Greif Continues Expansion in Russia

Reusable packaging news briefs

Greif, a global leader in industrial packaging products and services, has invested in a second intermediate bulk container (IBC) production plant in Russia.

Strategically located on Vorsino Industrial Park in Kaluga, adjacent to Greif’s steel drum production plant, the new hi-tech, food-grade IBC facility covers an area of 5,500 square meters and will allow Greif to double production capacity of IBCs in Russia.

“The opening of a new IBC facility in Russia underlines Greif’s ongoing commitment to the market,” said Konstantin Savinov, Director of Operations EMEA Eastern Europe. “Continued investment from local government and multinational corporations, as well as its proximity to several of Greif’s key customers makes Kaluga an attractive region.

“The investment will allow us to better serve our existing customers by offering more flexibility, reduced lead times and lower transportation costs as well as the ability to dispatch combined batches of steel drums and IBCs.  It will also mean we have the capacity to secure new contracts, particularly in the food industry, as well as coatings, petrochemicals and specialty chemicals.”

Greif opened its first IBC facility in Russia in Kazan in 2007.  The company also operates seven steel drum production facilities, the most recent of which was opened on Vorsino Industrial Park in July 2018.

Greif is a global leader in industrial packaging products and services strategically positioned with nearly 300 operating locations situated across over 40 countries.

DS Smith Plastics Launches Online Shop Of their AkyPak® Bulk Containers

New online site includes a configuration tool to assist visitors in choosing the right container to fit their needs, request a quote and soon… buy it online.

European leading packaging strategist DS Smith Plastics is launching an online site www.akypak-containers.com for European customers interested on the unbeatable combination of tough and lightweight offered by their AkyPak Returnable Bulk Containers.

The new online shop allows customers to configure bulk containers based on their requirements, request a quote and soon… buy them online.

The site offers visitors a product matrix that includes the type of container, descriptions, dimensions and corresponding return logistics ratio.  The site was designed to assist customers in finding the right packaging solution for their business regardless of industry or markets.

“Trust and transparency are so important in our business. Customers are literally entrusting us to keep their products safe from harm and it is something we take very seriously,” stated Louis Patruno, Marketing Director, DS Smith Plastics, Extruded Products. “Our new online shop akypak-containers.com is reflective of our commitment to supporting our customers with the best possible service. The targeted platform means we can continue to help companies be more agile and manage their own business more effectively.”

It’s no wonder that AkyPak containers are used in numerous industries. They are lightweight, easy to handle, resistant to chemicals, have a printable surface, and are reusable up to 7-10 years.

The website will continue to evolve in the coming weeks as more functionalities are added. The next wave of expansion will include the ability to purchase in-stock containers up to 50 units allowing companies to be more agile than ever before. As their orders come in, or an opportunity presents itself, customers will know that the AkyPak containers are just a click away to help them make the most of their business.

Crucially, this flexibility and responsiveness will allow customers control their own cashflow and storage facilities by buying goods as and when they need them rather than tying up cashflow and storage space with hundreds or thousands of containers.

Tampa, Florida, USA, September 30, 2019: IFCO, the world’s leading operator of Reusable Plastic Containers (RPCs), announced the appointment of Jonathan W. Brooks as Vice President, Retail Sales. A senior supply chain executive, he has a successful track record in process improvement and change management, people development, strategic sales, supply chain optimization & design, transportation procurement, and logistics execution.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jon to the IFCO family,” said Dan Martin, President of IFCO North America. “His strong track record of leadership and proven ability to develop innovative supply chain solutions for the fast-moving consumer goods sector make him the ideal candidate to work with our retail customers on packaging and supply chain solutions for fresh food.”

Brooks most recently served as Senior Director, Global Network Optimization & Design at CHEP, where he created and managed multi-disciplined project teams and collaborated with supply chain executives across the globe to minimize supply chain costs and optimize capital investments.

“I am excited to join IFCO,” said Mr. Brooks. “The company has a unique business model with a wide range of sustainable solutions for fresh foods, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance the company’s mission of helping to feed the world affordably, efficiently and sustainably.”

Jon served in several roles at CHEP after joining the company in 2002, including Senior Director, National Sales, for CHEP Recycled Pallet Solutions, Senior Director, Retail Business Development, CHEP North America, and Director, Strategic Planning, CHEP North America. During his time with the company, he earned numerous company awards and completed several advanced management programs, including the prestigious Brambles/INSEAD 18-month FastTrack Executive Development program in France.

Smithers Unifies Under One Brand

Akron, OH – September 12, 2019 – Smithers, a leading provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services, announced today the launch of a single brand identity, refreshed logo, new tagline, and a streamlined web presence at www.smithers.com.

Smithers commemorates their nearly 100-year commitment to helping their clients bring great products to market with a new tagline: Innovate with Confidence.

“By uniting all our member companies under a single brand, we are working together to connect our clients with Smithers experts,” said Michael Hochschwender, CEO and President, Smithers. “The power of our connected enterprise supports our clients throughout their product development process.”

In striving to streamline the client experience and strengthen its global brand presence, Smithers is bidding farewell to its legacy brands (Smithers Apex, Smithers Avanza, Smithers Pira, Smithers Quality Assessments, Smithers Rapra, and Smithers Viscient). This shift to a single brand will make it easier for clients in any industry worldwide to discover the full breadth of services Smithers has to offer throughout the entire product development process.

