LTD Netstal Maschinen AG Sacmi Via Caduti del Lavaro 3, 31029 Vittorio Veneto, Italy +39 043891 1511 www.sipa.it Ms Anna Horecica Csiki Preform Systems Product Manager +39 043891 1511 [email protected] C207, Mayapuri Ind. Area, Phase 2, New Delhi 110064, India +91 11 47718888 www.acmedisys.com Mr Harbir Singh Managing Director +91 9811039129 [email protected] Tschachenstrasse 1, 8752 Näfels, Switzerland +41 55 618 6111 www.netstal.com Mr Stefan Kleinfeld Product Manager +41 55 618 6241 [email protected] Via Selice Provinciale 17/A, 40026 Imola BO, Italy +39 0542 607 111 www.sacmi.it Mr Moraldo Masi Director of Business Unit PET +39 0542 607 888 [email protected] XFORM 250 XFORM 350 XFORM 500 XTREME 72 XTREME 96 Acme PET-Line 3000, PET-Line 4000, PET-Line 5000 IPS220 IPS300 IPS400 96 128 200 72 96 From 2 to 96 24-192 16-72 24-128 48-144 800g Max. shot weight 6600 g 140g 140g 140g Up to 1,700kg/h Up to 1,600kg/h 625kg/h 900kg/h 1,250kg/h 69,000 92,000 147,000 52,000 69,000 20,000 - 125,000 XFORM: low energy consumption, fast cycle time, low maintenance cost up to 12 million cycle warranty on cold half; XTREME: injection-compression technology, ultra-thin wall capability, two preforms can be produced simultaneously Full hot runner moulds with advanced technology of Acme Die Systems for various applications, Viz. water, beverages, CSD, oil, pharma, cosmetics, jars etc Intrusion: PETX-Screw (=optimized 100% rPET processing) & Smart Operation (= safe and guided operation) Injection cylinder (shooting pot), electrical drive for plasticising screw, T-belt for preforms extraction, Cool+ system (inside cooling), belt free robot linear motor with KERS, take-out plate with three post-cooling stations, HMI with control of all auxiliaries, boosters on moving platen for first phase ejection, double cylinder for preform ejection; digital valves for each actuator, water unloading system prior to mould changing and injection shot completition device (power failure). XFORM: LongLife tooling coating, XMold for ultra-thin preform injection capability, wide-mouth preforms capability: XTREME: built-in inspection system for 100% quality check, 100% recyled flakes processing capability, direct connection with XTRA SBM Cycle guard (= controlled production shutdown during a power outage), NRC (= Netstal remote control), energy measurement, preform inside cooling, staggered EOAT (= additional cooling station) and integrated Q-monitoring system, Adaptive System Pressure Reduction Water pumps for mould cooling assembled on main machine platform; quality control vision system with multiple camera, soft handling package, walkway, high temperature environment package and cooling water sensoring kit"},{"@ID":26

"BOTTLE MAKING 24 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Zelde bottle made from recycled BioPET with no-label option in selected markets Smartweight water bottle launch by Ruari McCallion Italian design consultancy Gentlebrand has announced the commercial launch of Zelda Smartweight Water, a range of bottles designed for mineral waters, made entirely from BioPET and with the option for no-label production where permitted. “Zelda is currently a pilot project, developed and prototyped internally by Gentlebrand, made entirely of 100% BioPET supplied by UPM Biochemicals,” said Luca Baldessin, Innovation and Packaging Expert in Gentlebrand’s sales department. UPM Biochemicals is a Finnish company, headquartered in Helsinki, which specialises in wood-based alternatives to fossil fuel-based glycols and plastics. Its BioPET is composed of 30% bioMEG (monoethylene glycol sourced from plants, rather than fossil fuels) and 70% bioPTA (terepthalic acid, sourced from renewable plant-based resources such as sugarcane or biomass). The components are easily recyclable according to European RecyClass Guidelines and standards. The packaging can be processed after use and transformed into new materials, thus reducing waste and demand for virgin resources. Gentlebrand’s Zelda project uses local, renewable wood for both its bioMEG and bioPTA component materials. Environmental awareness and Circular Economy Zelda Smartweight Water bottles, available in 20 cl, 33 cl, 55 cl and 150 cl, are designed for an increasingly eco-conscious market, with the objective from outset to be lightweight. A 500ml bottle weighs just 10 g, for example. Gentlebrand claims that its Smartweight technology reduces packaging weight while maintaining strength, and optimises environmental impact during production, transport and final disposal. The bioplastic material it is made from is completely recyclable back into food standard bottles, thus offering converters a completely closed-loop, circular economy option for bottle production. The Zelda bottle does not sacrifice visual appeal or performance in practice for the sake of ecological or environmental credentials and nor is it relying on eco features to charge a premium price. “The creative element is integrated with technical expertise to guarantee a bottle that is aligned with the market, in terms of performance and packaging cost and, on the other hand with an eye-catching character that the marketing team can work with to create their message,” said Luca Baldessin. Compatible with existing production machinery Although the bioPET raw material is not from conventional sources, users will not have to invest in new equipment in order to use it. Luca Baldessin, Innovation and Packaging Expert at Gentlebrand"},{"@ID":9

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"MARKET SURVEY 28 PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net MARKET SURVEY 28 Preform Equipment Company name Otto Systems AG Postal address Telephone number Web site address Contact name Function Direct telephone number E-Mail Otto Systems AG Zürcherstrasse 73, CH-8730 Uznach +41 55 285 22 11 www.otto-systems.com Reto Bamert Division Manager PET +41 55 285 22 69 [email protected] Preform injection moulding systems Machine model number / name PET-Series 160, PET-Series 240, PET-Series 320 Number of cavities (min/max units) 4 - 128 cavities Maximum individual preform weight up to 780 g Max resin through-put (kg/h of PET) up to 1'040 kg/h PET Produced preforms per hour (min/max) up to 90'000 pcs./ h Standard Features (short description / keywords) Otto Systems is a premium supplier of integrated PET preform production systems with a modular and standardised design. The systems feature an outstanding level of flexibility, functionality and compactness. The PET-Series gives producers a high-performance system for small production batches that is compatible with selected top-entry moulds and, as a variant, capable of producing preforms up to 400 milimetres in length. Options / Special Features (short description/keywords) “The HOD-Series from Otto Systems is the world’s first high-performance preform production system tailored specifically to the HOD market. With a 160- and 240-ton system, the HOD-Series meets all the demanding technical requirments for producing large and heavy preforms. The PET-Series system with its special configuration of the tie bar spacing, ensures compatibility with the most important top-accessible moulds.”"},{"@ID":7

"TOP TALK PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 21 but rather to application areas that together form the backbone of our strategic approach. Of course, there are periods when one segment – such as post-consumer recycling – shows particularly strong growth. And yes, this is where we see the greatest long-term potential. That said, it’s encouraging to note that revenue has remained well-balanced across our different business areas over the past few years. This balance proves that our approach works. On top of that, we have several promising developments in the pipeline – let’s call them “hot irons in the fire” – that may not be visible just yet, but they’re definitely coming. It’s this combination of technological breadth, market proximity, and innovation that makes our strategy so robust for the future. PETplanet: India continues to be a strong sales market. Which machines sell particularly well there? Where do you see other potential markets? Wöss: India has been a very strong market, especially in the PET sector, where we’ve sold many bottle-to-bottle systems like VACUNITE. However, it now seems that the market has reached a certain plateau, and other countries in the Far East are starting to emerge. Thanks to our global network, we closely monitor local developments and aim to detect market shifts as early as possible. PETplanet: In addition to your new role as Director Global Sales, you’re still overseeing your previous area of responsibility. What updates can you share regarding bottle-to-bottle and PET recycling? Wöss: Well, bottle-to-bottle recycling is well established worldwide. In recent years, we’ve focused on responding to the trend towards higher throughputs and lower production costs in a customer-oriented way – and I believe we’ve been successful! Another area, tray-to-tray recycling, still needs more support to really take off. I hope this segment will receive a stronger push from the market than it has in previous years – the technology is already there. A very good example is already in production for several year at company Cirrec (Faerch Group) in the Netherlands and act as a true frontrunner in this application. PETplanet: During the press tour, I saw the production hall of the smaller, all-rounder recycling series Ready Mac at the St. Marien site, among other things. How is business going with these machines? Where are they selling the most? Wöss: Here too, we listened closely to the market. The only challenge we faced was how to position this offering alongside our INTAREMA products. I believe that with READYMAC, we’ve now developed a technically mature and very solid solution for the entry-level market. The feedback from recent trade shows and current sales figures clearly supports this direction. The first systems were going to Europe, but many of the next ones are very likely headed for LATAM and Asia, and with Africa as a promising market. PETplanet: Alongside traditional mechanical recycling processes, Erema has also ventured into plastics processing for chemical recycling. We’ve also heard that Erema is now involved in textile recycling. Could you elaborate on this? What’s your outlook for Chemarema? Wöss: Two application areas that would easily justify an entire interview on their own. The ongoing growth of plastics recycling can be seen not only in the established segments, but also increasingly in newer application segments involving chemical recycling, and fibre & textile recycling. When it comes to chemical recycling, we’ve never quite shared the full optimism surrounding the many technologies already on the market. We acknowledge that chemical recycling can be an important complement, but there are still numerous challenges – many of which first need to be addressed through mechanical and physical pre-treatment. That’s exactly where we step in. One result of this is the CHEMAREMA, with additional innovations already in the pipeline. They all share the same objective: how to prepare existing plastic fractions in such a way that chemical recycling processes can handle them efficiently and economically. Erema started up its first large-scale CHEMAREMA extruders for chemical recycling during the 2024/25 financial year. The development of fibre-to-fibre recycling also looks very promising. Initial pilot projects have already been carried out, and an Erema reference system will start operation later this year. The commissioning of a recycling machine for post-consumer textiles by PURE LOOP, one of the Group’s subsidiaries, at Salvation Army Trading Company in spring 2024, marks a new milestone. The project won the Plastics Industry Award. PETplanet: Two important trade fairs are coming up soon: drinktec, which is particularly relevant for the PET sector, and of course the K’ trade fair in Düsseldorf. What are your expectations for Munich? What will you be presenting? Wöss: In Munich, we’ll be present with a smaller team, but we’ll be showcasing our entire, already wellestablished portfolio for the packaging sector. This trade fair has always been a high-level industry event, known for its in-depth technical discussions – and that’s exactly what I’m expecting again this year. It’s a true meeting point for the packaging industry. Some of the innovations we presented during the K preview event in the PET sector – and which are also relevant for drinktec – will already be part of our offering in Munich such as our new adapted SSP process with more than 40% of Nitrogen reduction and a new way to enable Virgin producers to enter the recycling field by using Glycolyses AFTER our well known Decontamination Vacuum- Reactor to inject IV stabilised and food grade melt into the finisher of the PET virgin process. But the full launch will come at the K show in Düsseldorf, where we will proudly present all innovations across all application areas and from the different companies of Erema Group. PETplanet: The entire plastics industry seems to have high hopes for the K trade fair. The Erema Group will be fully represented. Aside from a still-secret presentation, what are your personal highlights of what the Erema Group will showcase? Wöss: It’s the people and the moments with others that truly matter. That’s what I’m most looking forward to – despite all the effort an eight-day event like this brings with it. The K show is a major milestone in our Edvanced Recycling campaign - which is about Erema prime solutions in advanced recycling. And here, some of the K’ innovations we already shared with you and for more, Heike, make sure to stop by our booth - you’ll get to see my personal highlight with your own eyes. www.erema.com www.edvanced.erema.com"},{"@ID":18

"EDITOUR PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 16 New Beverage Technology Centre Hochschule Geisenheim University Sustainability is the optimal way to preserve beverages by Alexander Büchler Editour We met: Dipl. Ing. Michael Ludwig, Head of Getränke Technologie Zentrum (GTZ) and Prof. Dr Ralf Schweiggert, Head of Institute of the Department of Beverage Research Professorship for Analysis & Technology of plant-based Foods – Focus on Beverages. Hochschule Geisenheim University // March 5, 2025 The filler is a jack-of-all-trades, it can fill almost every conceivable type of beverage, including beer, RTDs, soft drinks (still & carbonated), wine & sparkling wine, water (still & carbonated) and juices (including pulps) in cans, glass or PET. The background to the investment is to find out under practical conditions how a particular beverage can best be preserved and bottled. This includes the optimal preparation of the filling products, the selection of suitable packaging and, if necessary, the selection of a post-treatment of the filled packaging. Product-specific filling systems were previously used, but this new filler now allows for greater variance and, above all, better comparability. This makes it possible to compare the foaming behaviour during filling, test the highly sensitive products for vitamin stability, identify aromatic deviations and find the best shelf life method for the product, such as ultraclean filling, pasteurisation or the addition of velcorin, to name just a few aspects. With all the know-how about filling products and packaging types, the topic of rPET is naturally also on the table. Prof Schweiggert once tried to find out the actual proportion of rPET in the finished bottle. However, the data did not provide a clear picture. In an investigation of researchers of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Lemgo a few years ago, they were able to show that the bottle contained rPET, but the determination of the exact proportion remained intricate. When travelling round the country looking into sustainability, you always come across new aspects. Our visit to the Getränkte Technologie Zentrum (GTZ) at Hochschule Geisenheim University in Germany was no exception. I am welcomed by Prof. Dr Ralf Schweiggert and the head of department, Dipl.-Ing. Michael Ludwig. The occasion is the new GTZ building of over 4,000m2. It is here that the new Vipoll Small-in-One filler is used. Sponsors to date Students using the new automatic beverage filling facilities. (Photos: Hochschule Geisenheim / Torsten Silz) Students talking to Michael Ludwig in the new Beverage Technology Center."},{"@ID":21

