FPA opens 2014 student design challenge

The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) has made a call for entries to its 2014 Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge.

In its 10th year, the Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge honors flexible packaging options developed by students.

The challenge for students is to develop flexible package that addresses a packaging issue, such as consumer convenience or the protection of food. Entries can should advance the use of flexible packaging make an improvement over an existing flexible package, convert a non-flexible package into a flexible package, package a new product or package a product that is not currently available in flexible packaging.

Students are asked to submit a concept outline prior to the actual development of the flexible packaging prototype/bench sample. The concept outline will be evaluated and once approved, students may begin development of the package prototype/bench sample.

Students may work on the design in conjunction with their packaging schools. FPA members may be available as mentors to students advancing to the flexible packaging prototype/bench sample development round.

The deadline to submit a concept outline is October 4. Students will be notified of the advancement status of their concept outline by October 11. The submission deadline for the flexible packaging prototype/bench sample is November 18. Winners will be announced on March 4, 2014.

The student or team of students who develop the first place winning entry will receive US$1,000, and the student or team developing the second place winning entry will receive US$500.

Last year’s first placed entry was the All-in-One Cleaning & Healing Adhesive Bandage from Raphiel Davis of Western Michigan University. The All-in-One Cleaning and Healing Bandage comprised of an adhesive bandage with a dissolving patch of hydrogen peroxide to enhance the current system for cleaning and protecting an injury.

Read more about packaging industry award schemes here