After being cancelled or moved to the online space due to the pandemic, it was a pleasant experience to visit one of the trade fairs in person again. The Fachpack trade fair took place at the end of September in Nuremberg, where more than 780 exhibitors from 33 countries presented their products. Our colleagues from Chemosvit Folie were also present.
Fachpack is the leading European trade fair for the packaging industry. The main topics of the 2021 edition were sustainability, circular economy, recyclability, and biodegradable materials.
Representatives from the R&D, trade and production department participated in the fair as visitors and received inspiration and ideas on how to take Chemosvit Folie forward. If we want to keep up with the requirements of the major consumers of our products, it is important to respond to the trends that set the direction of our industry.
Packaging is not exempt from digitalization
In the field of flexible packaging production, emphasis was placed on production and logistics automation, as well as the use of robots and data support for all processes. Digital technologies are currently an important factor driving change in the packaging industry.
For us manufacturers, this is an opportunity to streamline the production processes while contributing to sustainability. The digitalization of processes leads to a reduction in the amount of paper needed to print documents.
Sustainable packaging solutions prevail
A clear course for the development of the so-called monostructures was evident from the presentation of most products. The trend is PP- and PE-based laminates. Manufacturers strive to develop materials with high barrier capabilities without the use of aluminium or the need to combine different types of polymers.
Today, exhibitors who specialize in PE offer a wide range of PE options suitable for such structures. Whether unidirectional or biaxially oriented, several with the application of barrier materials.
The use of recycled materials is also growing. Specifically, it is recycled plastic waste, which serves as a raw material in the production of new packaging. That leads to a reduction in the volume of primary raw materials and thereby to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
A visit to the Fachpack trade fair allowed us to follow current trends in packaging and packaging technologies. It offered us an insight into the development and interest in the market of competitors, suppliers and potential customers. It was also a great opportunity to meet our current or potential suppliers in person.