With our core focus on sustainability, Plastipak is committed to taking decisive steps to continue to reduce our environmental impact. We’re proud to better the communities we serve by cutting down on waste, embracing renewable energy and conserving our precious natural resources. We’ve continued to make strides forward in four key areas over the past year.
Plastipak Opens New Solar-Powered Global Recycling Center in Spain
In November 2022, Plastipak celebrated the opening of our newest recycling center at our manufacturing site in Toledo, Spain. The facility converts PET flake into food-grade recycled PET (rPET) pellets suitable for direct use in new preforms, bottles and containers.
The recycling plant produces 20,000 metric tons of food-grade recycled pellet per year and eliminates recycled resin transport-related emissions because it is co-located with Plastipak’s current preform manufacturing site. The opening of the Toledo facility – our fifth global recycling center – supports Plastipak’s commitments to invest in the circular economy, help our customers meet their sustainable packaging goals and reduce their Scope 3 carbon emissions.
The state-of-the-art facility incorporates advanced energy-saving technologies and equipment, including the rooftop installation of over 1,800 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. The PV panels are expected to generate more than 1,339 MWh of electricity per year consumed entirely on-site, saving more than 443 metric tons of CO2 per year that would be associated with electricity from the national energy grid. This emissions reduction is in addition to the CO2 savings resulting from the 20,000 metric tons of recycled resin produced annually, which takes the place of virgin resins that would require more grid energy to produce.
Plastipak continues to evaluate and adopt a variety of renewable energy projects. This includes pursuing a combination of on-site and off-site power purchase agreements as well as the use of certificates of guarantee of origin.
In 2022, 100% of the energy consumed at our European and Brazilian plants came from renewable sources, and the electricity consumed at seven of our North American plants was certified as emissions-free.
The use of renewable energy for electricity contributed to our 45.8% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared with our 2019 baseline.
Converting Organic Waste to Green Energy for Clean Tech UK
Clean Tech UK, Plastipak’s bottle-to-bottle PET recycling plant based in Hemswell, U.K., signed a long-term partnership in June 2021 with neighboring anaerobic digestion facility operator BioteCH4. Through the partnership, BioteCH4 converts organic food and agricultural waste processed at its facility to biogas, which in turn is converted into electricity using a combined heat and power (CHP) process. We then use the green energy to power our Clean Tech UK facility.
BioteCH4 processes more than 90,000 metric tons each year – waste that would otherwise find its way to a landfill. In 2022, BioteCH4 delivered over 80% of the electricity required to power Clean Tech UK, cutting our CO2 usage by 2.8 million metric tons.
Approximately 84% of our Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions (using the location-based method) arise from the electricity used for production. As a result, we continually assess our plants for opportunities to lower our energy usage.
Our Energy Reduction team focuses on developing and implementing energy use best practices, which are then rolled out to specific locations as applicable. We have identified these operations as the most significant areas of opportunity:
Plastipak’s automated, proprietary energy management system provides energy usage information at the production line level, so we have specific, real-time data to inform important decisions. This information enables us to benchmark manufacturing line performance within sites and across the company to help identify areas where further improvements may be possible.
As we continue to adapt our process and move toward a greener future, Plastipak is always looking for ways to serve our community better. From reducing CO2 usage to conserving energy, we’ve made some great progress in 2022 and 2023, and we’re already looking ahead to 2024 to identify more opportunities to protect our planet and create a better tomorrow for us all.
About Plastipak Packaging, Inc.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
At Plastipak, we’re committed to fostering an environment that values the personal and professional development of our associates through continuous education and training.
Tim Eppinga is a prime example of this commitment in action. Today, nearly 30 years after starting his career at Plastipak as a sales intern, Eppinga sits on our leadership team as the Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Technology. Like him, countless associates have found opportunities to flourish personally and professionally within the organization.
Alongside two younger brothers, Eppinga grew up in Grand Ledge, Michigan. His father owned and operated a successful family business, where he experienced firsthand the challenges of keeping a small business alive—igniting his interest in pursuing a career with a family-owned enterprise.
In pursuit of his passion, Eppinga enrolled at Michigan State University with his heart set on earning a degree in business. But, in the second semester of his freshman year, he decided to switch his major and landed in MSU’s School of Packaging because of his ability to use his mathematical skills, but with a marketing spin.
While he knew packaging was the right fit for him, he could never quite put his finger on what path he wanted to take his career in. After a lengthy discussion with one of his packaging professors during his Junior year, he realized that he could use his packaging degree to become a sales person for a packaging provider — the ‘aha moment’ that would set the tone for his career at Plastipak.
