325 16 Main Categories Sub Categories Entries across all categories Delegates Leading Industry Sponsors

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VAT/year Rest of the world: USD 100/year © copyright 2023 PMEA All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein. Ben Daniel Editor in chief Nick Coombes Business Editor Oliver Fennell Business Editor George Simonian Technology Editor Kaunain Shahidi Contributing Editor Irene Vora Editorial Assistant Usha Benjamin Marketing & Events Manager David L. Zwang Contributing Editor Vikram Fotedar Technology Editor Doaa bin Thabit Contributing Editor Debabrata Deb Business Editor Elisa Conselvan Business Editor Europe Maria Laura Lombardi Marketing Executive Europe Mohamed Rafeeq E d itor i a l Technology Editor Team Dear colleagues, and business partners, Ten years ago, I took the risk of my life. I quit my job and poured all of my energy and time towards launching Packaging MEA. Having reached our 10th anniversary this year, I believe the stage is set for an even brighter future for the region’s dedicated packaging industry platform, publication, and industry events management company. Our humble beginnings We started in November 2012 as JJ Media Fz LLC in a small office in Al Barsha, Dubai. Packaging MEA was launched with the sole mission of connecting all packaging professionals and stakeholders across MEA and the wider world. Today, we are glad to be the voice and pulse of the region’s packaging industry. Packaging MEA & PRIME Summit While Packaging MEA and www.packaging.com was, is and will be our flagship, we also brought together industry leaders, decision-makers, and the fraternity at large every year since 2014 for our unique annual event, PRIME Summit, connecting the MEA packaging industry every year. Honouring the past, treasuring the present and shaping the future In 2019, we started PRIME Awards to recognise excellence in Design, Innovation, Print, Sustainability and Quality in Packaging and all of its fulfillment. Judged by a renowned international jury, the awards programme has grown to be an excellent yardstick that measures quality, innovation, sustainability and performance. More…. Knowing well our purpose and mission, we have been hosting sector-focused conferences, seminars, webinars, business round-tables, videotorials, factory tours and more. Our team comprises professionals from around the world, working to bring the latest and best content within the packaging realm. We pledge to continue to endeavour all the more with our reporting to support your strategy and long-term growth while delivering seamless, enjoyable and technology-driven experiences to all stakeholders. Rather than just reporting, Packaging MEA will be your reliable media partner in building and reaching out to your clients through our multifaceted platforms that focus on solutions to meet the challenges of the regional industry. Looking at the past 10 years, we wholeheartedly thank our partners, friends, collaborators, colleagues and readers. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the active support of the entire industry. That said, the whole of 2023 will be a year where we celebrate our 10th anniversary across the upcoming six editions of Packaging MEA. Dates and venue for our upcoming conferences, awards programme, webinars, and allied industry events will be announced shortly. Please join our weekly newsletter and daily updates from packagingmea. com. You can also join and follow us at in.linkedin.com/company/packagingmea Looking forward to doing more prosperous business together. Ben Daniel, Editor in chief, Packaging MEA Packaging MEA celebrates 10 years of ‘Unpacking the world of packaging’ Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 3

Contents 23 64 10 26 ““When two minds work together, a third powerful mind is created. Innovation needs thought, drive, thrust and passion that can develop new ideas and expand into new spaces by connecting the dots through colloboration” Kaunain Shahidi, Packaging MEA Business Editor (Contributing) News & Reports Policies, Regulations & Compliance 06 Brand Owners News 10-11 Packaging for a cause 08-09 Business News 14-15 Sustainability News 16-22 Packaging Print-Converting 23-27 Packaging Innovators’ Success Stories 28-38 PRIME Awards 2022 40-59 Industry Trends & Predictions - 60-61 Form, Fill Seal (FFS) News 62-63 Sustainability News 64 Features & Interviews Sustainability: Disappointing truth 18 Al Bayader, Reifenhäuser sign CE pacts 20 The Big Interview: Amit Radia-Atlas PP 23 Gravure, a great sustainable option 24 The Big Interview: Sara Alexander-Bobst 26-27 BIZ-TECH Trends & Predictions 2023 60-61 60 08 20 19 16 4 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