Smithers has grown by investing in new technology in response to customer needs and has laboratories and operations in North America, Europe, and Asia.

“We’re preserving the best of our history while fortifying our footprint as a global brand,” said Glenn Goldney, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Smithers. “As we look toward the future, we are more committed than ever to delivering accurate data, on time, with high touch.”

Founded in 1925 and headquartered in Akron, Ohio, Smithers is a multinational provider of testing, consulting, information, and compliance services. With laboratories and operations in North America, Europe, and Asia, Smithers supports customers in the transportation, life science, packaging, materials, components, consumer, and energy industries. Smithers delivers accurate data, on time, with high touch, by integrating science, technology, and business expertise, so customers can innovate with confidence.

New Videos from Primex

Primex Plastics Corporation, the parent company of Primex Design & Fabrication (PDF) and Primex Color, Compounding & Additives (PCCA), has produced seven new videos to introduce prospective customers to its full line of custom plastics products for manufacturers, logistics and retail. The Primex line includes sheet and roll products, masterbatches and compounds, and fabricated packaging, containers and returnable shipping solutions.

All video programming can be viewed on the Primex Plastics YouTube Channel.

Here are the titles and descriptions of each video

• Primex Plastics Corporation-A short introduction to the expertise and capabilities of Primex Plastics, a leader in the production of custom sheet and roll products for thermoforming, printing and fabrication.
• Primex Design & Fabrication-Introduction to PDF. PDF designs and fabricates custom packaging, shipping containers, logistics, storage and point of sale products for a wide range of industries.
• Primex Color, Compounding & Additives-Since 1957, PCCA has been a leading supplier of color and unique masterbatches for the plastics manufacturing industry.
• ULTRAPAC – 360 Series-Primex’s ultra-durable, returnable shipping containers made from Bubble-X™, a high strength coextruded board, available in a range of thicknesses for ultimate product protection.
• Custom Containers & Interior Dunnage-Custom designed and produced containers and protection for critical product protection, using a variety of foam, plastic and laminated materials.
• Automotive Components-Primex offers various interior and exterior components for the automotive industry using Bubble-X™ board, Faraprene™ elastomers and other Primex materials.
• Ship Flat Containers & Displays-These space saving, returnable containers and displays are available in virtually any form factor for specific customer needs.

Source: Primex Plastics

September 3, 2019 – KeyKeg/UniKeg’s fifth manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Spain is now fully operational and open for business.  The additional capacity provided by the plant meets the rapidly growing demand for KeyKeg and UniKeg in the region.

The Guadalajara facility is state-of-the-art with the latest Lanfranchi blow molding technology and equipment, as well as the latest automation and robotics technology. This facility will support the large customer base of KeyKeg and UniKeg in Spain, as well as the other parts of Southern and Central Europe.

Anita Veenendaal, Chief Executive Officer, says: “We see service as a crucial element of our success. We aim to provide the best service, keeping stock as close to our customers as possible. The new location and its extra capacity will further improve this service and reduce environmental footprint significantly.”

Annemieke Hartman, Chief Commercial Officer, says: “In addition to producing the iconic KeyKeg in Spain, we launch this production facility with the introduction of the UniKeg A to the global market.  The UniKeg A [also identified as the German Slider] has been missing from our UniKeg Sankey S & D range of products.  Large volume customers are keenly awaiting its arrival in the market.  To be able to facilitate this from our new Spanish home is a great result for producers across Europe.”

With the opening of the production line in Guadalajara, KeyKeg | UniKeg has a global presence of five production lines and ten warehouses. However, it doesn’t end there for the company – it is also working to identify where to site additional lines elsewhere in Europe in order to keep up with demand and ensures it continues to offer customers the best possible service and flexibility.

In addition to the new production facility, KeyKeg and UniKeg are available from an extensive network of nominated Resellers across Spain.

KeyKeg reports that it serves thousands of happy customers from warehouses and sales offices spread worldwide and production facilities in the United States, Germany, United Kingdom and the company’s native Netherlands. Across all continents, breweries, winemakers, producers of soft drinks and other beverages utilize KeyKeg and UniKeg.

Sustainable packaging solution

The family-owned business has an eye for the long term and especially for the environment. For this reason, OneCircle (www.onecircle.world) was launched to create and implement collection networks for single-use kegs and other complex thermoplastics in a number of countries. To date, OneCircle has started successful collection and recycling projects in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, France, and Belgium and is exploring effective networks in other countries around the globe.

For more information about KeyKeg and UniKeg products and services, visit www.lightweight-containers.com 

OnAsset Strengthens Their Partnership with Unilode and Signs the Largest Cargo IoT Contract in Aviation History

OnAsset Intelligence, Inc. has executed the largest ULD digitization contract in the airline industry with Unilode Aviation Solutions, the world’s largest provider of ULD management, maintenance and repair services.

“We are excited to be part of this step change in the industry. Building upon our longstanding history of innovation in leading-edge aviation-compliant asset tracking and monitoring solutions, we are proud to be in partnership with Unilode as they create the industry’s largest fleet of digitized ULDs,” says Adam Crossno, CEO of OnAsset. “With Unilode’s customer-centric focus on digital innovation, combined with OnAsset’s devices and cloud software, we are creating a new class of services that will help propel the aviation industry for years to come.”

