As experts in the packaging industry, we understand the importance of keeping up with the latest trends. In the following article we share with you the key trends that are revolutionizing the packaging industry and how they will affect packaging machinery manufacturers.
1. Circular economy: the future of packaging
The concept of circular economy has gained prominence in the packaging sector due to the growing awareness of resource scarcity and the need to reduce environmental impact. Mengibar, founding member of Barcelona Packaging Hub, has developed a circular buy-back program to increase the usability of machinery before it is discarded. This initiative not only benefits the environment, but also contributes to a more sustainable business model. It is a clear proposal that demonstrates the commitment of companies in the packaging sector to environmental responsibility and the search for solutions that extend the useful life of products.
2. Automation and artificial intelligence: industry smarter than ever
The advent of the fourth industrial revolution has enabled the implementation of technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation in the packaging sector. Packaging machinery manufacturers are developing equipment that integrates these technologies to improve efficiency and productivity. Leading companies such as Effytec and Jorpack, members of Barcelona Packaging Hub, are using Industry 4.0 with the aim of streamlining production processes and obtaining remote and efficient control of machinery, minimizing unnecessary travel.
3. Training and development: driving excellence in the sector
In an increasingly competitive business environment, the value of staff training and development has become critical. Packaging machinery manufacturers, as is the case with our partner Movitec, recognize the importance of corporate social responsibility and are committed to supporting their employees through training and development programs. In addition, this philosophy extends to customers, who seek stronger connections and more effective communication with packaging machinery manufacturers.
4. Challenges in the packaging industry: material shortages and lead times
Despite the positive trends in the packaging sector, it is important to be aware of the challenges that lie ahead. Shortages of electronic components and raw materials have affected the ability of packaging machinery manufacturers to ensure on-time delivery of projects. This has resulted in higher prices and generated some uncertainty in the market. However, United Barcode Systems, a founding partner of Barcelona Packaging Hub, has demonstrated its ability to adapt by optimizing purchasing management and incorporating additive manufacturing, allowing for greater independence and flexibility in part design.
Watch webinar on how Barcelona Packaging Hub is tackling the raw materials and electronic components crisis.
5. Monomaterials and sustainable production
Film manufacturers are increasingly focusing on sustainability, driving the development of mono-materials, mono-plastics and flexible paper. Companies such as Synchropack, a founding partner of Barcelona Packaging Hub, are reinventing the sector by compounding monomaterials that meet industry demands. These materials allow the creation of flexible packaging with multilayer protective barriers, without the need to separate them during recycling, which promotes more sustainable production.
The reinvention of 3D printing
In the packaging sector, 3D printing has undergone a significant reinvention this year. INVpacka founding partner of Barcelona Packaging Hub, encourages the use of 3D tools to develop packaging machinery parts and components, thereby addressing shortages of supplies and raw materials. In addition to reducing costs, 3D printing offers more durable materials and greater flexibility in product design. It is a powerful technology that optimizes the supply chain, minimizes lead times and reduces material waste.
The packaging industry is at an exciting time with trends that promote sustainability, intelligent automation and excellence in personnel development. Packaging machinery manufacturers need to be aware of these trends to stay ahead of the industry and take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.