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By Ben Daniel While plastic bags will be prohibited from 2024; plastic plates, cups and cutlery will be banned from 2026 The Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported earlier this month, the UAE will impose a complete nationwide ban on single-use plastic (SUP) shopping bags starting next year. The UAE will limit the use of plastic bags and regulate the production, distribution, and use of single-use products, including biodegradable plastic bags, at the federal level. Additionally, the use of SUP bags of any material will also be prohibited effective January 1, 2024, Beginning January 2026, the UAE will also impose a blanket ban on the import, production, and trade of SUP products. These products include plastic cups, lids, cutlery, forks, knives, spoons, plates, food containers, and boxes made of styrofoam. As part of Ministerial Resolution No. 380 of 2022 which regulates the use of SUP products in the country’s markets, this regulation aims to protect the environment from pollution caused by the consumption of such products. The resolution excludes certain products from the ban, including rolls of thin bags used as per the guides issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in accordance with the News | Policies, Regulations & Compliance UAE to impose a blanket ban on single-use plastic bags authorities. This is in addition to products intended for export or re-export that are clearly labelled for this purpose and products made from recycled materials in the UAE. These products are completely forbidden from being traded in the country’s markets. “Previously, regulations on plastics were largely the domain of individual emirates. The new SUP ban is notable for being a country-wide initiative, helping to encourage a national standard for environmental protection. Most of the changes it will bring to the average resident’s daily life will be minor – after all, few people pay attention to what kind of cutlery comes with their take-away order – but the overall impact on consumer habits, the business landscape and the environment alike, will be hard to overestimate,” “Sustainability has now become an imperative at the global level, reinforced by changing the behaviour of society in a way that reduces the environmental footprint of individuals,” the government-run Dubai Media Office said in a statement. In a world that uses 500 billion plastic bags yearly where 90% is not recycled, Jute and cloth bags could come in quite handy as a good substitute. To use plastics continually, there should be a robust closedloop recycling processplastic in circulation is always constant. ○ BRAND OWNERS ○ PROCESSORS ○ CONVERTERS ○ MANUFACTURERS ○ SUPPLIERS THE REGIONAL PLATFORM THAT CONNECTS ○ Polymers for packaging ○ Blown & Cast film extrusion technologies ○ Injection moulding technologies ○ Blow moulding technologies ○ Thermoforming technologies ○ Colourants, additives & masterbatches ○ Barriers and coatings ○ Moulds and tooling ○ Flexible packaging ○ Rigid packaging ○ Labelling technologies ○Form, fill & seal machinery WWW.PACKAGINGMEA.COM 6 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

By Ben Daniel As part of its efforts to enhance the private sector’s contributions to the emirate’s economy, The Dubai Chamber of Commerce (DCC), one of three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, announced the establishment of two new business groups: The Bottled Water Business Group and the Circular Packaging Association. Launching the new business groups is in line with the Chamber’s plans to increase the number of business groups that represent economic sectors and activities in the Emirate of Dubai, and ultimately, to ensure all industries and economic activities are represented to boost their competitiveness and drive Dubai’s growth. Both business groups aim to unify the voice of the business community and promote the private sector’s role in economic growth. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, said, “The establishment of new business groups forms part of our plan to develop the private sector’s contribution to sustainable development, boost the business community’s competitiveness and its ability to innovate in the face of challenges, and empower the private sector to play a part in drawing up policies and legislation that drive growth across various economic sectors and activities.” Lootah emphasised the importance of business groups as representatives and reliable advocates for their respective sectors, and highlighted, in particular, their role in recommending policy changes to improve a sector’s competitiveness and Policies, Regulations & Compliance | News DCC forms circular packaging, bottled water business groups attractiveness while promoting international best practices and supporting economic growth. Chaired by Priya Sarma Mathur, Senior Sustainability Head at Unilever Middle East & Turkey, the Circular Packaging Association aims to play a part in implementing the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031, as well as to enhance consumer awareness about the importance of sustainable packaging and provide insight and recommendations on legislation and policies related to sustainable packaging at the federal and local levels. Meanwhile, the Bottled Water Business Group focuses on promoting and developing the sector’s practices in accordance with international best practices in sustainability, in a way that protects the environment and enhances Dubai’s reputation as a sustainable and eco-friendly destination. The Group also aims to develop sustainable solutions, in collaboration with partners in the business community, to improve the water bottling and distribution network in a safe and sustainable manner that cuts carbon emissions and helps shape a prosperous future for the sector. Business groups play an important role in promoting and supporting economic growth in Dubai. “The groups are a key component of the business community and contribute to advancing commercial and investment activity in the emirate, by supporting the development of capacities and expertise, while enhancing the competitive advantage of Dubai’s business community. There are currently 30 business groups operating under the umbrella of the DCC, representing various economic sectors and activities.” Your KHS system for effi cient water bottling. SAVING UP TO 20% IN ENERGY IS A GOOD START. BUT BY NO MEANS THE END. From the preform to the packaged PET bottle, our lines not only considerably save on energy but also on materials and maintenance costs. One such system is our compact InnoPET TriBlock Aqua M, which forms, labels, and fi lls single-serve bottles especially effi ciently. At a rate of up to 82,000 bottles per hour it also saves time. This is what we call effi ciency right down the line! khs.com/water khsIM17012_AZ_Wasser_102x274_ICv2_2jb_englisch.indd 1 21.10.22 17:33 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 7

