Flexible packaging and the pharmaceuticals industry

A study conducted by McKinsey & Company states that the Indian pharmaceutical industry will touch USD 45 billion by 2020 and the market will be the sixth largest in the world by the same year. The reason for this robust growth in the pharma sector is being attributed to committed health insurance, improved healthcare facilities, a growing economy and FDIs. Healthcare in India contributes to almost 6% of the nation’s GDP. 

For the flexible packaging industry the pharmaceutical sector is a golden opportunity to diversify and innovate. Due to an increase in the health awareness, increase in product processing units, demand for convenient packaging, the pharmaceuticals packaging industry is registering strong gains and as the market grows the demand for flexible packaging in this sector is also expected to grow.

According to a report (marketsandmarkets.com), edged by a vast population and favorable demographics Asia-Pacific countries like India, Japan and China is expected to overtake North America and the European pharma packaging market by 2018. Other factors like robust pharma market, increased incentives, investments and initiatives both by the government and FDIs will help keep the market at an upside.  

Flexible packaging presents many advantages to the medicinal industry like better features and convenience in packaged products. Child resistance, tamper proof and anti-counterfeit packaging are also some innovations that the flexible packaging industry has come up with keeping with the worldwide demand. As with most other packaged products, pharmaceuticals too need a dependable and innovative packaging solution that is a combination of quality, protection and convenience.

Over the years, the pharmaceutical companies have let go of glass packaging and switched to PET bottles for packaging their syrups and other liquid medications.

As most of the Indian pharmaceutical products are also exported overseas (US$ 14.6 billion in 2012–13), it is imperative for the flexible packaging industry to provide packaging that is foolproof and compliant to international norms. For that the packaging systems need to be advanced.

A rapidly developing pharmaceutical industry in the country and a more aware and educated consumer has made it mandatory that the packaging structure also goes through a paradigm shift. Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging solution provider has ensured to keep pace with the times and keep itself armed with technological innovations to provide affordable and sustainable packaging solutions. Developments in the pharma sector have pushed the flexible packaging companies in India to be more competitive, economical and novel.

Small is big

According to the 2011 census 68.84% of Indians live in rural areas. (Wikipedia) No wonder then that the Indian rural market offers great opportunities and potential to companies as two-thirds of the country’s consumers are residents of this belt.  Almost half of the national income is generated in the rural areas. In 2007 the rural retail opportunity was estimated to be approx USD 34 billion which is expected to touch USD 58 billion by 2015.

However, a large proportion of India’s rural population remains poor and unable to afford products with a steep price range and that is a major concern for manufacturers. In this regard the concept of products in small packages/sachets has appealed to one and all.  Shampoo sachets were the first to be introduced in this trend at a minimum price of Re.1 targeting the rural consumer. According to an ORG-MARG data, 95% of total shampoo sales in rural India is by sachets. The demand was fuelled by largely price conscious consumer residing in rural and small towns. 

With time and the increasing popularity of the sachet rural marketing became high on the agenda of most of the FMCG companies who came up with their products in small packets and at a basic price. From shampoos to hair oil to toothpaste to biscuits to soups to chocolates to cold drinks/juices to various other items sold like hot cakes.  

Low purchasing power of a majority of the Indian consumers has ensured that the demand for small packaging does not die down. Flexible packaging has gained mostly in this trend owing to its low cost. Uflex Ltd. is at the helm of delivering innovation packaging solutions through its constant and improved R&D.

Packaging which once upon a time had the simple purpose of protecting the packed products has come a long way. Today flexible packaging is an art, science and a technology in itself. Progressive R&D has also ensured that packaging has become an integral part and a reflection of the consumers’ personality and lifestyles. 

Small packets and sachets have allowed the rural consumer to user durables/consumables in their everyday lives which an urban consumer would also use thereby improving their standard of living. 

The rural market is a minefield of opportunities for any marketer provided that his plans are in tune with the specifics and requirements of the market.  By capitalizing on this trend the flexible packaging industry can invest in advanced sachet packaging technology which can help the manufacturers achieve the flexibility and efficiency and ease for which these packs are intended. The little pouch is a powerhouse of benefits which extends from the manufacturer to the consumer.