In 1990, Eppinga graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Packaging Engineering. Eager to start his career, he embarked on a search for internships. However, most packaging companies were only interested in recruiting engineers for operational roles.
Determined to secure an internship with the sales department at Plastipak Packaging, Inc., Eppinga met with Thomas Busard, Plastipak’s talent recruiter — now the Chief Polymers & Recycling Officer and President of Clean Technologies. After Eppinga explained his ideal training experience, Busard encouraged him to pitch his vision to Ron Overbeck, who served as Plastipak’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the time. Overbeck agreed to create a sales intern role and welcomed Eppinga to work as a full-time associate for two years.
After completing his sales internship in 1990, Eppinga received news of an upcoming sales territory opening. Excited about the opportunity, he and his wife packed their bags and headed to Chicago, where Eppinga would assume the role of a Sales Representative. The position taught him the importance of patience and preparation in the sales industry. “In sales, you get a lot of “no’s”, but you just need to keep going back. It is a game of odds and the more opportunities you are pursuing, the more chances you have at success,” said Eppinga.
As time went on, Eppinga continued to grow at Plastipak — taking on various roles such as Beverage Technical Service Manager, National Account Manager and District Sales Manager. In 2000, he returned to Michigan to work at Plastipak’s Global Business and Technology Center, where he held several Corporate Sales Management roles.
Looking back, Eppinga is grateful for the opportunity to have worked closely with William C. Young, President and CEO of Plastipak. Over the years, Mr. Young taught him many valuable lessons, like the importance of earning a customer’s business. He is proud to work for a company built on family heritage and that recognizes the value every customer holds — whether they’re a major corporation or a small family-owned business.
Eppinga’s advice for young professionals? Being a good listener, staying open to different perspectives and remaining persistent can take you far. It’s exactly what landed him in the role he’s in today and his inspiring journey at Plastipak is one of many.
About Plastipak Packaging, Inc.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
With the fast-paced, high-pressure nature of plant work, manufacturers have a special obligation to ensure their employees are kept safe. From properly maintaining facilities to implementing adequate training, employers can take a number of key steps to protect their workers.
At Plastipak, we’ve continued our unwavering commitment to safety since our founding in 1967. Even though our commitment has stayed the same, we’ve routinely reviewed and enhanced our approach over time to strengthen our safety policies and practices.
Engaging all of our associates in Plastipak safety program is the cornerstone of our success. Our safety data is a leading indicator that transcends all business metrics. For example, over 80% of our global workforce is actively engaged in our safety program. Whether this be through a safety conversation or a near miss/observation, we value the feedback of our workforce and use these as opportunities to learn from and improve our processes.
The most well-thought-out safety policy isn’t worth much if it doesn’t get results. That’s why we judge our programs and policy changes by objective data to see what’s working and what needs to be changed. We put our latest round of safety revisions through this same review process, and by every metric, our latest enhancements to our safety programs are working.
In 2022, we recorded our lowest number of injuries since Plastipak was founded over 50 years ago, including historic lows for serious injuries. Our injury rates continue to fall well below what’s common in the plastics manufacturing industry.
At the core of these stellar results is our associates dedication to our strong safety values and high levels of engagement with the safety program throughout the company. Our leadership at every level, has a strong commitment to workplace safety and supports the effective policies we’ve put in place to embody this vision.
Last year, we made a strategic shift in our overall safety philosophy, switching from merely a compliance-based approach to focusing on the work that is actually getting done and the people that are doing it. This new approach is guided by the principles of Human and Organizational Performance (HOP), through which we seek to understand and influence our associates’ actions and choices to facilitate safer working conditions and practices.
Instead of merely writing rules and expecting our associates to follow them, we now focus on the real-life tasks getting done on the manufacturing floor and the people behind that work. For example, we updated our injury investigation process to reflect this new mindset. We’ve also started to assemble learning teams that proactively address potential safety issues within our company.
To keep safety at the forefront of all we do, we intentionally set up touch points between supervisors and our newest team members to encourage additional learning opportunities and allow for opportunities to ask questions. We also pair our new associates with mentors to help them safely integrate into their new roles and encourage them not to do more than they were trained to do.
Our safety motto at Plastipak is “Four Seconds to Safety” because we know many workplace injuries can be prevented by simply taking just a few seconds to stop, think and assess before you react. Rushing is one of the greatest causes of injuries in the workplace. Our “Four Seconds to Safety” mindset seeks to address that.