Benoit Dumont, CEO of Unilode Aviation Solutions, comments, “Unilode has committed to fully digitizing its fleet of ULDs to provide our customers the best solution in the industry. We’re going to change how the industry thinks of the ULD, and we intend to show the world the power of industrial IoT solutions deployed at scale. OnAsset is a great partner and we have a deep innovation roadmap to explore together.”

OnAsset provides a full suite of shipment and piece-level cargo tracking solutions, offering airlines, shippers and logistics providers a one-stop-shop for digital enablement. OnAsset’s products are in use globally in over 160 countries, offering complete supply chain visibility for all modes of transportation including land, sea and air.

U.S. Department of Commerce Finds Dumping of Imports of Refillable Stainless Steel Kegs from Mexico

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced the affirmative final determination in the antidumping duty (AD) investigation of imports of refillable stainless steel kegs from Mexico, finding that exporters from Mexico have sold refillable stainless steel kegs at less than fair value in the United States at a rate of 18.48 percent.

Upon publication of the final affirmative determination, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to continue to collect cash deposits equal to the applicable final weighted-average dumping rate.

In 2018, imports of refillable stainless steel kegs from Mexico were valued at an estimated $13.4 million.

The petitioner is American Keg Company, LLC (Pottstown, PA).

The strict enforcement of U.S. trade law is a primary focus of the Trump Administration. Since the beginning of the current Administration, Commerce has initiated 179 new antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – this is a 231 percent increase from the comparable period in the previous administration.

Antidumping and countervailing duty laws provide American businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of the unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 490 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) is currently scheduled to make its final injury determination on or about September 26, 2019. If the ITC reaches an affirmative final injury determination, Commerce will issue an AD order. If the ITC reaches a negative final determination of injury, the investigation will be terminated and no order will be issued.

Click HERE for a fact sheet on the recent decision.

Greif Awarded Gold Rating in EcoVadis CSR Assessment for Second Consecutive Year

DELAWARE, Ohio — Greif, Inc., a global leader in industrial packaging products and services announced it has again been awarded a Gold Rating in sustainability performance by EcoVadis for the second year in a row. EcoVadis is an independent rating agency specializing in the evaluation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including sustainable development and performance monitoring of suppliers. Greif scored in the top four percent of all companies evaluated by EcoVadis.

“We are proud that EcoVadis has once again recognized Greif’s commitment to sustainability with a Gold Rating,” said Ole Rosgaard, Greif Senior Vice President and Group President, Rigid Industrial Packaging and Services and Global Sustainability.

“We are committed to being a leader in sustainable business performance, and as we reflect on this past year, we take pride in the results achieved. I’d like to thank our global colleagues for the hard work in achieving this recognition and I look forward to continuing our progress in the years ahead,” said Rosgaard.

Greif reports its corporate responsibility efforts and progress in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and fulfills UN Global Compact requirements. Greif’s sustainability achievements can be seen in its annual Sustainability Report.

EcoVadis, which evaluates a network of 55,000 suppliers, uses a methodology that rates companies according to 21 CSR criteria, grouped under four themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. Its methodology and criteria used are in line with international CSR standards including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), UN Global Compact, and ISO 26000.

Returnity Named Finalist in Ocean Plastic Innovation Challenge

Leader in Reusable Shipping Packaging Recognized as Innovator in Circular Economy by National Geographic and Sky Ocean Ventures

Brooklyn, New York – 6 Aug 2019 – Returnity has been selected as a Finalist in the Circular Economy Track of the Ocean Plastic Innovation Challenge, which recognizes solutions that move businesses and consumers toward a circular economy partnership. The Ocean Plastic Innovation Challenge is a key component of National Geographic and Sky Ocean Ventures’ partnership to reduce plastic waste. It is also part of National Geographic’s “Planet or Plastic?” initiative, a global effort to significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic that reaches the ocean by raising awareness, elevating science and education, advancing innovation, and inspiring action. The challenge is divided into three tracks – Design, Circular Economy, and Data Visualization.

Judges selected a total of 24 finalists spanning 13 countries from a pool of 291 teams that submitted solutions. Returnity is one of the 10 Circular Economy finalists who have developed scalable business models and technology solutions to reduce plastic product packaging waste and can be applied across industries, with the ultimate goal of incentivizing businesses and consumers to move away from a single-use plastics economy and encourage the reuse and repurposing of plastic alternatives.

“The explosive growth of ecommerce has led to an avalanche of single-use shipping packaging that is difficult – or impossible – to recycle,” said Mike Newman, CEO of Returnity Innovations.  “We are honored to be recognized by National Geographic and Sky Ocean Rescue for the work we are doing with leading ecommerce and shipping companies to address the financial and environmental impacts of this waste and introduce solutions that will set in motion the shift to the new circular economy.”

Returnity, along with the other 23 finalists, will move forward into the second phase of the challenge, where they will work to improve their solutions and prepare more robust submission packets for the judges. Winners will be announced in December 2019 after the teams pitch their solution in person to the judges at National Geographic headquarters. The finalists and winners from each track will be entitled to a share of the $500,000 prize purse with select finalists entitled to a portion of $1 million in investments from Sky Ocean Ventures.

Returnity designs custom, durable reusable shipping bags and boxes that pay for themselves as you use them and are recyclable at the end of their lifespan. To learn more, visit returnity.co

Kinedyne Continues to Expand by Establishing Additional Distribution Facility

Kinedyne’s additional distribution facility uses technology to enhance customer experience, improve lead times, assure order accuracy and increase service quality

PRATTVILLE, AL, USA — Kinedyne LLC, a world-leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of cargo control technologies, including cargo securement, capacity and access solutions for the transportation industry, announced that its new distribution facility is fully operational.