The Growing Trend of Sustainable Packaging

Sustainability is fast gaining favours amongst companies, with consumers increasingly looking to buy products that are ‘green’. A recent report highlighted the growing trend of sustainable packaging in growing markets of China and India. The cause is attributed to a growing middle class who is aware of health and environmental issues of flexible packaging. It is forecasted that by 2018, Asia will become the largest market for sustainable packaging in the world accounting for 32% of the overall market share.  In the same year consumer demand, technological advancement will push sustainable packaging to a $244 billion mark. 

Bioplastics have been playing an integral role in company’s sustainability drive over the past couple of years and these materials will be more and more commonly available as we further head into the new millennium. The global production of bioplastics is tipped to increase from 1.2 million tonnes in 2011 to 5.8 million tonnes by 2016.

The approach towards sustainability also offers a competitive business advantage that manufacturers should keep in mind. Good environmental performance and business value can work in tandem, and this is all the more relevant in today’s time.

In addition to clear business advantage, sustainable packaging offers exploring innovative options both for the flexible packaging manufacturer and the FMCG industry. It is important that both the sectors work together to employ a number of innovative   approach   to improve sustainability of their products like recycling and reprocessing  infrastructure, using optimum packaging, producing packaging from bio-based materials.

Packaging companies in India like the Uflex Ltd., which is India’s largest flexible package provider, has always been committed towards sustainable options of flexible packaging. Being on the edge of innovation they provide packaging that keeps the products safe, fresh and devoid of any harmful reactions. With the constant R&D for safer and environment friendly packaging, the company is dedicated to   bring  safer, better and sustainable packaging solutions.

Uflex products are high on sustainability which is important in packaging as the product is very close to the consumer and is usually assumed as a waste. Uflex believes that wherever possible all flexible packaging waste should be re-cycled or reprocessed in the same industry or alternative applications.

Their Green pet and rPET techniques ensure that the plastic is manufactured in an environment friendly manner without compromising on the quality of the product and the recycling and reprocessing of the plastic waste is done in a safe and non hazardous manner.

In its new role, sustainability is a way for the company to provide a platform to the consumers that allows them to feel like they have made a difference, to have done something that they might not have been able to achieve on their own and feel good about the purchase.

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING TRENDS IN 2014

With the year 2013 virtually coming to a close, the time is ripe to analyze the trends in the coming year. The packaging industry in Indiais worth $24.6 billion with 22,000 firms comprising of raw material manufacturers, machinery suppliers, subsidiary material etc. The plastic packaging in India is growing at about 20-25%. (Source: http://www.printweek.in/News/331179,india-will-be-the-fourth-largest-packaging-power-says-dr-d-purandeswari.aspx)

In 2014, the basic packaging trends are expected to be:

1) Focus on the shape and structure: The packaged good will always be recognized by the packaging style and in 2014, the shape, size and material that the product is packaged in will gain priority as each aspect can be an identifying tool for the brand.

Packaging will need to reduce to smaller portions as the trend of customers buying those portions is gaining popularity. Hence, single serve or single use size packaging will be in trend in the New Year. Customers will lean more towards flexible packaging since it’s more convenient in terms of storage and takes up lesser space than other forms of packaging.

The materials used in the manufacturing of the package are also going to be vital. The texture, opacity, the finish and finally the recyclability or the amount of recycled material that is used in the package will be a structural element which will be on top of the customer’s agenda.

2) Message on the package: Consumers today are bombarded with information and in such a scenario for your package to stand out amongst its competitors and to retain the consumer’s attention it is important that the message on your package is concise and clear.  Basically, two fundamental questions: What are you- wherein the writing should clearly tell the customer about the packaged product. In case of any ambiguity, the packaging should make sure to clear the confusion. The second would be-what are you-the manufacturer can talk about the benefits of the product, its USP etc but care should be taken that there is no overdose of information. People today have no time to read and analyze overcrowded package.

3) Stand up pouches gain popularity- Stand up pouches are a favorites of customers in today’s age. A growing number of consumers favor the trend of stand up pouches. These pouches are cost saving, has a longer and improved shelf life, better barrier performance. Apart from that even for the manufacturer it’s a more economical option it decreases operating cost, increases output and offer greater flexibility in terms of shape and design. Stand up pouches are used extensively in FMCG produce. Stand up pouches is going to be one of the major gainers and trendsetters in 2014.