Feature | Packaging for a cause Have you ever imagined the 80-year-old version of yourself, sitting alone, with your long life passing through your eyes, and you ask yourself: was it a life well-spent? To create change through your work in the field of packaging, to contribute through packaging to making this world a better place, to help in creating an impact; these are all noble investments that we all wish to reward the 80-year-old version of ourselves for. It fills our lives with purpose, it motivates our teams. Surprisingly, however, it turns out that it also helps us make more money! This article aims to share with you how this works. Experience shows that for many businesspeople, having a clear cause to work towards, with concrete corporate social initiatives contributing to sustainable development goals – health, education, employment, and the environment – often proves to be among the most satisfying chapters of their professional lives. Strategic CSR The past decade witnessed a significant increase in corporate giving and a shift from isolated CSR to strategic CSR, whereby the core business is doing well by doing good across its value chain. It’s always pleasant to see brands support great causes through sponsorship or partnership, and packaging is a creative way to emphasise the importance of giving back to society; doing good as a means to expand vertically and horizontally, and raising awareness of the business brand to mobilise top talent as well as green finance. For instance, many corporations produce limited edition customised packaging to support a cause, coupled with a cause-related marketing campaign and advertising. But besides packaging for a cause, the package itself can create tangible social impact and business revenues. Campbell’s soup is a great example of how packaging for a cause not only makes an impact, but can also boost revenues. Blue ocean Sarah Johnson, a globally renowned researcher who studies the economic and social impact of basic food value chain processes, described the revolutionary social impact of Campbell’s canned soup: “Campbell’s made food that was formerly food of the wealthy people accessible to ordinary people. “Take, for example, the beef consommé soup, which back in the 19th century would take days to prepare – it would be super labour-intensive and often served as a first course at fancy dinner. However, when Campbell’s introduced the beef consommé, it expanded its reach to middleclass housewives who now could elevate their dinner tables to hold parties at home. “This is a clear example of how canned packaging created a blue ocean with a new segment of customers and a new revenue stream. Doubled sales For more than 150 years, Campbell’s has made CSR critical to its brand’s value. Later, it took packaging for a cause to another level by turning its iconic redand-white soup cans pink during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Can you guess the impact of this move on the bottom line? Campbell’s doubled sales. What lesson do we learn from this? Doing good to feel good is not only a differentiator that is driving the need for cause packaging. It is pure business play When does contributing to a cause double your business bottom-line? Business owners may be interested to learn how supporting good causes can lead not only to positive social impacts but also an increased bottom line. Packaging MEA contributing editor Doaa bin Thabit explains “Packaging for a cause creates for your business a new sales pitch, and call-to-action.” Doaa bin Thabit Packaging MEA, Contributing Editor 8 Nov - Dec 2022 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

Packaging for a cause | Feature that improves bottom line, top line, and brand value. It helps brands connect with consumers at a much deeper human level. Consumers need to see that the brands they support are kind, caring, and human. Linking a company or brand to a relevant charity or cause can make to the spirit of the brand. Packaging is a silent salesman. Packaging for a cause creates for your business a new sales pitch, and a call to action. >[email protected] www.reprotronics.com > > > An innovative precision Digital Engraved Block / Die making process, on Magnesium & Brass for perfect fit to custom type machines > > > > > > An innovative precision Digital Engraved Block / Die making process, on Magnesium & Brass for perfect fit to custom type machines > > > Full HD Digital Flexo Plates Full HD Digital Flexo Plates INTRODUCING..! Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 11