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 19 EVENT PREVIEW )_;m l-Šbl†l  =Ѳ;Šb0bѲb|‹ l;;|v _b]_ r;u=oul-m1;Ķ  |_-|Ļv ‰_-| ‰; o0|-bmĸ \"   Ļv  bmf;1|bom loѲ7vĶ  =uol 2 |o 200 cavitLHVĶ -u;  v†b|-0Ѳ; =ou |_; ru;=oul v‹v|;lv bm |_; l-uh;| -m7 ;mv†u; |_; 0;v| ru;=oul t†-Ѳb|‹ ‰b|_ |_; Ѳom];v| Ѳb=; 1‹1Ѳ;ĸ  †u  om] b=; =;-|†u;  om  oѲ7  -Ѳ= ]†-u-m|;;v ]oo7 r-u|v =ou -| Ѳ;-v| Ǝ  lbѲѲbom 1‹1Ѳ;v 0;=ou; =buv| l-bm|;m-m1;Ķ ‰_bѲ; ƒ lbѲѲbom 1‹1Ѳ;v -u; ]†-u-m|;;7 om  |_;  o| !†mm;uĶ _;Ѳrbm] ‹o† l-h; |_; lov| o= ‹o†u |ooѲbm]ĸ \"    ru;=oul |ooѲbm]Ķ |_-mhv |o r-|;m|;7 voѲ†|bomv -v * 1|bˆ;  Ѳ;-mbm] and *(-1††l 1Ѳ;-mbm]Ķ -u; v†b|-0Ѳ; |o u†m †r |o Ǝƍƍѵ u  $ ‰b|_ mo 1olruolbv; om t†-Ѳb|‹ -m7 om l-bm|;m-m1; bm|;uˆ-Ѳvĸ Great numbers to shape great performance 140+ thousand 200 cavity mold 12 million cold half cycles guaranteed 5 million hot runner cycles guaranteed 100% rPET capability preforms/hour \"   Ľv ƑƏƏ 1-ˆb|‹ ru;=oul loѴ7ķ |_; ‰ouѴ7Ľv _b]_;v| 1-ˆb|-ঞom ru;=oul |ooѴbm]  \"    \"ĸrĸ ĸ  (b-  -7†ࢼ 7;Ѳ  -ˆouoĶ Ɛ ň ƐƎƍƏƔ (b‚oubo (;m;|o Ŏ$(ŏ ň  |-Ѳ‹ $;Ѳĸ ƱƐƔ ƍƑƐѴ ƔƎƎƒƎƎ ň vbr-ŞŒorr-vĸ1ol ň ‰‰‰ĸvbr-ĸb|  "},{"@ID":49

"PATENTS PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 47 Carrying aid Internal. Patent No. WO 2024 / 141512 A1 Applicant: Sidel Participations, Octeville-sur-Mer (FR) Application date: 22.12.2023 Tray for combining and carrying at least two individual containers. The bottles can be removed easily and individually from the tray. Container closure Internal. Patent No. WO 2024 / 180516 A1 Applicant: Thiscap Inc., Las Vegas (US) Application date: 1.3.2024 First-opening screw cap with a retaining ring and a tamperevident band that unfolds when first unscrewed to create a double retaining band. Multipack with perforation Internal. Patent No. WO 2024 / 187125 A1 Applicant: Niagara Bottling LLC, Diamond Bar (US) Application date: 8.3.2024 Several specially arranged bottles are combined using a shrink film. A laser is then used to create precisely fitting perforations that allow the bottles to be removed without losing the entire bottle arrangement. Bottle without label Internal. Patent No. WO 2024 / 206365 A2 Applicant: The Coca-Cola Company, Atlanta (US) Application date: 27.3.2024 The application proposes to process at least part of the surface of a bottle with a laser in such a way that colour effects are produced when light hits it. Improved sterilisation Disclosure no. DE 102023121242 A1 Applicant: KHS GmbH, Dortmund (DE) Application date: 9.8.2023 A preform, closure or container made of a plastic material for holding liquids is described. This disclosure reduces the effort required to sterilise the container. Plastic bottle Internal. Patent No. WO 2025 / 049268 A1 Applicant: The Coca-Cola Comp., Atlanta (US) Application date: 23.8.2024 Plastic bottle with equalising surfaces to compensate for pressure differences. The surfaces are specially designed so as not to detract from the appearance or design of the bottle and to distinguish it from other bottles. PETpatents www.verpackungspatente.de"},{"@ID":20

"EDITOUR PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 18 Sustainability can be long-term by Alexander Büchler Machinepoint has built an excellent reputation on the international market for used machines. With a comprehensive range of services, the company has taken the used equipment business out of its dusty niche and established itself as a reliable problem solver for the entire industry. Founder and Managing Director Cesar Rodriguez recognised the potential of the Internet at an early stage - a move that proved to be forward-looking. Editour Interview with MachinePoint // March 27, 2025 We talked to César Rodríguez Gabilondo, CEO of MachinePoint Today, machinepoint employs over 50 people and has a presence in 19 countries worldwide. Neutrality is a core value for the company: Rodriguez advises independently of manufacturers, sellers or buyers. This enables him to find the right solution for each customer - and if this is not immediately available, he can draw on his global network to procure the right system. A conscious business model: retrofit services or spare parts are not offered by machinepoint. The customers – mostly technologically savvy medium-sized companies – are able to operate and maintain their machines independently. The customers As a rule, these are medium-sized companies that already have a great deal of experience with such systems. The multinational brands rarely enquire, they usually move their used equipment in-house. Customers are spread around the world; they are not just customers from emerging markets who need favourable investments. Many have a specific machine park that is looking for exactly the same machines from the year of manufacture and can thus be optimally integrated into their production, or, especially in the case of more complex systems, the reason for a used system may be the delivery time. The customer needs an additional system for a new product. He buys it used in a timely manner and if the product is a success, he can always switch to a new purchase. To what extent will Trump’s confused tariff policy have an impact on business? Only time will tell. The sellers The whole range can be found here. This includes a generational change in the machine park as well as the discontinuation of certain product lines and even insolvencies. The products Machinepoint specialises in the beverage and plastics industry. The spectrum ranges from individual machines with or without moulds, preform systems, stretch blow moulding systems and recycling systems to complete filling systems. The challenge: The complexity of brokering and shipping equipment across linguistic, cultural and continental boundaries is not easy to manage with an online database. It means that offline support is necessary, as well as proper counselling to find a machine adapted to the buyer’s needs and budget. The realisation Once the right system has been found for the right customer, the work really begins. The customer can view the system in production or at least in dry operation at the seller’s premises. Due to the weights and dimensions, the subsequent dismantling, transport and assembly is very complex. A bottling plant can easily require up to 50 or more overseas containers. In addition to the technical challenges, there is also the complexity of international trade, with different languages and laws etc. to consider. This can only be achieved with a multilingual team of specialists in technology and logistics. Machinepoint shows that sustainability in industry does not mean breaking new ground, but also making sensible use of what already exists. When used systems enter a second phase of life thanks to expertise, networks and smart advice, the environment, the economy - and not least the customers - benefit. www.machinepoint.com F.l.t.r.: Gianni Olivo, Area Business Manager; Andrea Blumenschein, Area Business Manager; Martin Smith, Beverages Division Director; Alexander Büchler, Publisher PETplanet Insider and César Rodríguez Gabilondo, CEO of MachinePoint Sponsors to date"},{"@ID":32

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 30 Latest generation preform monitoring When IMD initially launched inline preform monitoring and IMDvista PECO LUX ten years ago, it brought something completely new to the market. Martin Gerber (CSO) proudly explains that preform monitoring has since become well established in the industry and is now the most widely used solution for inline inspection of preforms. As of today, IMD has successfully installed hundreds of PECO LUX systems on the market. Furthermore, market demand remains very strong. This success story has motivated IMD to invest heavily in a new design and enhanced functionality. Full integrated solution in Netstal’s new PET-Line Netstal is the first injection moulding machine manufacturer, who fully integrates the PECO LUX system directly onto the outlet conveyor located within the machine housing. This new system version with Netstal is no longer visible and is seamlessly incorporated into the floor space of the injection moulding machine. New-gen compact stand-alone version As a matter of fact, many injection moulding machine manufacturers have reached out to find a suitable preform monitoring solution for their machine type(s). One of the key requirements is that space is always very limited within the existing machine plus the layout should remain the same. IMD has completely redesigned and optimised its traditional stand-alone solution. Step by step, this new flexible standalone version is now being adapted to various injection moulding machines, allowing both new and existing lines to be equipped moving forward. A design with no moving parts The new-gen IMDvista PECO LUX V3, like its predecessor, features a design with no moving parts. Instead of complex mechanics, it uses a simple yet effective chute with backlighting - making the system both simple and efficient, stated IMD. PECO LUX line efficiency No belts to clean or maintain, no mechanical preform-singulation, and no additional conveying elements are required. When the vision system is deactivated, production continues seamlessly no production interruption nor line stoppage due to jammed conveyor belts. Calibration capability Martin Gerber explains that many customers operate 5, 10, or up to 20 PECO LUX systems across their facilities making calibration and validation an incredible valuable feature in order to guarantee identical production quality. The new-gen PECO LUX V3 is claimed to offer exactly this new capability. Using a specially designed calibration plate, each system can be calibrated and validated with repeatable precision and reproducibility. The fully automated calibration process is claimed to provide operators with an easy and reliable way to set up the system. Therefore, the operator is able to achieve identical product recipes and ensure reproducibility within a fully documented process. This aims to open up a new level of quality control. Producers can now guarantee consistent baseline settings and inspection results across the entire plant or across multiple production sites in Europe or anywhere in the world. This enables a more structured and centralised approach to quality management. It also ensures that inspection reports and quality results are comparable across machines, lines, and locations. Calibration/validation forms one of the most important pillars within IMD’s roadmap. PREFORMS Martin Gerber explains that using a specially designed calibration plate, each PECO LUX system can be calibrated and validated with repeatable precision and reproducibility. The fully integrated PECO LUX system in a Netstal PET-Line will be presented at drinktec on the Netstal booth C6-169. IMD Hall A5 - Booth 130 PECO LUX V3 standalone version which requires no additional floorspace"},{"@ID":24

"BOTTLING / FILLING PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 22 DNP launches environmentally friendly aseptic fi lling system for PET bottles Reducing CO2 emissions with latest aseptic filling innovation Aseptic Systems Co., Ltd. (APS), a subsidiary of Dai Nippon Printing (DNP), has recently introduced a new aseptic filling system to help beverage manufacturers cut CO2 emissions, reduce chemical usage and still provide a trustworthy solution for beverage producers. APS has released its latest aseptic filling technology: GREEN ASEPTIC. A new system that reduces CO2 emissions from the liquid processing equipment used in PET bottle aseptic filling systems to fill beverages in a sterile environment. The technology is claimed to reduce energy consumption by approximately 80% (based on a dilution ratio of 5) by replacing a portion of the ultra-high temperature (UHT) sterilisation of beverages with a nonthermal sterilisation system that combines a sterilising filter and a medium pressure ultraviolet (UV) lamp. Additionally, the adoption of a two-step sterilisation system – which sterilises the preform before it is moulded, followed by forming the bottle shape with sterile air – results in a significant reduction in the amount of chemicals used for bottle sterilisation. By combining these two systems, CO2 emissions can be reduced by approximately 40%. With a growing demand for soft drinks globally, the use of PET bottles is expected to increase. With this expected market expansion, beverage manufacturers are also accelerating their efforts to be environmentally conscious and are facing the challenge of decarbonising the PET bottled beverage manufacturing processes and the filling of soft drinks. In response to such challenges, APS has developed a proprietary non-thermal sterilisation system that focuses on the proportion of water included in soft drinks. To date, the risk that filterable bacteria may pass through the filters has limited the use of sterilising filters for sterilising beverages. In many cases, large amounts of energy have been required to heat water to approximately 140 °C to achieve sterilisation. APS’s solution is to combine UV lamps that eliminate the smallest microbes with a sterilising filtration filter. This method makes it possible to produce beverages of the same quality as those produced by conventional thermal sterilisation, without the need to heat the main component of the beverage - water. Key facts: Non-thermal sterilisation system: In conventional PET bottle aseptic filling systems, large volumes of beverages are produced by diluting the product solution, or syrup, with water sterilised using UHT treatment. UHTsterilised water is also used to wash the containers. APS reduces energy consumption in liquid treatment by approximately 80% by sterilising the water for both diluting and cleaning, with UV lamps and sterilising filters; a method that uses less energy than conventional thermal sterilisation. Two-step sterilisation system: The new aseptic filling system for PET bottles sterilises in two steps: before blow moulding, at the preform stage, and then during blow moulding into the final bottle shape. Because the surface area of a preform is much smaller than that of a fully blown bottle, this two-step approach reduces the amount of chemicals used by The two-step sterilisation system takes place before and during the blow moulding process. (Up to 60,000bph) The non-heat sterilised water is diluted with green tea and filled into PET bottles under aseptic conditions."},{"@ID":14