The establishment of a new distribution facility represents the most recent expansion of the company’s Prattville operation. Kinedyne began consolidating engineering, manufacturing, quality control, supply chain management, customer service and government contract functions within its 200,000-square-foot facility in late 2016, to improve overall speed, efficiency and productivity.

Equipped with the latest inventory management technology, the capabilities of the new distribution, logistics and warehouse operation will significantly improve Kinedyne’s order processing, lead time and accuracy.

“With over 20 years of experience in operational strategy and global manufacturing, Doug Apelt, vice president – operations, oversees all operational processes in the United States and Canada,” Dan Schlotterbeck, president of Kinedyne LLC, said. “Doug’s operational expertise and leadership of the Prattville team has benefitted this expansion initiative and continues to strengthen and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our overall North American operations.”

“This is an exciting opportunity for us to further improve operational integrity through process control and technological advancements,” Doug Apelt, vice president – operations for Kinedyne LLC, said. “Employees and customers will each enjoy the advantages generated by the additional facility, and it positions Kinedyne to successfully manage its customers’ expectations and our own future growth objectives.”

Kinedyne has been a part of the fabric of the city of Prattville and has called it home for several decades. With this expansion and nearly 300 employees, it remains among Autauga County’s largest employers. Kinedyne’s distribution facility now supports the distribution of the many products made in its Prattville manufacturing operation, including government/military products, cargo nets, helicopter slings, tow straps, logistics straps and the company’s renowned load securement straps.

Kinedyne’s broad line of cargo control, capacity and access products can be purchased through Kinedyne’s extensive distribution network, which includes thousands of outlets across North America. Users can find distributor locations near them by calling Kinedyne’s customer service department at 800.848.6057 in the United States, 800.268.3530 in Canada and 011.5255.53184844 in Mexico.

PPS MIDLANDS MATCHES GRIMSBY SITE IN ACHIEVING TOP GRADE IN LATEST BRC AUDIT

Following the BRC ‘AA’ accreditation for Storage and Distribution which was issued to the PPS Grimsby site in January 2019, its Midlands site has matched the feat following the latest audit.

The ‘AA’ grade is the highest grade available and verifies our ability to store, wash, sterilise and distribute plastic boxes, pallets and bins against the highest BRC Global Standard across all PPS sites.

“Achieving the ‘AA’ grade across all of our sites is something we’re very proud of,” said Steve Nicholson, Operations Director. “We’ve worked very hard throughout the team to achieve this recognition which illustrates our sustained desire to provide customers with the best service possible.”

Originally introduced in 2006, the BRC Global Standard for Storage and Distribution provides the essential certification link between the range of BRC Global Standards manufacturing Standards and the end user, such as the retailer or the food service company, ensuring customer confidence is upheld through audit and certification.

The BRC certification for both PPC sites can be viewed from the PPS website homepage.

HOOVER FERGUSON APPOINTS KEVIN FRIAR AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

08/07/2019

HOUSTON – June 27, 2019 – Hoover Ferguson, a global leader in tank and container solutions with more than 40 locations in 25 countries, announced today that Kevin Friar has been appointed CEO, effective June 30, 2019, in a planned transition of senior leadership. Friar joined Hoover Ferguson as president in January 2019 to succeed outgoing chairman and CEO, Donald Young.

“I am proud of what the Hoover Ferguson team has built during my tenure, and I look forward to seeing the continued success of the company under Kevin’s leadership,” said Donald Young, outgoing chairman and CEO, Hoover Ferguson. “In working closely with Kevin over the last six months, I know that he will lead the Hoover Ferguson team in an exciting and successful direction.”

Young will remain involved with Hoover Ferguson and return to the board of directors where he originally started with the organization.

“As I transition into my new role as CEO, I’m confident that the strength of our leadership team, combined with our robust growth strategy and commitment to delivering exceptional products and services, positions us well to reach new heights,” said Kevin Friar, CEO, Hoover Ferguson. “I look forward to leading the Hoover Ferguson team.”

New Plastics Economy: Reuse Book Launched

Recently, at its Annual Summit in London, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy initiative introduced its research on reuse models. Globally, converting 20% of plastic packaging into reuse models is a USD 10 billion business opportunity that benefits customers. The research highlights six ways that reuse can bring significant benefits to both users and businesses:

• Cut costs
• Adapt to individual needs
• Optimise operations
• Build brand loyalty
• Improve user experience
• Gather intelligence

As part of the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, over 350 organisations have recognised that, wherever possible, reuse business models should be explored to reduce the need for single-use plastic packaging. In fact, over 100 of the business signatories have committed to move, where relevant, from single-use to reusable packaging by 2025.

This work provides a framework to understand reuse, identifies six major benefits of reuse, and maps 69 reuse examples.Based on an evaluation of more than 100 initiatives and interviews with over 50 experts, it aims to inspire and help structure thinking. It provides a basic description of how different reuse models work as well as typical implementation challenges.

The book focuses primarily on reusable primary packaging, although SRS, the Swedish reusable crate and packaging pool, is mentioned as one example.

Download the book here.

TUI Group airlines renew ULD management agreement with Unilode

June 5, 2019 – Unilode Aviation Solutions, the leading global provider of outsourced Unit Load Device (ULD) management and repair solutions, and the TUI Group airlines have renewed their agreement for the supply and management of containers and pallets for another 10-year term.