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News | Business Kezad breaks ground on UAE’s largest ecommerce centre By Ben Daniel Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (Kezad), the integrated trade, logistics and industrial hub, and noon.com, the Middle East’s leading online shopping destination, have broken ground on the UAE’s largest fulfilment centre, which will form part of an anchor investment by Noon into the emirate’s fastgrowing ecommerce space. The 252,000sq m facility is being designed and developed by Kezad under a Build-to-Suit agreement and is scheduled for delivery in 2024. With the introduction of new automation technologies for storage, material movement and sorting, the facility will enable rapid delivery of products to millions of customers and bolster the local economy with the creation of several thousand jobs. With managing inventory efficiently and cost-effectively being critical to meeting the spike in online consumer demand, fulfilment centres not only offer scalable warehousing opportunities, but provide speed and quality control across the entire value chain. Mohamed Al-Abbar, Founder of Noon, said: “More than 5,000 small businesses will use our fulfilment center to store their goods and conduct business. This will allow our youth and small businesses to connect with the growing number of ecommerce customers without having to invest in technology or real estate. “This is not your typical real estate project – technology infrastructure projects of this scale are change agents for the future, not just for our company, but also for our community and country.” While Noon already has a facility with Kezad, it has decided to expand its operations to a larger area by utilising Build-to-Suit, which will facilitate the design and delivery of Noon’s turnkey facility. The development has been tailor-made to meet the company’s specific operational requirements, helping to reduce costs, boost productivity and offer essential supply chain efficiencies. Additionally, the completed facility will be a sustainable building conforming to Estidama 2 Pearl rating which incorporates initiatives to enable water, energy and waste minimisation. Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) is also providing Noon with financial and non-financial incentives as part of the continued expansion of Abu Dhabi’s fastgrowing ICT ecosystem. Eng Abdulla Abdul Aziz AlShamsi, Acting Director General, ADIO, said: “Abu Dhabi’s ecommerce sector has taken another step forward with work commencing on the country’s largest fulfilment centre. “ADIO congratulates Noon and Kezad on reaching this important milestone in rapid time.” Hotpack unveils its largest manufacturing plant in NIP Dubai By Oliver Fennell Hotpack Global, the UAE-based global leader in food packaging products, has launched its largest manufacturing plant, a AED250million facility in National Industries Park (NIP), Dubai. The new plant marks a significant step in Hotpack’s vision to emerge as the premier global food packaging manufacturer by 2030. The plant will produce Hotpack’s high-performance and sustainable PET packaging products and serve as a centre for various Hotpack arms with manufacturing, ecommerce, logistics and marketing in one building. Abdul Jebbar PB, Group Managing Director of Hotpack Global, said: “The 500,000sq ft facility will serve as our one-stop shop for high-performance and sustainable PET packaging. With our large warehouse that has a capacity of 35,000 pallet storage spaces, this facility will also function as our export hub.” Abdulla Al Jasmi, Head of National Industries Park, said: At NIP, we always align our work with the developmental goals of the UAE’s wise leadership. The addition of manufacturers like Hotpack will significantly contribute to our position as a leader in the UAE’s industrial sector. The government aims to boost the manufacturing sector’s contribution to the economy over the next few years by creating an industrial identity to support domestic products and promote the sector globally. NIP will work with manufacturers like Hotpack to support this goal.” Elaborating on the technological advancements driving the operations at the Hotpack plant, Mr Zainudeen PB, Group Executive Director of Hotpack Global, said: “The Hotpack NIP plant is a technological marvel, equipped with cutting-edge extrusion, thermoforming and printing machines from the leading equipment providers in the world.” Hotpack Global was recently certified as a ‘verified exporter’ by Dubai Industries and Exports, the trade promotion entity of the Department of Economy and Tourism. The NIP facility will further augment Hotpack’s logistics capabilities and boost its export growth strategy. Hot news: The Hotpack Global and National Industries Park teams announce the new facility Noon already has a facility at Kezad but the new site promises to be a game-changer 14 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