"EDITOUR PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 12 Deposit return schemes Europe, an overview Deposit return schemes (DRSs) for drinks container recycling have emerged as a pivotal strategy in Europe’s quest to enhance the recycling rate and reduce waste. By incentivising the return of beverage containers, DRSs not only combat litter and waste, but also foster a circular economy. Thomas Morgenstern, Vice President of Public Affairs - Head of Europe & Central Asia at Tomra, explores the history, current trends and future prospects of DRS in Europe. Editour A deposit return system is a legislation to ensure drink containers such as plastic or glass bottles and aluminum cans are efficiently collected and recycled rather than discarded as waste. Under a DRS, consumers pay a small deposit when purchasing a drink, which is refunded when they return the empty packaging for recycling. “DRSs aim to reduce litter, increase the quantity and quality of collection and recycling, and promote a Circular Economy by ensuring valuable materials are recovered and reused, ideally in a closed loop,” explains Thomas Morgenstern. By providing a financial incentive, DRSs encourage consumers to participate actively in collection and recycling efforts, thereby contributing to environmental goals and resource conservation. History of deposit return schemes in Europe The concept of money back for empty drink packaging has deep roots in Europe. Early “voluntary” systems (not legislated) were run by beverage producers, who saw their costly glass and stoneware bottles as company property and business assets for continuous use. From at least 1803, UK drink producers offered money back on returned containers. From 1900, the first producers charged deposits to cover the production costs of their beverage containers in case it was not returned. As reusable container packaging was gradually taken over by single-use materials like cans and PET, deposit return was considered a means to continue the reuse of valuable materials. In 1984, Sweden became the first country in Europe to legislate a DRS, starting with cans. It not only promoted the recycling of drink containers. “The first ever DRS for single-use containers in Europe was established to combat the growing amount of beverage can litter in the Swedish environment. This early container deposit legislation laid the groundwork for future schemes, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of incentivising container returns,” shares Thomas Morgenstern. Sweden’s pioneering efforts were followed by DRS legislation in other Nordic countries (Iceland in 1989, Norway in 1999 and Denmark in 2002), recognising the advantages of such systems for circularity, reducing packaging waste, and litter prevention. Germany’s introduction of a nationwide DRS for single-use drink containers in 2003, following a decline in the consumption of reusable containers, marked a significant milestone for deposit return systems. The German DRS is today known for its world-leading return rates, with 98% of eligible drinks containers brought back for recycling. Germany today is the biggest DRS market for single-use and refillable beverage containers in the world. The success of early adopters inspired other European nations. Estonia and the Netherlands soon followed in 2005, and Croatia in 2006, each tailored to their specific environmental and economic contexts. The following decade saw Lithuania launch a deposit system in 2016. The period saw not only the arrival of new DRSs, but also the expansion or modernisation of existing legislation – typically to reflect new drink consumption trends, litter streams and popular material types, or to ensure the deposit value keeps pace with inflation. Pioneering Sweden expanded their deposit return scheme to include plastic PET bottles in 1994, and increased the deposit value for cans in 2010. Denmark added more drink types during DRS expansions in 2005, 2008 and 2020. Finland expanded the material types, adding PET bottles in 2008 and glass in 2010. Estonia in 2015 increased the deposit value, and allowed producers of some other drink types to join the deposit system voluntarily. Norway and Iceland also increased deposit values, in 2018 and 2021 respectively. The Netherlands in 2021 expanded from only large plastic bottles to also include small plastic bottles. Also in 2021, Croatia expanded the types of drinks covered (adding milk and dairy products), and to include all drinks over 0.2 liters in size. Recent trends in Europe’s deposit return schemes & beverages bottled in PET Today, momentum for DRS has continued to grow, with several countries launching new DRSs or expanding existing ones. DRSs are now live in 17 European countries. In just the past three years, these European countries have launched a new deposit system: Slovakia (January 2022) Latvia (February 2022) Malta (November 2022) Romania (November 2023) Hungary (January 2024) Republic of Ireland (February 2024) Austria (January 2025) In the same period, Germany expanded its already successful return scheme to cover alcoholic drinks and juices in single-use plastic bottles and cans (2022), plus milkbased mixed drinks in cans and PET (2024). Less than a year after launch, Latvia’s DRS expanded to include strong alcoholic drinks, also after seeing their large presence in litter. Also in 2023, the Netherlands once Sponsors to date"},{"@ID":58

"Editour PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 11 Aseel Water and Oryx develop together Two factories, one holding company The two plant managers from Aseel Water and the preform and cap manufacturer Oryx work hand in hand. Firstly, by the structure of their respective factories, secondly by a violet bottle and last but not least by the good taste of the water. Editour Interview with Aseel Water and Oryx Plastic bottles // September 21, 2024 We met: Mr Muhammed Jabr Sultan Tawar Al Kuwari, Managing Director Aseel Water and Noureddine Sakhria, Factory Manager Oryx Plastic bottles Mr Muhammed Jabr Sultan Tawar Al Kuwari, owner of West Bay Ice & Water Factory, had the goal of launching his own brand of water, including his own production, on the market after Saudi Arabia stopped supplying bottled water to Qatar in 2012. In 2017, the time had come: Aseel Water, a classic still water, was launched on the market. Under the management of Dr Muhammed Assali, the stretch blow moulding and filling line from Sidel had been completed by then. A few streets away there was already a hall for the associated preform and cap production. This is where Noureddine Sakhria set about building up production. Supply chain disruptions in 2017 required all materials to be sourced from far away. While it was not too dramatic for filling, as preforms and caps from converters could also be delivered from further afield, it was a much greater challenge for Noureddine to transform the empty halls into a production facility. It took two years for the first preforms and caps to leave the factory. “Muhammed and I used the two years together not only to build the factory, but also to extensively test the third-party preforms and caps from various converters,” states Noureddine. This enabled them to define the optimum qualities for themselves. A Husky HyPET 300 with HPP (High Performance Package) and a 48-cavity mould as well as a Sacmi line with 24 cavities were then launched. Initially, the bottles were classically transparent. In 2021, the idea came up to make the bottles purple. A new series of tests with different colour strengths went into production, and again Muhammed and Noureddine worked closely together. The bottle was a complete success. While all the water bottles on the supermarket shelves were crystal clear or slightly blue, Aseel Water shone in a bright purple colour. The marketing team gave the whole thing the aura of “Fun of Life”. What was good for Aseel is not quite so easy for Oryx. As Oryx also sells transparent and blue preforms to other bottlers, the system has to be cleaned extensively when changing colour. As Noureddine comments, “Ten shots are not enough to get the purple off the last corner. Even after this, we still have small inclusions in the clear preforms.” Even though violet has won over a legion of fans, many consumers still prefer to stick with clear bottles. The team is therefore considering bringing a classic clear bottle back onto the market as a second brand in the future. www.aseelwater.com/en www.oryxplastics.com A fixed work sequence, fixed on the whiteboard in front of the Husky HyPET system, optimises downtimes for tool changes or maintenance by Alexander Büchler Dr Muhammed Assali, plant manager Aseel (left) and Noureddine Sakhria, factory manager Oryx (right) together at the controls of the Sidel plant Nothing works without air conditioning, even with the Sacmi canopy system"},{"@ID":55

"EDITOUR PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 14 On return locations, all but one European DRS features “return-toretail” collection. Here, stores selling eligible drinks, often grocery retailers, receive that packaging back for recycling. (Iceland is the exception, instead using recycling depots.) Legislation typically requires retail participation based on a store’s size (Croatia and Estonia oblige retailers over 200m2), while smaller stores can participate if they wish. Sweden and the Netherlands have no legal obligation on retailers, but most retailers have joined voluntarily. Some countries complement retail returns with kiosks (Denmark and Sweden) or HORECA pick-up (Estonia and Finland); amusement parks, schools, and airports have also become return points. Offering convenient locations for consumers and faster roll-out for legislators, return-to-retail collection brings stores higher footfall and financial incentives like handling fees. Stores gain an opportunity to help collect a retail product that can otherwise end up as litter. Source: Tomra The EU’s legislative framework for deposit return schemes “The legislative landscape in Europe is also increasingly recognizing DRSs as a proven tool to drive high quality collection and the recycling rate, circularity, and packaging waste prevention,” explains Thomas Morgenstern. The European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD), adopted in 2019, aims to reduce the impact of plastic products on the environment. The SUPD mandates plastic bottles must contain at least 25% recycled content by 2025, and 30% by 2030. It also requires each EU member state to separately collect 77% of single-use plastic bottles for recycling by 2025, rising to 90% by 2029. “Although the SUPD did not mandate a means to achieve these goals, experts stated it would be difficult to impossible to achieve 90% return rates without deposit systems,” Thomas Morgenstern adds. The EU’s Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), voted into law in December 2024, extends the SUPD’s efforts and aims to harmonise recycling across Europe. The PPWR goes a step further, requiring each EU member state to implement a deposit system for cans and plastic bottles by 2029, to achieve the goals for separate collection and recycled content. The PPWR states DRSs should span drinks in plastic or metal containers up to 3L in size, but can exempt containers under 0.1L. Member states should also endeavor to include glass and cartons where appropriate. The PPWR also sets minimum requirements for DRSs, such as a sufficient deposit value, clearly labelled containers, and reinvestment of unredeemed refunds into public education on the deposit system. Source: Tomra Results of deposit return schemes across Europe DRSs have led to high collection rates and recycling rates. Germany today boasts drinks container return rates exceeding 98%, and Norway achieves 92%. Lithuania jumped from a return rate below 34% before its deposit system, to an impressive 92% just two years later. Slovakia reached a return rate over 70% in its first year, exceeding its goal of 60%. “Most recently, within seven months of Ireland’s DRS launch in February 2024, the country achieved a 73% return rate, putting it well on track to reach the EU collection target of 77% by the end of 2025.” DRSs also see substantial reductions in litter. In Norway, less than 1% of drink containers are littered, and only one in eight bottles washed up on the coastline are Norwegian; the rest come from neighboring countries. Two"},{"@ID":46

"EVENT PREVIEW PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 44 Global innovation hub for the beverage and liquid food industry drinktec 2025 by Miriam Trotter From September 15 to 19, 2025, Munich will once again become the epicentre of the global beverage and liquid food industry. As the world’s leading trade fair for this sector, drinktec brings together cutting-edge technologies, international market players, and expertise across the entire value chain – from raw materials and processing technology to filling, packaging and logistics. More than 1,000 exhibitors from over 50 countries are expected to take part. Around two-thirds of all participants – on both exhibitor and visitor side – will travel from outside Germany, highlighting drinktec’s international scope as a platform for innovation and exchange. Focus topics: Circularity, Data2Value and Health drinktec 2025 places a strong focus on three major themes shaping the industry’s future: Circularity & Resource Management, Data2Value, and Lifestyle & Health. These do not just represent technological priorities, they reflect broader societal and regulatory dynamics. Circularity & Resource Management will address water reuse, energy recovery and the valorisation of production residues. Packaging solutions will also be in focus, especially in response to the EU’s proposed Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation”(PPWR). Data2Value explores the use of digital tools, artificial intelligence and machine learning, from flavour prediction and predictive maintenance to AIsupported cleaning processes. Lifestyle & Health reflects the growing demand for functional drinks that promote wellbeing, such as those enriched with vitamins, plant-based proteins, probiotics or dietary fibres. The trend towards personalisation and sustainable nutrition is clearly on the rise. Dr Roman Werner, Managing Director TUM Venture Lab Food/Agro/Biotech; Rolf Keller, Managing Director at Yontex; Markus Kosak, Executive Director of the drinktec Cluster; and Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association, at the drinktec press conference on June 3, 2025"},{"@ID":39

"CAPS & CLOSURES 37 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Q Pet expands South Africa facility for tethered closure production Fastened for the future Q Pet’s investment is well timed, as retailer groups in South Africa are actively seeking local manufacturing capabilities for tethered closures, to support their own sustainability initiatives. “The demand for locally produced tethered closures represents a significant opportunity for South African manufacturing. By investing in this technology now, we’re not just meeting current market needs; we’re preparing for the future of sustainable packaging” said Arshud Sema, General Manager at Q Pet. Years of strategic collaboration Q Pet and Husky Technologies have been collaborating on strategic planning and market evaluation for several years. While the potential for local tethered closure production was clear, the two companies wanted to ensure the timing and technology were right for the South African market. Husky Technologies, a global leader in injection moulding systems and services, brought the technological foundation and expertise needed to support this strategic shift, and 2024 was the year when Husky’s advanced mould technology, Q Pet’s manufacturing capabilities and market demand all fell into place. The technical solution includes Husky HyCAP mould, which, Q Pet says, offers excellent closure quality in high-speed filling operations, while its tethered design features an enhanced opening angle and secure locking mechanism. Its lightweight construction helps to advance Q Pet’s sustainability goals, while maintaining structural integrity of the closures. Installation and commissioning The new production line has been installed and commissioning is in progress for annual production of more than 200 million 38mm tethered closures a year. The next phase, which will be later in 2025, will be the launch of 28mm tethered PCO 1881 closures, with a similar capacity of 200 million units per annum. This local manufacturing capability will significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with imported closures. Regulatory compliance Q Pet is a Level 1 BBBEE supplier, registered with the relevant local authorities and fully compliant with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulatory requirements. The company has also recently increased its preform, blowing and closure capacity with new technology, and continues to invest as new markets emerge. Its target markets include food, dairy and beverage sectors. “As we expand our capabilities with this new tethered closure line, we’re maintaining our focus on sustainable growth and local market development. This investment represents our commitment to both environmental responsibility and South African manufacturing excellence,” said Ziyaad Moosa, CEO at Q Pet. Q Pet operates approximately 35,000m2 of manufacturing and warehousing space across South Africa, with facilities in Pietermaritzburg, Johannesburg and Cape Town. The company has established a strong presence in the edible oil industry, playing an important role in the sector’s transition from metal cans to PET packaging. It has maintained a significant market position for over 30 years. Q Pet’s manufacturing expertise includes PET injection moulded preforms, blown bottles, jars and closures, serving sectors including edible oil; mineral water; CSD beverages; dairy; juices; and spice and sauce markets. www.qpet.co.za South African PET manufacturer Q Pet is expanding its capabilities to include local production of tethered closures, at its Pietermaritzburg facility. The family-owned business has been operating in South Africa since 1988. Photo: Husky"},{"@ID":25

