Tag Archive for: Packaging

The Art of Tea Packaging: How to Choose the Perfect Packaging for Your Brew

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In the world of tea, packaging is something of an art form that plays a crucial role in preserving flavour and aroma, enticing tea enthusiasts, and reflecting the essence of the brew within. With a wide range of packaging options available, selecting the perfect vessel for your tea requires careful consideration. In this article, we delve into the characteristics and benefits of various tea packaging solutions, including Side Gusset Bags, Quad-Seal Bags, Flat Bottom Pouches, Stand-Up Pouches, Cartons, Cylinders, and Tins, and provide a guide on how to choose the ideal tea packaging.

 

Side Gusset Bags: Sleek Sophistication

Side Gusset Bags are a versatile packaging solution that provides a sleek and streamlined appearance. Ideal for loose-leaf teas, these bags offer space for branding and labelling. The gussets on the sides allow the bag to expand as it is filled, providing maximum shelf visibility. With the ability to stand upright on store shelves, Side Gusset Bags combine both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

 

Quad-Seal Bags: For Freshness that Lasts

Quad-Seal Bags are known for their four-panel construction, offering excellent stability and structural integrity. These bags are designed to stand upright, ensuring maximum visibility. Quad-Seal Bags are particularly effective in preserving the freshness of tea, making them an excellent choice for premium and specialty blends. The additional surface area allows for creative and detailed branding, enhancing the overall visual appeal.

 

Flat Bottom Pouches: Stability and Elegance

Flat Bottom Pouches provide stability and elegance to tea packaging. The flat bottom allows the pouch to stand upright on shelves, while the top can be easily resealed for freshness. This 1packaging style offers space for storytelling through branding and detailed imagery, creating a visually captivating package that resonates with consumers.

 

Stand-Up Pouches: Convenience Meets Versatility

Stand-Up Pouches have become a popular choice for tea packaging due to their convenience and versatility. With a flat base and the ability to stand upright, these pouches are easy to display and store. Stand-Up Pouches come with various features such as resealable zippers, providing consumers with the flexibility to access their tea while maintaining freshness. The printable surface also allows for creative and eye-catching designs to help with brand enhancement.

 

Cartons: Classic and Timeless

Tea packaged in cartons exudes a classic and timeless appeal. Cartons provide space for elaborate branding, storytelling, and eye-catching imagery. This packaging option is particularly suitable for premium teas or gift sets. The rigid structure of cartons ensures the protection of delicate tea leaves while conveying a sense of sophistication to consumers.

 

Cylinders: Aesthetic Appeal

Cylindrical packaging is often used for specialty and artisanal teas. Cylinders offer a unique and memorable unboxing experience, while the cylindrical shape allows for panoramic branding, enabling brands to tell a complete visual story around the package. Cylinders are not just containers; they are works of art that enhance the perceived value of the tea inside.

 

Tins: Time-Tested Charm

Tins have a time-tested charm that resonates with tea enthusiasts. Durable and airtight, tins offer excellent protection for tea leaves, preserving their freshness and flavour. Tins come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for versatility in packaging different types of teas. The reusability of tins adds to their appeal, making them a sustainable and attractive tea packaging option for both consumers and brands.

 

Conclusion

In the art of tea packaging, the choice of the vessel is as important as the quality of the tea itself. Each tea packaging option has its unique characteristics, catering to different types of teas and consumer preferences. Whether you opt for the streamlined sophistication of Side Gusset Bags, the freshness-preserving qualities of Quad-Seal Bags, the stability and elegance of Flat Bottom Pouches, the convenience and versatility of Stand-Up Pouches, the classic charm of Cartons, the aesthetic elegance of Cylinders, or the time-tested allure of Tins, the perfect packaging for your tea awaits, ready to enchant and delight tea lovers around the world. 

 

Star Stuff Group provides a range of tea packaging options. Whether you’re in the exciting early phase of developing your brand, or already have an established company, looking for a fresh new look, we have the tea packaging solution to satisfy your requirements. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our tea packaging product range, or to obtain a quote.