Gunther Hofman, Director of Ground Operations TUI Aviation, said: “TUI Group airlines have partnered with Unilode for 12 years for the supply and management of ULDs. During this time Unilode has successfully handled the specific challenges that come with our airline operation, including significant differences between the summer and winter schedules of our airlines and the operational needs triggered by our ad-hoc flights for instance. We have discussed with Unilode how we could further enhance operational efficiencies and decrease our costs, building on the close collaboration we have established over the years. Our negotiations have resulted in a new 10-year agreement for all TUI Group airlines, and we look forward to growing our partnership with Unilode.”

Mr. Benoît Dumont, Unilode CEO, said: “TUI Group has grown significantly since 2007 when our first ULD management agreement was signed, and we are very proud of being able to continue our partnership for another 10-year term. Customer retention is just as important as winning new business as it proves the value Unilode brings to its customers’ operations over the course of the cooperation. Unilode is committed to further strengthen the partnership with TUI Group with continuously outstanding service and customer-focused solutions, which in turn enable TUI Group to focus on its core business of flying passengers to dream destinations.”

Manufacturers Develop Unique Solutions for Bulk Chemical Packaging Challenges

Chemical packaging has always had its challenges, as the options for packaging particular chemical compounds are limited. Most chemical packaging solutions have been developed from plastic compounds, owing to a high standard of safety, despite having an adverse impact on the environment.

On the other hand, with the increase in regulations for plastic, businesses in the packaging industry are exploring novel alternatives. With the widespread use of industrial chemicals, bulk chemical packaging has gained great importance in the past few years, as such large chemical quantities can pose a significant risk to the environment and human life.

Read more.

IFCO acquisition by Triton and ADIA has been finalized

IFCO SYSTEMS, leading global provider of reusable packaging solutions for fresh foods, has announced that the acquisition by Triton and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has been finalized on May 31, 2019. The two investment companies acquired IFCO for an enterprise value of US$ 2.51 billion. It stresses that the move makes IFCO a fully independent company, able to act in an agile and flexible manner with a goal of offering the industry’s most efficient and sustainable fresh foods packaging solutions.

Brambles, the former parent company of IFCO, acquired the company in March 2011. Since then, IFCO has grown to be the global market leader for reusable plastic containers (RPCs) for fresh foods. Today, IFCO has 32 subsidiaries around the world, which serve more than 320 retailers and over 14,000 producers in over 50 countries. The company operates more than 75 service centers and a global pool of over 290 million RPCs which are used in over 1.6 billion shipments of fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, bread, and other items from suppliers to retailers every year. In August 2018, Brambles announced the intent to sell IFCO.

On May 31, 2019, the acquisition of IFCO by Triton and ADIA has been finalized. Wolfgang Orgeldinger remains CEO of IFCO and is looking forward to the future: “We are very excited about the future and very proud to say that IFCO is an independent company again. This independence and the support by our investors will help to drive growth by expanding our customer base, strengthen the ties with existing customers, and enable us to act more flexibly to opportunities and challenges within the markets that we serve. I am sure that we will build on the record financial results we achieved last year. IFCO is well positioned for its future as an independent company. Since there will be no impact on our operations, we will continue business as usual and offer our customers the high-quality services and solutions they know.”

From both the financial and market share perspectives, IFCO is a strong business and a global leader in RPCs with a large addressable market and clear opportunities to capitalize on growth in the sector. In the financial year 2018, IFCO generated revenues of more than US$1.1 billion and achieved a growth of 8 percent.

U.S. Department Of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Antidumping Duty Determinations on Refillable Stainless Steel Kegs from China, Germany, and Mexico

The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced the affirmative preliminary determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) investigations of imports of refillable stainless steel kegs from China, Germany, and Mexico, finding that exporters from China, Germany, and Mexico have dumped refillable stainless steel kegs in the United States at the following rates:

China – 2.01 to 79.71 percent
Germany – 8.61 percent
Mexico – 18.48 percent

As a result of today’s decisions, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect cash deposits from importers of refillable stainless steel kegs from China, Germany, and Mexico based on the preliminary rates noted above.

In 2017, imports of refillable stainless steel kegs from China, Germany, and Mexico were valued at an estimated $18.1 million, $11.8 million, and $5.7 million, respectively. The petitioner is American Keg Company, LLC (Pottstown, PA).

Commerce is scheduled to announce the final determination on or about August 13, 2019 with respect to Mexico and on or about October 16, 2019 with respect to China and Germany.

If Commerce’s final determinations are affirmative, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) will be scheduled to make its final injury determination on or about September 26, 2019 for Mexico and on or about November 29, 2019 for China and Germany. If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations of dumping, and the ITC makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue AD orders. If Commerce makes negative final determinations of dumping, or the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.

Italy: the hidden important steps of production at IFCO

The objective is, therefore, to offer value-added services for each link in the chain of use and supply of the boxes. “The app is just the first step of processes that could become fully automated, with significant savings in terms of labor costs and zero risks of human error. In Switzerland, for example, where 100% of large-scale distribution uses the IFCO system, automation is already a reality. Unfortunately, it is often forgotten that what is really important is invisible to the eyes. It is the processes that underlie our logistics and distribution system that make the real difference for users, not just how the box itself is made.” Read more.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO JOIN THE 2019 IMDA SYMPOSIUM!

