Core Insights - ACG Packaging Materials' Shirwal site has been recognized by the World Economic Forum's Global Lighthouse Network for its advanced digital transformation [1][3] - This is ACG's second facility to receive such recognition, following the Pithampur capsules plant in 2023 [1] - The transformation at the Shirwal plant involved technologies such as generative AI, machine learning, deep learning, IIoT, and digital twin technologies [1] Performance Outcomes - The digital transformation led to a 40% reduction in lead times [2] - There was a 71% decrease in defects reported [2] - Energy usage was reduced by 31% [2] - Full on-time deliveries improved by 34% [2] Industry Context - The Global Lighthouse Network, initiated by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, recognizes manufacturing sites that excel in productivity, supply chain resilience, sustainability, talent development, and customer focus [3] - Kiva Allgood from the World Economic Forum emphasized that modern competitiveness is defined by the ability to adapt and respond quickly, highlighting the importance of intelligence-led operations [4] Company Commitment - ACG operates in 138 countries across six continents, showcasing its global reach [5] - The CEO of ACG Packaging Materials, S R Shivshankar, stated that the recognition reflects the commitment of the Shirwal team to integrate advanced digital technologies into manufacturing operations, enhancing quality, productivity, and sustainability [5]

This story was originally published on Packaging Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Packaging Dive newsletter. By the numbers: Q4 and full-year 2025 Q4 net sales: $2.1B Up 0.4% year over year 2025 net sales: $8.6B Down 2.2% year over year Q4 net income: $71M Compared with $138M in Q4 2024 2025 net income: $444M Compared with $658M in 2024 Overview: Sales during the fourth quarter of 2025 were essentially flat year over year, said executives on Tuesday’s earnings call. It ...

Core Viewpoint - Ukhi has launched Ecogran, a biodegradable and compostable packaging material aimed at fashion brands and e-commerce companies, providing a lower-cost alternative to traditional plastics while reducing environmental impact [1][4]. Group 1: Product Features - Ecogran visually resembles plastic and matches its functional properties but does not contain plastic components, allowing for reduced material use without compromising strength and durability [2]. - The cost of Ecogran packaging ranges from Rs1.05 ($0.01) to Rs2.5, depending on size and intended use [2]. - Ecogran is compatible with existing plastic processing equipment, enabling manufacturers to adopt it without modifying machines or altering supply chains [3]. Group 2: Market Positioning and Strategy - Ukhi aims to position biodegradable packaging as a mainstream choice rather than a niche alternative, addressing cost as a primary obstacle to wider adoption of compostable materials [4][5]. - The company claims potential savings of 70%-80% compared to similar plastic products, making it a more attractive option for brands [4]. - Ukhi plans to expand Ecogran production across India and international markets by collaborating with fashion brands, packaging converters, and online retailers [4]. Group 3: Partnerships and Initiatives - Last year, Ukhi signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) to advance sustainable packaging initiatives in India, focusing on joint research and development of new materials and technologies [5].

Greif has reported a net income of $176.6m, or $3.00 per share, for the fiscal first quarter (Q1) 2026, up from $6.6m, or $0.13 per share, for the same period last year. Excluding adjustments, net income climbed to $26.6m, or $0.48 per share, marking a year-on-year rise of 146.3%. The company cited advancements in managing manufacturing expenses and reductions in selling, general and administrative costs as key factors, recording $65m in annualised cost savings so far out of a targeted $120m. Adjusted ...

Core Insights - Greif reported net sales of $994.8 million for Fiscal Q1 2026, a decrease of 2.2% year over year, while net income rose significantly to $182.9 million from $11.3 million in Fiscal Q1 2025 [1][1][1] Financial Performance - Gross profit increased by 1.6% year over year to $202.6 million despite a decline in overall sales [1][1] - The company experienced a downturn in industrial demand, particularly from chemical customers, affecting all segments [1][1] - Sales in the durable metals segment were nearly $355 million, remaining flat year over year, while customized polymers sales increased to approximately $305 million [1][1] - The sustainable fibers segment saw a notable decline in sales from $344 million to about $312 million, with the company reporting 14,000 tons of downtime during the quarter [1][1] Cost Optimization - Greif achieved $65 million in run-rate cost optimization, aiming for a total of $120 million, with a target of $80 million to $90 million by year-end [1][1] - The company reduced its professional workforce by 10%, equating to 220 positions, while also investing in its commercial teams [1][1] M&A Strategy - Greif is focusing on organic growth but remains open to strategic acquisitions that could complement its operations, maintaining a robust pipeline of tuck-in deals [1][1] - The fiber business saw an operating profit increase of approximately $216 million due to the sale of timberlands that closed in October [1][1] Outlook - The company reaffirmed its low-end fiscal year 2026 guidance for adjusted EBITDA of $630 million and adjusted free cash flow of $315 million [1][1] - Expectations for volume growth are slight in the customized polymers and innovative closures segments, while durable metals and sustainable fibers are projected to be flat or slightly down [1][1]