Choosing the best printing packaging company for your brand: A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting Packaging Printing Companies

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In a market flooded with products vying for consumer attention, packaging is key to creating brand awareness, which is  why choosing the right packaging printing company is a critical step in ensuring that your brand’s narrative is not just heard but also seen vividly on store shelves. With numerous packaging printing companies to pick from, selecting the best one for your brand requires a strategic approach. In this guide, we’ll provide the key considerations that will empower you to make an informed decision and collaborate with the packaging printing company that aligns with your brand’s vision.

 

Assess Printing Quality & Capabilities

One of the most important criteria when choosing a packaging printing company is the quality of their printing. Examine the company’s portfolio to gauge the sharpness of images, colour accuracy, and overall print clarity and quality. Assess their capabilities in terms of the range of materials they can print on, as well as the variety of printing techniques they offer. In an era where packaging options are vast, it’s crucial to choose a company that has a diverse product range and the capability to handle a range of printing processes to ensure they can meet your brand’s specific packaging needs.

 

Check Reputation & Industry Experience

The reputation of a packaging printing company is a testament to its reliability and quality of service. Look for companies with a solid industry presence and a track record of delivering exceptional results. Customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other businesses that have collaborated with the printing company. Check out various packaging printing companies websites to view their portfolio to gauge the kind and number of brands they’ve worked with. Opting for a company with years of experience in the industry ensures that they have the expertise to handle diverse projects and challenges.

 

Sustainability Practices

With increasing consumer awareness about environmental impact, aligning your brand with eco-friendly practices is not just a trend but a necessity. Find a company that provides an eco-friendly product range, and also enquire about the sustainability practices of the , such as their use of eco-friendly inks, recycling programs, and commitment to reducing environmental footprint. Choosing a packaging printing company with sustainable packaging products and practices not only caters to a growing consumer group, but also demonstrates your brand’s commitment to the planet but also resonates positively with environmentally conscious consumers.

 

Technology & Innovation

Printing technology is continually evolving, which is why it’s important to select a packaging printing company that is forward-thinking and embraces innovation. Enquire about the printing technologies and equipment employed by the company. Packaging printing companies investing in the latest printing technologies are more likely to offer cutting-edge solutions, ensuring that your packaging stays visually appealing and competitive in the market.

 

Customisation Capabilities

Your brand is unique, and your packaging should reflect that individuality. The ideal packaging printing company should offer extensive customisation options, including the ability to tailor designs, colours, and finishes to align with your brand identity. The company should be willing to collaborate closely with you to understand your vision and have the ability to bring it to life through customised packaging solutions.

 

Turnaround Time & Flexibility

Time is often of the essence in the dynamic world of products! Enquire about the packaging printing company’s turnaround times and their flexibility in meeting tight deadlines to understand if they can cater to product launches, marketing campaigns and other time sensitive events. A company with efficient processes and the ability to adapt to your timelines ensures that your products are ready for market precisely when you need them.

 

Transparent Communication and Competitive Pricing

Clear and transparent communication is crucial for a successful collaboration. Ensure that the packaging printing company communicates effectively, addressing your queries promptly and providing detailed information about the printing process. Additionally, transparent and competitive pricing is crucial. Obtain comprehensive quotes that outline all costs involved, avoiding hidden fees or unexpected expenses that may impact your budget.

 

Local Presence

Global packaging printing companies can often provide the lure of cheaper pricing, however   local companies offer a number of advantages such as easier communication and quicker shipping and turnaround times. Local packaging printing companies also understand local market trends and can help guide you with best packaging options for your customer base. It also pays to keep in mind that you get what you pay for, so if quality is an important factor for your brand, opting for cheaper printing packaging overseas might not align with your brand goals. 

 

Conclusion

Choosing the best packaging printing company for your brand requires a careful evaluation of quality, reputation, sustainability practices, technology, customisation capabilities, turnaround times, communication, and pricing. When carrying out an assessment of packaging printing companies, keep the above factors in mind to ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your brand’s unique identity and sets the stage for visually stunning and effective packaging. Remember, your packaging is more than a container – it’s a canvas for your brand’s story, and choosing the right printing company ensures your brand story is told effectively.

