Flexible pack squares up shelf presence

Clear Lam Packaging has collaborated with equipment firm Ilapak on the project. The PrimaPak technology, run on Ilapak’s Vegatronic 2000 vffs platform, produces a cubed package with reclosable features.

The packaging configuration is designed to serve as a replacement for rigid cans, bottles, jars, and trays by combining key benefits of those packaging formats with the attributes of flexible packaging.

Performance and sustainability​

Roman Forowycz, chief marketing officer for Clear Lam, told FoodProductionDaily the PrimaPak starts off with flexible rollstock, which contributes to sustainability and merchandising benefits.

"The PrimaPak package is flexible, stackable and reclosable and it merchandises on six sides​," he said. "We’re able to get more packages onto a truck (and into a warehouse) than the containers it replaces; this benefit translates into tangible supply chain efficiencies and greenhouse gas emission reductions."​

James Sanfilippo, president and CEO of Clear Lam Packaging, said his firm's collaboration with Ilapak has led to an efficient, effective packaging product with a number of sustainability benefits.

“Our collaboration with llapak brings together two leaders in the packaging industry​,” he said. “The PrimaPak packaging minimizes impact on the environment throughout the supply chain​.”

Branding benefits​

The PrimaPak product reportedly is lightweight, stackable, and can be branded on all six of its sides; the brand owner can choose from a range of flexible films to fit a particular application. According to the manufacturer, the PrimaPak lightweighting technology uses up to 70% less plastic compared to conventional PET jars; additionally, the enhanced cube increases the amount of product that can be packed onto a pallet and into a shipment, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The proprietary PrimaPak material and process leads to a flexible, pop-up container that can be stacked during transport and at retail. According to the manufacturer, the resulting container merchandises more effectively than flexible stand-up pouches.

Food applications​

The container can be used for a range of different food products. Potential applications include cereal, snacks, candy, meats, cheeses, coffee, and others.

PrimaPak made its North American shelf debut with Chicago-based snack purveyor John B. Sanfilippo and Son, with the company’s Limited Edition Premium Dark Chocolate Pretzels​ poured into the container. The packaging is now available in Europe.