Business | News By Oliver Fennell Elopak has reported a 26% revenue growth in Q3, driven by successful price initiatives in EMEA and another strong performance in Americas. Adjusted EBITDA grew by 7%, despite higher input costs CEO Thomas Körmendi said: “These results demonstrate how we continue to make tangible progress in delivering on our sustainability-driven growth strategy. Key achievements in Q3 include very strong performance in Americas, successful By Oliver Fennell Smurfit Kappa has recorded impressive revenue growth of 33% to €9.72billion (£8.35bn) and profit (EBITDA) growth of 43% to €1.76bn (£1.52bn, before tax) upto Q3 2022 EBITDA margin was 18.2%, the net debt to EBITDA ratio was below 1.4x, and ROCE was 20.6%. Tony Smurfit, group chief executive, said he expects EBITDA of approximately €2.3bn for the full year, with ongoing capital investment to support customers and to optimise the corrugated giant’s system. “Significant cost inflation is Elopak hails Q3 2022 results implementation of price increases on our products in EMEA, first installation at customer site of our new aseptic Pure-Fill machine, and a better-than-expected start to our new business in India. “Equally important is that our organic growth is profitable. The margin recovery in Q3 compared to the previous quarter means that we have been successful in mitigating the continued high raw material costs with price increases on our products. We expect revenue in Q4 to take us above €1billion for full year 2022 and adjusted EBITDA in Q4 to be in line with Q3. “So far, 2022 has been characterised by continued high raw material prices, general inflationary pressure in all markets, supply chain issues following the pandemic and a more uncertain macro-economic environment. We remain optimistic on the longer-term market fundamentals.” being recovered in corrugated box pricing as anticipated,” he said. “Against strong comparisons, corrugated box volumes were flat for to optimise the corrugated giant’s system. “Significant cost inflation is being recovered in corrugated box pricing as anticipated. Against strong comparisons, corrugated box volumes were flat for the first nine months. “Our results reflect the steps we have taken and the quality of the Smurfit Kappa business, thus expecting to deliver EBITDA of approximately €2.3bn by 2022 end. Smurfit Kappa sales grow 33% Borouge enters into partnership to boost UAE healthcare sector By Ben Daniel Borouge, a leading petrochemical company that provides innovative and differentiated polyolefin solutions, signed an MoU with Abu Dhabi Medical Devices Company (ADMD). ADMD is a leading local manufacturer of syringes, insulin syringes, tubes and catheters, administration devices, respiratory items and PPE products and is the first and only manufacturer of Auto-Disable syringes in the Middle East and Africa, producing over 400million units per year. Borouge offers polyolefin materials for use in different primary and secondary pharmaceutical and diagnostic packaging applications such as blister packs, fluid bags, pouches, bottles, vials and ampoules. Blow-Fill-Seal is a technology widely used for the sterile filling of PE and PP medical containers for parenteral preparations and infusions, eye drops and inhalation products. Borouge’s Low Density Polyethylene solutions are typically used to make these blow-moulded healthcare containers as they can easily be sterilised by steam, ethylene oxide and gamma radiation. Further, Borouge’s PE solutions can be used to produce fully self-collapsible IV containers. With the outbreak of Covid-19, Borouge produced special grades of ‘Made in UAE’ polypropylene solutions that were used to make face masks and other PPE. Driven by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the partnership is a significant step for Borouge towards supporting the UAE healthcare sector with its sustainable polyolefin solutions that meet the strictest global standards. Khalfan Al-Muhairi, Senior Vice-President Regional MEAE, Borouge, said: “We are pleased to be part of this important partnership through which we will supply ADMD with our solutions, reinforcing our leading position as the polyolefin solution provider of choice for the UAE healthcare sector. “Borouge’s solutions contribute to enhancing people’s lives and are used to make advanced medical devices, offering a high level of reliability, consistency and conformance with industry standards.” Road to riches: Smurfit group chief executive says the results ‘reflect the quality’ of the business Hand it to them: Elopak revenue up 26$ In good health: Representatives of Borouge and ADMD sign the partnership agreement Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 15

By Oliver Fennell The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) reports a significant reduction in the consumption of single-use plastic bags, with people switching to reusable alternatives with a lower environmental footprint. This positive change in consumer behaviour is being driven and supported by EAD’s ongoing education and awareness campaign. Information collected from Use of 87million bags averted retail outlets indicate that since the beginning of the ban, the number of single-use plastic shopping bags has dropped by more than 90%, resulting in a daily reduction of half a million bags since June 1st. This amounts to more than 87 million bags to date. More than 80% of outlets are committed to levying voluntary fees and have signed a declaration to support the ban and secure alternatives. The outlets charge a fee for each alternative reusable plastic shopping bag, with the aim of avoiding the use of bags whenever possible. Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al-Dhaheri, SecretaryGeneral of EAD, said: “The policy will also reduce emissions in line with the UAE’s Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement.” Waitrose has launched its second-edition Waitrose x Nuaimi eco-luxe reusable shopping bag in celebration of the UAE’s 51st National Day. Created by renowned Emirati print designer Huda Al-Nuaimi, the fashionforward shopper is inspired by Dubai’s iconic architecture and desert landscape and has been designed to encourage more sustainable shopping. News | Sustainability ME Printer July 2012

