RPC MattersRPC – THE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT

January to March 2018

TECHNOLOGY WITH A 'LITE' TOUCHThe high precision extrusion capabilities of RPC Bebo Plastik have been instrumental in the successful development of German steel giant thyssenkrupp’s unique “litecor®” steel-polymer composite material.Steel products from thyssenkrupp are a vital part of many cars on the streets today. In order to contribute to enhanced fuel effi ciency, litecor® provides a three-layer material structure of steel-polymer-steel, which is signifi cantly lighter than conventional steel, while maintaining outstanding processing properties.

To meet the quality standards of car manufacturing, the polymer layer manufactured at RPC Bebo Plastik is extruded with the highest precision to deliver excellent surface quality and material distribution.

RPC Bebo Plastik t +49 4761 8600 e sales@rpc-bebo.com

#GREENPOWER WITH ECOSOLUTION™ The latest Ecosolution™ high viscosity pump from RPC Bramlage offers the benefi ts of effective product protection, effi cient evacuation and single material construction to provide one of the most sustainable airless pump solutions on the market.

FIRST SCIENTIFIC TESTS PROVE HDPE’S RECYCLING PROPERTIES ESE World has carried out the fi rst practical experiment to demonstrate that HDPE can be recycled at least 10 times and further processed under controlled conditions.The company has been the leader in the use of recycled plastics for the manufacture of containers for waste and recyclables for over 30 years. However, one question that has remained unanswered until now was how often HDPE can be processed, ground and

reprocessed in injection moulding procedures without fundamentally changing the structure and characteristics of the material.

ESE therefore established a controlled experimental model at its production facility that enabled virgin HDPE to be reused 10 times. After each step

the material was analysed in cooperation with external research institutions using state-of-the-art methods. The project was led by ESE’s plastics specialist and scientist Jeanett Köhn, PhD.

The test demonstrated for the fi rst time that the injection moulding process and shredding of the plastics have, in principle, no property-altering effects on the material over this entire period of reuse. With the service life of containers being around 10 to 20 years, this result means that the availability of material

for sustainable production from the same recycled plastic is secured for at least 100 to 200 years.

ESE World PD&M t +49 2762 9839 811 e marketing@ese.com

SUSTAINABLE PACK A SWEET SUCCESS Flexible tubes produced by RPC M&H Plastics for the Bulldog Skincare for Men range are now being manufactured using ‘Green’ polyethylene produced from sugarcane, farmed on sustainable land in Brazil.

RPC M&H Plastics t +44 1502 715518 e marketing@mhplastics.com

SECURING A QUALITY IMAGEThe Secure Flip next-generation sports cap from RPC Massmould is being used across a number of PET bottles for Highland Spring, the Number 1 UK natural sourced bottled water brand.To support the highly-recognisable appearance of Highland Spring’s packaging, the innovative Sustainable Tamper-Evident Band within the closure features the familiar deep purple colour closely associated with the brand. A key benefi t is that both parts of the band are retained within the closure after opening, as opposed to the use of a detachable tab which then has to be disposed of.

For the on-the-move consumer, the Secure Flip’s ergonomically designed Thumb Tab enables intuitive one-handed opening. The cap also opens to a full and stable 180°, providing easy access to the spout.

“On-the-go consumption is an important part of the Highland Spring offering, and it is essential that we deliver a premium consumer experience, in keeping with the brand’s quality image and reputation,” comments Sandy Milton, Packaging Development Manager of Highland Spring.

“The Secure Flip delivers excellent user-convenience and its attractive look and compact design complement the bottles’ appearance for maximum on-shelf appeal.”

While being cultivated, the Sugarcane captures CO2 from the air as it grows, meaning that with every kilogram of Green Plastic produced 3.09 kilograms of CO2 are removed from the air. Once grown, the Sugarcane is transformed into “ethanol”, a type of alcohol, which is used by Bulldog’s partner Braskem to create Green Plastic.

Bulldog’s fl exible tubes are then manufactured by RPC M&H Plastics using this instead of fossil fuel-sourced material while maintaining the performance characteristics of traditional polyethylene.