4) Green Packaging- Recyclable PET made from renewable sources will see a spurt in the coming year and the trend is here to stay. Due to the largely aware segment of consumers large industries have been investing heavily in development of environmentally friendly flexible packaging. Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging manufacturer has made sincere efforts to reduce environmental impact of its products and the production process by manufacturing packages that are made out of use of green raw materials and are reprocess able thereby, minimizing emissions that may pose a threat to the environment.

The Indian packaging scenario will witness more growth for flexible packaging owing to its cost-effectiveness and sustainability credentials. Be it in the West or in the East, the growth will be driven by a host of factors within the packaging and consumer retail sectors.  Features like longer product shelf life, weight reduction and customer convenience are areas for packaging manufacturers to grow and innovate in.

UFLEX’S POLAND UNIT OPERATIONS

India’s largest flexible packaging company Uflex Ltd had invested $ 80 Million to set-up 30,000 tones polyester film unit in the Polish city of Wrzesnia. It was announced on the occasion of completion of one full year of operation of Uflex’s plant in Poland that since the commencement of its operation in July, 2012, the company has achieved revenues  of USD 90 Million. The Polish plant is operating in its full capacity and is utilized to meet demands for flexible packaging solutions from within Poland and neighboring countries of Europe.

Uflex has plans for a major corporate revamp wherein the company plans to bring its overseas plastic film business under an umbrella company based in Dubai. Plans are also in the pipeline to list the said company overseas to part-finance future expansion plans.

Uflex has its presence in over 140 countries across the world with plastic film manufacturing facilities in India, Dubai, Mexico, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky, U.S. and packaging products facilities at multiple locations in India.

With the company’s vision to ‘Progress with Distinction’, Uflex brings a variety of value added flexible packaging material and sophisticated products like BOPET, BOPP and CPP, state of the art converting machines, rotogravure cylinders giving the company an edge over its competitors. The company also specializes in a wide variety of packaging machines like Vertical Form-Fill-Seal Machines, Horizontal Wrapping Machines, Special Purpose Machines, High Speed Pouch Making Machines.

In the last financial year 2012-13, plastic films contributed nearly 60% of the company’s revenue. Value added products contributed around 53% of the earnings having 40% share in the revenues. Uflex Ltd offers complete packaging solutions for a wide range of FMCG goods, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, pet food, sugar, automotive oil, lubricants and components.

Speaking to journalists who were touring the Uflex plant in Poland Mr. R.K. Jain, Group President for corporate finance and strategy stated: “We have pursued global investment in both greenfield and brownfield projects. This has been our consistent strategy. In this regard, we have successfully invested more than $500 million. This has given us the strength to address our dual commitment: To the investors, by creating incremental value on their investments, and to clients, by offering products that add value to their go-to-market strategy. The first full year of operations of Uflex in Poland saw a contribution of $90 million to the revenues. We also witnessed favorable demand trends for our innovative flexible packaging solutions. This saw an increased uptake from clients globally. Let me also add, the profit margins are showing improvement quarter-over-quarter during the current financial year.”

Future plans

Uflex plans to consolidate its position as a truly Indian MNC. The strategy of global expansion includes capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories in existing and new locations to increase proximity to the markets and also to include the broad portfolio of value added services to clients.

In the coming three years beginning 2014-15 the company has plans to go in for a major capacity expansion to diversify their products range, grow revenues and improve margins.

For the financial year ended March 31, Uflex recorded 14% growth in consolidated net revenues at Rs.5,161 crore, against Rs.4,516 crore in the previous year. For the six-month period ended Sep 30, 2013 consolidated revenues were Rs.2,914 crore, against Rs.2,626 crore in the corresponding period last year.

While the higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity added by the company since the manufacturing facilities in Poland and Kentucky in US commenced commercial production over the last year and also witnessing favorable demand trends for its innovative flexible packaging solutions, which saw increased uptake from clients globally whereas the profit margins are showing improvements quarter over quarter during the current year.