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BIG Interview | Plastics in Packaging-Rigid Business T he disappointing truth is that sustainable packaging does not exist, because packaging alone cannot do anything to be sustainable – but our actions can. Moreover, packaging cannot be more or less sustainable. Something is or is not sustainable. There are no half-measures. But determining how much something can sustain over time is a variable that can be difficult to predict because it is hypothetical. Packaging is not more or less sustainable; but rather has a greater or lesser environmental impact. It cannot be claimed that the material of a container determines the degree of wellbeing it produces for the planet and society. That’s an overly simplistic and partial look at reality. What makes it sustainable are our actions, and that goes far beyond the materials we use. The correct use of language is important, especially to those of us who are interested in disseminating content. But there is something much more important and complex that has to do with what sustainable development really means. To meet the definition of sustainable packaging, the actions of a company must consider much more than the material of a container; they have to consider the entire lifecycle of the containers, and do so in an ethical way. To this end, the UN has created 17 sustainable development goals. “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” – Greek proverb We assume that once we consume the content, the containers are no longer useful, so we throw them away. Yet, when we see garbage floating in the water or tossed beside public roads, we are horrified. Better not look at it, right? What we do not like, we remove from sight. From concept to objectives A great variety of nuances and meanings are reflected in sustainability: economic performance, emission reduction, exploitation of natural resources, transport optimisation, commercialisation, end of life, social impact or the preservation of biodiversity. Sustainable development has to be the link between economy, nature and society, taking into The disappointing truth about sustainability There is no such thing as sustainable packaging, says Guillermo Dufranc. Rather, it is our actions, not our products, that can make a difference. It is unavoidable. The disappointment comes when they ask me: what is the most sustainable packaging? I’m not disappointed by the question, but I know my answer is going to be a letdown to those asking it. account their different cultural nuances and recognising the importance of ethical behaviour. What makes some packaging sustainable, but not others? It is not about glass, cardboard, metal or plastic, but about the entire system of extraction, production, distribution, use, end of life, the social impact that all that generates and, on top of that, the ethical behaviour involved. I know it seems too much, and clearly, one can feel overwhelmed and believe nothing can be done. But that’s the worst of all thoughts. Sustainability is a path to be taken to make improvements over time; it is a way of understanding the world and a way of proceeding. “One of the things you have to remember about sustainability is that it will take us all forever to accomplish” Guillermo Dufranc is passionate about changing the world with packaging. He gives talks, training sessions and workshops. He has been invited to be a member of the jury of several packaging design competitions around the world. He is the author of Packaging To Save The Planet, which can be found on Amazon. 18 Dec 2022 - Jan 2023

Pepsi introduces 100% recycled Diet Pepsi bottles in Kuwait SIG and Tagaddod team up to incentivise recycling in Egypt By Ben Daniel Consumers in Kuwait will now be able to enjoy Diet Pepsi in 100% recycled plastic bottles, as PepsiCo continues its expansion of sustainable packaging alternatives across the Gulf Cooperation Council area, amid rising consumer consciousness around sustainability and regional government priorities. Pepsi is the first beverage brand in the State of Kuwait to introduce locally manufactured, 100% recycled plastic bottles through its beloved lowcalorie product, Diet Pepsi. The move accelerates the company’s efforts to drive a circular economy and reduce packaging waste in the country. The bottles are made from plastic that has been recycled, reprocessed, and repurposed, making them By Oliver Fennell In Egypt, SIG is launching ‘Recycle for Good’, an innovative recycling initiative to enable direct household and food service industry collection of used aseptic carton packs through tech-based solutions. This initiative involving SIG and Tagaddod is the first of its kind in the Egyptian market. Consumers can use an app to more environmentally friendly, as they have over 30% less greenhouse gas emissions, compared to PET. The new packaging will be available in 2.25l Diet Pepsi bottles. The launch comes at an important time in Kuwait, as the state works towards diverting 80% of waste away from the landfill by 2035. Aamer Sheikh, PepsiCo Middle East CEO, said: “We’re using arrange for their used cartons to be collected from their homes or workplace in exchange for rewards. The project aims to incentivise recycling while benefitting local communities. SIG and Tagaddod are leading the collection of the cartons. Tagaddod is the first company in Egypt to enable direct household and food service industry waste collection through tech-based solutions. The initiative uses Tagaddod’s existing logistics network and household brand Green Pan to collect the cartons. Abdelghany Eladib, President and General Manager, Middle East and Africa, SIG, said: “Changing behaviour is critical to enable lasting positive change for the environment. ‘Recycle for Good’ aims to stimulate a change in people’s attitudes the power of our brands to inspire people to make more positive choices for themselves and the planet and are proud to launch the 100% recycled bottles in Kuwait with our Diet Pepsi product offering. “The government of Kuwait has ambitious plans to build eco-cities in the coming years, and a greener, cleaner environment is intrinsically linked with the wellbeing of people. by demonstrating the value of recycling to individuals and communities. We are proud to partner with Tagaddod on this. As the first initiative of its kind in Egypt, it represents a major milestone for the country in its drive towards a circular economy.” Nour El-Assal, CEO and co-founder at Tagaddod, added: “The ‘Recycle for Good’ programme is another breakthrough for Tagaddod in transforming its vision into actions, using our technology and resources. Tagaddod has the infrastructure, network and vision to further mobilise and accelerate Egypt’s transition towards a circular economy. With this, we will expand our reach to retract high-grade, high-value food cartons and put them back in circulation, while creating “More sustainable packaging, and in parallel the development of an effective waste management system, will play a significant role in driving this forward.” Efforts are under way with policy makers, local bottlers and waste management players in Kuwait to advance recycling infrastructure and help build better consumer awareness around recycling to minimise waste from ending up in the landfill. Rashed Al-Munae, Deputy CEO, United Beverage Company, said, “We share PepsiCo’s vision for a circular economy and are committed to contributing to Kuwait’s vision for a more sustainable future. “We hope consumers opt for the new packaging, and we will continue our efforts to offer them more positive choices that are kinder to the planet.” reliable additional income for households and waste collectors. It is long-term positive impact and value creation at their best.” Recycling SIG carton packs keeps high-quality renewable materials in circulation for longer. All the materials used to make aseptic carton packs – paperboard, aluminium and polyethylene – can be recycled to create new products. Currently, only around 60% of the waste Egypt generates annually is collected, and less than 20% of this is properly disposed of or recycled. With no segregation of waste at household level, there is a huge need for collection initiatives such as this one. SIG is committed to partnering with others to increase the collection and recycling of used beverage cartons, supporting the shift towards a circular economy. The Recycle For Good initiative Pioneering: Pepsi is the first drinks brand in Kuwait to launch such an initiative Sustainability | News Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 19