GROUNDBREAK(FAST)ING! The EasySnacking™ pot from RPC Superfos is being used for a new cereal product that allows consumers to enjoy premium cereal straight from the pack while on-the-go.Ideal for modern customers, Le Petit Déjeuner from Greek company Tsakiris Family is a healthy whole-wheat cereal rich in dietary fi bre that, thanks to the EasySnacking™ pot, can be enjoyed plain or with milk in a single serving size.

The three varieties are decorated using advanced In-Mould Labelling, which renders perfect graphic quality.

“The EasySnacking™ pot is absolutely cute, convincing and clearly convenient at work, at school or while on the move,” says Maria Tsakiris, Corporate Marketing Offi cer at Tsakiris Family. “It sets us apart from our competitors, as not many cereal brands offer a to-go solution. The small handy size is new to the market, where cereals traditionally are sold in larger cardboard boxes.”

RPC Superfos Region French/South East t +386 41 672 455 e gracanica@rpc-superfos.com

RPC Massmould t +44 1525 718718 e mark.aldridge@gcs.com

Both the Ecosolution™ pump and Vega AirFree® bottle are made 100% of polyolefi n, which is fully incorporated in the recycling chain. In particular, the pump contains no metal or glass parts to impede its recycling.

The AirFree® bottle features an inner pouch with an EVOH layer that prevents oxygen ingress for extended product protection, particularly suitable for those containing natural ingredients and without preservatives. The pouch also prevents any

contamination of the bottle by the formula, providing a clean external layer for recycling.

The easy-to-use pump is able to handle even the most viscous creams and gels with high effi ciency, delivering a 97% restitution rate for even the thickest formulae. This compares to typical restitution rates of around 80% for atmospheric systems,

reducing product waste while delivering a positive consumer experience and enhanced

brand perception.

RECYCLED BOAT A WORLD FIRSTThe world’s fi rst boat made from Plaswood, a 100% recycled plastic product manufactured by RPC bpi recycled products, has been launched from the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre in London to raise awareness of the growing levels of plastic pollution in the UK’s rivers.

Named ‘Poly-Mer’, the 12-seater punt was commissioned by environmental charity Hubbub. At the launch event, Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey MP boarded the boat for its maiden voyage, along with school children from nearby Canary Wharf College (CWC).

Poly-Mer’s build combines the use of modern and ancient materials. The main component is the state-of-the-art material Plaswood – a high performance lumber made from 100% recycled plastic that is impervious to the infl uence of water and therefore will not rot, splinter, crack or degrade with age. Unlike conventional wood traditionally used in boat building, Plaswood requires no annual maintenance, staining or painting. The Plaswood lumber is held together with copper nails – invented by the Vikings and used in the building of Long Ships over 2,000 years ago.

Poly-Mer will now be used for ‘plastic fi shing’ trips by local school children as well as being accessible to the public and businesses too. All the recyclable material collected will be used to build more polymer boats, creating a fl eet of litter-collecting punts across the UK.

RPC bpi recycled products t +44 3332 026800 e plaswoodsales@rpc-bpi.com

RPC Bramlage t 33 474 817 481 e info@rpc-bramlage.com

MORE RECYCLABLE

THAN EVER

SAY “HELIOS” TO PLASTIC PAILS RPC Superfos is supplying the plastic cans for interior wall paint and façade paint from Slovenian producer Helios. The company selected the SuperOval pail from RPC Superfos because of its user-friendliness, light weight, and sustainability.

Spektra® Classic Plus is now sold in three sizes – 5.5, 12 and 18 litres – of the SuperOval pail.

While Helios usually uses metal packaging for its paint products, it is increasingly turning to plastic containers for water-based paints. Its wall paints now only use plastic cans and pails as more people appreciate the qualities of these containers. As such, Helios was keen to build a relationship with RPC Superfos.

“Our experience with the local RPC Superfos team is positive,” says Uroš Primožič, Purchasing Director at Helios. “We appreciate the effi cient way we fi rst received technical information about the containers and then the relevant samples.”

Another factor in Helios’s interest in RPC Superfos was its global reach, which complements Helios’s own international scale, with paint production sites in eight European countries and customers worldwide.

