Europe

UK firms unprepared for DPP

Piotr Wnuk — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:28:40 +0000

UK manufacturers and wholesalers are largely unprepared for the EU's Digital Product Passport (DPP), with only 43 percent saying they are ready for the regulatory initiative set to begin in 2027, according to new research from Forterro.

The study found that fewer than half of UK industrial midmarket companies are aware of the DPP and what it entails, while around one in five were unsure whether their business would be affected at all, despite the regulation applying to any business exporting to the EU.

'The Digital Product Passport will be to product manufacturing what GDPR was to data,' said Claudia Schmidhäuser, senior principal, product management at Forterro. 'We saw what happened when companies weren't ready for GDPR, and too many UK midmarket firms are still unaware or underprepared.'

The main barriers to DPP readiness include the complexity of requirements, cited by 47 percent of respondents, a lack of suitable technology to manage compliance and insufficient internal compliance resources. UK firms expect to spend an average of 28,000 GBP on managing their DPP obligations over the next few years.

The DPP requires detailed digital records of a product's lifecycle, covering everything from materials sourcing to repair and recycling. Battery products are expected to begin compliance in 2027, followed by other categories, including textiles, iron and steel. When the regulation is in place, no product without a DPP will be able to be placed on the EU market.

Environmental regulation was seen as the area of compliance posing the greatest challenge for UK industrial midmarket firms, while 45 percent said that compliance influences their operational and technology purchasing decisions.

The research also revealed that adjusting to exports in light of recent US tariffs was cited as the main challenge by around one-third of respondents, followed by ongoing global economic and political uncertainty and protecting the supply chain.

The findings are part of Forterro's 2025 research, The Digital Future of the European Industrial Midmarket.

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2 days 6 hours ago

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UK firms unprepared for DPP

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Research shows only 43 percent are ready for the EU compliance deadline.

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Research shows only 43 percent are ready for the EU compliance deadline.

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Pez chooses Leibinger coders

Piotr Wnuk — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:21:58 +0000

Pez has installed Leibinger inkjet coding systems across its production lines at its headquarters in Traun, Austria, replacing legacy equipment to improve coding reliability and reduce maintenance requirements.

The candy manufacturer, which produces approximately 70 million Pez dispensers annually, has deployed multiple JET3up MI systems to print batch codes, best-before dates and other variable data on its packaging.

'We needed a coding system that could keep pace with our high-speed production while minimizing downtime,' commented Thomas Krispel, technical manager at Pez. 'The Leibinger systems have delivered on both fronts, with significantly reduced maintenance intervals and excellent print quality.'

The JET3up MI systems feature automatic nozzle sealing technology that prevents ink from drying in the printhead, eliminating the need for manual cleaning and reducing consumable waste. The coders can handle production speeds up to 600 packages per minute across Pez's various packaging formats.

Pez selected the Leibinger systems after extensive testing demonstrated superior uptime compared to previous equipment. The installation included integration with existing production line controls and training for operators across multiple shifts.

The Austrian facility serves as Pez's global headquarters and main production site, manufacturing the iconic candy dispensers and tablets for markets worldwide. The company has been producing Pez products since 1927.

Leibinger supplied the systems through its European distribution network, providing on-site commissioning and technical support during installation.

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2 days 6 hours ago

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Pez chooses Leibinger coders

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Candy manufacturer installs JET3up MI inkjet systems across production lines.

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Candy manufacturer installs JET3up MI inkjet systems across production lines.

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Jenacre Labels installs Domino digital retrofit

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 22:34:22 +0000

Jenacre Labels has integrated the Domino N610i-R digital retrofit module on one of its Nilpeter presses to support short-run production of multi-page peel-and-reveal labels featuring complex variable data.

The UK-based label converter sought an in-line printing technology that would eliminate the need for additional off-line finishing processes required by standalone digital presses. The N610i-R enables digital printing capabilities to be integrated directly into existing flexo lines without expanding the production footprint.

'Digital printing was the obvious answer, but a standalone digital press that would require additional off-line finishing processes was out of the question – both from a cost and logistics point of view. We wanted an in-line solution for our existing Nilpeter presses,' stated David Duncan, managing director at Jenacre Labels.