UFLEX LTD Q2 FY 2014 CONSOLIDATED NET REVENUE AT RS. 1516 CRORE AND NET PROFIT AT RS. 46 CRORE

New Delhi:- Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India’s largest flexible packaging company maintaining a sustained growth trajectory, has achieved a consolidated revenue for the September quarter of FY 2014 of Rs. 1516 crore as against Rs. 1250 crore for the same quarter last year.

On a sequential basis, the company registered growth in its quarter-on-quarter consolidated net revenue of Rs. 1516 crore and net profit at Rs. 46 crore, over consolidated net revenue and net profit figures of the preceding quarter that stood at Rs. 1398 crore and at Rs. 43 crore respectively in the April-June quarter (Q1 FY13-14).

For the six months period ended September 30, 2013, UFlex recorded Consolidated revenue at Rs. 2914 crore compared to Rs. 2626 crore in the same period in previous fiscal and net profit of Rs. 89 crore against Rs. 113 crore in the corresponding period last year.

While the higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity added by the company since the manufacturing facilities in Poland and Kentucky in US commenced commercial production over the last year and also witnessing favourable demand trends for its innovative flexible packaging solutions, which saw increased uptake from clients globally whereas the profit margins are showing improvements quarter over quarter during the current year.

According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “The higher revenue growth has come on the back of increased manufacturing capacities at our disposal with the newly commissioned facilities in Poland and Kentucky which resulted in expanding our market reach and improving response time to the demand from the regions that these facilities address. Innovation and expansion are two aspects that Uflex is always eagerly pursuing and has ensured that we maintain our steady growth trajectory.”

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex had recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore during a year ago, on the back of favourable demand trends globally.

Uflex’s strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.

Expansion Plans

UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.

The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others.

The Growing Packaging Industry in India

The Indian Packaging industry is growing at an exceptional pace. Packaging is an integral part of many sectors across the country and across sectors. According to data available, the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) has touted the total packaging industry in India at present at USD 27.6 billion and by 2016 this is expected to rise to USD 43.7 billion. The packaging industry was growing at a healthy rate of 12%p.a. while the global growth rate of packaging was 5% p.a.

The large and fast growing middle class Indian population and the growth of the organized middle sector has spiraled the growth of the packaging industry. The retail market in India is the 5th largest in the world according to the IIP and for investment it has been ranked the 2nd most favorite emerging market destinations. By 2018 this market is expected to rise to USD 1.3 trillion.

There are close to 22,000 packaging companies in the country which manufacture raw materials, machinery supplies and additional materials. The processed food manufacturing industry contributes a major chunk (48%) to the consumption of flexible packaging material. Others like pharma, personal care and misc constitute the rest of percentage.

The plastic packaging industry in particular has registered a growth of 18-20%. The flexible packaging market is USD 4 billion.

The flexible packaging industry has been constantly developing innovative packaging solutions for various sectors and applications. In this regard Uflex ltd is at the helm of delivering innovation packaging solutions through its constant and improved R&D. With a vision to ‘Progress with Distinction’, Uflex is privileged to contribute to society by producing a variety of value added flexible packaging material, sophisticated products including films like BOPET, BOPP and CPP; state-of-the-art packaging and converting machines and rotogravure cylinders, thereby providing world class flexible packaging solutions to its customers.

Before the advancement of the industry the quality assurance of packaging was lagging behind but now it is no more so, and domestic packaging is now in reckoning with packaging of international standards. Also, packaging has become an integral part of creating brand value. With flexible packaging, manufacturers are increasingly influencing it to match their products and its specifics.

The packaging industry is an extremely competitive one. The industry is expected to register further growth fuelled by demand for more expensive films and coatings for longer shelf lives of products packaged. Also a trend in the food industry of going away from bulk food packaging to single-serve products will also be an advantage for the packaging manufacturers.

As compared to developed economies like China and Germany which have packaging level consumption per person per annum of 20kgs and 42 kgs respectively, India’s consumption is at a low 4.3kgs per person p.a. Hence, there is still a huge scope for innovations, entrepreneurships and logistical advancements. Initiatives are required to convert the large unpacked commodities into packed, processed and well presented goods. Uflex Ltd is committed towards positive growth and making the Indian flexible packaging market at par with the markets in developed countries.