RPC Superfos Region French/South East t +386 41 672 455 e gracanica@rpc-superfos.com

RPC Bramlage t +49 4442 8810 e sales@rpc-bramlage.de

BOTTLE SHINES LIKE A DIAMONDWith its distinctive shape and height, the Kronos Square bottle from RPC PET Power has been designed to provide maximum branding opportunities and shelf stand-out among other 300ml bottles on the market.The eye-catching diamond design with varying horizontal and vertical lines creates greater width. Combined with a height of nearly 18cm, this gives the bottle a highly effective shelf presence. In addition, a wide choice of decoration options – which can be discussed with PET Power specialists - allows brands to establish an individual look for further differentiation and appeal.

The Kronos Square incorporates the widely-used 24SP410 neck fi nish, enabling the bottle to be combined with numerous standard closures, sprays or pumps. This makes it suitable for a wide variety of products, as well as allowing the creation of family ranges.

PET Power t +31 76 503 8283 e info@petpower.eu

ALLS WELL FOR WATER DISPOSALA new RPC Sæplast solution for waste water disposal is helping to maintain Iceland's reputation for pure, clear and clean water.The company has been producing a variety of water storage and disposal systems for over 30 years. The roto moulded products are robust and reliable for effective long term performance. For challenging applications the use of food grade polyethylene and their smooth inner surfaces that allow easy cleaning are particular benefi ts.

The new Sæplast waste disposal well has a diameter of 1000mm and incorporates four connection points. For maximum fl exibility, each connection point features two different diameters for different pipe sizes, enabling the well to fi t easily into existing 1000mm extension bars.

The Sæplast range also includes fresh and waste water tanks, CE certifi ed oil and fat separators, and septic tanks, all of which are designed to function effectively in the most demanding of environments.

RPC Sæplast t +354 460 5000 e sales.europe@saeplast.com

“Convenience is a signifi cant trend and, generally speaking, cheese packaging has not really changed since the 1950s,” explains Jannica Andersson, Brand Manager Allerum & Cheese at Skånemejerier. “We wanted to step up and offer consumers a striking new solution for our Allerum series of mature cheese. With the bespoke pack from RPC Superfos, we are now rejuvenating the image of cheese packaging and have a container that makes our cheese stand out from the crowd.”

The solution features a wedge-shaped injection moulded polypropylene pack with an inner plastic seal and an oxygen barrier label. Part of the upper section is transparent, making the tempting yellow colour of the cheese visible as part of the overall artwork design. All consumers need to do is remove the base and the plastic seal, put the base back on, turn the container upside down, remove the top cover – and the cheese is ready to serve on its triangular plate base. To re-seal and store, they simply replace the top cover.

A further benefi t of the solution from RPC Superfos is its full recyclability.

PACK SERVES UP A SOLUTION A convenient bespoke solution from RPC Superfos is breathing new life into cheese packaging for the latest high-end cheese from Skånemejerier, the leading manufacturer of mature cheese in Sweden. Used for the company’s new Allerum mature cheese, the wedge-shaped pack with oxygen-barrier label ensures that customers have no need for a serving plate and hardly any fi nger-contact is required to serve the product.

RPC Superfos Region Nordic t +46 392 61 61 00 e mullsjo@rpc-superfos.com

A new breakthrough de-icer product from Tetrosyl is being packed in custom-designed bottles produced by RPC Promens Industrial Plenmeller.CarPlan Demon Ice is the latest addition to the well-known CarPlan Demon range. Its unique patent-pending technology provides two functions in a single product. It can be sprayed onto car windows the night before to prevent ice from forming and also works as a high-performance de-icer that then helps to prevent refreezing when it is left on the glass.

The new trigger spray bottle designed by RPC Design is blow moulded in HDPE and offers convenience and easy handling for the end-user. It provides a wide decoration area for the offset printing of the familiar Demon branding to maintain a family image and ensure consumer recognition to help establish the new product.

“We have an excellent long-term working relationship with RPC and this latest project is further evidence of their design and manufacturing skills in helping

us bring a new product to market,” comments Justin Shaw, Group Commercial Manager, Tetrosyl Group Ltd.