News | Sustainability-Al Bayader International By Oliver Fennell Al Bayader International, the global manufacturer, distributor and retailer of creative solutions in sustainable food packaging, healthy food and personal and home care products, has announced strategic partnerships with global leaders in sustainability to accelerate and empower the GCC’s circular economy. Al Bayader also launched innovative sustainable products to promote the circular economy and lead the industry towards more a sustainable, resilient, agile and efficient future. These initiatives were announced at the Private Label and Licensing Middle East event at Gulfood Manufacturing 2022, and underpinned by a partnership signed with the award-winning R-Cycle strategy by the German company, Reifenhäuser. R-Cycle provides infrastructure for a digital passport that holds all relevant >[email protected] | 009716 5340712

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL OUR ESTEEMED SPONSORS CATEGORY SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS SUPPORTED BY PRINT PARTNER CarbonTogether towards sustainable solutions. 40

325 16 Main Categories PRIME AWARDS 2022 HIGHLIGHTS Sub Categories Entries across all categories Delegates Leading Industry Sponsors 41

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 PRIME AWARDS 2022 distinguished jury: L-R: George Simonian, Sante Conselvan, Doaa Bin Thabit, George Battrick, Henriette Thomas, Ainain Shahidi Team Carbon ME displayed their innovations across sustainable packaging and consultancy projects across multiple packaging formats Packaging MEA Quiz Winners: Winner Jenson George and Runners George Battrick and BORJo with Vikram Fotedar, Packaging MEA Technology Editor who moderated this interesting session Packaging Innovator: Hanway Digital Corrugated Print for Packaging regional supplier Khaled Salah presented unique and cost-effective digital print-converting solutions for corrugators PRIME AWARDS 2022 MEMORABLE MOMENTS 42

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 Packaging For a Cause: Doaa Bin Thabit, Founder of Packegha and also the Contributing Editor of Packaging MEA presented a thought provoking presentation on ‘Doing well by doing good’ Team Afra displayed their innovations across paper bags, labels, cartons and corrugated packaging solutions PRIME AWARDS 2022 Sponsors: Packaging MEA thanks its esteemed sponsors for their commitment and support. 16 leading companies across the industry sponsored this gala event Team Windmoller & Holscher showed their cutting edge technologies across blown and cast film extrusion as well as flexo and gravure printing for the flexible packagign industry PRIME AWARDS 2022 MEMORABLE MOMENTS 43

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 PRIME AWARDS 2022 WINNERS GALLERY 44