 

Star Stuff Group boasts over 30 years expertise in the packaging printing space. With an unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier packaging, cutting-edge technology, innovative solutions, and exceptional service, and an in-depth comprehension of the sector, Star Stuff Group is the preferred packaging printing company for businesses across a range of industries. As a family-operated business, we take a consultative approach to ensure we have comprehensive understanding of your brand and specific requirements. To learn more about Star Stuff Group and what we can offer, get in touch with us today.

Innovative Designs: Why Cardboard Cylinder Packaging is on the Rise

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In the ever-evolving world of packaging, businesses are constantly seeking solutions that not only meet functional requirements but also align with brand enhancement, consumer preferences and sustainability goals. One such packaging trend that has gained significant momentum recently is cardboard cylinder packaging. This modern and innovative design is transforming the way products are presented, shipped, and perceived in the market. In this article, we explore 4 key benefits which make cylinder packaging a standout choice for businesses across various industries.

 

Design Customisation & Brand Elevation

Cardboard cylinder packaging offers a truly unique and on-trend presence in the packaging landscape. These cylinders are not just containers; they are a powerful branding tool that adds a modern touch to product presentation. The distinctive design of cylinder packaging  captures attention effortlessly to set your brand apart from the rest. In a market where packaging presence significantly influences consumer behaviour, cardboard cylinder packaging provides the edge you need to differentiate your brand and leave a lasting impression.

The cylindrical shape provides a 360-degree canvas for creativity, allowing for eye-catching graphics, vibrant colours, and innovative printing techniques. Brands can leverage this design flexibility to tell a compelling visual story, effectively communicating their values and enhancing shelf appeal. Customisation options include gloss highlights, hot foil stamping, spot UV, and gloss or matt finishes, enabling businesses to tailor the packaging to their specific product requirements and brand aesthetics.

 

Strength & Durability

Advancements in packaging technology have led to the development of highly durable and resilient cardboard materials. Cardboard cylinder packaging, in particular, is designed to withstand external pressures, providing robust protection for the products it encases. This strength is crucial, especially in industries where fragile or sensitive items need secure packaging during transit, and in particular for the ever-growing e-commerce sector. As a result, businesses are increasingly turning to cardboard cylinder packaging to ensure that their products reach consumers in pristine condition.

 

Eco-Friendly Edge

One of the driving forces behind the increased popularity of cardboard cylinder packaging is its eco-friendly nature. In a time where sustainability is at the forefront of consumer concerns, businesses are actively seeking packaging solutions that align with environmental values. Cardboard, being a renewable and recyclable material, provides a green alternative to traditional plastic packaging options. Companies adopting cardboard cylinder packaging demonstrate their commitment to reducing their environmental impact, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and meeting eco-friendly standards.

 

Cost-Effective & Efficient

Cardboard cylinder packaging can be a cost-effective solution for businesses. The raw materials for cardboard are readily available and cost-efficient, contributing to lower production costs compared to some alternative packaging materials. The unique cylindrical shape also allows for efficient stacking and storage, optimising space during transportation and warehouse storage, resulting in reduced shipping costs, making cardboard cylinder packaging an economically an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes.

 

Conclusion

The surge in popularity of cardboard cylinder packaging can be attributed to its eco-friendly profile, design versatility, strength and cost-effectiveness. As businesses continue to seek innovative ways to stand out in a competitive market, the rise of cardboard cylinder packaging is a testament to its effectiveness in meeting these evolving needs. Whether it’s creating a lasting visual impression on the retail shelf or ensuring products arrive safely at the doorstep of online shoppers, cardboard cylinder packaging is becoming the preferred choice in the world of modern packaging solutions.

 

Star Stuff Group provides a range of cylinder packaging that can be fully customised for size, style and printing options. For more information about cardboard cylinder packaging, contact us today. 

Packaging for E-commerce Success: How Custom Printed Boxes Can Enhance the Unboxing Experience

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In the ever-expanding world of e-commerce, where first impressions are virtual and tangible experiences are limited, the unboxing moment serves as a pivotal opportunity for brands to leave a lasting impact on consumers. Custom printed boxes, with their ability to convey brand identity and storytelling, have emerged as a key player in enhancing the unboxing experience. In this article, we delve into the ways custom printed boxes can contribute to e-commerce success by creating a memorable and shareable unboxing experience in a social media-centric world.