A key safety concept to move with your eyes before you move your body. We train our associates to make sure there are no hazards in the way before moving their hands and feet. We also stress the importance of checking any areas associates may place their hands into or rest their hands on to make sure they are safe.
By taking the time and reminding our associates of a few common-sense safety provisions and carefully taking their feedback into account, we are building a strong workplace culture of safety.
If you’re interested in joining a team that takes your safety seriously, visit our Careers page to learn more about our available positions.
About Plastipak Packaging, Inc.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Chicago, IL (May 18, 2023) – LanzaTech Global, Inc. (Nasdaq: LNZA), an innovative carbon capture and transformation (“CCT”) company that converts waste carbon into materials such as sustainable fuels, fabrics, packaging, and other products that people use in their daily lives, and Plastipak Packaging, Inc. (“Plastipak”), a global leader in the design, manufacture, and recycling of plastic containers, announce they have successfully produced PPK Natura, the world’s first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin made from captured carbon emissions. The resin is suitable for food, personal care, and pharmaceutical packaging, as well as other non-packaging applications.
PET is a polymer that is molded into plastic bottles and containers for packaging foods and beverages, personal care products, and many other consumer goods. PET resin comprises 30% monoethylene glycol (MEG) traditionally derived from petroleum. PPK Natura leverages CarbonSmart™ MEG from LanzaTech’s CCT process. It retains the technical properties of virgin fossil PET while carrying a lower carbon footprint.
PPK Natura resin reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and its production process does not require land or food resources. In addition, packaging made out of this material can be fully recycled at the end of its life, keeping the carbon in a circular material cycle.
Leading Swiss retailer Migros and its subsidiary Mibelle Group were the first to use this PET in in-house brand packaging, including in creating PET bottles for smoothies and the containers of household cleaners that also contained LanzaTech ethanol as a key ingredient.
“LanzaTech’s commercial technology is designed to enable our partners in diverse industries to reduce their carbon footprint and overall environmental impact,” said Jennifer Holmgren, Chief Executive Officer of LanzaTech. “Our partnership with Plastipak is critical to demonstrating what is possible today. Today we are producing food- and pharmaceutical-grade packaging and are well on our way to creating a more sustainable future for all.”
LanzaTech’s CCT technology works like a brewery in which proprietary bacteria consume pollution and convert it into CarbonSmart chemicals. Those chemicals are then turned into products ranging from clothing and laundry detergent to sustainable aviation fuel. Using a variety of waste feedstocks, LanzaTech’s technology platform is creating a future where consumers are not dependent on virgin fossil inputs for everything in their daily lives.
“We are delighted to partner with LanzaTech to achieve early progress in our ambition to produce PET with lower environmental impacts. The use of CarbonSmart MEG is a first and important milestone in our journey toward this goal, and combined with use of renewable electricity in the production process, has contributed to significant progress in indicators such as carbon reduction and use of fossil resources. PPK Natura resin is one element of Plastipak’s ESG program, which among other initiatives, targets the extension of our product circularity with the intent of supporting customers in reducing their Scope 3 emissions. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership with LanzaTech as we work together to achieve our long-term goals.” said Pedro Martins, Executive Managing Director Europe of Plastipak.
“The use of fossil fuels must be avoided. Where this is not possible, it makes sense to include greenhouse gases in products so that the gases do not contribute to global warming and climate change,” says Christoph Meili, a specialist in life cycle assessments at WWF Switzerland.
About Plastipak Packaging, Inc.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
About LanzaTech
Headquartered in Skokie, Ill., LanzaTech transforms waste carbon into materials such as sustainable fuels, fabrics, packaging, and other products. Using a variety of waste feedstocks, LanzaTech’s technology platform highlights a future where consumers are not dependent on virgin fossil feedstocks for everything in their daily lives. LanzaTech’s goal is to challenge and change the way the world uses carbon, enabling a new circular carbon economy where carbon is reused rather than wasted, skies and oceans are kept clean, and pollution becomes a thing of the past. For more LanzaTech visit https://lanzatech.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding LanzaTech based on the beliefs and assumptions of its management. Although LanzaTech believes that its plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, LanzaTech cannot assure you that it will achieve or realize these plans, intentions, or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. LanzaTech undertakes no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
At Plastipak, we’re proud to celebrate the amazing women on our team, who work diligently to make our company better. We recently sat down with some of these hard-working women to find out what drives them.