The converter reports strong results from the investment, with the ability to efficiently run multiple SKUs and consistent print quality. Pre- and on-press adjustments can be made without remixing inks or waiting for plates, boosting production time and efficiency while reducing lead times.

'Domino's technology, expertise and support gave us the confidence to move forward. From initial contact through installation and training, ongoing support has been crucial to the success of this project,' Duncan added.

Michael Matthews, product manager for DP colour at Domino Printing Sciences, noted: 'At Domino, we’re proud to support converters in boosting production flexibility, reducing lead times, and streamlining operations. By integrating digital printing capabilities directly into its existing line, Jenacre Labels has been able to be more responsive to customer demands. Projects like the N610i-R demonstrate our commitment to delivering practical, high-performance solutions that help our customers stay competitive and future-ready.’

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3 days 9 hours ago

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Jenacre Labels installs Domino digital retrofit

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UK-based converter adds N610i-R module to Nilpeter press.

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UK-based converter adds N610i-R module to Nilpeter press.

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Polyopt relaunches German BOPP site

Piotr Wnuk — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:53:44 +0000

The film manufacturing site formerly known as Treofan has relaunched as Polyopt following AGP Holdco's strategic investment and assumption of full operational control of the German facility.

The relaunch enables a comprehensive transformation program focused on production asset revitalization, operational stability and expansion of the capacitors film segment. The site maintains its established expertise in flexible packaging and specialty BOPP films.

Polyopt operates as a sister company to Taghleef Industries under the Al Ghurair Group ownership structure. The facility represents one of Europe's most established producers of specialty BOPP films with decades of industrial heritage.

'This relaunch goes beyond upgrading equipment—it is about re-establishing a culture of excellence and empowering people to shape the site's next phase,' stated Dr Detlef Schuhmann, CEO of Al Ghurair Petrochemicals.

The transformation roadmap emphasizes service, responsiveness and collaboration to support the shift toward more specialized, higher-value applications in Europe's specialty film markets.

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3 days 9 hours ago

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Polyopt relaunches German BOPP site

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AGP Holdco investment enables the transformation of the former Treofan facility.

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AGP Holdco investment enables the transformation of the former Treofan facility.

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Recoup appoints Adrian Whyle as vice chair

Will Drysdale — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:32:08 +0000

Adrian Whyle will support and guide Recoup's strategic and practical initiatives, strengthen governance, and help drive genuine collaboration and forward-thinking across the entire plastics value chain.

Whyle brings over 35 years of international experience in the specialty chemicals and plastics industry across a wide variety of roles. The appointment reflects Recoup's ongoing commitment to leadership excellence and to delivering the organization's longstanding aims.

Whyle said: 'I have supported Recoup for many years as a Board member, and I am really looking forward to seeing how far the network can push plastic circularity in the coming years. I hope to play a key role in working with industry and charity partners, members, and stakeholders to advance Recoup's mission.'

Recoup chair Jim Armstrong added: 'Adrian is very well known and respected across business, academia and government, and I am delighted that he has taken on the vice chair role.

'His extensive experience and strategic perspective will be invaluable as we continue to build stronger connections across the plastics value chain and enhance our impact in delivering circular plastics systems while reducing impacts on the environment. I would also like to thank Glyn Staines, who steps down as vice chair, for his hard work and support over the past five years.'

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3 days 21 hours ago

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Recoup appoints new vice chair

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Recoup announces the appointment of Adrian Whyle as vice chair of the Board.

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Recoup announces the appointment of Adrian Whyle as vice chair of the Board.

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Konica Minolta achieves Top Employer status

Piotr Wnuk — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:06:43 +0000

Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) has been certified as a Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute for a ninth consecutive year, achieving its highest score of 95 percent.

The certification assesses workplace environments with a focus on HR practices, including learning and development, employee experience, recognition, diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, and benefits. Only organizations meeting strict criteria receive Top Employer status.

'We're extremely proud of receiving our 2026 accreditation,' said Gemma Lee, chief people officer at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK). 'We take great pride in bringing new initiatives and opportunities to our people and are incredibly proud of how they are embraced.'