"BOTTLING / FILLING 23 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 approximately 40%. In addition, the compact design of the sterilisation equipment reduces the required installation area by around 30%. APS has a network of successful installations worldwide and is a wellestablished supplier to the Japanese soft drinks market. This newly developed system is now available to beverage manufacturers not only in Japan but also in China, Southeast Asia, and other regions. www.global.dnp/group/ aseptic-systems Equipment for aseptically blending non-heat-sterilised water with concentrated green tea produced using the UHT steriliser"},{"@ID":4

""},{"@ID":48

"ONsite 46 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Sipa offi cially inaugurates new production plant in China Strategic expansion in China Sipa, part of the Zoppas Industries Group specialising in PET container production, has officially opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Jiaxing, Eastern China. The opening follows the relocation of its previous site in Hangzhou and is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the Chinese and broader Asian markets. The new plant, which spans 16,000 square metres, represents a €20 million investment and is designed to deliver cutting-edge machinery and moulds for PET injection and blowing processes. With this move, Sipa Machinery Hangzhou (SMH) is upgrading its operational capabilities to enhance production efficiency and respond more effectively to market demand. The grand opening ceremony was attended by distinguished Chinese and Italian government authorities, as well as key customers and partners of both Sipa and Zoppas Industries. Their presence underscored the international significance of this investment and the strength of Sipa’s long-standing partnerships in the region. “This new facility reinforces our strategic vision of global integration,” said Gianfranco Zoppas, President of Zoppas Industries. “China is a market of critical importance for us. We firmly believe in its long-term growth potential and continue to invest accordingly, fostering a model of economic synergy between China and Italy. Our local presence allows us to adapt swiftly to evolving market conditions and deliver high-value-added solutions beyond standard commodity offerings.” Innovation and sustainability Designed with high environmental and technological standards in mind, the Jiaxing plant integrates advanced digitalisation tools, such as a manufacturing execution system (MES) and inline quality control (IQC), aiming to ensure efficient, precise, and sustainable production processes. These systems support Sipa’s goal of maintaining consistent product quality and serving a range of industries, including beverages, chemicals, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Long-standing presence in China Sipa’s history in China dates back to 1997 with the opening of its first commercial office in Beijing. The company launched its first manufacturing plant in Hangzhou in 2004. The new Jiaxing site marks a significant scale-up, expanding from the previous 6,000square metres to the current 16,000 square metres, and is strategically positioned to improve logistics and distribution throughout China and neighbouring markets. In recent years, Sipa has seen substantial growth in the Chinese market, reaching a turnover of € 50 million in the past year alone. This includes major strategic collaborations, such as a key partnership with Wahaha for the supply of PET preform systems. “The continued expansion of our presence in China marks a significant milestone,” concluded Zoppas. “This new facility is a crucial step forward in our global growth strategy and further solidifies our leadership in the region. We remain committed to delivering top-tier products and pioneering technological solutions to serve all of our markets with excellence.” www.sipasolutions.com"},{"@ID":3

"No.06 2025 www.petpla.net D 51178; ISSN: 1438-9452 PETplanet is read in 159 countries Suppliers of preform systems & preform moulds MARKETsurvey M A G A Z I N E F O R B O T T L E R S A N D B O T T L E - M A K E R S I N T H E A M E R I C A S , A S I A , E U R O P E A N D A L L A R O U N D T H E P L A N E T 30 . 06 . 25 Page 39 Page 27 EDITOUR Page 11 EDITOUR Page 12 PREFORMS Page 30"},{"@ID":54

"39 EVENT PREVIEW PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 0/24 www.petpla.net EVENTpreview drinktec 2025 part 1 The global beverage and packaging industry prepares for drinktec 2025 which will take place from September 15-19 in Munich. With PETpoint returning as a dedicated exhibition area in Hall C6 and half of Hall C5, the trade fair is set to offer a comprehensive overview of the PET value chain, from preform production to advanced recycling solutions. However, exhibitors offering PET bottling-related solutions can be found across the entire fairground. To help you navigate the innovation landscape, we are collecting and presenting key exhibitor information in this issue, as well as in the following two issues. Our coverage will spotlight selected solutions that address the sector’s most pressing challenges: reducing environmental impact, increasing efficiency, and meeting evolving regulatory and consumer demands. And if you’re planning your visit to the show, don’t forget to include a stop at our PETplanet booth in Hall C6 Stand 580 – we’d be delighted to welcome you! ! www.drinktec.com Drying meets clean air Austrian company Eisbär Trockentechnik GmbH, known for its drying systems widely used in plastics processing, has announced the development of an exhaust ai r pur i f icat ion system aimed specifically at the needs of the recycling sector. Complementing its drying technology, this system is designed to filter not only condensates but also volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air – helping recyclers meet increasingly strict environmental regulations while improving workplace air quality. This new solution is especially valuable in applications involving contaminated or post-consumer plastics, where air treatment is essential. The integrated system helps ensure that efficiency and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. The company will showcase its technology at both drinktec and the K Trade Fair. At drinktec, a state-of-the-art Eisbär drying unit will be in operation at the booth of a long-standing industry partner – offering visitors a live demonstration of drying performance in a real-world application. www.eisbaer.at Eisbär Trockentechnik GmbH Hall C6 – Booth 320 Now featuring Virtual Navigator– achieve sustainability in every cycle XVLQJ VPDUW \t HɝFLHQW SURFHVV FRQWURO Process Pilot+® Agr’s Process Pilot+ system delivers an automated, predictive response tailored to your unique bottle design and blowmolder characteristics ensuring optimization, consistency and repeatability. Start producing your best product today as we push to change global packaging technology one solution at a time. | www.agrintl.com | +1.724.482.2163"},{"@ID":27

"BOTTLE MAKING 25 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 “There are some differences in the chemistry of the material but there aren’t any significant differences from virgin PET during preform manufacturing or the blowing process. Virgin PET and bioPET exhibit exactly the same behaviour during transformation from preforms to bottles,” Luca explained. Label free The Zelda bottle complies with regulations on tethered caps, which are made of PP, and it has been designed with another eco-friendly feature: it is ready for the label-free trends emerging in the marketplace. Eliminating labels means there is no need for glue, nor for separation of the label during recovery and recycling, which saves material during manufacture and removes one step completely from the recycling process. Label-free bottles are not yet authorised for use in the EU but other countries, such as South Korea, are embracing the concept. Companies including Nestle, Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are reported to be developing label-free bottles; Coca-Cola has already developed a lasered labelfree Sprite bottle in the UK and Gentlebrand expects to see progress in the EU over the next four to five years. For now, UPM -supplied labels made from sustainable and renewable sources are available. Fit for the future “Zelda is currently a pilot project, which we have developed and prototyped internally,” said Luca Baldessin. “We have presented it at a number of trade shows, in order to showcase its capabilities, and to assess current and future market trends and reactions. “Looking to the future, we see the growth of ‘smart’ products, which can connect to the Internet; increased personalisation of products in terms of both content and packaging, including easy customisation of the printed information using digital and other technologies. We are also looking at more refillable opportunities in the future.” Gentlebrand says that the Zelda Water family was created with the goal of combining elegance and sustainability, offering an innovation in the mineral water industry. The fully renewable Zelda no-label bottle demonstrates a strong commitment to the environment, while maintaining a sophisticated design, the company maintains. The minimalist aesthetic and smooth curves of the bottle give it a transparent and refined appearance, staying true to the elegance of the premium Zelda Horeca version. www.gentlebrand.com"},{"@ID":29

"MARKET SURVEY 27 PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 06/2025 MARKETsurvey Suppliers of preform machinery and preform moulds In this issue, PETplanet focuses on state-of-the-art perform machinery and preform mould producer! We are proud to present the most exciting brand-new data from the following perform machine manufacturers and mould maker: Sipa, Otto Hofstetter & Otto Systems AG, Sacmi Imola, Netstal Maschinen AG, Acme Die Systems, StackTeck Systems Ltd., and GDXL Precise Machinery Co., Ltd. Although the publishers have made every effort to ensure that the information in this survey is up to date, no claims are made regarding completeness or accuracy. Resins & additives Cap manufacturer & cap inspection Cap systems & cap moulds Preform production & inspection  Preform systems & moulds Two stage SBM machinery Filling equipment Compressors Shrinkfilm & palletising machinery Recycling machinery Preform Moulds Company name GDXL Precise Machinery Co., Ltd. Otto Hofstetter AG StackTeck Systems Ltd Postal address Telephone number Web site address Contact name Function Direct telephone number E-Mail No. 18 Changjiang Road, Guicheng, Nanhai, Foshan city, Guangdong Province, China. Postcode: 528251 +86 757 8677 7168 www.gdxl.com Mr Billy Ay Marketing Specialist +86 757 8677 7168 ext 8681 [email protected] Zürcherstrasse 73, CH-8730 Uznach +41 55 285 22 11 www.otto-hofstetter.swiss Mr Reto Bamert Division Manager PET +41 55 285 22 69 [email protected] 1 Paget Rd, Brampton, Ontario, Canada, L6T 5S2 +1 416 749 0880 www.stackteck.com Mr Rick Unterlander General Manager PET +1 416 749 0880 Ext 577 [email protected] Preform moulds Horizontal opening Number of cavities From 32 to 160 cavities 2 up to 160 (side & top entry) 2 to 180 Preform sizes Various neck finish standards including 26/22, 1881,1810, 29/25, 30/25, 38mm, etc. Preform weight from 3.5g to 750g (for applications from pharmaceutical/cosmetic bottle to 5-gallon keg) Up to 500g Weight up to 750g; neck finish diameter up to 110mm Moulds already built for (makes) Husky, Netstal, Krauss-Maffei, Sipa, etc. Netstal, BMB, Husky, Sacmi, Sipa Netstal, Husky, Sumitomo, Niigon Vertical opening Number of cavities From 16 to 96 cavities 2 up to 112 Preform sizes Various neck finish standards including 26/22, 1881,1810, 29/25, 30/25, 38mm, etc. Preform weight up to 69g Up to 500g Moulds already built for (makes) Sipa, Krauss-Maffei, etc. Arburg, Krauss-Maffei Do you produce single stage tooling sets? (Preform moulds AND blow moulds) No No Special project basis Other We also provide: preform R&D service for specialised container purposes; engineering solutions together with our partners and patent holders for preforms/containers with integrally moulded handle; multilayer co-injection containers with barrier properties and market-appealing elements, and turn-key production systems - Multilayer moulds up to 72 cavities - moulds for PP - moulds for thinwall packaging - moulds for cartridges and tubes - moulds for medical products"},{"@ID":42

"40 EVENT PREVIEW PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 0/24 www.petpla.net Just look deeper At its nearly 1,000m² booth, Heuft will be showcasing intelligent solutions for in-line quality assurance in the filling and packaging process.From clever glass-in-glass detection with pulsed X-ray and deep learning X-ray image processing, to deeper insights with new judgment capabilities in optical empty and full container inspection, and from teach-in-capable label inspection to smart Original Character Verification (OCV): In addition to innovations for flexible labelling and sustainable line optimisation, AI applications for in-depth inline inspection are among the highlights of the exhibition. The performance of Heuft reflexx A.I., its hardware and software for intelligent image processing which is developed, manufactured, and programmed in-house, has been consistently expanded by the system engineers. Using deep learning, it removes noise from X-ray images, for example, to reliably identify foreign objects even in difficult cases. In OCV, this enables more in-depth identification and evaluation of individual characters in inkjet codes, so that they can even be read back when they are distorted or blurred. The advanced Heuft AI, which further increases the detection reliability of empty bottle inspection with the new Heuft InLine II IX, will be demonstrated for the first time at drinktec. The same applies to full bottle inspection at the end of the line with the Heuft eXaminer II XOS. Heuft will also be showcasing intelligent innovations for empty can inspection, leak detection of PET bottles and beverage cartons, closure inspection, efficient labelling, and self-learning label inspection. www.heuft.com/drinktec )睨%睤睥 Heuft Systemtechnik GmbH Hall B4 – Booth 121/321"},{"@ID":33

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 31 PREFORM PRODUCTION 31 That is the reason why the recently launched closure inspection and measurement system, the IMDvista CAPMASTER, incorporates the same calibration/validation features. According to Martin Gerber, inline calibration for vision-based inspection will become the new industry standard. Detailed short shot inspection The new PECO LUX V3 enables precise and fully automated inline inspection of short shots – something that was previously only partially achievable. This is done by the use of IMDvista NEURON, IMD’s AI-based analysis tool. Short shots can now be detected and evaluated in detail without compromising the systems already high inspection rate up to 85%. The IMDvista NEURON, an AI-based analysis tool enables automated inline inspection of short shots. Preform factory concept Martin Gerber explains that with the IMDvista Preform Factory Concept, which is well-established on the market, customers retain full flexibility: Whether it is inline monitoring, 100% inline inspection, 100% offline inspection for re-sorting or in combinbation with blowing/filling (together with M.Tanner AG Switzerland). For Martin Gerber, it is obvious that the new generation IMDvista PECO LUX V3 offers numerous options to bridge the gap towards 100% inline inspection. He is confident that, especially with the upcoming challenges posed by rPET materials, inline monitoring systems will become the industry standard within the next one to three years. www.imdvista.ch ƼRH SYX QSVI WEGQM GSQ CCM64MD Born to perform 1.35 minimum mechanical cycle time sec FEEDBACK-POWERED TUNING kWh/kg -15% up to SPECIFIC CONSUMPTION compared to previous model caps/hour 171k WITH 64 CAVITIES ONLY productivity +50% ON 53 m2 OF FLOORSPACE"},{"@ID":56