Sandy Kubisak, Yorge Rider, Larissa Takaki Benatti and Ana Paula Guilherme are all leaders at Plastipak who bring their best to work each day, face whatever challenges their work has for them and impact the team around them by being an excellent example. We’re proud to highlight these four associates and share the lessons they’ve learned.
How long have you been at Plastipak, and what is your current role?
I’m a senior procurement manager at Plastipak and have been working here for over 15 years now. A typical day for me includes interacting with my team to make sure that we’re supporting the plants and keeping them running smoothly from a raw materials standpoint as well as working on contracts with suppliers with the support of our legal team. I also maintain policies and procedures from a global procurement perspective.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished over the last 15 years. I know that I’ve worked hard to achieve the position that I’m in. I know that I’m in a position to help support our facilities the way that they really need to be in order to be successful. That makes me very proud.
What drives you?
One of my favorite quotes is “a manager does things right, and a leader does the right thing.” The reason that this quote is important to me is that as you grow within a management role, you help to drive culture and make a change. This quote helps put things into perspective for me.
What would you tell other women looking to join the packaging industry?
There’s a lot of opportunity here to develop and grow personally and professionally. It’s really interesting, and it’s a fun place to work. Our culture is changing; it’s always evolving to be more inclusive, accommodating and flexible in allowing women—and men—to have that balance we all seek in our work lives.
Take initiative. Openly communicate with your management. When things are tough and you need support, we’re here for you. We want to work together, to collaborate to make sure that we’re all successful together.
What do you find most rewarding about working at Plastipak?
It’s challenging for me. I feel I’m in a position where I can really make a difference.
I feel like I have a sense of autonomy to make decisions on a regular basis and to help move things forward. When I run into roadblocks, I have management support, so the culture is there to allow us to develop and grow our skills.
What is your current role at Plastipak, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I am the accounting manager here at Plastipak Atlanta. I start every day by saying “Good morning!” to the whole team. Everybody says I bring good energy here.
Our operations meeting starts every morning at 8 a.m. We cover safety, quality and human resources issues. I bring my expertise in finance to the operations meeting, and I direct my daily objectives based on what we covered in the meeting.
What drives you?
I feel like I was created to make a difference and help people out by giving back. Here at the site, we do a lot of things with local schools and law enforcement. Plastipak’s values tie in with mine as far as giving back and community involvement.
What would you tell other women looking to join the packaging industry?
It’s a great industry to be in. I enjoy having the ability to be hands-on. There’s so much good happening at Plastipak. I am inspired by the science behind everything we do and our commitment to recycling. It’s truly a great place to be, especially for women.
It’s an industry that, during COVID where a lot of companies didn’t survive, we thrived in that period because we are an essential business. No matter what, people are going to need water. People are going to need cleaning products. People are going to need to put food on the table, and a lot of those items we package. So no matter what the world is going through, we still survive and thrive.
What do you find most rewarding about working at Plastipak?
I love to be challenged. I love to grow and evolve and realize my fullest potential.
And I love the variety working here gives me. There is something new every day. Even though the challenging aspects can be uncomfortable at times, I feel so fulfilled once I learn, accomplish a goal or move to the next step.
How long have you been at Plastipak, and what is your current role?
I’ve been with Plastipak for seven and a half years. Right now, I’m a procurement and logistics senior manager.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I think that if I hadn’t gone through all the challenges I’ve been through, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. All the lessons I’ve learned and all the situations I’ve lived through have played a big role in where I stand today.
What drives you?
What motivates me most of all to continue doing what I do is the people. I like to work with people. I like to interact with them because I know that every day I have the opportunity to learn a little more and share a little of what I know.
What would you tell other women looking to join the packaging industry?
I like this family environment that we have. People care a lot about each other, and they cheer for one another. It makes our days brighter. We are focused on day-to-day work, but we are also focused on creating a welcoming environment.
How long have you been at Plastipak, and what is your current role?
I am a legal manager, and I have been working at Plastipak for 15 years. A consulting opportunity arose at Plastipak, which was just setting up a factory in Recife, and what was supposed to be a temporary position turned into an invitation to work for the company.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
At the time I was offered the position I had already enrolled in law school, and I wanted to get a law degree to pursue a career in the tax area. Shorty after, I got the opportunity to travel to the United States, and at this time I had already graduated law school. So, I spent three months in the United States, which was an amazing experience. I made the transition from taxes to legal.