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 PRIME AWARDS 2022 WINNERS GALLERY 45

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 CARTONBOARD: FOLDING-MONO CARTONS CARTONBOARD: CARTONBOARD: CORRUGATED Our jury of judges evaluated the entries for: Design & Innovation Categories • Creativity and development skills employed • Use of new ideas and methods • Ergonomics • Shelf impact and user experience of the product GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER Dubai Printing Press Multilayer PACK - LED light EXPO 2020 DUBAI OPENING iPACK - Abu Dhabi AlOstora Necter Juice ALOSTORA Universal carton IND RAK Fifa Qatar Soccer Box PIZZA HUT Rashid Printers Ajman Christmas Tree Box ATLANTIS Eastman PP Sharjah Maher Luxury Leather Feel MAHER FRAGRANCE NDIGITEC DUBAI The Ka’ak Cart KAAKI W NOS RESTAURANT PACKAGING DESIGN & INNOVATION 46

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 CARTONBOARD: PLASTICS IN PACKAGING: FLEXIBLES CARTONBOARD: PLASTICS IN PACKAGING: RIGID GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER Agthia Group - Abu Dhabi Al Foah Dates Pouch AL FOAH - AGTHIA Trigon Digital - Dubai Dettol Kit Pouch RECKITT Al Bayader International Towerpac Interlock System TWIST, LOCK AND GO! Digital Packaging Innovations Kenya Uganda Finest Gorilla Blend SAFARI LOUNGE Sidd & Sach IntL Dubai Munch Box Cookies and Bars MUNCH BOX ME Danone Egypt Danette Cup (76°C To 4°C) DANETTE-HOT FILLING & COOLING PACKAGING DESIGN & INNOVATION SANTE CONSELVAN, PRIME Awards Chief of Jury President, FTA Europe “Competition is increasing and especially this year we have more than 350 entries and 60 companies were involved, which means we have more than the double amount of entries and companies involved this year and people are very much excited to participate in PRIME Awards.”. 47

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 LABELS Our jury of judges evaluated the entries for: Best in class: Packaging Printer-Converter • All-round excellence in package print, converting, embellishment quality • Shelf appeal and impact of the final printed product • Creativity and development skills to achieve “Innovation in Packaging” SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER Classique Labels & Packaging RAK 6th Sense Instant Hand Sanitisers 6th SENSE Raqam International Riyadh KSA Inmould Label MAZARE AL NAKHEEL Skyne Branding & Design Agency Onehive-Honey Brand Label ONEHIVE PACKAGING DESIGN & INNOVATION DR GEORGE NUBAR SIMONIAN Dean of Design & Creative Arts Faculty in AHRAM Canadian University, Egypt Packaging MEA, Technology Editor, GEORGE BATTRICK ERA European Rotogravure Association, Germany “This is an excellent achievement of all the participants and every year you feel there is an enhancement, there is a development and advancing technologies used and the methods are used, and the final product is amazing. When we tell the package should sell itself with self-impact and self-shouting that’s what we saw here today from all the companies, converters, from printers, designers, and students, and they all are looking for self-impact, self-shouting.”. “This is my first time for me at PRIME Awards and I am pleased to be invited to join the Jury of Prime Awards on behalf of European Rotogravure Association.”. 48

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 CARTONBOARD-FOLDING MONO CARTON SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER SILVER WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER GOLD WINNER SKU-PRODUCT BRAND OWNER Bateel International L.L.C. Date and Fennel Dark Chocolate BATEEL Al Mawrid Printing-Sharjah Godiva Chocolate Box GODIVA MEA CMS Printing Press Dubai Cookie Papi SUGARGRAM BEST IN CLASS: PACKAGING PRINTER-CONVERTER OF THE YEAR DR. AINAIN SHAHIDI Corporate Packaging Professional & Academician DOAA BIN THABIT Founder, Packageha Packaging MEA Contributing Editor HENRIETTE THOMAS General Manager AME Point Group “I am pleasantly surprised and glad to see, feel and judge such quality packaging design, innovation and print-converting across structures-formats produced here in the MEA region”. “Doing well by doing good is more than just a catchy phrase. Corporations that apply rigour to creating effective marketing and corporate social initiatives can help build a better world while enhancing their bottom line. I hope this article has left”. “My second-year Prime Awards is very, very interesting. I thought that I know the industry and what kind of technology has been used but every year I come I see the new, better, high quality and high standard coming to the award.”. 49

Dec 2022 - Jan 2023 PRIME AWARDS 2022 WINNERS GALLERY 50