The company employs approximately 600 people and offers apprenticeships, training programs and pathways for employees to develop skills within current roles or transition to other areas.

Konica Minolta operates five Employee Network Groups: Balance focused on gender equality, Vibrant for the LGBTQ+ community, Prism providing support around neurodiversity, Unity in Diversity celebrating race and culture, and Impact for social impact initiatives.

Each employee receives a dedicated workday annually to volunteer in support of causes including environmental conservation, youth mentoring, community outreach, or charity fundraising.

The company continues to evaluate feedback from the Top Employers program and internal listening mechanisms to evolve its people strategy.

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4 days 10 hours ago

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Konica Minolta achieves Top Employer status

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Print technology firm scores record 95 percent in HR certification.

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Print technology firm scores record 95 percent in HR certification.

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starcodegroup expands smart label capabilities with Rotocon

Selah Zighelboim — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:31:02 +0000

Rotocon has confirmed an order from starcodegroup, a Smart-ID manufacturer in Germany, for a Chrome RFP 450S 8-colour sleeve machine with folding option, together with three RDF 540/580 nonstop, high-speed, fully automatic blank labeling machines.

Starcodegroup is a German company that specializes in custom labeling, tracking and Auto-ID systems. With in-house production in Germany, the company offers end-to-end services ranging from smart labels to complete logistics integration. Founded in 2003 and under new ownership since 2015 by Florian Oberndörfer, starcodegroup combines decades of expertise with technology to deliver high-quality, secure and scalable identification products.

The Rotocon RFP Chrome 450S flexo press combines advanced engineering, speed and efficiency in a fully servo-driven system. Each sleeve printing unit, powered by three servo motors, delivers consistently sharp, high-quality results. Designed for versatility, the modular press supports a wide range of automation and performance-enhancing options, including an in-line folding feature that produces folded labels directly during printing.

Engineered for nonstop, high-speed performance, Rotocon’s RDF 540/580 fully automatic blank label technologies deliver maximum productivity and precision. With advanced servo control, automated roll changes and simple web handling, they enable continuous, reliable blank label production with minimal downtime.

'From a production perspective, the investment in Rotocon’s RFP and RDF systems is a decisive step forward for us,' said Andrzej Kawiorski, production manager at starcodegroup. 'The combination of high automation, precision and nonstop performance significantly increases our manufacturing flexibility and reliability. This allows us to meet complex customer requirements with consistently high quality, shorter lead times and maximum process stability – even at growing volumes.'

'At starcodegroup, we continuously develop innovative products in the field of customized identification solutions, from highly specialized labels to RFID technologies and complete ecosystems,' said Oberndörfer, starcodegroup CEO and owner. 'Our collaboration with Rotocon enables us to realize even the most complex ideas with efficiency and reliability. With Rotocon’s printing and finishing equipment, we’re taking another step forward in combining our innovation with their advanced machine technology.

'The best partnerships are built on trust and a shared vision. Working with the Rotocon team is not only technologically rewarding but also personally inspiring. Together, we’re expanding what’s possible in smart label production.'

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4 days 14 hours ago

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starcodegroup expands smart label capabilities with Rotocon

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The German company ordered a Chrome RFP 450S 8-colour sleeve machine and three RDF 540/580 machines.

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The German company ordered a Chrome RFP 450S 8-colour sleeve machine and three RDF 540/580 machines.

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Thomas Körmendi resigns as Elopak CEO

Selah Zighelboim — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 16:13:44 +0000

Elopak CEO Thomas Körmendi has decided to step down due to personal reasons driven by his planned relocation to Denmark.

The board has initiated the process of finding a new CEO. Körmendi will continue in his role until a successor is in place, to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in the implementation of the 'Repackaging tomorrow' strategy. The strategic direction and priorities remain unchanged.

Dag Mejdell, chair of the board, commented: 'Under Thomas Körmendi's leadership, Elopak has positioned itself as the sustainability leader in the industry and materially strengthened its market positions. After the IPO in 2021, Elopak has grown to be an end-to-end solution provider in fresh, aseptic and non-food segments. The company has increased its global market presence through successful acquisitions, expanding the company into MENA and Asia. More recently, the establishment of the state-of-the-art production plant in the United States showcases substantial progress in the company's growth journey. This is evident in the financials with top line growth and profitability having improved significantly.