Uflex invests $400 million to expand

India’s $1 billion film and flexible packaging maker Uflex Ltd. has given a nod to a plan that includes expanding plants and establishing new factories in India and overseas.

The firm, one of the largest and fastest-growing flexible packaging firms in India, has drawn up a three-year growth strategy.

“The expansion plan … envisages opening new plants in new locations inside and outside India,” said President R.K. Jain, in an interview with Plastics News at the company’s headquarters in Noida, near Delhi.

“We have earmarked an investment of $400 million,” said Jain.

The move is aimed at doubling the company’s annual revenue to $2 billion in four to five years.
In the past three years, Uflex has opened plants in Egypt, Poland and the U.S., besides India, and expanded its Mexico facility.

“We have now consolidated and stabilized our operations in these markets and we are now ready for next phase of expansion,” he said. Uflex has not identified sites for the proposed plants. “We have no plant in the Far Eastern market, so that could be one of the regions on our radar,” he said.

Uflex controls about a 30-35 percent share of India’s $4 billion packaging industry.

How Flexible Packaging Helps Manufacturers of Consumer Goods

In today’s age consumer goods manufacturers face tough competition as they all struggle to find methods to lure the consumer towards their products. Money is spent on marketing, advertising, publicity etc. New methods are devised to make the consumer use/try their product.  It’s not an easy task, since no matter what you manufacture there is already an existing competitor present in the market.

In this time of cut throat competition, a number of manufacturers are turning to flexible packaging of their products. This form of packaging offers a variety of exciting marketing opportunities to the producer without increasing the cost of production. The packaging can be tailored to suit the merchandising requirements.

The 3D / 4D stand up pouches are a popular style of packaging. It is made by blending several layers of plastic with aluminum. This combination allows for a new and sophisticated printing and designing techniques to be used on the packet. This fact alone gives the manufacturers to design attractive logos, designs, graphics etc on their package which can catch the eye of the consumer.

Flexible style of packaging can be customized into practically any shape or size. They can also incorporate a variety of colors and styles. A different looking packet is bound to attract the eye of the consumer.
Flexible packaging allows the usage of same style of pouches to store different items. For instance the basic pouch can be used to store food, beverage and non-food items. With the addition of a special feature the pouch can be even more customized. For e.g., if a spout is added to the basic pouch it can be used to store liquids. The addition of a zipper and diaphragm will make the pouch more convenient to store and restore dry items.

Flexible packaging helps businesses and brands gain recognizition. The process is cheap so even the most cost conscious business can afford it. It can be customized to suit a brand so that businesses don’t have to end up choosing between short term gains and long term recognizition.

Uflex believes that the greatest improvement in the packaging industry is the flexible packaging. Many of the innovations that have become a part of the FMCG industry are products of the flexible packaging industry.

Uflex pushes for new innovations and trends thanks to the breakthroughs in plastic research and raw material enhancements.

Importance of Design in Packaging

The world renowned marketing guru Mr. Philip Kotler said that failure rate of new consumer products is as high as 80%. That means that on an average of 100 new consumer brands hitting the Indian stores only 20 of them survive. So what does it take for a product or stay on the shelf, or better still get picked up by the end consumer?

When a consumer visits a supermarket or a grocery store he searches for the item which are known to him or looks at items which he finds visually appealing. Visuals are the mainstay of promoting a product. The more attractive the package, better are the chances of it flying off the shelf into the shopping basket.

If there is a new product, a spiffy package may tempt the customer to try the product. Packaging is often the consumer’s first point of contact. Even in cases of known brands, a re-launch will require attractive packaging. Without that the re launch will be a guaranteed failure. But there are points to consider when designing the package:

•          The design should be functional. That is to say that it should be easy to use and convenient
•          It should protect the content it holds
•          Allow for easy storage, transportation and distribution
•          Provide the product information to the consumer
•          Draw attention to itself amongst competition

No matter how good a product is, poor or drab packaging can keep it from selling. A good design should reflect the brand and personality of the company. Apart from a good looking package the manufacturer should also ensure that the shape and materials are equally appealing. Customers also look for honesty in the brands they choose to use. Simply said, they want to know whether the contents listed on the package are exactly what they are to find inside it. For this purpose, see through option in the package, if possible, could be provided in the package design and ensure that their packages look trustworthy. This can happen if the packages are made from the highest quality of materials and should be in tandem with the image of the company. For eg, a company promoting clean and green should also be recycling and innovative.

