Is Plastic Fantastic? Part 2: The rPET Revolution in the Middle East – Drivers, Technology, and Challenges

  In Part 1 of “Is Plastic Fantastic?”, we examined the regulatory hurdles of plastic sustainability in the Middle East. Now, we explore the region’s growing adoption of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), driven by environmental concerns, shifting consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. As Middle Eastern businesses adapt to new packaging standards, rPET is …

ALPLA reports growth in 2024 with focus on recycling and expansion

  ALPLA Group, the Austria-based global packaging and recycling company, recorded significant growth in 2024, reporting a 4% increase in turnover to €4.9 billion from the previous year’s €4.7 billion. The company also expanded its workforce to 24,350 employees across 200 locations in 46 countries, including 365 apprentices, underscoring its commitment to professional training.   …

Sukkur Beverages celebrates launch of sustainable Aqua Fina production facility

  Sukkur Beverages’ new Aqua Fina production facility in Pakistan, inaugurated on January 6, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The state-of-the-art plant is designed to be self-sustaining and eco-friendly, showcasing the leadership of Madam Sayeeda Leghari. The inauguration was attended by Eugene Willemsen, CEO of International Beverages …

NILE Recycling partners with Starlinger for advanced PET recycling line at Arabplast 2025

  NILE Recycling Company, based in Egypt, has signed a contract for the installation of a Starlinger recoS-STAR PET 165 recycling line, announced at Arabplast 2025 in Dubai. This cutting-edge technology aims to enhance the production of high-quality recycled PET, advancing sustainability and operational efficiency in the region.   Mohamed Sa’adany, Co-Founder and CEO of …

Paxiom introduces IWK FP-Series tube filling machines

  Paxiom Group has expanded its packaging machinery portfolio by incorporating IWK’s FP-Series tube filling systems. This collaboration addresses the diverse needs of industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food, offering solutions for packaging creams, gels, and liquids.   The FP-Series machines, developed by IWK Verpackungstechnik GmbH, are designed for low to high production volumes. …

SONGWON partners with Altek International for PVC distribution in the Middle East

  Songwon Industrial Co., Ltd. has partnered with Altek International FZE to expand the availability of PVC stabilizers in the Middle East. Effective January 1, 2025, the collaboration aims to address the region’s growing demand for PVC solutions in industries such as construction, packaging, and electrical.   SONGWON, headquartered in South Korea, is a global …

Revolutionizing Packaging Excellence: The Classique Labels and Packaging Story

  Since 2018, Classique Labels and Packaging has been on a transformative journey under the leadership of its Managing Director, Rama Krishna. The company has not only turned its fortunes around but has also set new benchmarks in the labeling and packaging industry. By combining innovation with a deep understanding of market needs, Classique has …

EAD reports 364 million plastic bags saved since 2022 ban

  The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced that 364 million single-use plastic bags have been eliminated since the introduction of a ban on 1st June 2022 under the emirate’s Single-Use Plastic Policy. This reduction is equivalent to 2,400 tonnes of plastic and 547,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases, comparable to the emissions from …

Dubai to host ArabPlast 2025, showcasing innovations in plastics, packaging, and recycling

  The 17th edition of the ArabPlast international trade fair will take place from January 7 to 9, 2025, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hasher Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated, will bring together over 750 exhibitors from 35 countries, with national pavilions …

ALPLA named Austria’s most innovative company

  Austrian packaging manufacturer ALPLA has been recognized as the country’s most innovative company by Trend magazine and Statista, acknowledging its advancements in sustainable packaging solutions and groundbreaking technologies.   Known for its pioneering efforts, ALPLA has developed innovations such as paper bottles, lightweight designs, mono-material pumps, PET wine bottles, and bio-based plastics. Several of …