 

Storytelling Through Design

Custom printed boxes offer a versatile canvas for brand storytelling. The design possibilities are endless, allowing businesses to visually narrate their brand story, values, and personality. By incorporating unique graphics, brand colours, and messaging on the box businesses can help to build a connection with the consumer, transforming a simple package into a tangible representation of the brand. This storytelling aspect not only enhances brand loyalty but also sets the stage for a personalised and engaging unboxing experience, which more often than not, consumers are more than willing to share with others.

 

Memorable First Impressions

The unboxing experience is a brand’s opportunity to make a memorable first impression. Custom printed boxes curated with carefully beautiful, attention-grabbing designs create a sense of anticipation and excitement for the recipient. Aesthetically pleasing packaging not only reflects a brand’s commitment to quality but also elevates the perceived value of the product inside. The experience of opening a thoughtfully designed box enhances the overall customer satisfaction and contributes to positive word-of-mouth marketing.

 

Social Media-Worthy Packaging

In the age of social media, where consumers eagerly share their purchases and experiences online, custom printed boxes become a valuable tool for creating shareable content. The days of just ‘opening a box’ are long gone, now replaced with an experience labelled “unboxing”. With video sharing platforms on the rise,more consumers are inclined to film and share the somewhat intricate process of unboxing, particularly when they believe the package is worth sharing (think unique designs or personalised touches). Search for ‘unboxing’ on YouTube and you’ll see a plethora of unboxing videos for an endless range of products! This valuable user-generated content serves as free advertising, reaching a wider audience and potentially attracting new customers intrigued by the visually appealing packaging.

 

Building Brand Loyalty

Custom printed boxes contribute significantly to building brand loyalty. When customers receive a package that reflects the brand’s identity and values, it establishes a connection which goes beyond the product itself, creating a sense of loyalty towards the brand. Customers are more likely to remember and repurchase from a brand that invests time and thought in creating a memorable unboxing experience.

 

Differentiation In A Crowded Market

In the crowded e-commerce landscape, standing out is crucial for success. Custom printed boxes provide a unique opportunity for brands to differentiate themselves through distinct and eye-catching designs, which can help it to become easily recognisable among competitors. Differentiation is particularly important for online retailers where physical interactions are limited, and the package becomes the tangible representation of the brand.

 

Satisfying Sustainability 

Modern consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impacts of their choices. Custom printed boxes allow businesses to communicate their commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly materials and messaging. Brands can also tailor packaging sizes to reduce waste and optimise the use of resources, further aligning with sustainable practices.

 

Conclusion

Custom printed boxes play a pivotal role in the e-commerce success story by enhancing the unboxing experience. From visually communicating brand stories to creating memorable first impressions and fostering brand loyalty, these boxes are not merely packaging but an important part of a brand’s identity. As businesses continue to navigate the online marketplace, investing in custom printed boxes becomes a strategic move to not only meet customer expectations but exceed them, ensuring a positive and shareable unboxing experience that resonates with consumers and contributes to long-term success.

 

To learn more about custom printed boxes for your business, or to obtain a quote, contact the Star Stuff Group today. 

New Printer Gives Star Stuff Group More Options for Custom Packaging

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Star Stuff Group is pleased to announce the arrival of its newest production member the – HP Latex R1000 Flat Bed printer, which provides a new standard in print production technology and gives us even more custom packaging solutions.

Commanding the ability to print on a wide range of flexible and rigid substrates up to 5cm thick, using eco friendly water based inks providing odourless print.  Utilising flexible ink technologies with the glossiest of white, supporting vivid colour production and high quality print process application the HP Latex R series printers are a well documented game changer in the print industry.

There is a significant range of substrates to print on from paper, films, synthetic substrates, rigid plastics, timber, acrylic, PVC foam, corflute, polycarbonate sheets, honeycomb board, metal, boards, fabrics, glass, ceramic tiles, canvas and more.  The ability to transform the seemingly impossible into unique product concepts for an extensive range of applications.