I am very proud of graduating law schooland giving myself the opportunity to have a second career. Having the courage to do a second higher education course with all the pain of going back to university already over 30 years old.
What drives you?
A challenge motivates and drives me, and I really like learning new things, while doing my best and seeing my commitment in the end result.
What would you tell other women looking to join the packaging industry?
My advice to women wanting to join Plastipak, or any other career on the market is always believe in yourself, giving it your best, and just having a sense of ownership. Everyday I approach my job as I’m doing it for me and making sure I’m putting my best self forward.
What do you find most rewarding about working at Plastipak?
We are not just numbers; we are people. And this is how Plastipak treats its employees. That’s why I’ve been at Plastipak for 15 years, so believe in your dreams, and work to make them come true. Dreaming small or dreaming big takes the same work, so I think we can dream big, and stay focused because you are here in this world to be happy.
At Plastipak, we offer the chance to grow and challenge yourself through your work. We’re always looking for hard workers who want to invest in the team around them. If you’re interested in working for us, visit our careers page to view our open positions.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, having been awarded over 500 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
Plastipak’s commitment to cutting-edge innovation has allowed us to remain a global leader in the plastics industry for decades. A long-standing dedication to creativity and looking ahead means our team has a reputation of trendsetting and pushing the boundaries of what the packaging industry can achieve.
We are proud to maintain our edge through our Creative Package Studio (CP Studio), which powers our best-in-class solutions to benefit our clients and deliver against their packaging needs. CP Studio is well-positioned to serve our clients around the globe, with offices in Brecht, Belgium and Plymouth, Michigan.
Let us take you on a tour of how CP Studio operates, so you can understand how this unique tool sets us apart.
When a client comes to us, we always listen first. Our initial focus is on finding ways we can add value to our clients and their products by asking questions, such as:
For example, a food and beverage producer recently came to CP Studio looking to refresh its packaging. Why? After asking the questions above, we realized the client needed to reduce the weight of its packaging to decrease energy costs—without impacting production.
Once we understood what the client wanted, we turned to our talented team of in-house industrial designers, graphic designers, developers and creatives to create several concepts to meet the client’s needs.
Looking at the required parameters, our team brainstormed different ways to meet the client’s needs. The process included a close look at the current packaging, contemplating how we can give the products a competitive edge through its exterior container. It’s like judging a book by its cover.
After a collaborative brainstorming session with the client, our team identified our proprietary innovative ThermoShapeTM technology as the perfect solution. Not only does this option fit the bill for lightweight containers, but the client would receive added benefits from reduced energy costs and freedom of design without any changes to the blow molding and filling process.
After our team determined the best path forward to improve the client’s packaging, our engineering, marketing and sustainability teams came together to create 7-10 digital sketches of our solutions.
Then, we brought the sketches to life! This step includes running simulated tests of our packaging to show which models work best and which have unexpected flaws.
Next, we deployed virtual reality and augmented reality to put our ideas to the test. Using a simulated retail space, we directly compared our new designs to both the client’s current products and competitors’ packaging to see how our new concepts would stand out on shelves.
Finally, once we perfected our initial designs, we fabricated a 3D-printed model of the new packaging. This step enables the client to hold, feel and see the new design before signing off.
After experiencing the new packaging design first-hand, the client approved the direction and set a new course for its brand with a fresh direction.
Ready to give your products’ packaging a new look? Contact us to learn more about how we can collaborate.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, having been awarded over 500 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
As we wrap up another year at Plastipak, we’re excited to kick off the new year delivering great products and services to our customers. Looking ahead to 2023, it’s clear that innovation in sustainability and recyclability will drive not only our growth but our customers’ too.
In this blog, we uncover the top three packaging trends that will define 2023 and how we’re executing them to drive success for our customers.
As their preferences continue to change over time, consumers’ requirements for eco-friendly products have too. Today, consumers not only want their products’ packaging to be recyclable but also want it to be made up of recycled materials.
Recognizing the shift in consumer demands, Plastipak is constantly working toward maximizing resource efficiency by implementing circular solutions across our value chain to reduce our impact on the environment.
In 2022, we made incredible progress in enhancing and developing our recycling technologies and capacity. This year, we officially opened our fifth global recycling center in Toledo, Spain—increasing our recycling capacity to more than 425 million pounds of post-consumer pellets. In addition, we made significant expansions at our Dundee, Michigan, and Bascharage, Luxembourg, facilities, allowing us to convert more post-consumer resin (PCR) washed flakes into food-grade plastic pellets.