RPC Promens Industrial Plenmeller t +44 1434 325200 e plenmellersite@rpc-promens.comRPC Designt +44 1933 414855 e b.lodge@rpc-design.co.uk

In addition to bearing an eye-catching and distinctive design, the Silotite sleeve ensures product traceability via a unique batch label whilst instructions for use are outlined through a series of easy-to-follow icons. Each reel end is protected by a cardboard disc with the correct fi lm positioning and unwind direction being highlighted prominently at the top of the sleeve.

The fl exible nature of this innovative polythene packaging ensures a close fi t around the balewrap to minimise contamination by dust or dirt. Importantly, this unique

PATENT FOR UNIQUE SLEEVE RPC bpi agriculture, manufacturers of Silotite high performance balewrap, has been granted patent protection for its sleeve packaged silage stretchfi lm range. European Patent No. 2872426 recognises the unique nature of the sleeve-packaged format for agricultural stretchfi lms and baler fi lms. The 100% recyclable, aesthetically pleasing, sleeve takes agricultural fi lm packaging to a whole new level of protection whilst also reducing packaging waste on farm.

packaging format also enhances pallet stability during transit.

A big plus for the new packaging format is its lighter weight and 100% recyclability. With the average balewrap carton being circa 10 times heavier than a sleeve the potential for waste reduction on farm is signifi cant. Additionally, managing packaging waste in the fi eld is easier.

RPC bpi agriculture t +44 1568 617200 e leominster@rpc-bpi.com

The blow moulded polypropylene jars are being fi lled with gherkins, silver onions and piccalilli and sold under the Kroon brand in delicatessen stores. This latest addition to the range meets a strong trend in the Netherlands and other countries for the online ordering of products from supermarket websites. For such requirements, the new shatterproof jar provides enhanced consumer safety.

RPC Kutenholz has been supplying Van der Kroon with multilayer jars for many years, but until now the large sizes have been targeted for foodservice applications.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH 500ML THERMIC ULTRA Leading Dutch pickled vegetable processor Van der Kroon Food Products B.V. has become the fi rst company to market with the recently-launched 500ml multilayer Thermic Ultra jar from RPC Kutenholz.

“We now want to transfer into the consumer side the same good experience we have enjoyed for many years with our jars in the catering sector,” explains Dennis van der Kroon, Director of VDK, adding that he believes that the advantages of lighter weight, product safety, reclosability and high resistance to breakage will all help to convince the retail market and end-users.

RPC Kutenholz t +49 47 628 90 e kutenholz.sales@rpc-promens.com

PROTECTION WITH A TWIST The innovative Twist-Up airless dispenser from RPC Bramlage has been selected by leading Belgium cosmetics company Mylène to package a new face cream and serum as part of the company’s Detox complete facial care range. The Detox collection comprises four products that protect skin against the ‘new aggressors’ of modern life such as pollution and sunlight.

The Twist-Up dispenser combines effective protection of the products’ natural ingredients, on-shelf appeal and maximum convenience for the consumer. The dispensing head is hidden to protect the contents. It is revealed by turning the upper part of the container to allow controlled dosing and hygienic application of the cream.

To refl ect the premium image of the products, the 50ml Twist-Up for Detox Face Cream and the 30ml size for Detox Nutri Serum feature a lacquered brass upper section. The white base is silkscreen printed in two colours and hot stamped with the eye-catching Mylène branding to create a strong family image with the other two products in the range.

BOTTLE CUTS PLENTY OF ICE

POTS OF GOOD TASTELovers of traditional Breton gourmet products can now enjoy some of their favourite foods in pots from RPC Bebo Bouxwiller.For over 40 years Société Pêcheur de Saveurs, part of Nicot Entreprises, has been a specialist manufacturer of traditional fi sh products from Brittany. All recipes are created without additives, colourings or preservatives to ensure the highest quality.

The polypropylene pots in a variety of sizes offer excellent product protection and preservation along with lightweight and easy handling for the end consumer.

