PETpla.net Insider 06 / 2019

BOTTLE MAKING 50 PET planet Insider Vol. 20 No. 06/19 www.petpla.net BOTTLE MAKING 50 track of all these market require- ments? Which of them do you think are really appropriate and what progress has been made in your developmental work on sus- tainability issues? Michael Hodges: We are also collaborating with suppliers to increase the quality and supply of post-consumer recycled (PCR) – resins. Sustainability and R&D experts from Amcor monitor and join conversations with govern- ments, NGOs and associations to bring the best solutions to the forefront. We have established clear baselines around our current product recyclability, which is directing our innovation decisions. We will also work with others to drive consistently greater world- wide recycling of packaging. One of Amcor’s newest ser- vice offerings, called Amcor 360 Packaging Solutions, is expected to deliver improved sustainability along with more efficient supply chains, capital avoidance, and superior shelf impact. Amcor 360 is powered by LiquiForm, a form- ing and filling technology where liquid product instead of air forms and fills the container in one step. Trends in PET PETplanet: Market research institutions repeatedly cite e-com- merce as the major customer phenomenon over the next few years. It is currently seeing sig- nificant growth in the food sector, a trend which is likely to continue going forward. What role does the bottle design have to play in this process? Brian Carvill: Primary packaging plays an important role in protecting products throughout the e-commerce supply chain. The bottle/container offers greater sustainability impact versus other packaging formats in the e-commerce channel. A lifecycle review shows that lighter containers reduce transportation needs, reduce damage, and cut emissions. Sound e-commerce packaging also reduces food waste, one of the greatest con- tributors to greenhouse gas emis- sions. Amcor is helping businesses, large and small, meet rising con- sumer expectations for conveni- ent, more sustainable and unique packaging that endures the com- plexities of the e-commerce supply chain. PETplanet: What innovations has Amcor introduced that are taking packaging forward in the e-commerce world? Brian Carvill: E-commerce is driving the food category and APEX patented technology is a great fit in that space and one of many evolutionary steps that Amcor has undertaken. The company’s unique APEX 24 oz hot fill PET jar with a metal lug closure is a first for the food packaging industry. The use of hot fill PET containers brings a unique value proposition and can be an integral element in an e-commerce expansion strategy for those brand owners who sell premium prod- ucts in glass at leading national retailers and specialty stores. PET is unlocking this untapped/incre- mental market for many brands beyond the retail space. The technology allows the fitment of metal lug closures to blow-and-trim 24 oz hot fill contain- ers. For the first time, consumers who are familiar with the look and quality feel of a glass jar with a metal lug closure can now enjoy the same quality and reassurance on a lightweight, shatter-proof PET jar. The Apex system ensures that sealing integrity is maintained and meets the industry average for removal torque (ease of opening). Brand owners can also maintain the same brand equity with the switch from glass to PET. PETplanet: There is an increasing demand for customised products, which is linked to the use .com 100815dmyL