"OUTER PLANET 54 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net OUTER PLANET Okra and fenugreek polymers extract remove most microplastics from water The substances behind the slimy strings from okra and the gel from fenugreek seeds could trap microplastics better than a commonly used synthetic polymer. Previously, researchers at Tarleton State University, Texas, proposed using these sticky natural polymers to clean up water. Now, they report in the American Chemical Society publication ACS Omega that okra and/or fenugreek extracts attracted and removed up to 90% of microplastics in ocean water, freshwater and groundwater. Rajani Srinivasan and colleagues from the Department of Chemistry Geosciences and Physics have been exploring nontoxic, plant-based approaches to attract and remove contaminants from water. In one set of lab experiments, they found that polymers from okra, fenugreek and tamarind stick to microplastics, clumping together and sinking for easy separation from water. Srinivasan spoke about successful demonstrations of the plant extracts in freshwater and ocean water at ACS Spring 2022, a meeting of the American Chemical Society. In this next stage of the research, they have optimised the process for okra and fenugreek extracts in various types of water. To extract the sticky plant polymers, the team soaked sliced okra pods and blended fenugreek seeds in separate containers of water overnight. Then, researchers removed the dissolved extracts from each solution and dried them into powders. Analyses showed that the powdered extracts contained polysaccharides, which are natural polymers. Initial tests in pure water spiked with microplastics showed that: One gram of either powder in a quart (one litre) of water trapped microplastics the most effectively. Dried okra and fenugreek extracts removed 67% and 93%, respectively, of the plastic in an hour. A mixture of equal parts okra and fenugreek powder reached maximum removal efficiency (70%) within 30 minutes. The natural polymers performed significantly better than the synthetic, commercially available polyacrylamide polymer used in wastewater treatment. Then the researchers tested the plant extracts on real microplastic-polluted water. They collected samples from waterbodies around Texas and brought them to the lab. The plant extract removal efficiency changed depending on the original water source: Okra worked best in ocean water (80%), fenugreek in groundwater (80-90%), and the 1:1 combination of okra and fenugreek in freshwater (77%). The researchers hypothesise that the natural polymers had different efficiencies because each water sample had different types, sizes and shapes of microplastics. Polyacrylamide is currently used to remove contaminants during wastewater treatment, but the researchers say that okra and fenugreek extracts could serve as biodegradable and non-toxic alternatives. “Utilising these plant-based extracts in water treatment will remove microplastics and other pollutants without introducing additional toxic substances to the treated water,” says Srinivasan, “thus reducing longterm health risks to the population.” www.acs.org www.pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/ acsomega.4c07476 The authors acknowledge funding from the U.S. Department of Energy; Tarleton State University; High Plains Water District located in Lubbock, Texas; the Burnaby Munson Endowed Research Professorship; the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program; and the Welch Foundation. The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a non-profit organisation founded in 1876 and chartered by the U.S. Congress."},{"@ID":36

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 34 A technological overview of a new beverage packaging plant Developments in rPET preform production PET Solutions has recently completed the installation of a production line for a leading client in the beverage industry, designed specifically for the processing of rPET for preform manufacturing. With a throughput of approximately 6,000 kg/h, the facility incorporates technologies aimed at improving energy efficiency, material consistency, and operational reliability. The project reflects broader industry trends towards environmentally responsible packaging solutions. Material handling: external silo loading system The first stage of the plant’s operations involves the handling and loading of raw materials into four external silos, which are supplied by Ergomec, part of Pegaso Industries. These silos are equipped with pneumatic transport systems that securely transfer materials while maintaining strict standards for contamination control. The system is designed to automate material flow, ensuring a continuous and steady supply of material to the downstream feeders. This is not only claimed to enhance the operational efficiency of the plant but also to minimise the risks associated with manual handling, reducing contamination risks and improving safety. The use of pneumatic transport ensures that the materials are transferred in a controlled and clean manner, which is especially critical when handling rPET. Material blending: gravimetric dosing system The production line features a gravimetric dosing system with an accuracy of ±0.1%. Capable of managing up to eight different components, the system offers throughput rates ranging from 50 kg/h to 3,000 kg/h. Real-time monitoring and an adaptive recalibration feature help maintain consistent material quality. The system is operated via a Siemens S7 programmable logic controller (PLC) and a 7-inch touchscreen interface, allowing for precise monitoring and fine-tuning of material flow, contributing to product quality and reducing the chances of error during the production process. Moisture removal: DRV vacuum drying technology At the core of the plant’s operations lies the DRV technology, a continuous vacuum drying solution optimised for drying both rPET and virgin PET materials before injection moulding to produce preforms. Operating under low-pressure conditions, the system aims to reduce moisture content without causing overheating and degradation while improving energy efficiency. Key features of the DRV system include: Material protection: The low-pressure operation prevents thermal degradation and preserves the quality of the material, preventing common issues such as yellowing. Energy efficiency: The DRV system operates with a reduced energy footprint compared to conventional systems, eliminating the need for oil condensers and providing energy savings. Fast and uniform drying: Four interconnected hoppers provide continuous and balanced drying. Quick material changeover: The system is claimed to reduce PREFORMS Continuous vacuum drying technology Complete drying solution installed on mezzanine level"},{"@ID":8

"PETnews 6 NEWS PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Alpek will cease operations at its PET facility in North Carolina Alpek, S.A.B. de C.V. announced the strategic decision to cease operations at its Cedar Creek facility in Fayetteville, North Carolina by July 31, 2025. The site, acquired by Alpek in 2001, has an installed capacity of 170,000 t of PET resin and approximately 35,000 t of rPET flake production. This decision is aligned with Alpek’s long-term strategy to optimise its global footprint and focus on its more competitive and scalable assets. The company aims to reallocate its production to continue serving its customers with high quality products and sustainable solutions by leveraging its regional and global network. Through this step, which is part of Alpek’s Cost Reduction Strategic Initiatives, the company will be able to generate approximately U.S. $20 million in annualised savings on a run-rate basis, effective by 2026. The decision is intended to reinforce Alpek’s long-term vision to solidify its core business and strengthen its financial position. www.alpek.com EUROPEN launches an interactive PPWR Guidebook EUROPEN has released a new interactive guidebook designed to help businesses navigate the evolving requirements of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Whether companies are starting to review the Regulation or already adapting to the upcoming changes, this practical tool intends to provide a structured overview of the regulatory landscape and its implications for the packaging value chain. “Navigating the requirements of the PPWR can be a complex task. With the PPWR Guidebook, we aim to help companies gain a clear understanding of their obligations - tailored to their specific sector and products,” states Francesca Stevens, the Secretary General of EUROPEN. The guide offers a concise summary of the PPWR and its links to other key EU legislation, an interactive questionnaire to help users assess how the regulation applies to their business, as well as a glossary of legal terms for quick reference. Direct access to the PPWR text and related documentation are also included. To support users in getting started, EUROPEN has also published a short explainer video. The video walks users through the key features of the tool and demonstrates how to complete the questionnaire step by step. www.europen-packaging.eu Chemco and Kandoi form JV to launch rPET-based FIBC bag manufacturing facilities in India In a landmark collaboration aimed at redefining sustainable packaging in India, Chemco Group, one of the India’s largest PET converters, and Kandoi Group of Industries, a leader in technical textiles, have announced a strategic joint venture (JV) to build two fully integrated greenfield manufacturing facilities in Vapi and Dahej, Gujarat. With a total investment of U.S. $52.7 million (₹450 crore), the initiative will focus on producing FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) bags entirely from rPET. The upcoming facilities will offer a closed-loop system from PET bottle collection and washing, to tape extrusion, weaving, and final bag fabrication ensuring full traceability, consistent quality, and reduced environmental impact. Designed to recycle over 10 million PET bottles per day (approximately 3.6 billion annually), the plants will operate entirely on renewable energy and offer a high-strength, low-carbon alternative to traditional polypropylene and polyethylene packaging. Beyond its environmental goals, the JV is claimed to be built on a strong foundation of social equity. It is expected to generate over 2,500 direct and indirect jobs across collection, processing, logistics, and manufacturing. By partnering with Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and municipal corporations, the initiative aims to formalise India’s informal waste collector network offering steady livelihoods, improved working conditions, and integration into a more transparent and efficient waste ecosystem. The rPET-based FIBC bags are fully aligned with India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and global ESG expectations. Commercial production is expected to begin by the end of 2025. www.chemcogroup.com ABC Compressors to become part of Atlas Copco Group Arizaga Bastarrica y Compañia S.A. (“ABC Compressors”), a Spanish compressor manufacturer, will become part of Atlas Copco Group and will be assigned to the air and gas applications division within the Compressor Technique Business Area. ABC Compressors was founded in 1943 and is located in Eibar, Spain. The company also has an assembly unit in Suzhou, China and sales offices in India, USA and Mexico. In total 319 employees will join Atlas Copco Group as part of the acquisition. ABC produces reciprocating compressors for gas and air compression, used in several customer segments and applications. In 2024 the company had revenues of approximately 84 MEUR (961 MSEK). The purchase price is not disclosed. The acquisition is expected to close during the third quarter 2025. www.atlascopco.com"},{"@ID":15

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 13 EDITOUR 13 EDITOUR again expanded container packaging types, this time to cans, following an increase in the number of cans found in the country’s litter stream. Sweden expanded its DRS to include juices in 2023, and in September 2025 will increase its deposit value (from 1 to 2 SEK for cans and small plastic bottles, and from 2 to 3 SEK for large plastic bottles). As well as implementation and modernisation of DRSs, public support for DRS is also on the rise. Surveys indicate strong consumer backing for these programs, with a summary of opinion polls in Europe finding a median of 81% of respondents support introducing new DRSs, 87% support their existing deposit system, and 79% support expanding existing DRSs. This backing for deposit schemes is driven by growing environmental awareness and the desire to contribute to sustainability efforts. Technological advancements have played a significant role in the evolution of DRS. A reverse vending machine (RVM) – for scanning, processing and storing drink container packaging – is equipped with advanced recognition and counting technologies for drinks containers. Automating makes the return process convenient, accurate and efficient for both consumers bringing back containers and the sites serving as return points. Automation also leads to economic benefits for overall system efficiency and cost reduction. Shaping the Circular Economy: It all starts at 8 – 15 OCTOBER 2025 The World’s No. 1 Trade Fair for Plastics and Rubber Düsseldor f, Germany k-online.com/join * Forecast Water and soft drinks development Europe, bottled in PET Beverage segments in Europe, bottled in PET (source for both diagrams: Data analytics company Euromonitor International) * Forecast Unit: million litres"},{"@ID":40

"PACKAGING / PALLETISING PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 38 Redefining wine on tap based on an article by Raymond Kent, Account Manager Australia, Middle East & Asia, KeyKeg When it comes to sustainable innovation in the wine industry, few names stand out like See Saw Wines from the prestigious food and wine region of Orange, Australia. With three decades of organic grape growing and a legacy rooted in environmental stewardship, See Saw has taken their next big step in sustainable wine service - wine on tap through KeyKeg. See Saw Wine: A legacy of balance and sustainability Founded by Justin and Pip Jarrett over 30 years ago, See Saw Wines has always believed in a balanced approach to viticulture. Their 140 hectares of organically certified vineyards sit across the diverse elevations of 700, 800, and 900m in the cool-climate Orange wine region, producing fruit that’s a true reflection of terroir and thoughtful farming. Sustainability here isn’t just a certification; it’s a philosophy that drives everything from soil health to solar energy use and now, innovative wine packaging solutions. Wine on tap with KeyKeg Glass bottles, while traditional, are one of the largest contributors to the wine industry’s carbon footprint. The transportation, production, and recycling of glass all come with significant environmental costs. That’s where KeyKeg comes in - a lightweight, recyclable, and smart alternative to glass bottles. See Saw first began using KeyKeg in 2017 to export wine to Taiwan, realising the potential of wine on tap both for international shipping and domestic hospitality venues. KeyKegs are lightweight, resulting in reducing transport costs. With each 20L KeyKeg replacing 27 bottles of wine, more wine can be transported per pallet. KeyKeg also preserves freshness for over 18 months. The savings on packaging and shipping are passed on to the customers. The cost involved with bottles, corks, labels is reduced by working with KeyKeg. A sustainable solution for the next generation of wine lovers Maggie Jarrett, Export and Sustainability Manager at See Saw, believes wine on tap will be mainstream in the future. With rising costs, especially for the younger generation of wine enthusiasts, wine on tap provides an affordable way to enjoy premium wine by the glass. “A glass of wine used to be $13, now it’s $17. With KeyKeg, we can keep prices down without sacrificing quality. That’s important for the next generation,” says Maggie. The younger demographic is also more open to eco-friendly packaging, making KeyKeg a natural fit for modern wine service. There’s no oxidation and no waste with KeyKeg. The future of wine is on tap “Younger people don’t have fixed ideas about how wine should be packaged, so there’s a real opportunity to bring wine on tap into bars and restaurants. Wine on tap lets venues offer more variety without the worry of opening too many bottles, and it cuts down on waste.” says Maggie. As climate concerns and economic pressures rise, wine lovers and industry professionals are looking for smarter, more sustainable ways to enjoy great wine. The company claims that wine on tap with KeyKeg offers a smart and sustainable alternative without compromising on taste or experience. www.keykeg.com"},{"@ID":53