Uflex Ltd. ensures the production of highest quality of plastics, which are top of the order. Our in-depth R&D of the market and the needs of the consumers ensure that we manufacture and deliver only the finest quality to our customers. Top of the line designs and recyclable plastics have been our mainstay for last many years. Use of creative graphics and shapes has ensured that our packages hold the end consumer interest for a sustainable period of time.

UFLEX LTD Q1 FY 2014 CONSOLIDATED NET REVENUE AT RS. 1398 CRORE AND NET PROFIT AT RS. 43 CRORE

New Delhi: August 6, 2013 – Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India’s largest flexible packaging company, has registered the consolidated net revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2013 at Rs. 1398 crore as against Rs. 1376 crore for the same period last year.

The firm’s consolidated net profit for the June quarter of FY 2014 stood at Rs. 43 crore as against Rs. 56 crore for the same quarter last year. However, sequentially, the revenue and net profit for quarter ended June, 2013 viz – a – viz quarter ended March, 2013 has grown by 13 % and 5 % to Rs. 1398 crore (Revenue) and Rs. 43 crore (Net Profit), respectively.

The higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity expansion globally and increased uptake of innovative flexible packaging solutions offered by the company across sectors. Uflex had added capacities from the newly commissioned manufacturing facilities as part of its expansion in Poland and Kentucky during the previous financial year. Collectively the two facilities involved investments of about $150 million.

The polyester films plant in Kentucky, in the US has annual production capacity of 30,000 metric tonnes, and similar capacity is available in Wrzesnia, in Poland. With the new manufacturing facilities and other expansions in place, UFLEX is all set to achieve the next milestone of $2 billion revenue mark over the next couple of years.

According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “The higher revenue growth has come on the back of increasing manufacturing capacities across our facilities in Egypt, Mexico, Dubai and India, in addition to the new facilities in Kentucky and Poland to cater to the increasing demand trends. Innovation, expansion and harnessing growth opportunities at the right time has been the key to our strong foothold in the flexible packaging market globally.”

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex had recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore during a year ago, on the back of favourable demand trends globally.

Uflex’s strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and Kentucky caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.

Expansion Plans

UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.

The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others.

Sustainable and Convenient Packaging

Green is the new buzzword within the packaging industry. Sustainable ideas and environmental friendly packaging is at the helm of innovation for the flexible packaging companies all over the world. The ecological impact and effect on environment by various packaging solutions is the significant force at present. The mantra is the 3 Rs which can help save our environment is Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

The latest technologies helps the manufacturers to engineer and produce packaging that is simple to use, is eco-friendly and also creates an appeal amongst the consumers.

Flexible packaging today offers a variety of packaging options that has shrink sleeves, resealable option, rise up plastic packages, zip pouches, stand up pouches etc. These help the food take the shape of the package and preserve the content for a longer shelf life. The quality of lamination also helps preserve the food and its taste for a longer period. Flexible packaging is a sustainable packaging solution as it makes less use of resources and materials. There is less wastage and less use of energy and water at the manufacturing level.

There are diverse packaging systems for different kinds of products. The manufacturers adopt them in order to satisfy the requirements and in accordance to the taste of the consumers. In this blog we look at the sustainable benefits offered by Foil packaging and stand up pouches.

Foil packaging is additionally being adopted by a number of snack manufacturing units as it releases less amount of plastic harm to the atmosphere. The bag has the power to sustain shock, squeeze, temperature changes and it doesn’t have any negative impact on the human body. Many manufacturers opt for vacuum packaging along with foil package. This allows the food to be free from contamination and the foil ensures that the packaged product stays fresh throughout its intended shelf life. It also saves up on space as compared to more traditional methods of packaging.