RPC Bebo Bouxwiller t +33 3 88 71 78 00 e info.bouxwiller@rpc-tedeco-gizeh.com

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POPCORN POT IS A SUREFIRE HIT RPC Superfos’s SuperLock® pot is delivering the convenience and on-shelf appeal that has contributed to the successful launch of a new gourmet popcorn, NoCrap Gourmet, from Danish start-up company Nordic Gourmet Factory.

With its large transparent area and modern, elegant artwork produced by In-Mould Labelling, complemented by a black lid, the SuperLock® pot is an attractive and distinctive presence on shelves. It holds roughly half a litre of popcorn and the twist-off, screw-on lid allows users to easily re-close it for safe storage and later consumption.

“Packaging plays a major role in creating an image for your product. We wanted a pack which immediately could convey that our popcorn is out of the ordinary,” explains Tommy Jensen, Nordic Gourmet Factory’s Founder and Director.

“The solution from RPC Superfos is different from other solutions on the plastic packaging market and we really like the screw lid. Another point is that the pots stack well so that our distributors have the best options to create an eye-catching in-shop display. The SuperLock® pot helps us to stand out from other products in the gourmet candy market.”

RPC Superfos Region Nordic t +45 8710 1112 e randers@rpc-superfos.com

CAN HYGIENE COVERED WaveGrip has launched another multi-packing innovation that provides enhanced hygiene protection for cans throughout the entire supply chain.

WaveSafe is the world’s fi rst covered fl exible multi-pack carrier for cans. In addition to the advanced WaveGrip carrier it features an additional layer of recyclable and photodegradable PE material, which covers the top of the cans. This provides protection from dust and debris, giving consumers peace of mind that the drink has remained safe and hygienic from the factory to their hands.

As well as reduced materials and expense in ensuring the can’s hygiene. WaveSafe does not obscure the primary can packaging. In addition, it offers a signifi cant point of difference to brand owners.

Compatible with all WaveGrip applicators, WaveSafe is accessible for all beverage manufacturers, from smaller artisanal producers to high volume operators.

WaveGrip t +44 1294 842150 e hello@wave-grip.com

SAFETY AND PROTECTION The 900g Euro Squeeze multilayer polypropylene bottle from RPC Corby has been selected by leading Greek food manufacturer Provil SA for its new Sandwich Creams range of sauces for the foodservice sector.The bottle combines safe handling, ease of use and effective product protection to support and maintain Provil SA’s brand image and help build customer loyalty. Its excellent clarity enables the fi ve products in the range – Tartar, Sundried Tomato, Smokey, Wasabi and Sweet and Spicy Mustard – to be attractively displayed, while the large labelling area ensures effective on-shelf branding.

The multilayer PP/EVOH/PP structure provides effective protection against oxygen ingress to deliver an extended ambient shelf for the products.

“The Euro Squeeze bottle is lightweight, easy to use and squeezable, making it the ideal solution for both professional and home use,” comments Mrs Hara Kougiournitzi, Marketing Coordinator at Provil.

The Euro Squeeze range is available in a wide variety of sizes to meet individual customer requirements.

RPC Corby t +44 1536 263488 e corby.sales@rpc-promens.com

FRESHER FOR LONGERThe combination of a multilayer thermoformed pot from RPC Bebo Deventer with HPP (High Pressure Processing) treatment is enabling Lazy Foods, a new and successful Dutch food company, to offer a range of preservative-free dips with an extended ambient shelf-life.In order to give the products a shelf-life of at least 30/40 days, they are being fi lled in the RO 115 cup from RPC Bebo, which features a multilayer polypropylene structure to prevent oxygen ingress.

In addition, the cups undergo HPP treatment, whereby they are placed in a container and put under 6,000 bar water pressure. This provides a natural preservation process that eliminates harmful bacteria and mould.

The RPC cups are supplied in three sizes – 175cc, 250cc and 500cc – and sealed with a specially-developed multilayer polypropylene foil to maintain product freshness.

RPC Bebo Deventer t +31 57068 2300 e milan.juninck@rpc-deventer.com

DISPENSER IS THE NATURAL CHOICEProbiotic specialist Yun Probiotherapy is using the Magic Star airless dispenser and Vario overcap from RPC Bramlage for its revolutionary range of unique treatments for personal care and common to more severe skin concerns.Yun’s scientifi cally-tested formulae are free from regular preservatives and emulsifi ers and therefore require a packaging solution that keeps them protected and in premium condition until required.