HP printer for customised packaging for small business

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What does this mean for Australian made product options from Star Stuff Group?

Retail & Event Promotional and Marketing Products

The HP Latex R1000 offers the ability to provide brand colour consistency across rigid and flexible substrates using one printer!

  • In Store Promotional Display Stands – large format signage inserts
  • Window Signage and Decal Graphics for eye-catching features.
  • Signs for Back-Lit stands
  • Wobblers, Shelf Talkers, Floor Decal Graphics
  • Outdoor Signage, Banners, Canvases, Flags, Sails
  • Counter Displays, Shipper Cartons,
  • Stand-alone product display stands
  • Mailer Cartons, E-Commerce Mailers and Gift Boxes

 

 

 

 

Packaging Productions

Providing flexibility for short runs as required to create high-impact customized packaging.

Flexible HP Latex Inks allow superb bending and folding without cracking – makes this print quality and end results speak for itself.

  • Mailer Cartons , E- Commerce Boxes, Subscription Boxes, Packaging Cartons
  • Carton / Product Sleeves
  • Gift Boxes, Carrier Cartons
  • Folding Cartons

folding carton example

 

 

 

 

 

Commercial

HP Latex Inks, are harmless, odourless and with a high efficiency curing system, prints come out dry enabling instant lamination.

The ink composition does not compromise the recyclability of the base substrate

  • Vehicle Wraps
  • Window Blinds
  • Wall coverings
  • Textiles
  • Tiles
  • Backsplashes
  • Back lit signs for bus shelters, train stations
  • Real Estate Signs
  • Office décor items
  • Corporate Gift Cartons

HP printer capability for office decor

 

 

 

 

 

The HP Latex R1000 will provide us the ability to provide once off unique items from office reception feature walls, custom décor prints, boutique gift boxes to back-lit acrylic retail display signage with the options being wide and varied enabling extreme “ think outside the box” opportunities. We would encourage you to reach out to Star Stuff Group with your project or idea and we can assist to create and produce a product solution to match you specific needs.

Elevate Your Brand Packaging with Stand Up Pouch Packaging in Australia

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Long gone are the days when product packaging was selected solely on the basis of practicality and price. In today’s competitive market, product packaging plays a vital role in a company’s brand strategy. In addition to safeguarding your products, packaging should also make a lasting impression on potential customers. An emerging popular packaging choice that ticks all of these boxes (and then some), are stand up pouch packaging. In addition to showcasing your brand, stand up pouch packaging also boasts convenience, versatility and sustainability. In this article, we explore why stand up pouches in Australia are a game-changer for businesses, big and small.

 

What are Stand Up Pouches?

Before we delve into the “whys”, let’s begin with the basics of “what”. Stand up pouch packaging, as the name suggests, is a type of flexible packaging that can stand upright on store shelves. These pouches are typically made from laminated materials such as plastic, aluminium, and paper, providing them with excellent barrier properties against light, and moisture. They come in various sizes, shapes, and styles, making them versatile for different products.

 

Why Stand Up Pouches are trending in Australia

One of the standout features of a stand up pouch is its resealable design. Consumers can easily open, access the contents, and reseal the pouch, keeping the product fresh and extending its shelf life. This resealable feature is a significant advantage for products like snacks, pet food, and coffee, which are often consumed over time.

 

Enhanced Branding

In a crowded product marketplace, it’s essential to stand out. A stand up pouch can offer unique opportunities for enhanced branding and design. They can be customised with vibrant graphics and brand colours, and unique shapes, helping to catch the eye of consumers. In this competitive age, businesses recognise brand recognition is crucial, and a well-designed stand up pouch can greatly contribute to this. 

Space-Saving & Lightweight 

Stand up pouch packaging is designed to take up minimal space, making them cost-effective for storage and transportation. Their lightweight nature also contributes to reduced shipping costs, a win-win for both businesses/retailers and the end-consumer. With the rise of e-commerce in Australia, packaging that is lightweight and easy to ship has become a top priority. 