The 2019 IMDA Symposium is June 2-4, 2019 at the Cool Springs Marriott, Franklin, TN, USA, and is co-located with the SPE Decorating and Assembly Topical Conference (TopCon). There is a place for you if you register NOW!

Featured is a multi-faceted program addressing topics on in-mold labeling of packaging (IML), in-mold decoration of durable products (IMD) and in-mold electronics (IME), including invited papers, panel discussions, interactive workshops and a supplier trade fair. The winners of the 2019 IMDA Awards competition will be honored at the Symposium dinner on June 3, 2019.

Symposium agenda, registration and hotel details are available here.

Unilode expands services portfolio with global short- and medium-term ULD leasing solutions

Unilode Aviation Solutions is strengthening its ULD solutions offering with the addition of short- and medium-term ULD leasing services. Effective immediately, customers have access to PMC and heavy-duty pallets, and further ULD types will be available soon. The ULDs can be leased from different strategic storage locations around the globe to increase customers’ operational flexibility and cover for ULD imbalances and seasonal shortages.

Unilode’s ULD leasing solutions will benefit all customers through an expanded asset base and service network. Unilode’s current leasing network covers key air cargo hubs in Europe (LHR, AMS, FRA, MXP) and Asia (HKG), and is being gradually expanded in the USA (ORD, LAX, MIA). Further stations will be added soon to establish Unilode as a leading global ULD leasing provider.

Leasing requests can be placed via Unilode’s local representatives, or through the inquiry form on the Unilode website on https://www.unilode.com/uld-solutions/uld-leasing/

Hoover Ferguson Named as Environmental Leader, Product of the Year Winner

HOUSTON, TX – May 21, 2019 – Hoover Ferguson, a global leader in tank & container solutions with more than 40 locations in 25 countries, has announced that its Liquitote® stainless-steel intermediate bulk container (IBC) has earned the distinction of being named a 2019 Environmental Leader Product of the Year winner.

The annual Environmental Leader Awards program, in its seventh year, recognizes the most innovative and successful commercial and industrial products and projects contributing to sustainability across the environment and energy space.

“We are honored to be a recipient of Environmental Leader’s Product of the Year award,” said Arash Hassanian, senior vice president of sales & marketing, Hoover Ferguson. “The judging panel’s recognition of the environmental benefits associated with using Liquitote across various industries, such as chemicals and oil and gas to handle hazardous and non-hazardous liquids, is a testament to the hard work that Hoover Ferguson puts in each day at making it the most reliable and sustainable chemical packaging option available. We are dedicated to supporting environmentally responsible customers who are committed to eliminating single-use plastic from their supply chain.”

In comparison to traditional plastic one-way IBCs, Liquitote is manufactured with stainless steel, resulting in a product which is environmentally friendly with a longer life span. Using Liquitote greatly reduces the volume of environmentally damaging disposable plastic.

An independent panel of industry experts judge the entries each year. The winners are selected based on the success of the project, the capabilities of the product and the positive effect they are having on the industry. The winners were formally recognized and celebrated at the Environmental Leader & Energy Manager Conference on May 14, 2019, at the Marriott Denver Tech Center.

The Cary Company (Addison, IL) Acquires Three Rivers Packaging, Inc. (McKees Rocks, PA)

The Cary Company announced that it has acquired Three Rivers Packaging, Inc., a Pittsburgh-based industrial container and packaging distributor specializing in steel, plastic and fiber drums and Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC’s). This acquisition strengthens The Cary Company’s strong position in the Midwest after the successful integration of Gurman Container & Supply Corp. in 2018.

“The acquisition of Three Rivers Packaging has strengthened our position with our drum and IBC offering. In addition, it helps our geographic expansion by teaming up with an experienced staff that is very good at what they do, with a heavy focus on customer experience,” said T.J. Tyrrell, Vice President of The Cary Company.

The Cary Company, founded in 1895, provides Specialty Chemicals, Containers and Packaging, Industrial Filtration, Spill Control, and a variety of facility and shipping products to customers in the United States and overseas. This privately-owned company has emerged in the past few years as a strong contender in the distribution space with its growing online presence and distinguished customer service experience. To learn more about The Cary Company visit http://www.thecarycompany.com.

Three Rivers Packaging, Inc., a provider of industrial containers, was formed in 1993 by Brian Daniels. Initially, Three Rivers Packaging focused on the sale of new and reconditioned steel drums and has evolved to become the area’s leading IBC re-bottler/reconditioner. The product offering includes a heavy focus in industrial packaging, including plastic and steel containers ranging in size from 5 gallon to 330 gallons.

DS Smith Plastics Injection Moulding Business Introduces Loop Ready Packaging

DS Smith Plastics, Injection Moulding business segment has launched a new line of packaging options known as Loop Ready Packaging (LRP). LRPs are robust, reusable, returnable and fully recyclable packaging options that deliver incredible benefits for brands, retailers, consumers, and the planet, according to the company.

Consumers will pay a small deposit on the LRP when making their purchase. Once they have finished with the items, they simply return the packaging and jars to the store for a refund of the deposit. This process is already automated in many places with a machine that scans the packaging and contents and provides a coupon with a store credit for future purchases.

It is a tried and tested method used for beverage crates today. Those crates can often last up to 30 years and are cycled from brand to store to home thousands of times, saving tonnes of CO2. At the end of their long life, the crates are ground up and turned into new crates for another long-life cycle.