The injection moulded propylene Magic Star dispensers in 50ml and 200ml sizes provide the ideal mix of functionality and style, combining effective protection of the contents with reliable, accurate and controlled dispensing. The design also ensures that the dispenser can continue to operate smoothly, even if air is trapped in the container.

For Yun, the dispensers are decorated with a self-adhesive label, with three coloured bands. The top grey and white layers are consistent throughout the range in keeping with the Yun branding, while the bottom layer is colour coded for the different treatments in the range. The stylish clear Vario overcap completes the family look for an eye-catching premium presentation on-shelf.

RPC Bramlage t +49 4442 8810 e sales@rpc-bramlage.de

The 1.2g closure is pushed onto the shoulder of tubes and can be oriented towards the printing for added decorative possibilities. In addition, its outer dimensions are in line with the tube diameter. A glossy surface fi nish helps to create on-shelf appeal and this can be further enhanced by the availability of high-end decoration such as hot foiling around the entire cap. It can be specifi ed with either a 1.5mm or 3mm orifi ce.

For end-users the closure offers easy opening and closing with one hand. Equally important, because it is a fl ip top the cap remains on the container and cannot be lost, offering a major advantage over the more commonly-used simple screw-closures.

Typical applications include trial, airline and hotel packs and products such as lip balms, creams and lotions.

RPC Zeller Plastik Zell t +49 6542 417 0 e gcsmarketing.network@gcs.com

SMALL IS BEAUTIFULA new 19mm tube closure from RPC Zeller Plastik Zell is the fi rst standard push-on fl ip-top hinge tube closure (HTC) of such a small size.

NEW CUP IS SIMPLY THE BEST In partnership with German tool producer Marbach, RPC Bebo has developed a unique thermoformed screw closure system.Called “Turner”, the system comprises a cup, lid and lidding fi lm, which is sealed on the cup’s seal fl ange to cover the lid’s entire surface. To open, consumers peal back the lidding fi lm and turn the lid in a 45° counter-clockwise rotation. This easy-open and reliable reclosing offers excellent on-the-go benefi ts. It is suitable for car cup holders and its robust design means that, though lightweight, it can withstand the rigours of modern on-the-move lifestyles such as being carried in a rucksack, baby changing bag or school bag.

In addition to a variety of food-to-go applications including ice cream, snacks and sweets, the Turner cup and fi lm is also an ideal alternative pack solution for pet foods. It can be specifi ed with barrier properties for protection against oxygen, water vapour, UV and light.

To ensure effective branding and on-shelf differentiation and appeal, a wide range of decoration technologies is available.

WIDE CHOICE FOR AGROCHEMICALSRPC Promens Industrial Montpont has enhanced its containers for the Agrochemicals market to offer one of the most comprehensive ranges that is able to satisfy the varying needs of this diverse sector.

As well as a choice of sizes – 100ml, 250ml, 500ml, 1 litre and 5 litres – the containers can now be specifi ed in mono HDPE as well as co-extruded PE/PA and PE/EVOH (except 100ml), providing a number of different options to meet the individual characteristics and protection requirements of different chemical formulae.

Bottles from 100ml to 1 litre are available with a KS50 neck, which is suitable for induction heat sealing along with a PET/ALU seal. The 5 litre jerrycan can be specifi ed with a standard KS63 neck or a “Slit” 63 neck, which is compatible with closed transfer systems.

The containers combine plastics light weight and easy handling with excellent robustness and durability. The 500ml, 1 litre and 5 litre sizes are UN-approved in line with the rigorous requirements of the crop protection sector.