'The board wants to thank Körmendi for his significant contribution to the success of the company during his tenure.'

CEO Thomas Körmendi commented: 'It has been a privilege and a pleasure to lead Elopak over this exciting and eventful period. This is a personal decision driven by a new job opportunity and a desire to relocate home to Denmark. Elopak is a fantastic company with highly competent people on a mission to offer more sustainable packaging alternatives to plastics. I have great confidence in the continued success of the company thanks to the strong leadership team in place. I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition.'

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4 days 15 hours ago

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Thomas Körmendi resigns as Elopak CEO

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Körmendi will continue in his role until a successor is in place.

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Körmendi will continue in his role until a successor is in place.

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Zebra supports heart charity

Piotr Wnuk — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:30:11 +0000

Zebra Print Group has named the British Heart Foundation as its charity partner for 2026, committing to raise a minimum of 500 GBP over the next 12 months to support heart and circulatory disease research.

The Yorkshire-based family-run print specialist will host fundraising and awareness activities throughout the year, including initiatives during its 20th anniversary celebration in September. The partnership aims to support the foundation's life-saving research and promote heart health across the region.

'At Zebra Print Group, we are passionate about making a positive difference beyond the work we do for our clients, and partnering with the British Heart Foundation allows us to support vital research and life-saving initiatives that touch so many families across the UK,' commented Samantha Overton, managing director at Zebra Print Group. 'Heart and circulatory diseases affect millions of people, including some of our own colleagues and their loved ones, so this partnership is very close to our hearts.'

The Leeds-based company provides digital, litho, large format and web printing services, as well as branded promotional merchandise. Zebra Print Group describes itself as an active part of the communities it serves, emphasizing that successful businesses have a responsibility to give back.

The British Heart Foundation funds research into heart and circulatory diseases affecting families across the United Kingdom.

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Zebra supports heart charity

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Leeds printer partners with the British Heart Foundation for 2026.

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Leeds printer partners with the British Heart Foundation for 2026.

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Sappi expands barrier paper portfolio

Piotr Wnuk — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 21:46:52 +0000

Sappi has expanded its barrier paper portfolio for flexible packaging applications, offering mono-material papers designed to run on existing packaging lines and qualify for paper recycling streams.

The company has developed barrier papers for more than a decade using dispersion-based technology that enables recycling in paper waste streams. The portfolio targets products including tea, cereals, chocolate, flour, dried fruits and nuts, instant soups and sugar.

'Brand owners want alternatives to plastic that fit into their real production environment,' said Gustavo Duarte, head of business development at Sappi Europe. 'The interest has grown fast in recent years. Customers need materials that actually solve their problems, not just ideas that sound good in theory.'

Sappi's barrier papers address three requirements: product protection through moisture and oxygen barriers, compatibility with existing packaging equipment and recyclability. The papers require tension, heat and sealing pressure adjustments but typically do not necessitate new production lines.

'Paper needs a different kind of care and attention than plastic films,' explained Alexander Schröder, product application leader at Sappi. 'But this doesn't mean customers need new lines. Often it comes down to fine-tuning. We work closely with machine manufacturers to help customers see what needs to be adjusted before they switch.'

The company tests all materials using CEPI/4evergreen methods before external certification to identify potential issues early. Sappi expects this approach aligns with upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation requirements.

'This early testing helps us refine the papers quickly and gives customers confidence that the material will meet not just today's rules, but tomorrow's as well,' Duarte noted.

Sappi sources wood within roughly 150 kilometers of each European mill site and maintains FSC, PEFC and SFI certification across its global supply chain. The company manages 400,000 hectares of certified plantations in South Africa that supply local markets only.

While barrier papers can appear more expensive than certain plastics, Duarte explained the comparison requires examining complete costs including recycling fees and potential incentives for recyclable materials. 'When you calculate everything, the result can favor paper-based options,' he said.

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1 week 1 day ago

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Sappi expands barrier paper portfolio

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European paper manufacturer targets flexible packaging with recyclable mono-material offering.

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European paper manufacturer targets flexible packaging with recyclable mono-material offering.

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