"PETcontents 4 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 06/2025 EDITOUR MIDDLE EAST 11 Two factories, one holding company - Aseel Water and Oryx develop together EDITOUR CIRCULAR ECONOMY 12 Deposit return schemes Europe, an overview 16 Sustainability is the optimal way to preserve beverages - New Beverage Technology Centre Hochschule Geisenheim University 18 Sustainability can be long-term TOP TALK 20 Will the turnaround start now? - Interview with Christoph Wöss, Director Global Sales at Erema GmbH BOTTLING / FILLING 22 Reducing CO2 emissions with latest aseptic filling innovation - DNP launches environmentally friendly aseptic filling system for PET bottles BOTTLE MAKING 24 Smartweight water bottle launch - Zelda bottle made from recycled BioPET with no-label option in selected markets 26 A robust lightweight - KHS and Husky develop one of the lightest PET bottles MARKET SURVEY 27 Suppliers of preform system & preform moulds PREFORM PRODUCTION 30 Latest generation preform monitoring 32 Launch of roll-on pilfer proof preform range - FlexBlow announces pharma-grade ROPP 28 preforms for Pharma and other specialist markets 33 Precision drives preform production - Retal invests in new equipment to enhance preform quality 34 Developments in rPET preform production - A technological overview of a new beverage packaging plant 36 Full automation in preform production - Automation technologies reshape injection moulding operations by improving efficiency, traceability, and integration CAPS & CLOSURES 37 Fastened for the future - Q Pet expands South Africa facility for tethered closure production PACKAGING / PALLETISING 38 Redefining wine on tap EVENT PREVIEW 39 drinktec 2025 preview, part 1 42 “Sustainability remains a central focus worldwide” 44 drinktec 2025 - Global innovation hub for the beverage and liquid food industry OUTER PLANET 54 Okra and fenugreek polymers extract remove most microplastics from water BUYER’S GUIDE 48 Get listed! INSIDE TRACK 3 Editorial 4 Contents 6 News 46 On site 47 Patents PREFORMS Page 16 Page 24 Page 11 EDITOUR Editour"},{"@ID":45

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 43 EVENT PREVIEW protein-enriched drinks – especially those made from plant-based sources or extracted from brewing by-products. PETplanet: drinktec manages to surprise its visitors almost every edition. Last time, it introduced innovation hubs and a new startup area. Can you give us a sneak peek of what visitors can particularly look forward to this time? Kosak: The supporting program has been completely redesigned. We are combining all key program elements into one central space in Hall C4, where our new format, the Liquidrome, will serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, exhibitor presentations, and dialogue with the scientific and research communities. The Liquidrome lays the foundation for the exchange of ideas that will shape the future. This dynamic activity zone broadens the scope of information available to visitors and opens up new perspectives for product innovation, the application of cutting-edge technologies, and forward-looking market strategies. Developed in close cooperation with drinktec’s conceptual sponsor, the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association, all content within the Liquidrome will be aligned with the three main themes of the show. PETplanet: What supporting program highlights can attendees expect in addition to the Liquidrome and the exhibition itself? Kosak: The Startup Zone will once again be an integral part of the Liquidrome, following the strong interest it received this year. We are excited to present a compelling selection of German startups, showcased within a booth concept supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). In addition, we have successfully integrated a number of international startups into the zone. The range of offerings clearly highlights a strong focus on IT solutions within the industry – an area where many startups see significant development potential. Key topics include maintenance management systems, cloud solutions, and other IT-driven innovations. Energy and heat supply in beverage production, as well as novel additives, are also central areas of interest for these emerging companies. PETplanet: Once again, drinktec has just completed an extensive global roadshow. What were the most pressing topics raised by customers worldwide? Kosak: The drinktec key themes directly address today’s global challenges! Naturally, these topics are prioritised differently across individual markets, but it is clear that sustainability remains a central focus worldwide. We are also seeing significant shifts in consumer behaviour across the globe – whether in terms of ingredients, such as sugar, or in the functional expectations placed on beverages and liquid foods. This is creating growth opportunities, particularly for ready-to-drink teas and fruit juice beverages. In addition, proteins and dietary supplements are playing an increasingly important role in product development. In our direct conversations with industry representatives, one thing has become very clear: the global industry is eagerly anticipating drinktec. For some countries – China among them – this will mark the first major opportunity for international exchange since the pandemic. PETplanet: Of particular interest to our readers: How will the PET sector be represented at this year’s drinktec? Kosak: We have received outstanding feedback from the PET sector and are offering a comprehensive exhibitor lineup focused on PET technology – covering the entire Hall C6 and half of Hall C5. As of now [June 06], 44 exhibitors are registered in the category of preform and plastic container manufacturing, according to our official classification. Additionally, there are 24 companies in the closures segment and 17 more involved in the production of semi-finished goods. This represents a focused view of the PET industry based on our official nomenclature. We’re also seeing several exhibitors expanding their booth space significantly for the 2025 edition of drinktec. It’s important for your readers to note that PET bottle solutions extend beyond these halls. Relevant technologies for the filling and packaging processes can also be found throughout the exhibition. At present, 107 exhibitors offering filling and capping machines are registered – essential not only for beverage producers but also for liquid food manufacturers working with plastic containers. PETplanet: Thank you very much Markus! Now we are looking forward to drinktec even more! www.drinktec.com"},{"@ID":47

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 45 EVENT PREVIEW 45 EVENT PREVIEW This is new at drinktec 2025 One of the key additions to drinktec 2025 is the Liquidrome, a new space for dialogue between science, research and industry. “With the Liquidrome, we are creating a foundation for future-oriented exchange,” says Markus Kosak, Executive Director of the drinktec cluster. The Liquidrome will also host the Startup Zone, showcasing digital solutions like cloud-based maintenance systems as well as health-focused beverage concepts. The Innovation Guide has also been revised, helping visitors navigate the exhibition more effectively and discover the most relevant and forward-thinking solutions for their specific needs. Reflecting broader industry dynamics drinktec aims to reflect the industry’s broader strategic and economic challenges. “Our goal is for the fair to mirror the real state of the industry and respond to its challenges,” says Rolf Keller, Managing Director of Yontex, organiser of drinktec. Keller sees a fast-changing consumer landscape: “We are witnessing an increasing diversity in product development – from vegan and organic to sugar-free, alcoholfree and regional offerings. Beverages enriched with proteins or vitamins are gaining traction. Reusability and supply chain resilience are also key themes.” While innovation remains strong, the economic environment is marked by contrasting developments. The food processing machinery sector saw a decline in 2024. Only packaging machinery managed modest growth of 2% – largely driven by increased demand in beverage packaging. Trade barriers and geopolitical frictions, especially from the US, remain a concern. Yet the United States continue to be Germany’s largest export market for food and packaging machinery (up 7% in 2024 to EUR 1.8 billion). “Despite unpredictable US trade policies, we expect strong participation from American companies,” says Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association. “They simply cannot meet their technology needs domestically.” Global trade in food and packaging machinery reached a record EUR 54.5 billion in 2024. Europe still leads, accounting for 70% of exports, with Germany and Italy at the forefront. However, China is catching up quickly, having doubled its export volume to EUR 6.6 billion over the past five years. “Many Chinese firms will exhibit at drinktec aiming to tap into new market potential through this highly international platform,” Clemens adds. In 2024, global sales of packaged beverages reached 1.1 trillion litres. According to Euromonitor, this figure will grow by 14% by 2028, with the strongest increases expected in Africa, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. In saturated markets, qualitative growth through innovation and differentiation is the key driver. drinktec 2025 expected to be driving force Despite global economic uncertainties, industry sentiment is positive. drinktec 2025 is expected to deliver valuable impulses and concrete solutions for navigating future challenges. As Markus Kosak concludes: “We’ve seen enormous interest in drinktec around the globe. Dialogue with local industry associations has given us valuable insights into strategic priorities across different markets. This direct exchange is essential to positioning drinktec as the global hub for the beverage and liquid food industry.” www.drinktec.com"},{"@ID":38

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 36 Full automation in preform production In PET preform injection facilities, operational efficiency, traceability, and logistics coordination are essential elements for maintaining competitiveness. Despite this, many plants still rely on manual workflows and disconnected systems – practices that contribute to extended production cycles and elevated operating costs. Advances in automation present a viable pathway to address these challenges by enabling end-to-end integration across the production line. In response to growing demands for operational optimisation, automation provider And & Or has implemented comprehensive solutions aimed at fully automating PET preform manufacturing processes. These systems cover the complete production chain, from raw material intake to final product storage. Key components of the framework include autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for automated load handling, integrated traceability and quality control systems, labelling applications, and compatibility with warehouse management systems (WMS). Real-time data monitoring supports continuous oversight and facilitates process transparency. One notable element is the automated octabin forming station, designed to replace manual packaging preparation. This system standardises packaging processes, reduces cycle time, improves stability during handling, and lowers labour-associated costs. According to the company, integrating such technology can streamline operations while enhancing packaging uniformity and reliability. The automation platform is designed with modularity in mind, allowing it to be adapted to the specific requirements and constraints of individual clients’ production sites. As stated by And & Or, the solution can be integrated into facilities with any level of automation as the system is engineered to ensure interoperability with existing infrastructure. www.andyor.com PREFORMS 3 rue de l’Île Macé, 44 412 Rezé, France 17 rue de l’argentique 71530 Fragnes La Loyère, France +33 (0)2 40 05 09 37 [email protected] www.sgt-pet.com PET & RPET Preforms for Food and Non-Food Applications Premium RPET Manufacturer 2 ACTIVITIES, ONE COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE."},{"@ID":57

"Circular Economy Editour Europe 2025 focusing on The worldwide round trip with Editour Closing the Loop Energy Efficiency Material Savings Be part of the story. Interested in being interviewed on site? Reach out to us! Scan for more Infos Sponsors to date"},{"@ID":10

"PETnews 8 NEWS PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net International Bottled Water Association: Bottled water gro th rate outperforms all other packaged drinks, by volume America’s favourite packaged drink, bottled water, had the highest volume growth rate of all other beverages in 2024, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) reports, according to new data from the Beverage Marketing Corporation (BMC). Nearly all other drinks had negative growth in 2024, reaffirming that bottled water’s robust performance is the result of consumers making the wise switch from less healthy packaged drinks to bottled water. For the ninth consecutive year, bottled water is the number one beverage, by volume, in the United States. Bottled water’s total consumption volume in 2024 was 16.4 billion gallons, with a growth rate of 2.9%. Carbonated soft drinks (11.9 billion gallons) grew by a mere 0.2% and energy drinks by 1.6%, while sports drinks fell by -2.7%, ready to drink coffee by -2.3%, fruit beverages by -2.5%, and both value-added water and ready to drink tea fell by -1.3%. Bottled water retail sales reached $50.6 billion, up 3.7% from 2023. “Though sometimes regarded as competing with tap water, bottled water achieved its position as the biggest beverage category by enticing consumers away from other packaged beverages. Some consumers may have transitioned away from regular, full-calorie sodas in favour of their diet (or ‘zero-sugar’) iterations, but many others opted for bottled water instead. And as some consumers grew leery of artificial sweeteners, they moved away from diet sodas as well as regular versions,” says John G. Rodwan, Jr., BMC’s editorial director. “Bottled water’s zero-calorie status and its lack of artificial ingredients appeal to many consumers. Even where tap water may be safe and readily available, people may prefer bottled water,” says Rodwan. “The availability of packaged water wherever beverages are sold also differentiates bottled water from tap.” “Whether consuming refreshing, highquality water from a 3- or 5-gallon jug and watercooler or picking up a convenient, resealable, grab-and-go PET container, bottled water offers a healthy and smart choice,” says Jill Culora, IBWA’s vice president of communications. “Consumers who choose bottled water know both options can lessen their personal environmental footprints when they choose water over other packaged drinks. Watercoolers provide thirst-quenching water from 3- and 5-gallon containers that are collected, cleaned, sanitised, and reused over 35 times before being recycled. And the market’s most popular, individual-sized PET plastic bottle is not only the most recognised as being recyclable but also the most common item in curbside bins (53%), making it easy for consumers to make the right choice and recycle rather than throw away empty bottles.” PET bottled water containers are also ultralight in weight, using nearly 1/3 less plastic than PET soda bottles, which require thicker plastic due to being carbonated. Bottled water companies are increasingly using post-consumer recycled plastic to make new bottles, instead of using virgin plastic, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Bottled water’s volume surpassed soft drinks for the first time in 2016 and has done so every year since. The average American consumed 47.3 gallons of bottled water in 2024. www.bottledwater.org PERFECTION DRIVES US. 50 Y E AR S ANNI VERSARY 1973 – 2023 WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF PREFORM HANDLING: www.mtannerag.ch Floor level solution, soft handling, LMKL IJ½GMIRX  GSQTEGX PE]SYX  'SQTPIXI WSPYXMSR JVSQ E WMRKPI WSYVGI  Growwith the Flow 15.–19. September WE ARE EXHIBITING AT: VISIT US IN HALL A5 AT STAND 122 2025"},{"@ID":52