RPC Promens Industrial Montpont t +33 38 576 3395 e sales.montpont@rpc-promens.com

RPC Bebo Plastik t +49 4761 8600 e sales@rpc-bebo.com

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Published by RPC Group Marketing Services, Sapphire House, Crown Way, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 6FB, UK Tel: +44 1933 416528 Email: marketing@rpc-group.com Website: www.rpc-group.com Written and produced for RPC by Nielsen McAllister PR Limited, Derby, UK

For more information on RPC visit www.rpc-group.comFor details of where RPC will be exhibiting visit www.rpc-group.com/media/events Printed on FSC certifi ed paper

NEW LABEL CAPABILITY RPC bpi protec Worcester has invested £1.7 million in a new fl exographic printing press and slitting machine for the production of reel fed labels.Ideal for applications such as water, soft drinks, cooking oils and milk, the specialist labels' material is fully recyclable and offers excellent tensile strength for faster application speeds and the elimination of web breaks. The strength of the fi lm also allows thinner gauge material to be used for valuable weight reduction. In addition, this delivers more labels per standard reel to help minimise changeover times and reduce environmental impact.

The new fl exo press produces high quality labels in up to eight colours for effective on-shelf impact and differentiation, with tight tolerances for accurate application onto bottles. Equally important, it has the fl exibility to produce short runs in order to respond quickly to changing market demands.

With in-depth knowledge of key end-markets, RPC bpi protec’s comprehensive sales and technical support services will work with customers in the development of specifi c solutions to meet their individual requirements. RPC bpi protec

t +44 1905 755000 e worcester@rpc-bpi.com

THE GREEN MACHINE The installation of the world’s largest electrically-heated rotational moulding machine has delivered a signifi cant reduction in CO2 emissions at RPC Sæplast Iceland.Conventional roto moulding machines are heated with fossil fuel burners. However, when the site wanted to expand capacity, it was decided to explore the opportunity to utilise a greener form of energy for the new machine. The solution from Reinhardt India offered the best energy effi ciency while still delivering the high standards of technical excellence and reliable performance for which Sæplast containers are renowned.

Since its installation fi ve years ago, the use of green electricity has eliminated the need for around 800,000 litres of diesel fuel – equivalent to the annual usage of approximately 500 cars. As a result, CO2 emissions from the plant are now 30% lower despite a volume increase of over 20%.

“As a low-carbon material plastic has many sustainability benefi ts, so it is essential that we complement these with as environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes as possible,” comments Daði Valdimarsson, Managing Director, RPC Promens Roto.

RPC Sæplast t +354 460 5000 e sales.europe@saeplast.com

TRAINING FACILITY MEETS MARKET NEEDS Visqueen, part of the RPC bpi group, has opened a dedicated Training Academy at its headquarters in Heanor, Derbyshire. The company is the market leader in the manufacture and supply of structural waterproofi ng and gas protection systems. Its new facility will provide specifi ers and contractors across the UK with the most up-to-date training courses in these critical areas as Visqueen continues to focus on delivering the highest levels of training, service and support to meet the needs of the building products market.

The Training Academy comprises a teaching room for theory-based learning, together with nine different training bays where attendees will receive practical insight and instruction. Courses range from single days, which provide an overview

Visqueen t +44 333 202 6800 e enquiries@visqueen.com

of ground gas protection requirements, to intensive three-day teaching for detailed training in the practical skills required for waterproofi ng product application.

“Our new Training Academy ensures Visqueen is able to provide both the theoretical and practical requirements of ground gas protection and waterproofi ng that our customers and the industry are demanding,” comments Visqueen Sales Director Phil Bull.

“The courses will help specifi ers and users at every level improve their skills and knowledge.”

RPC Design t +44 1933 414855 e b.lodge@rpc-design.co.uk

DESIGNER A RISING STAREd Arnold of RPC Design has been named the UK packaging industry’s ‘Rising Star’ for 2017 at the prestigious UK Packaging Awards.

GRADING FOR SUSTAINABLE DESIGNRPC Design has created a unique grading system that provides an easy visual guide to the sustainability credentials of each new pack it creates.The department already uses a special sustainability checklist for all its projects to ensure it is designing for the circular economy, taking into account factors such as lightweighting, reuse, and the incorporation of recycled material, as well as the overall recyclability of the fi nished pack.

To represent all these factors visually, RPC Design has adopted a similar approach to the energy and effi ciency rating used for products such as electrical appliances, boilers and double glazing, with a series of bars of various lengths and colours.

