2011 Packaging Observatory interviews: The major packaging innovation trends

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Frédéric MAUCLAIR - Sales Manager of the Italian group IMA,
with the Emballage 2011 Packaging Observatory

Differentiation and seduction

The packaging situation differs considerably according to sector. Where a prescription is required, as in the case of certain pharmaceutical products, the market is relatively tense. There is no rise in volume because optimisation of the existing production facilities is a prerequisite for investment and increased capacity. Whenever increase in volume actually does occur, this is often absorbed by the existing production equipment. In the case of consumer goods whose purchase stems from “desire” or “need” – leisure, foodstuffs, cosmetics, etc. – there is a substantive increase in volume.

Differentiation is required to develop successfully in a particular market. Consequently, the pharmaceutical industry seeks to win over customers with more attractive packaging and new options such as the handy solutions (zip or wallet type packaging) used in the confectionery industry. Moreover, packaging is increasingly practical to help patients follow their treatments more easily, with containers that are attractive, pleasurable, easy to open and close, and contain clear instructions.

Flexibility
In order to respond to market developments, our responsibility as a manufacturer is to propose packaging machinery and assembly lines that are more flexible. We must have the capability to produce smaller batches or change format on the same packaging line, if required. Cosmetics have a very uncertain product life cycle. A perfume, for example, can rapidly become a flop, in which case, the manufacturing equipment has to be adjusted and readapted. In short, we have to become more flexible and reactive. Today’s products are not the same as those of tomorrow.

Source of proposals
Today, we should not only become real sources of proposals for our clients but also have the capability to provide turnkey solutions. Manufacturing must follow a just-in-time logic, like logistics.

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Thibault PINOTEAUX - Packaging Optimisation,
Sustainable Initiatives and Projects for the Casino group,
with the Emballage 2011 Packaging Observatory

Target: recycling
Our expectations from packaging are to disturb the recycling channels as little as possible. This is why we have adopted only one material and have gradually eliminated all those that cause problems during waste sorting: PVC bottles and flasks and ceramic stoppers on glass bottles. Packaging elements made of different materials must be easily separable. Recycled cartons with a plastic window sometimes leave traces of adhesive, which is why we avoid using them where inappropriate.

 Strict calls for tenders
Packaging represents a significant proportion of household waste. The aim of the Casino store brand packaging environment department is to prepare calls for tenders with precise specifications in order to reduce the size and weight of the packaging. Those most closely adapted to the set criteria and recommendations are selected after careful analysis of suppliers’ proposals.

 Less transport
Our suppliers are located primarily in France and in Europe. Local sourcing enables us to reduce the environmental impact of transport and to cut our costs.

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