Space-saving, on the other hand, is an attractive feature for retailers, who have multiple brands vying for limited shelf-space in overstocked supermarkets, as well as consumers who are constantly struggling for more space and organisation in their pantries at home.


Versatility

From food items like snacks, coffee, and grains to non-food products like detergents and cosmetics, stand up pouch packaging is suitable for a wide range of products. With features such as heat sealibility and airtight options, it’s no wonder stand up pouches are becoming hugely popular not just within the food industry, but also in the personal care and household product sectors as well. Its versatility also makes it an ideal choice for businesses offering diverse product lines.

 

Eco-Friendly

Sustainability is a key consideration for both businesses and consumers, and stand up pouches are a step in the right direction. Many pouches are now available in eco-friendly materials that are recyclable or biodegradable, reducing their environmental footprint. Consumers in Australia are increasingly looking for products that align with their values, making eco-friendly packaging an attractive advantage.

 

Longer Shelf Life

The design of stand-up pouches helps protect the contents from external factors that can compromise freshness and quality. Stand up pouch packaging typically consists of multiple layers, often including barrier films, which help to protect against light, moisture, oxygen, and other elements that can contribute to the degradation of products. Along with this, and depending on the material used to construct them, stand up pouches can prolong the shelf life of certain products. In addition to the potential of extended shelf life, this also helps minimise waste and ensures products are of the highest quality when consumers purchase them.

 

Consumer Convenience

When it comes to satisfying customers, convenience is key. The resealable feature of stand up pouches ensures that consumers can easily access and store the product, which can lead to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

 

Conclusion

Stand up pouches in Australia are becoming something of a trendsetter in the packaging industry, offering benefits such as versatility, convenience, sustainability, space efficiency, and brand enhancement. Businesses across the board in Australia are increasingly adopting stand up pouch packaging, recognising their potential to meet consumer demands and stand out in a competitive market. As sustainability becomes a non-negotiable aspect of packaging, stand up pouches are likely to remain a popular choice for years to come. 

 

So, if you’re looking to elevate your packaging game, consider making the switch to stand up pouch packaging in Australia – a decision that’s both smart for your business and kind to the environment.

 

The Star Stuff Group offers a range of stand up pouch packaging options, which can be customised for your business requirements. To find out more or to obtain a quote, contact us today. 

Environmentally Friendly – Soft Plastic Packaging: Compostable, Biodegradable, Recyclable – Which option is best?

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The reality is, there is no one simple answer, and to provide some perspective for your packaging objectives below are some factors for consideration;

Key priorities: What is the product you are packing? Certain products / ingredients may be restricted by the ideal substrate to provide the product with suitable barrier properties to deliver quality freshness and shelf-life essential to ensuring commercial viability of the product. Consider the benefits verses the compromises accordingly, to determine which substrate will achieve your desired goal outcome objectives, while still utilizing a sustainable approach.

In terms of soft plastics, whether compostable, biodegradable or recyclable, the challenge that exists is the reality that Australia’s current post-consumer waste recovery facilities are not where they ideally need to be to work alongside these packaging options. The availability of resource centers often differs greatly between government areas as well, which puts the responsibility back on the consumer to discard of the packaging correctly.

Compostable Packaging

To be accredited, compostable packaging must leave no toxic element to the environment after degradation. It is an important distinction to note that compostable products are deemed biodegradable, however not all biodegradable products are compostable. Important note: Compostable Packaging is not recyclable.

In Australia, there are two standards for compostable packaging: Compostable AS4736-2006: Which requires industrial composting under set conditions. It is only accepted with councils that offer a FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) collection service. Home Compostable AS5810-2010: This product is suitable for home compositing with food scraps and organic matter and garden waste, where a consumer has this facility available at home.

So what is the difference between packaging that is Compostable AS4736-2006 to Home Compostable AS5810-2010? The Compostable products that require industrial composting require a lot higher temperatures and specific processing conditions to break-down compared to Home Compostable products.