A stand up pouch is another option in flexible packaging as an eco friendly alternative to other forms of packaging especially for liquid products. It is a more sustainable option as compared to more traditional forms of rigid packaging like bottles, cans, jars etc which are used to packing liquid products, baby food, cereal etc. Stand up pouches use less space which means less transportation and storage cost. The chances of spillage etc are also lessened considerably. Many pouches come with resealable options like screw on caps which make the product more convenient and sustainable. Spouted pouches are a popular choice among the consumers, manufacturers, and retailers due to their ability to inhibit harmful impact on the environment, their ease of use, inexpensive nature, and flexible packaging options.

Uflex has always been committed towards sustainable options of flexible packaging. Being on the edge of innovation we provide packaging that keeps the products safe, fresh and devoid of any harmful reactions. With our constant R&D for safer and environment friendly packaging, we are dedicated to bringing safer, better and sustainable packaging solutions.

Our Green pet and rPET techniques ensure that the plastic is manufactured in an environment friendly manner without compromising on the quality of the product. Uflex has identified 4 areas of sustainability and they are:

-Energy conservation

-Reduction in carbon based resources

-waste minimization

- recycling

To know more about our sustainability initiatives please follow this link:

http://www.uflexltd-packaging.com/csr/sustainability-initiatives/ 

Flexible Packaging & Food Safety

‘It’s all in the packaging’ is a phrase most manufacturers swear by. Unless the consumer tastes the end product, he wouldn’t know the quality. But to convince him to pick up that packet from the supermarket shelf, a good and attractive packaging plays a major part.

The role of flexible packaging isn’t limited to just attract the consumer. It is also meant to protect the food items inside.  Protection from contamination and deterioration throughout its shelf life is also an integral part of good flexible packaging. It must also be informative of the nutrients and ingredients and other details in compliance with the labeling and packaging regulations.

Some of the basic features considered for good flexible packaging are:

· Compatibility with the product and storage conditions

· Protection of the product from deterioration of chemical, physical or biological nature

· Appropriate packaging intended for the final use of the product (e.g. - Microwavable packaging, resealable packets etc)

· Ability to sustain the stress of production and distribution - won’t crack/break or degrade

No material is inert. When a material like plastic is put into contact with edible products there will be a release of substances from the plastic into the edible content. The release will depend on 3 factors namely:

-The types of material

-Type of edible content

-Contact conditions

However, the release or ‘migrants’ as they are known into the food content doesn’t not render it toxic or dangerous to consume   because a shield layer of plastic which is food grade is used while forming the packaging material.  Even the   migration is taken into account by regulators while approving a new food contact substances. Studies on toxicology are carried out by regulators prior to approval.

Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging company has been offering amongst others, the food packaging solutions for more than two decades now.  The company offers packaging materials for food products made out of BOPET (Biaxially Oriented Polytthylene Terapthalate), BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) and CPP (Cast Polypropylene) films. The manufacturing of these products are in strict adherence to the international standards and norms. Flexible packaging at Uflex is known for excellent chemical resistance, strength, protection against moisture and odour and dimensional stability.

Keeping up with the times and the dynamics of the packaging industry Uflex has been a pioneer in setting benchmarks for delivering innovative packaging concepts and to ensure the safety and viability of the packaged food in its life cycle. 

UFLEX Ltd Q4 FY2012-’13 Consolidated Net Revenue at Rs. 1240 crore; and Net Profit at Rs. 41 Crore

New Delhi, May 30, 2013:- Uflex Ltd, the Bombay Stock Exchange (UFLEX: 500148) and NSE listed, India's largest flexible packaging company has registered the Consolidated net revenue for the March quarter of 2013 of Rs. 1240 crore as against Rs. 1175  crore for the same period last year, up 5.5%  whereas the sales volume has grown by 13% due to availability of additional capacities at the new manufacturing facilities that commenced operations. However, the consolidated net profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2013 has been lower at Rs. 41 crore as against Rs. 51 crore for the same period last year due to continued downward pressure on the operating margins.

For the full financial year ended March 31, 2013, UFlex recorded a strong growth of 14% in consolidated net revenues at Rs. 5161 crore as against Rs. 4516 crore for the last year.  The net profit for the full financial year (FY 2012-13) has been lower  at Rs. 190 crore against Rs. 255 crore in the last year, a decrease  of 25%.