With these additions, we have been able to further refine our bottle-to-bottle recycling efforts. This approach helps us keep common plastics, like HDPE and PET, out of landfills—giving them a second life in new packaging products. Other benefits of bottle-to-bottle recycling include:
In recent years, lightweight packaging solutions have become increasingly popular with food and beverage manufacturers because of their ability to decrease overall material consumption, minimize products’ environmental impact and lower costs throughout the supply chain.
Through a combination of expertise and design engineering, Plastipak has developed patented neck finish technology. This technology has allowed us to produce some of the lightest products in the market for over two decades.
Our lightweight neck finishes are cost-effective solutions and are perfect for carbonated soft drinks and bottled water.
With many many brands making commitments to implement sustainable and recyclable packaging in the years ahead, innovation in design will be a key driver in helping customers achieve these goals.
Plastipak’s Creative Packaging (CP) Studios bring our design and engineering experts and customers together to create a solution that meets the needs of the market and gives them a competitive advantage.
Through a series of brainstorming and design sessions, our studio team engages with our customers to understand their goals and their audiences. Together we analyze features from squeezability to opening ease, to transform functionality and design optimal packaging for the customer.
When it’s time to test the design, we invite customers back to the studio to see the proposed product designs in a virtual shelf environment—giving them the opportunity to compare the design to current market offerings. Additionally, we offer early-stage consumer feedback and eye-tracking data to give customers the crucial insights they need to ensure a successful market launch.
Ready to give your products’ packaging an innovative new look? From brainstorm to prototype, we’re here guide you. Get in touch with us by reaching out to contactus@plastipak.com.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, having been awarded over 500 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
Plastipak, a global leader in the design, manufacture and recycling of plastic containers has announced the formal opening of a major recycling investment at its manufacturing site in Toledo, Spain by Don Emiliano García-Page, President of the Castilla-La Mancha Region. The new recycling facility converts PET flake into food-grade recycled PET (rPET) pellets suitable for direct use in new preforms, bottles and containers.
The new recycling plant will produce 20,000 tonnes of food-grade recycled pellet per year and will eliminate recycled resin transport-related emissions since it is co-located at Plastipak’s current preform manufacturing site. The recycling plant is Plastipak’s fifth recycling facility, with other recycling plants located in USA, France, Luxembourg and United Kingdom. In Europe, Plastipak is the largest producer of food-grade rPET, with well over 150,000 tonnes of rPET capacity per annum.
Pedro Martins, Plastipak’s Executive Managing Director Europe, said “The use of rPET is a key tool in reducing our customer’s Scope 3 related emissions and forms an important part of their ESG-packaging related commitments. As well as supporting our customers to reduce their financial obligations under the planned Spanish plastics tax, the plant will also contribute to the meeting the minimum recycled content levels mandated by the Single Use Plastics Directive.”
To support on-site energy generation, the state-of-the-art facility incorporates advanced energy-saving technologies and equipment that includes the rooftop installation of over 1800 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. The PV panels are expected to generate more than 1339 MWh of electricity per year that will be consumed entirely on-site, saving more than 443 tonnes of CO2 per year through the avoidance of consumption of electricity from the national grid. This is in addition to the CO2 avoided by using 20,000 tonnes of recycled resin instead of virgin resin.
Jack Pacente, Vice President of Global Sustainability, explained “We are delighted to open another world-class PET bottle-to-bottle recycling facility, complete with additional investment in emissions-reduction initiatives, demonstrating our leadership in the circular economy. Already, 100 percent of the electricity Plastipak consumes in Europe originates from renewable sources, and the installation of PV panels is our second on-site renewable power generation project in the European region. Long-term emissions reduction is a core pillar of our ESG program, demonstrated by our registered commitment to the Science-Based Target Initiative.”
David Stajninger, Plastipak’s Vice President of Resins & Recycling added “Plastipak began recycling post consumer bottles in 1989 to support our customers at a time when post consumer resins were not widely available for bottle-to-bottle applications. This expansion further reinforces Plastipak’s global strategy of having high quality integrated rPET material to continue to meet our customers’ growing needs.
Enquiries:
In English
Kinza Sutton
Head of Public Affairs & Sustainability – Europe
Kinza.Sutton@plastipak.eu
+44 7702 718290
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
At Plastipak, we believe the values—such as work ethic, leadership, determination, and more— military professionals gain during their service are essential to the success of any business.