From a packaging substrate perspective, compostable substrates are gaining interest and popularity. The key issue that remains is our current infrastructure limitations on post-consumer waste processing to ensure the life cycle of the package is managed successfully to achieve composition. Many home compostable options also require specific environments for decomposing, meaning that household users would need an actual home-composting system at home, rather than discarding of the packaging into kerb-side collection bins for garden or waste.

Biodegradable Packaging

There are many definitions of Biodegradable Plastics, they are typically referred to as those products that are derived from a plant-based derivative. The most common plant based bioplastic is PLA (polylactic acid) and like compostable options, PLA bioplastics require specific parameters to be able to be processed to achieve biodegradability. Be sure to note, there is however many non-plant based biodegradable plastics and oxo-degradable products that have added filaments and chemicals that whilst they break down under specific parameters, they can leave harmful micro-plastics particles in the environment. Important note: Biodegradable Packaging is not recyclable.

Based on mounting scientific research, biodegradable and compostable packaging options that currently exist in Australia, coupled with the inaccessibility to appropriate waste recovery systems, means that these options are often a poor match for a major percentage of packaging uses.

Rigid plastics that fall into the main recycling code categories in most council areas of Australia are collected via regular bin collections. The challenge begins with the recycling of soft plastics, which do not flow through to material recovery systems as they are incompatible with current processing facilities and thus not recyclable through our kerb-side collections.

There are several initiatives with various councils that currently exist. The most prominent recycling stream for soft plastics is with REDcycle (with Retail Drop off points) where soft plastics are being collected, recycled and processed into new products. To be accepted into this stream, there are several guidelines and parameters set that dictate not only what substrates are accepted, but also the overall maximum percentage of some substrates allowed. Currently, these rules include the majority of soft plastic packaging you currently see in stores; however, these are ever changing, and new rules will be coming into effect in line with APCO’s (Australian Packaging Covenant Organization) 2025 National Packaging Targets. The proposed new guidelines will see zero tolerance for common substrates such as PET, PVDC, Aluminum Foil among many others. These guidelines are a work in progress, however, packaging consumers should be aware of these changes so they can better prepare their packaging systems in a way that meets sustainability targets, as well as compatibility with their product.

In simplist terms, the 2025 National Packaging Targets for soft plastic recycling will encourage users to preferably use a polyolefin (mono/single layer) of PE or PP, or a combination of both or multiple layers to suit the application. The films will also ideally be made up of clear unpigmented substrates, or minimal or selected colors set out by APCO. Users will also need to ensure that combinations of packaging (such as labels onto secondary packaging) are produced using the same substrates, where separation cannot be done (e.g. PP labels on a PP pouch). Lastly, consumers should, where possible, incorporate a percentage of recycled content, as well as utilize an ARL (Australasian Recycling Label) to educate end-users on what, where and how to recycle their package.

The optimal packaging for your product will fundamentally be determined by the actual product being packed and it’s needs, as well as the companies’ overall values, goals, and objectives relative to the sustainable targets set out by APCO. Ticking sustainable objectives in packaging should be prioritized but should always be done without compromising the product integrity, quality, freshness, and shelf life.

Fortunately, Star Stuff Group are well experienced in all things packaging and are constantly keeping up with the ever changing standards for sustainable packaging, so that we can offer our customers accurate and relevant information. We have a wealth of knowledge covering all soft plastic substrates, and can recommend suitable options for all packaging uses, so that you feel comfortable you are making the correct decision for your products.

 

 

Sustainable Packaging

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Roughly about 35% of the packaging materials used in Australia are paper, board (cartons etc.). Another 30% of the packaging market is plastic which includes PET, PVC, polypropylene and polystyrene. Plastics have rapidly gained share from being only 10% of the market in the early 1960s.

Roughly 60% of these packaging materials are recycled. The balance of packaging ends up in landfills where they can take thousands of years to disintegrate completely, releasing toxic harmful gasses in the process.

We have recently seen a shift in the need for more sustainable packaging options from existing and new customers. At Star Stuff Group we pride ourselves on our ability to grow and expand on what we offer, to readily match our clients requirements.

In the next two weeks we will be launching all new sustainable packaging options that are 100% Recyclable and 100% Compostable. To keep up to date with our launch, follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates.

 

 

 

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