Klöckner Pentaplast opens innovation center in Spain

The 1,200 sqm kp i.center provides a collaborative space intended to help global food and consumer products (FCP) customers bring products to market more quickly and economically. It is located in Sant Cugat, close to Barcelona.

It combines a dedicated area resourced with marketing, sales and R&D experts, together with laboratory, prototyping facilities, a supermarket and an FCP market research center. Klöckner Pentaplast has integrated industrial and technical capabilities, which it said deliver a full experience ‘from concept to production of a packing solution’. The center is aimed at supporting commercial, technical and operational leaders to immerse themselves in idea sharing leading to the discovery of innovative packaging options.

Daniel Dayan, president of FCP at Klöckner Pentaplast, said: ‘Our kp i.center stands for interaction, ideas and innovation, the core elements in driving forward-thinking research and development in today’s packaging industry.’

‘Close collaboration with our customers is the key to success,’ added Dr Helene Roberts, director of FCP marketing and innovation at Klöckner Pentaplast. ‘Our kp i.center enables us to offer them a totally comprehensive range of resources and expertise.’

The high-tech laboratory includes several instruments for analyzing and creating different packaging options. Customers can make use of the FFS machine and thermosealers in the trial area. This allows customers to test and assess designs in real-time. A Multivac modified atmosphere package and Erca dairy Line are available. 3D printing and designers are also available, with more equipment to follow.

The center also hosts a customer inspiration area, a supermarket and a kitchen. ‘This will be a live space that will be constantly evolving,’ continued Roberts. ‘It’s somewhere that we can showcase different category and product innovations to inspire new product developments. The idea is to demonstrate how packaging looks on a shelf or counter in store, emulating real consumer experiences for our customers.’