We shine a light on U.S. Military veterans Samantha Hunzeker, Angel Garnica and Tiffany Sprague, who bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to their roles at Plastipak each and every day—driving our organization forward.
Read on to learn more about their military careers, the lessons they’ve learned and how they’ve used their experiences to succeed in their transition to civilian life and build successful careers.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Peru, New York.
When did you decided to join the service? Why?
I was looking for something different in my life. At the time I was in college and was not sure what direction I wanted to go in. I decided to join the United States Marine Corps and served for nine years. After that, I served in active duty for the Maryland National Guard for 13 years.
How do you feel like the service has influenced your life?
At the beginning of my career, it made me a more independent and confident person. It also taught me that women can be successful in predominantly male settings.
What lessons did you learn during your service?
An important lesson that I learned was that in order to help someone grow you have to show compassion as well as guidance. You cannot demand respect—respect is something that is earned and goes both ways in any relationship.
When did you join Plastipak?
I joined Plastipak in September 2018 as Recruiter, and now I’m a Human Resources Generalist.
In the service, you have a brotherhood or sisterhood, similar to like you’re a part of an organization. Do you find that at Plastipak?
Yes, I feel strongly about the people I work with and would do anything I can to assist them. I really enjoy being part of a team that is always looking for ways to give back to our community.
What is your favorite part about your current role?
My favorite part about working at Plastipak is having the ability to support my coworkers. I enjoy being able to help someone who is feeling overwhelmed or stressed, feel less overwhelmed or anxious.
Do you have any advice to other veterans that are considering a career at Plastipak? or anyone that is a transitioning service member?
My advice would be to take what you have learned from the service and use those skills as the foundation of your career. Be resilient and flexible as you grow in your new position.
Where did you grow up?
I am originally from Fresno, California.
When did you decided to join the service? Why?
I decided to join during my junior year of high school because I didn’t have a plan for after graduation. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to study and I also wasn’t prepared for the financial commitment of attending college. One thing I was interested in doing was moving away from my hometown, and joining the service gave me the opportunity to do that.
How do you feel like the service has influenced your life?
It has definitely shown me life experiences someone my age wouldn’t normally encounter. It has also helped me mature, expanding my views on life.
What lessons did you learn during your service?
I learned many lessons during the service that I apply in my everyday life such as hurry up and wait, Semper Gumby, arrive 15 minutes prior to 15 minutes, how to deal with stubbornness and have better situational awareness, Crayola makes the best flavors, and keeping an open mind.
When did you join Plastipak?
I joined in October 2021 as a Direct Object Printing Electrical Technician.
In the service, you have a brotherhood or sisterhood, similar to like you’re a part of an organization. Do you find that at Plastipak?
Plastipak does a great job of promoting a family environment. It is, however, a bit different than the family you have in the service. You spend every hour of the day, for months sometimes, with these people and they are often all you have to lean on.
What is your favorite part about your current role?
My favorite part about my current role is that nothing feels repetitive. Each day, I have the ability to learn something new and work on a variety of tasks.
Do you have any advice to other veterans that are considering a career at Plastipak? or anyone that is a transitioning service member?
The advice I would give is that military professionalism is not the same as civilian professionalism. Remember to be more tactful with your dialogue and interactions.
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Green, Ohio near Akron.
When did you decided to join the service? Why?
In February 2009, I joined the Ohio Army National Guard as an 88M. At the time I was attending the University of Akron and they were offering 100% tuition assistance. We were just coming off of a recession, and it was a way to pay for my schooling without accumulating debt. Plus, I received a hefty sign-on bonus for becoming a truck driver.
How do you feel like the service has influenced your life?
As with anything in life, there are positives and negatives. The biggest positive was the fact that it increased opportunities for me as far as my career. As soon as I graduated from college, I had a full-time job to step into at state headquarters. This was the stepping stone that led me to the career I have today because I had to reclass from a truck driver to human resources. All in all, it opened opportunities for me to grow within the organization until I eventually decided to transition into civilian human resources.
What lessons did you learn during your service?
That’s a long list… resiliency and how to love change, teamwork, adaptability, decision-making skills, resourcefulness, flexibility, persistence, the ability to follow processes and procedures, and discipline.
When did you join Plastipak?
I joined Plastipak about six months ago in April 2022. I am the current talent manager for our facility in Jackson Center, Ohio.
In the service, you have a brotherhood or sisterhood, similar to like you’re a part of an organization. Do you find that at Plastipak?
Absolutely, there is a great tenure here at Plastipak and it almost feels like family. There is a strong sense of community and everyone is so helpful.