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 15 EDITOUR years into its deposit return scheme, Latvia recorded a 61% reduction in plastic containers in coastline litter, and a 49% reduction among all DRS containers. 54% of consumers said the environment had become cleaner after the DRS. In Slovakia, drink cans made up 20.5% of collected litter 1.5 years before the DRS (with PET bottles making up 15%), dropping to 2.2% just 1.5 years after the return scheme (and 3.2% for PET bottles). Six months after Ireland’s deposit return scheme launch, it was announced the DRS had led to a huge reduction in drink containers found in coastal clean-ups. Socially, DRSs raise public awareness and change behaviours around recycling and waste reduction. In many countries, a new DRS has been accompanied by educational campaigns, fostering a culture of recycling and environmental responsibility. By the end of Lithuania’s first year with DRS, 99.8% of the public were aware of the system, with 89% having used it at least once; 58% reported recycling more, and 78% believed the deposit scheme was good and necessary. In Norway, more than 92% said it is very important for them to be able to return every container; they believe it is good for the environment, and trust the system. Research 1.5 years into Latvia’s DRS found the system is used at least once per month by 80% of the population, and by 94% of households. What’s next for deposit return schemes in Europe and the EU “The future of DRS in Europe looks busy and bustling, with several countries planning to implement these schemes in the coming years,” explains Thomas Morgenstern. Austria introduced its DRS on January 1, 2025, aiming to increase the recycling rate from the current 70% to 90% by 2027, to reduce litter and enhance high quantity and quality resource recovery. Poland is set to introduce its DRS in 2025. Portugal has announced it will begin with a deposit scheme in 2026. In January, DRS regulations for England and Northern Ireland in the United Kingdom were passed by both hours of parliament, with the deposit refund scheme set to go live in October 2027. Greece and Spain are also aiming for DRS implementation. “Deposit systems have proven to be an effective tool in European countries’ efforts to enhance their collection rate and recycling rate, reduce waste, combat litter, and reuse valuable resources. The history, current trends and future prospects of DRS highSource: Tomra light their importance in achieving recycling and waste management goals. As we look to the future, continued modernisation and innovation will be essential as DRS becomes a cornerstone of Europe’s circular economy,” says Thomas Morgenstern. www.tomra.com"},{"@ID":43

"41 EVENT PREVIEW PETplanet Insider Vol. 25 No. 0/24 www.petpla.net IMDvista Factory Concept 4.0 Preform Inspection Solution 100% Inline or offline solutions Inline monitoring with short shot inspection With IMDvista NEURON AI Future-proof technology Oil-free screw + piston tandem compressors Adekom is an Asian compressor manufacturer with a focus on applications in the food and beverage industry. Its latest product line, the KSP Series, features a skidmounted, two-stage oil-free compressor system that combines a first-stage water-injected screw compressor with a second-stage oil-free piston booster. This tandem configuration is designed to deliver ISO 8573-1 Class 0 certified air at pressures at 40 bar, with flow rates ranging from 5.0 to 30.5m³/min, and is intended for continuous, round-the-clock operation. To enhance durability and operational efficiency, the system incorporates corrosion-resistant materials and relies on a water-based lubricant to absorb heat, which helps maintain lower internal temperatures. According to the manufacturer, this approach can reduce wear on components and extend maintenance intervals. All wetted components, including the screw airend casing, star wheel bracket, and system pipelines, are constructed from food-grade stainless steel. The inclusion of a permanent magnet frequency inverter allows the compressor to adjust its energy use based on real-time demand, optimising energy efficiency. The design also considers ease of maintenance. An automatic water-exchange mechanism enables the water-based lubricant to be replaced without stopping the system, helping to minimise operational interruptions. System control is handled via an integrated PLC, which provides a centralised interface for monitoring and adjustment. Additionally, the control system supports cloud-based connectivity for remote monitoring and predictive maintenance. www.adekom.com 1 billion beverage caps every year on all-electric Sumitomo (SHI) Demag will present its packaging expertise, including how its PAC-E machine supports the growing interest in all-electric solutions in the fast cycle caps and closures market. Blending the company’s high-speed and all-electric expertise, PAC-E is claimed to save packaging processors up to 50% in energy costs. Reliably producing 2,100 26/22 beverage caps every minute, the drinktec PAC-E exhibit features a 72-cavity tool from Z-Moulds. The cell also comprises a mould area dehumidification system from Eisbär and a state-of-the-art downstream line featuring an inspection camera and box packing system from IMD Vista. As stated by the company, the machine pushes the limits in producing lightweight packaging with the fastest dry cycle time and an injection speed up to 550mm/s. PAC-E is also cleaner, with a closed-loop lubrication system for producing applications with high hygiene requirements, such as food packaging and medical parts. Since its sales release, PAC-E has been widely accepted by the market and the number of installed units is rapidly growing. The customers have reported energy cost savings while maintaining the same production efficiency, says Sumitomo Demag. Currently available in 350- and 420-ton clamp force, all PAC-E machines are compatible with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag’s cross-platform, opencommunication software. www.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu Adekom Hall C6 – Booth 412 Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Hall C6 – Booth 160 The new PAC-E machine from Sumitomo (SHI) Demag has been designed to save processors up to 50% in energy costs."},{"@ID":1

"No.06 2025 www.petpla.net D 51178; ISSN: 1438-9452 PETplanet is read in 159 countries Suppliers of preform systems & preform moulds MARKETsurvey M A G A Z I N E F O R B O T T L E R S A N D B O T T L E - M A K E R S I N T H E A M E R I C A S , A S I A , E U R O P E A N D A L L A R O U N D T H E P L A N E T 30 . 06 . 25 Page 39 Page 27 EDITOUR Page 11 EDITOUR Page 12 PREFORMS Page 30"},{"@ID":44

"EVENT PREVIEW PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 42 “Sustainability remains a central focus worldwide”by Gabriele Kosmehl In conversation with PETplanet, Markus Kosak, Executive Director drinktec Cluster shares insights in market dynamics and outlines what to expect from drinktec 2025 and the PETpoint area PETplanet: We’re slowly approaching the final stretch leading up to drinktec. Can you give us an update on current bookings and ongoing planning efforts? Kosak: We are seeing a very strong response for drinktec 2025. The exhibition halls are nearly fully booked, with only a few remaining spaces available. New inquiries continue to come in, and we are doing our best to allocate them within the appropriate exhibition segments. With the 2025 edition of the trade fair, the industry is once again affirming that there is a broad and diverse range of technologies and solutions for beverage and liquid food production on an international level. Thanks to a strong international exhibitor presence, we are once again underlining the strength and core identity of the drinktec brand. drinktec has long established itself as the premier trade show for beverage and liquid food producers worldwide. PETplanet: The 2022 edition was still somewhat overshadowed by COVID-related restrictions. For example, Chinese exhibitors were less present than usual due to strict quarantine rules upon returning home. How international will this year’s drinktec be? Kosak: We are seeing strong interest from international exhibitors: Based on current bookings, the share of international exhibitors is expected to reach around 70 percent. You are right – in the 2022 edition, we had only a limited number of bookings from Chinese exhibitors due to strict regulations in China at the time. Fortunately, the situation has changed for the upcoming drinktec 2025: China will once again hold a prominent position in our exhibitor rankings. With around 100 exhibitors, it will represent the third-largest exhibitor group, highlighting the significant potential of Chinese suppliers for the beverage and liquid food industry. We are also seeing strong demand for exhibition space from other regions around the world. This includes countries with close ties to the EU, as well as regions where we have already established a presence through our brand – such as India. We are particularly pleased to see new countries joining our exhibitor list. This reflects the dynamic developments within the global supplier market for equipment and ingredients for the beverage and liquid food industry. PETplanet: How is the trade show integrating digital tools or hybrid formats to enhance the visitor and exhibitor experience? Kosak: Our website offers quick and interactive access to everything the trade fair has to offer – including an interactive hall plan optimised for mobile devices. Visitors can also take advantage of various search functions available directly on the website. Another key feature accessible via our website is the Innovation Guide, which can be activated upon entering the fair using a QR code. It leads visitors directly to exhibitors featured in the guide for their innovative solutions. Our approach is to provide a single digital touchpoint through the website, offering a wide range of tools in one place. We are also leveraging digital tools for creative and experiential elements. For example, an Innovation Tunnel will be installed at the West Entrance, designed to inspire visitors from the very moment they enter the exhibition. PETplanet: What are the hot topics the trade show is focusing on this year? Kosak: For drinktec 2025, we are focusing on three key themes. Under the main theme “Circularity & Resource Management”, the program will cover topics such as water reuse and wastewater treatment. Presentations will explore how global demands for reduced water consumption can be met from various perspectives. Additional focal points include energy recovery, the use of by-products from production processes, and optimised material use in packaging. In this context, the implementation of the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will also be addressed in the conference program. The second main theme, “Data2Value”, centres on process transparency and the integration of solutions that leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence. Examples include flavour prediction models and predictive maintenance systems. Similar technologies are being applied in the design of cleaning processes: AI, combined with machine learning, can identify contamination levels in containers and automatically initiate tailored cleaning cycles. The third main theme, “Lifestyle & Health”, provides insights into market trends such as flavour solutions for low- and no-alcohol beers, alcoholfree wines, and fermented beverages. Visitors will discover how to tap into the growth potential of this segment through optimised formulations. Functional beverages enriched with minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fibre, or probiotics are expected to gain market share. Increasingly important, too, are"},{"@ID":12

"10 NEWS PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Carbios signs its first biorecycled PET sales contracts with two global cosmetics leaders Carbios has signed its first multiyear offtake contracts with L’Oréal and L’Occitane en Provence for biorecycled rPET from its future commercial plant in Longlaville, France. The agreements mark a step in the company’s efforts to scale enzymatic recycling technology, which aims to provide an alternative method for producing recycled PET suitable for packaging. The company stated that the contracts reflect interest from consumer brands in sourcing materials that support circular packaging and quality standards. Carbios indicated that these deals align with its previously stated goal to secure initial offtake contracts in the first half of 2025. “This contract with Carbios underlines our commitment to working with innovative players in PET recycling to create a circular economy. We congratulate Carbios on this advancement towards industrial scale for their enzymatic recycling solution, which represents a key milestone for the packaging industry,” said Jacques Playe, Director of Development and Packaging, L’Oréal. “The partnership we have established with Carbios marks a decisive step for L’Occitane en Provence in our commitment to greater circularity in our packaging. It is testament to the continuation and acceleration of our commitment to reducing our environmental impact. Today, alongside Carbios, we are bringing a shared desire to life to build a high-performance European industry to promote the transition to a circular economy for plastics,” said David Bayard, R&D Packaging Director, L’Occitane en Provence. www.carbios.com StackTeck capacity growth update StackTeck Systems Ltd., a global manufacturer of high-volume injection moulding solutions for thinwall packaging, closures, PET preforms, personal care and medical products, has continued to increase capacity with investments in new machinery and automation throughout their manufacturing and testing facilities totalling U.S. $14.3 million in the last three years. Michael Gould, StackTeck’s Chief Operating Officer stated: “Over the last three years we have invested an average of $4.6 million USD per year representing about 8% of our order intake. At the same time, we are finding synergies between our mould and automation lines, resulting in highly integrated mould specialties such as servo driven mould functions and in-mould automation delivering highly integrated solutions to our customer base.” Our investment in StackTeck’s manufacturing facilities has resulted in capacity increases of 13% in highspeed milling, 50% in EDM, and 50% in gun drilling, further enabling our ability to deliver large multi mould programs. Vince Travaglini, StackTeck’s President and CEO stated: “We are continuing to invest to handle strong demand for our products despite ongoing uncertainty with the current global trade challenges. We are happy to announce that we are currently planning an Open House for this fall where we will showcase some of our latest mould and automation technologies and our customer base will be able to come and see those, as well as the investments we have made throughout our plant in the last few years.” www.stackteck.com BEYOND THE HORIZON PROCESS SOLUTIONS FOR POLYMER RECYCLING AND SOLID STATE POLYMER UPGRADING Polymetrix, a Sanlian Buhler Company, provides process technology including EPCM services for the polymer recycling and manufacturing industry. Leading supplier of rPET systems and integrated rPET plants for single line capacities up to 70’000 tons per year. www.polymetrix.com www.slhpcn.com"},{"@ID":5