LRPs are the next logical evolution from RRPs and SRPs. They deliver a zero-waste option for many of retailers’ most popular products while maintaining affordability, improving convenience and closing the loop to ensure a circular life cycle. The initial products will focus on jars of non-perishables—such as vegetables, sauces and more—but the technology could be rolled out across many more product lines in the future.

“This system has worked successfully with returnable crates for beverages for more than 50 years. It reminds us of the milkman delivering returnable milk bottles. It could work just as well for peas,” said Paul Baeyens, Managing Director, DS Smith Plastics. “At DS Smith Plastics we are constantly on the look-out for new innovations, greater sustainability and inspiration. Sometimes you need to look to the past to find the right inspiration.”

K.Hartwall’s New Parcel Cage

K. Hartwall’s new standard footprint foldable cage can be used for line hauls between sorting centers and inbound flows from large business customers.

In addition to compatibility with robotic handling and 100% automatic tipping, its design supports efficient one-man manual handling. Ability to double stack units is a standard feature as it is the only way to reach higher truck fills.

It is equipped with half-drop down gates for safe unloading.

The self-guiding corner posts make it easy to stack the units with a forklift. Special locks on the gates enable automatic tipping. The short side made of honeycomb panels helps the packages to glide during tipping. It can also be taken down and be used as a ramp.

Source: K. Hartwall

CHEP Index predicts retail sales growth to continue slowing through 2019

CHEP Retail Index: A lead indicator of the Australian Bureau of Statistics retail trade data, based on transactional data from CHEP pallet movements.

3 May 2019 – Sydney Australia – Figures published in the latest edition of the quarterly CHEP Retail Index, which uses transactional data from CHEP pallet movements to provide a lead indicator of Australian Bureau of Statistics retail trade data, predicts retail sales growth to continue slowing through 2019.

Index: Key figures

• 2.8% year-on-year retail growth for June 2019
• Turnover of $27.2 billion in March 2019, with year-on-year growth for the month of March increasing to 2.9%
• On a quarterly basis, 2.9% year-on-year growth for the March quarter and decreasing to 2.7% for the May quarter.

Retail turnover is expected to continue slowing through 2019, with the CHEP Retail Index estimating year-on-year growth to June 2019 of 2.8%. The retail sector is expected to soften further as falling house prices combined with subdued income growth reduce consumer willingness to spend.

Weakness in the housing market combined with a subdued wage environment is reducing consumer willingness to spend. In a more cautious economic environment of 2019, consumers are now no longer as willing to run down their rate of savings.

A weaker trend in pallet movement data indicates retailers are expecting a difficult environment in 2019.

Providing commentary on the Index, David Rumbens, partner at Deloitte Access Economics, comments that, “After a dismal Christmas period, retailers are more cautious heading into 2019. Significant house price falls have dented consumer confidence and their willingness to spend. There are tax cuts on the way, but they’re not here yet, so mid-2019 may mark a low point in the retail cycle.”

President of CHEP Asia Pacific, Phillip Austin, said, “As the retail landscape shifts to meet consumer trends, retail supply chains are focusing more than ever on efficiency and effectiveness. CHEP is increasing its investment  to support customers to meet these challenges, developing new pallets and crates that enable flexible fulfillment and enabling  Internet of Things (IoT) track and trace capabilities across the supply chain.”

The CHEP Retail Index analysis and commentary is provided by Deloitte. It is recognised as a reliable lead indicator of Australian Bureau of Statistics retail trade data. To access the January 2019 Index and previous editions of the Index, please click here.

Polymer’s Smart-IoT-Tracker System Wins Silver Medal at the Macfruit Innovation Award Contest

Ohad Perry, Polymer Logistics CTO, has reported that its Smart-IoT-Tracker System won the Silver Medal at the Macfrut Innovation Award Contest taking place at Rimini, Italy.

Smart IoT Tracker is an integrated system of devices (smart boxes) and management software that allows the monitoring of packaging and transport conditions for fruit and vegetable products.

In fact, the “smart box” device includes a temperature sensor, an accelerometer and a network-based geolocation system.

The smart box uses standard AA battery, an IP66 protection, it can be adapted to different connection technologies such as national cellular networks, closed LoRaWA networks, public networks, etc.

The smart box device is easily inserted on packaging such as pallets, bins and based on the defined process and use specifications, transmits its data to management software that allows its processing and use through interfaces and user-friendly control panels agreed upon by the customer.

Polymer Logistics is exhibiting at Rimini Expo Center, 8-10 May, Stand 068 – Hall D3

Spain’s Sediasa Alimentación uses IFCO RPCs for meat warehouse automation

As a company specialized in slicing and packaging meat for distribution, Spain’s Sediasa Alimentación has to adhere to strict cold chain requirements. By applying IFCO’s foldable meat RPCs, Sediasa Alimentación meets this challenge.

“With the capability to transport both our frozen and refrigerated meat, IFCO RPCs in the meat lift lock series can hold up to one liter of water,” says Ramos. Through durable construction that is unaffected by moisture, pallet stability is unaffected by refrigerated environments, and product protection is ensured. IFCO RPCs also help to maintain proper temperatures in the cold chain through providing optimal ventilation in every part of the process, from the food packing to the final point of sale. Read more.