What is your favorite part about your current role?
What I love about HR is that the profession is constantly looking for ways to make things better—whether it’s new strategies to help employees with their development, effective training plans, new HR technologies and tools, or partnering with top-level managers to find ways of improving processes to help the company reach its objectives.
Do you have any advice to other veterans that are considering a career at Plastipak? or anyone that is a transitioning service member?
There is a community here at Plastipak with a multitude of opportunities for growth. It’s never too early to start growing your network and preparing for your next move. Talk with former service members who have already transitioned to civilian careers for tips and moral support. Take stock of your skills and military attributes and think about how you could relate those to the civilian world. Brush off your resume and make sure it translates to everyday language but also captures everything you have to offer. You may not have the exact experience required for a position, but you probably have all the attributes a hiring manager is looking for, and you just need to make sure they know what you got!
We offer an abundance of careers suited for military veterans and the drive they bring to the workplace. Learn more about our open positions on our Careers page.
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
Plastipak, the leader in PET plastic aerosol molding technology, has launched SprayPET Revolution™, a 100% polymer aerosol, which is fully recyclable.
SprayPET Revolution™, including the valve, is all polymer, and is totally metal-free. Until now, PET aerosol containers used standard metal valves with rubber gaskets. Whilst many PET recycling plants are equipped to remove metal components in the recycling process, not all recyclers have this capability. Other components like rubber gaskets still cause quality concerns in the recycling stream.
Innovation in the polymer valve means that PET aerosol containers can safely pass through all PET reprocessing plants, without contaminating the recycling stream, and with no negative impact on the quality of recycled PET material. It has been assessed and approved by both the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) and the USA-based Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR).
The valve utilizes new polymers other than PET for sealing that have a molecular density of less than 1g / cm3. This means that the valve can be easily processed with the PET container during the recycling process.
The complete SprayPET Revolution™ container, including the valve is shredded. The resulting flakes enter a water-filled separation chamber, where due to the differing molecular densities, PET sinks to the bottom, and the other polymers rise to the surface, so easily separated. The PET is further processed and will be reused in applications such as new PET bottles and containers, trays, textiles and pallet strapping. The polymers in the valve will be recycled alongside other caps and closures, and reused in products such as garden furniture, decking and pipes.
Produced under license from Procter & Gamble, SprayPET Revolution™ uses spin welding technology to attach the valve to the container. It is available as a dip-tube or bag-on-valve application.
As well as being 100% recyclable, recycled PET (rPET) can be included in the SprayPET Revolution™ container body.
SprayPET Revolution™ offers significant carbon footprint savings over aluminum aerosol containers, as demonstrated in an independent peer-reviewed life cycle analysis study, supporting reduction in Scope 3 emissions.
SprayPET aerosol containers offer design and shape flexibility for on-shelf differentiation and can be decorated with sleeves or printing directly on to the container using Plastipak’s Direct Object Printing (DOP) technology.
Kurt Wolschleger, VP Consumer Cleaning & Aerosol said “Plastipak is delighted to launch this exciting new technology which offers brand owners and fillers significant sustainability benefits in terms of recyclability and emissions savings. SprayPET Revolution™ represents a huge step forward for plastic aerosols and is a game-changer for the aerosol industry”.
Enquiries:
North America
Kurt Wolschleger
KWolschleger@plastipak.com
+1 734-354-7263
Europe
Victorien Dorier
VDorier@plastipak.eu
+33 601887179
South America
Osmar Junior
ojunior@plastipak.com.br
+55 19 99207-7626
Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Plastipak Holdings, Inc., is a world leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality, rigid plastic containers for the food, beverage, and consumer products industries. Plastipak is also a leading recycler of rigid plastic packaging, producing food-grade post-consumer recycled resin for inclusion in new packaging. Plastipak operates more than 40 sites in the United States, South America and Europe, with a total of over 6,500 employees. Its customers include some of the world’s most respected and recognized consumer brands. Plastipak is also a leading innovator in the packaging industry, holding more than 420 United States patents for its state-of-the-art package designs and manufacturing processes. In addition, Plastipak licenses various packaging technologies around the world. Plastipak was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan. Additional information about Plastipak can be found at its website www.plastipak.com
Statements in this press release concerning Plastipak’s intentions, expectations or predictions about future results or events are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements reflect management’s current expectations or beliefs, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to vary from stated expectations, which variations could be material and adverse. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the time made, and the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statements.