The grading scale is based on the widely-used Recyclass system, developed by the Plastics Recyclers Europe organisation, which provides very good defi nitions of how recyclable a piece of packaging is on a scale of A to F. As this is not the only factor in developing the most sustainable packaging solution, addition symbols for lightweighting, reuse and recycled material have been devised and incorporated into the grading system.

“Our new grading scale enables customers to see very easily how we have considered all the options in making their product more ‘circular’, particularly in terms of its suitability for

recycling,” explains RPC Design Manager Brian Lodge.

“It also helps us to identify areas during the design process where earlier decisions may have impacted on the overall sustainability of the pack and therefore make adjustments to further improve its environmental profi le.”

RECORD BREAKING DEALRPC Tedeco-Gizeh has extended its vending cup contract with NIVO Group, one of the UK’s largest buying groups for independent vending operators.

RPC has been a preferred supplier to NIVO for many years and this latest extension underlines the strength of the working partnership between the two businesses, and the quality and service delivered by RPC Tedeco-Gizeh, as Graham Kingaby, NIVO's managing director explains:

“We have always been impressed with the reliability and ease of use of the RPC Tedeco-Gizeh cup ranges, which makes them the No.1 choice for our members. We are delighted to have secured another record-breaking deal with the company.”

Established in 1992, RPC Tedeco-Gizeh is the only UK manufacturer of plastic vending and drinking cups, offering an extensive choice of colours and sizes to meet individual customer needs.

Plastic cups remain the UK's most popular vending format. With environmental concerns a major focus for most businesses, the cups' energy-effi cient manufacturing process, light weight which reduces the carbon impact of transportation, and recyclability, give them a very strong sustainable profi le. RPC Tedeco-Gizeh is a member of the Simply Cup collection and recycling scheme.

RPC Tedeco-Gizeh t +44 1656 749183 e info.kenfi g@rpc-tedeco-gizeh.com

AWARDS UNDERLINE VERSATILITYRPC Astrapak took home fi ve medals in the 2017 IPSA (Institute of Packaging South Africa) Gold Pack Awards, underlining the company’s design and manufacturing capabilities across a number of end-markets.Highlight was the gold medal awarded to RPC Astrapak Consupaq and Clicks Group in the ultra-competitive Health, Beauty and Household category for outstanding tube packaging design for the Sorbet man 3-in-1 Shower Gel range. The recyclable range combines foiling, screen printing, a clear window and stunning product colour all in one tube, while the power of clean design and simple lines establishes brand identity and product differentiation.

RPC Astrapak Consupaq garnered another two medals with their customers Annique and Johnson & Johnson, winning joint-bronze for the Rooibos Milk & Honey Hand Cream Tube and the Baby Jelly range respectively in the Health, Beauty and Household category. In the Sustainability category Elvin’s rPET Beverage Bottles, developed and manufactured at RPC Astrapak Plastech, won the silver medal. This is the fi rst complete range of rPET beverage bottles to be produced in signifi cant commercial quantities for the local market. Also in the Sustainability category, RPC Astrapak Plastop and Unilever received a bronze medal for the Organics 1-litre Post-Consumer Recycled Shampoo and Conditioner bottle containing 50% rHDPE.

RPC Astrapak CEO Robin Moore, Account Executive Belinda van Pletzen and Clicks Group Packaging Technologist Quinton Jonathan

RPC Astrapak t +27 87 742 0710 e sales@rpc-astrapak.com

Graham Kingaby (Right) NIVO Managing Director signs the deal with Nigel Cannon, UK Sales Manager, RPC Tedeco-Gizeh

The award recognises the quality of Ed’s work, most notably for the multi-process capabilities of RPC, his understanding of the complexities of designing for injection moulding, blow moulding and thermoforming. In addition, the award citation acknowledged his willingness to bring fresh ideas to the design process.

The judges commented: “He has clearly made an impact and is

not afraid to challenge as a new member of a fi rst-class team.”

Ed has a fi rst class honours degree in Product Design. His work for RPC has already included being the main designer on product launches for a number of major brands and companies.

RPC Design t +44 1933 414855 e b.lodge@rpc-design.co.uk

Ed Arnold (third from left) receives his Rising Star award