Worldwide Distributor Of Sealants and Glue Invests in a Reusable Packaging For Omnichannel Sale, Produced From Recycled Tubes Of Seal And Glue

Den Braven, a world-famous producer of sealants and glue and DS Smith Plastics co-designed one universal state-of-the-art briefcase to be used both for retail and E-commerce.
To be able to distribute the ‘All-in-One Seal’ promotion, consisting of 12 tubes together with 12 spouts, Den Braven decided to contact DS Smith Plastics to design a universal packaging to be used both in brick and mortar and online stores.

DS Smith Plastics has the technique to produce packaging made from post-consumer plastic waste but Den Braven wanted to take this a step further and challenged the R&D department in Bilzen to produce the packaging of recycled empty tubes of seal and glue.By using the latest scientific research methods, including computer simulation and extensive lab work in close cooperation with a recycling company, DS Smith succeeded in using the empty tubes to produce the briefcase.

With this sustainable solution, Den Braven greatly boosted their sales both in store and online.

“This packaging is a great example of how used material can get a second life. It is fully branded and ideal to stack in the store and durable to use as an E-commerce packaging. Furthermore, the briefcase is a must-have for do-it-yourselfers to keep and reuse to store all kind of things afterwards, in an orderly fashion. “Commented Rudi Raskin, Sales Director of DS Smith Plastics Injection Moulded Products.

Den Braven Sealants manufactures and distributes sealants, foams, aerosols, and other adhesives for use in the construction industry and a range of industrial applications worldwide. Aside from branded products the company offers a full solution for your private label, including artwork and design.

CHEP Container Management Facility To Reduce Logistics Costs and Packaging Waste for Automotive Suppliers

Querétaro, MEX – March 21, 2019 – CHEP Automotive & Industrial Solutions is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new container management service center in Querétaro, Mexico. The new facility’s strategic location in central Mexico, within close proximity of many automotive and industrial suppliers, strengthens CHEP’s ability to support container movements in and out of the region. Greater scale and density of the CHEP network allows faster supply chain movements and more responsiveness to customers’ changing needs.

“Our new location in the heart of Querétaro will allow CHEP to better serve our customers by reducing transport miles and improving local container availability,” said Sharon Gray, Director of Sales, CHEP Automotive & Industrial Solutions North America.  “When our customers choose to implement a container pooling program rather than owning or purchasing expendable containers, they often see a significant improvement in their supply chain efficiency. This expansion to our service center network further enhances the value of our circular business model.”

Long distance shipments of components between the United States and Mexico are characteristic of the North American automotive industry.  With the CHEP program, suppliers can “ship it and forget it” rather than managing the return transport of empty containers across long distances. Additionally, the sustainable nature of the program enables suppliers to significantly reduce costs and realize environmental benefits when converting their privately owned or expendable packaging to CHEP pooled containers.

“The new Querétaro service center is a key addition to our network of locations we have operating across North America,” added Amelia Otlowski, Senior Director & General Manager of CHEP Automotive & Industrial Solutions and CHEP Pallecon Solutions, North America. “The expansion falls directly in line with the growth plan for our business and customers.”

Peli BioThermal Announces Asia Award for Excellence

Company celebrates major win at Asia-Pacific Bioprocessing Excellence Awards

Leading temperature controlled packaging provider Peli BioThermal was announced as a winner at an annual awards ceremony which recognises the excellence of suppliers serving the biologics industry.

Peli BioThermal won in the Passive Packaging award category of the Asia-Pacific Bioprocessing Excellence Awards as the company continues to expand its presence in Asia. As the company continues to increase its infrastructure and operations in Asia, its key role as a supplier of high performing passive packaging to the biologics industry in the region was rewarded with this coveted award.

The company was presented with the award following an in-depth judging process whereby more than 30,000 professionals from the biologics industry were invited to vote for Peli BioThermal and fellow finalists.

Hillary Femal Launches Freshwater Marketing, the Outsourced Marketing Department for Mid-Sized Companies™

Tampa, Florida – Hillary Femal, former Vice President of Global Marketing for IFCO Systems and Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 48forty Solutions, today announced the launch of Freshwater Marketing, LLC, the outsourced marketing department for mid-sized companies. Through this new venture, Ms. Femal will offer comprehensive marketing support backed by executive-level marketing horsepower. Services include marketing strategy and planning, branding, market research, event management, content creation, and all internal and external marketing communications.

“Throughout my career, I’ve seen so many mid-sized companies without a cohesive, results-driven marketing program,” said Ms. Femal “In some cases, the business grew so quickly there didn’t seem to be any time to focus on marketing. In others, companies were stuck doing the same things year after year without any real strategy, unsure what’s working and what isn’t.” These are just the kind of companies Freshwater Marketing was created to help.

Having spent 15 years in executive marketing roles at high-growth companies, Hillary knows the challenges mid-sized B2B companies face. “When your company’s growth is in the double digits, leadership is far too busy putting out fires to dedicate much thought to their marketing plan,” says Hillary “And because budgets are tight, every dollar of SG&A has to earn its keep. The irony is that without investing in a structured marketing plan focused on results, you’ll never know if what you’re doing is worth what you’re spending.”

Fortunately, Ms. Femal knows from experience it doesn’t take a huge budget, huge staff, or scores of agencies to move the needle. It takes a clearly defined, data-driven marketing strategy executed all day every day. “I’m excited to show companies how quickly an outsourced marketing solution can yield results,” says Hillary “Freshwater was created to offer marketing capabilities that take years to build – today.”

For more information on Freshwater Marketing, visit www.freshwater-marketing.com.