Brad Addington

Sustainable packaging was a major theme in 2024. Plus, Kellogg Company’s transformation in 2023 into Kellanova – and Mars’ plans to acquire Kellanova – were exemplary of the business re-arrangements and M&A that have continued at a steady clip in the packaging sector.

One analyst argues that – for brands large and small – there’s a benefit to being able to do business with a separate Kroger and a separate Albertsons for reasons involving distribution, sales promotion and marketing.

Company is focused on ensuring that its primary packaging is recyclable. Coca-Cola says it will also continue to focus on increased advocacy for well-designed collection systems for the recycling of beverage packaging.

Transaction enables Dow to further focus on core, high-value downstream markets. Proceeds will be used to support Dow's capital allocation priorities, including value-creating growth investments.

Ecommerce revenue in the U.S. is expected to grow by 51% from 2024 to 2029, reaching $1.8 trillion, driving demand for innovative packaging solutions. Companies like R.R. Donnelley & Sons are enhancing label production, Packsize is focusing on on-demand sustainable boxes, and MCS Inc. is exploring high-speed inkjet systems to replace adhesive labels with direct printing on packaging materials.

In a just-released report, Capstone Partners notes that portfolio realignment fueled a significant portion of deal activity in early 2024. Global sustainability initiatives represent another significant factor driving mergers and acquisitions.

Combination is touted as bringing together two highly complementary businesses to create a global leader in consumer packaging solutions, with a broader flexible film and converted film offering, a scaled containers and closures business, and a unique global healthcare portfolio.

From tethered caps to a plethora of recycle bins, a trip to Europe this summer revealed a variety of approaches to sustainable packaging.

Steve Fairfield was a flexible packaging luminary who embodied the spirit of innovation. His outstanding contributions to the industry are now being celebrated through this new award presented in his honor.

Packaging Strategies’ recent reporting on PACK EXPO International 2024 – though extensive – represents a mere fraction of the networking and expertise sharing that will take place at the event.