"imprint EDITORIAL PUBLISHER Alexander Büchler, Managing Director HEAD OFFICE heidelberg business media GmbH Hubweg 15 74939 Zuzenhausen, Germany phone: +49 6221-65108-0 [email protected] EDITORIAL Kay Barton Heike Fischer Gabriele Kosmehl Michael Maruschke Ruari McCallion Miriam Trotter Anthony Withers Editorial & WikiPETia. info [email protected] MEDIA CONSULTANTS Martina Hirschmann [email protected] Johann Lange-Brock [email protected] phone: +49 6221-65108-0 LAYOUT AND PREPRESS EXPRIM Werbeagentur Matthias Gaumann www.exprim.de READER SERVICES [email protected] PRINT Chroma Druck Eine Unternehmung der Limberg-Druck GmbH Danziger Platz 6 67059 Ludwigshafen, Germany WWW www.hbmedia.net | www.petpla.net PETplanet Insider ISSN 1438-9459 is published 10 times a year. This publication is sent to qualified subscribers (1-year subscription 149 EUR, 2-year subscription 289 EUR, Young professionals’ subscription 99 EUR. Magazines will be dispatched to you by airmail). Not to be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher. Note: The fact that product names may not be identified as trademarks is not an indication that such names are not registered trademarks. 3 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net Trade fairs are important, not so much for sending out orders, but more for making and maintaining contacts, learning about new technologies and getting ideas. The upcoming drinktec in Munich will certainly provide an opportunity to do just this. Once again, the entire beverage industry meets here. Miriam Trotter was at the pre-press conference for us (see page 44) and Gabriele Kosmehl spoke to Markus Kosak, Executive Director drinktec Cluster (see page 42). My personal experience with innovative technology at trade fairs was my visit to Brau Beviale in Nuremberg last year. We wanted to open a beer garden and were looking for a carbonation device for drinks. Well, that won’t be so difficult, I thought, and was almost overwhelmed by offers for carbonisation devices for water. But we also wanted to produce our sparkling wine from wine on site using a carbonator. And there was nothing. The appliances for water are not suitable for wine for hygienic reasons. Until we became aware of a small stand of the Carbotek Systems company. Here, the prototype of a device was presented in which a flow of liquid (all types of beverages) could be carbonated inline to an adjustable target value and, hey presto, you have fine sparkling wine. The appliance can be kept completely hygienic as, unlike water appliances, it has no cavities. What sounds so simple requires a lot of pumps, sensors and electronics. We bought the device. Carbotek developed it from a demonstration unit into a system for continuous use and now you can enjoy the delicious sparkling wine in our beer garden in Heidelberg (www.art5.gg). From the world’s first tap carbonator for gastronomy. I’m looking forward to seeing what exciting news we’ll encounter at drinktec - alongside Carbotek (stand C4-500). Yours, Alexander Büchler Dear readers,"},{"@ID":19

"PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 17 EDITOUR With the new analytical methods in Geisenheim, he could look deeper into the material and imagine a way of improving the determination of the exact rPET content. Beverage technology has a history of over 60 years in Geisenheim. The Beverage Technology Centre (GTZ) is of central importance here. Here, beverage technology products can be produced and filled under realistic conditions in different sizes and with a high degree of process engineering flexibility. The “baby” of Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Michael Ludwig is responsible for the design, planning and new construction of the GTZ with laboratories, technical facilities and production areas. With an area of over 4,000m², the GTZ offers a unique infrastructure for the practical training of Bachelor’s and Master’s students in all areas of beverage technology. The new centre enables the practical processing of raw materials from the fruit and vegetable production sector into high-quality juices, nectars, spritzers and soft drinks. Beer is brewed in two breweries and spirits and liqueurs are produced in the distillery. The range is complemented by the company’s own sparkling wine factory. The coffee laboratory with its own roastery is another pillar of the comprehensive beverage technology training programme. In addition, a sensory laboratory and analytical laboratory are available for drinking and table water and other beverages. The GTZ combines teaching and research in an ideal way. It offers students sound practical training and enables them to carry out current research projects with a process engineering background. About Prof. Dr Ralf Schweiggert: from 2008 to 2011 and habilitated in 2017 in the field of technology and analysis of plant foods at the University of Hohenheim. Since 2018, he has headed the Institute for Beverage Research and holds the Professorship for Analysis and Technology of Plant-Based Foods at Hochschule Geisenheim University. www.hs-geisenheim.de Since 2003, Prof Schweiggert has been working in food technology with a focus on fluid foods and beverages such as wine and fruit juice. During his career, he studied and taught at the Department of Food Science and Technology at Ohio State from 2011 to 2012, at the Escuela de Tecnología de Alimentos of the Universidad de Costa Rica (San José, Costa Rica)"},{"@ID":28

"BOTTLE MAKING 26 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net KHS and Husky develop one of the lightest PET bottles A robust lightweight KHS has set an impressive new benchmark by engineering one of the lightest PET bottles for still beverages to date. Under the working title of Factor 101, in close cooperation with Canadianbased injection moulding technology equipment and services provider Husky Technologies, a container has been produced that uses just 5.89 g of material to hold 591ml of product. This is equivalent to the 20-ounce size common in the United States. At drinktec 2017 KHS presented its Factor 100 concept as a feasibility study that featured a PET bottle weighing approximately 5 g with a capacity of 500ml. A number of optimisations have now been made to the further development, as KHS packaging designer Fabian Osterhold in Hamburg explains. “With such extreme lightweighting, what’s known as the top load is especially important. This value tells us how sturdy the bottle is from a vertical perspective. It determines whether the container can be stacked or not and survive transportation undamaged.” To increase stability, the shoulder design of Factor 101 has been modified and the bottle body reinforced with functional webbing. Moreover, Osterhold and his colleagues have developed a base with a pop-in effect. Here, the base pops inwards to a certain degree when a top load is applied, increasing the internal pressure and therefore the stability of the bottle. 200 newtons is a common top load threshold in the industry; at 220 newtons, the Factor 101 exceeds this. In order to achieve this high value for a PET bottle used for still beverages, adapting just the container shape wasn’t enough. “The preform design also needed to be developed further,” emphasises Osterhold. This is why KHS joined forces with the specialists at Husky. The company has a wealth of expertise as a leading equipment supplier of PET preform injection moulding systems and services and has been in cooperation with KHS for many years. Technically speaking, the stretching factors from blank to bottle and the resulting preform dimensions were especially important here. The relation of length to wall thickness is particularly relevant to injection moulding. In this context, KHS addressed the specifications and feasibilities of the stretch blow moulder and bottle design, while Husky made the necessary modifications to the preform. “The focus here was on the exact profiling of the preform made possible by KHS technology,” Osterhold ascertains. “Focus lamps in the heater on our InnoPET Blomax Series V, for example, make for extremely precise temperature profiling directly under the bottle neck ring. This ensures that no material stays unstretched. In turn, this considerably reduces the amount of plastic used.” 30% less material Compared to the standard lightweight PET container holding 500ml of still water that usually weighs 7 g on the US market, the joint KHS/Husky product requires 30% less material. It can also be manufactured entirely from rPET. However, bottle geometry is just one factor. “Line compatibility in the high-capacity range of up to 90,000 bph was a key challenge,” says Osterhold. “The main issues here were conveying, labelling and the secondary packaging. In the shrink tunnel, for instance, special attention had to be paid to the bottle shoulder – and the bottle of course shouldn’t fall over during conveying.” The project was successfully concluded in just four months Factor 101 was first presented live by Husky at the NPE 2024 plastics trade show in Orlando, Florida, in May of last year. The extreme lightweight was met with great interest in the industry. “The bottle in this form is of particular relevance to contract fillers who operate under great cost pressure,” believes Osterhold. The prime target markets are the United States, the Middle East and South America. The first projects are already in preparation. www.khs.com Fabian Osterhold, packaging designer at KHS The predecessor Factor 100 bottle from 2017 (left) has now been successfully further developed as the Factor 101 concept (photos: Jörg Schwalfenberg)"},{"@ID":35

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 33 Retal invests in new equipment to enhance preform quality Precision drives preform production Stricter EU regulations are transforming the plastic packaging sector, prompting manufacturers to adopt more sustainable and efficient practices. Legislation such as the Single Use Plastics Directive (SUPD) and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is accelerating innovation in materials and production, particularly in preform manufacturing. In response, packaging producer Retal has invested in advanced equipment to support the use of recycled PET and meet evolving industry standards. A recent addition to Retal’s preform production facilities is a Husky HyPET injection moulding system. Known for its precision and repeatability, the equipment plays a central role in meeting both the quality expectations of brand owners and the technical demands of recycled PET blends, says Retal. To support the growing use of rPET and virgin PET combinations, the company has also installed advanced gravimetric dosing systems, ensuring accurate resin blends while maintaining product consistency. This is particularly relevant for the development of preforms that must comply with evolving recyclability and recycled content targets. Preform and closure production at Retal is supported by both injection and compression moulding capabilities, allowing the company to offer tailored solutions, with ongoing investments focused on further boosting production efficiency and expanding the product portfolio. Production Director Dainius Staniulis explains, “To adjust to this new situation, we combine technology with team experience. We detect risks like metal particles in pellets and unstable rPET quality from different suppliers. We also change and unify processes - for example, rethinking how we dry rPET to keep quality stable and reduce power use. We build our own software and algorithms to better separate metals in material, and we register patents for new solutions. These steps help us improve quality and reduce waste, while also growing internal know-how.” Equipment strategy & development goals Staniulis explains that the company’s equipment strategy is aligned with its product development goals. Retal has developed preforms such as the 95g, 8L 48/40 and the 38mm 3-start for 6–8L bottles, which are designed to perform reliably during the blowing process. According to Staniulis, achieving the necessary precision in production requires a combination of appropriate investment and technical experience. Retal operates ten production sites across Europe and the US, with a shared focus on leveraging investments in personnel and facilities to maintain consistent manufacturing standards. The company applies a range of inspection protocols, certifications, and quality assurance audits to ensure compliance and performance across its product lines, which include preforms, closures, containers, and films. Sustainability is integrated into the company’s broader strategy. Chief Sustainability Officer Emmanuel Duffaut states that PREFORMS the approach is based on double materiality and aligned with global standards: “We mitigate and control important impacts, risks and opportunities with clear policies and targets, working with globally recognised evaluation framework including EcoVadis, CDP and the UN Global Compact.” In response to evolving regulations, Retal is also supporting brand owners in transitioning to tethered closures and is developing closure solutions for returnable glass bottles, scheduled for release this year. www.retalgroup.com"},{"@ID":11

"9 NEWS PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 Stadler appoints eighth-generation family member Julia Stadler as Co-Chief Executive Officer Stadler Anlagenbau GmbH, the globally active German company specialising in the planning, production, and assembly of turnkey recycling and sorting plants, announced the appointment of Julia Stadler as Co-Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2025. This step reinforces Stadler’s longstanding tradition of family leadership and embraces a forwardlooking, sustainability-driven approach. The leadership team now consists of two Co-CEOs, Willi and Julia Stadler, and CFO Claus Maier. Founded in 1791 as a village forge in Altshausen, Stadler has evolved over eight generations into an internationally recognised technology leader. The company is a leader in tailormade sorting systems for various types of waste, enabling efficient preparation for recycling. When Willi Stadler assumed leadership in 1993, the company employed just 26 people. Over the years, that number has increased steadily to around 600. Julia Stadler, the eighth-generation family member, joined Stadler in 2023 and has served as Chief Digital Officer for the past two years. In this role, she has led the company’s digital transformation, driving initiatives in automation, integrated data systems, and AI, which has put Stadler in a great position for long-term global competitiveness. Her leadership in this role, combined with her prior international consulting experience, has equipped her with sharp strategic insight, authentic leadership qualities and a deep understanding of global business dynamics, making her well-prepared to assume the role of Co-CEO. www.w-stadler.de CREATING FUTURE STANDARDS Japan’s leading Aseptic PET Filling System Provider. Our website Our solution high quality reliable technology safe & secure Hall B4 Booth 533"},{"@ID":37

"PREFORM PRODUCTION PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 35 changeover times by up to 65%, enhancing the overall efficiency of the plant and reducing downtime between production runs. Minimal maintenance: The design of the DRV system has been designed for minimal maintenance, ensuring fewer interruptions and higher operational uptime. Energy efficiency and sustainability considerations Energy-efficient technologies and sustainability were key design priorities in the development of the plant. Technologies such as vacuum drying, gravimetric dosing, and automated transport systems contribute to lower energy usage and operational costs. The use of rPET in preform production reduces the reliance on virgin materials and aligns with broader regulatory and market pressures towards circular economy models and environmentally sustainable practices. Integrated control systems The plant’s operations are managed by a Siemens S7 PLC, which coordinates the various subsystems, ensuring seamless interaction between each component of the production line. This integration ensures that material handling, dosing, drying, and other processes are synchronised, reducing the potential for errors and optimising production efficiency. The touchscreen interface provides operators with real-time access to all critical process parameters, allowing for any necessary rapid adjustments to be made. This real-time control enables operators to monitor and finetune operations, ensuring high production quality and minimal downtime. Additionally, the company states that the system’s data collection and diagnostics capabilities facilitate predictive maintenance, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed before they result in production stoppages. Predictive maintenance PET Solutions’ predictive maintenance system is engineered to reduce unplanned downtime and optimise the performance of production lines. By leveraging a network of advanced sensors, the system continuously collects real-time data on the operating conditions of each machine and plant component. This enables the early detection of anomalies and the identification of potential failures before they occur. Through predictive data analytics, maintenance activities can be scheduled in a targeted and efficient manner, minimising emergency interventions and extending the operational life of equipment. This approach is claimed to lower operating costs while enhancing system reliability and ensuring consistent production flow. Traceability across the complete supply chain The facility includes a traceability system that tracks raw materials through to final product delivery. This system provides digital documentation of each stage of production, enabling better inventory control, improved transparency, and compliance with quality and safety standards. This enhances transparency across the entire supply chain, effectively addressing the increase in customer demands for safety and sustainability. Operational performance The combination of automated material handling, precise dosing, energy-efficient drying, and integrated control systems contributes to a consistent production of rPET preforms. The facility is equipped to address the challenges associated with processing recycled materials, which can vary in quality, while maintaining stable output and cost efficiency. The commissioning of this plant highlights ongoing efforts within the packaging and beverage industries to adopt more sustainable production methods. While PET Solutions implemented the system, the technologies and practices employed are indicative of a wider shift towards automation, traceability, and environmental responsibility in rPET processing. www.petsolutions.it Continuous vacuum drying technology"}]}}