Core Insights - Tetra Pak has invested €60 million ($71.2 million) to establish a new pilot facility in Lund, Sweden, aimed at advancing paper-based barrier technology for aseptic beverage cartons [1] - The new packaging will replace the conventional aluminum foil layer with a paper-based alternative, increasing the paper content in each carton to approximately 80% [1] - The shift to paper-based barriers, when combined with plant-derived polymers, can raise the renewable content of the packaging to as much as 92% and potentially reduce carbon emissions by up to 43% [2] Investment and Strategic Goals - The pilot plant will enable customers to explore the new barrier solution through various production stages, aligning with Tetra Pak's broader plan to invest around €100 million annually until 2030 in sustainable packaging technologies [4] - The Lund site was chosen for its strong academic connections, particularly with Lund University, and access to research infrastructure like the MAX IV Laboratory [3] Recent Developments - In 2023, Tetra Pak introduced its first aseptic carton using the paper-based barrier in collaboration with a dairy company in Portugal [4] - The company also launched a paper-based barrier for juice cartons in partnership with Spain's García Carrión last month [5]

Group 1 - VPK Group has increased its shareholding in Ribble Packaging from 30% to 50%, gaining joint control alongside existing shareholders [1] - The transaction is part of VPK's long-term strategy to strengthen its position in the fanfold packaging segment and expand its operational reach in Europe [1][3] - Ribble's managing director emphasized that the new joint venture will enhance sustainable growth, innovation, and customer service while maintaining the current organizational structure [2] Group 2 - Fanfold packaging, which is gaining traction in e-commerce and logistics, allows for matching varying product sizes, thereby limiting material use and improving transport efficiency [2][3] - VPK's increased stake supports its strategy of developing a vertically integrated model, as the company operates its own paper mills in Belgium and France [3] - The partnership aims to better serve e-commerce operators and distribution centers focused on right-sized packaging across Europe [3][4] Group 3 - VPK Group's CEO highlighted Ribble's significant investments and experience in the fanfold segment, positioning it as a leading player in the UK market [4] - The deepened partnership is expected to strengthen VPK's position in the fast-growing market for right-sized packaging, responding to increasing demand [4]

Core Insights - Sealed Air has appointed Russell Grissett as global food president, bringing extensive experience from Toppan Packaging Americas and Sonoco [1][2] - The company is set to be acquired by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) in an all-cash transaction valued at $10.3 billion, expected to close in mid-2026 [2][3] - Sealed Air will remain headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange post-acquisition [3] Company Developments - Grissett's leadership style and customer focus are highlighted as essential for accelerating growth in Sealed Air's food business [2] - The company recently launched the AUTOBAG 850HB hybrid bagging machine, which can process both standard poly mailers and recyclable paper bags [3] - The hybrid capability of the new system allows for flexible packaging options without sacrificing speed, benefiting fulfillment teams [3]

Core Viewpoint - SÜDPACK is expanding its PharmaGuard blister packaging capacity at its Erolzheim site in Germany, with new facilities expected to be operational by Q3 2027 [1][3]. Group 1: Project Details - The expansion will include new production areas for PharmaGuard, a polypropylene mono-material blister solution for solid-dose applications [1]. - The first stage involves converting an existing hall into an ISO 7-classified cleanroom for GMP-compliant production, which will include a new extrusion line and a slitting machine [2]. - A separate extension will be built to accommodate the site's technical infrastructure and a regranulation facility for plastic waste generated during manufacturing [3]. Group 2: Timeline and Employment Impact - Construction is expected to be completed by June 2026, followed by the installation of production technology, with commissioning targeted for Q3 2027 [3]. - The project is anticipated to create around 50 new jobs when fully operational, with an additional 120 positions expected by 2030 as part of future expansion stages [4]. Group 3: Company Commitment and Community Impact - SÜDPACK's expansion is seen as a significant step for the family-owned group, aligning with its growth and sustainability agenda since its establishment in 1964 [4]. - The Mayor of Erolzheim highlighted SÜDPACK's commitment to Germany as a business location, emphasizing its role as a major employer in the region [5].

Core Viewpoint - Sealed Air has agreed to an acquisition by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) in an all-cash deal valued at $10.3 billion, expected to close in mid-2026, resulting in the company becoming privately held and delisted from the New York Stock Exchange [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition will provide Sealed Air's shareholders with $42.15 per share in cash, representing a substantial premium [2]. - The agreement includes a 30-day "go-shop" period for soliciting alternative bids, with an additional 15 days for negotiations with qualified bidders [3]. - Equity financing will be provided by CD&R-affiliated investment funds, while debt financing is committed by a group including BofA Securities, BNP Paribas Securities, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Securities, UBS Investment Bank, and Wells Fargo, along with additional commitments from Citi, Mizuho, and RBC Capital Markets [3]. Group 2: Company Overview - Sealed Air designs and supplies packaging materials, equipment, and services across various sectors, including food, medical, e-commerce, and industrial [4]. - The company, known for its bubble wrap, generated $5.4 billion in sales in 2024 and employs approximately 16,400 people globally [4]. - CD&R partner Rob Volpe expressed commitment to supporting Sealed Air's continued investment in its people, assets, and product portfolio, highlighting respect for the company's senior leadership team [4].