The higher revenue growth is attributed to new capacity expansion globally and increased uptake of innovative flexible packaging solutions offered by the company across sectors. Uflex completed the expansion in Poland successfully during July, 2012 and in Kentucky, USA during January 2013. Collectively the two facilities involved investments of about $150 million.   

According to Mr. Ashok Chaturvedi, Chairman and M.D. of UFLEX Ltd, “With growing number of markets in our fold and manufacturing facilities at important commercial centres of the globe gives us the necessary edge to serve our clients with quality products and services. Our direct near-shore presence to clients has enabled us to serve them promptly which is important in the dynamic business environment today. This has ensured long term relationships with customers globally and reflects well in our growth trajectory.”

Uflex's strong manufacturing base in India, Mexico, Dubai, Egypt, Poland and USA caters to global markets spanning USA, Canada, South America, UK, Europe, Russia, CIS countries, South Africa and other African countries, the Middle East and the South Asian Countries.

Expansion Plans

UFLEX’s agenda of global expansion and consolidation of its position as a truly Indian MNC (Multinational Corporation) is reinforced with its strategy of capacity expansion and adding manufacturing lines for various product categories across existing and newer locations to increase proximity to the markets, but also to bring broad portfolio of value added products to its clients at competitive price points.

The company offers its flexible packaging products and solutions globally to clients including Unilever, Pepsi, Wrigley, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Palmolive, Nestle, Gillette, Ranbaxy, Perfetti, Joyco, Monsanto, ITC, Godrej Pillsbury, Tata Tea, Hindustan Petroleum, Indian Oil, Britannia, Dabur, Haldiram, Wockhardt, HUL, Parle Biscuit, Birla 3M, among others. 

Sustainable Packaging and Design

Sustainability is an oft repeated phrase these days owing to the threat that our slowly depleting natural resources are facing.  Flexible packaging designers are trying to use material which will be sustainable in the long run and will not be a hazard to the environment and will also look equally attractive.

Uflex products are designed keeping in mind the sustainability of the packaging. We understand how hazardous plastics can spell for the earth and keeping this in mind we have constantly evolved ourselves and our produce. Along with the sustainability of our packaging we believe that design is an equally important component.

If we look at sustainable packaging from a design perspective, design makes the packaging better. An attractive design package was good for the customer earlier but with a sustainable designed package, it will be good for the environment too.

How does one achieve a good design along with sustainability? There are roughly 3 principles which we will share with you:

• It’s all about the product: For a holistic design and sustainable packaging it would be sensible on the part of the product manufacturer not to separate the product from the packaging design. In the short run it might be good for the producers’ pockets but in the longer run it will have a negative impact on the consumer as well as the environment thereby defeating the purpose of sustainable packaging.
  
• Earlier the better: So now the question arises is how soon should a manufacturer involve designing the packaging? We say the sooner the better. Most of the environmental impact of the product & packaging is said to be determined in the early designing stages. To add sustainability factor at a later stage is not only hard but also costly and less effective.

• More with less: While the supply chain demands ‘less’ in cost saving, reductions, simplifications etc, the market demands ‘more’ in terms of added value, benefits, new functions. Doing more with less is sustainability prerequisite.

Sometimes in providing ‘more’, more materials is used which in turn spells higher carbon footprints and is tricky to square off with sustainability. Ultimately it’s about ‘less is best’ for consumers& our customers. Sometimes striking a balance between them can be a challenge in sustainable packaging.

Sustainability challenges are linked with design challenges. Yet, creative and attractive designing is the only thing that can ultimately get a product noticed.

At Uflex Ltd., India’s largest flexible packaging company, the health and safety of our clients and our environment is paramount. All regulations regarding the preservation of the environment are met. Keeping in mind the evolving socio-cultural trends and environment conscious customers, Uflex has come up with sustainable packaging options accompanied by attractive designs to appeal to the customers. With experience and expertise in all spheres of packaging Uflex keeps a track of all the latest developments and innovations that are taking place around the world. This helps us to be in tandem with the needs of our customers and constantly upgrade our quality concerns.

Along with sustainable packaging options and striking design options, Uflex is committed to prevent the wastage of natural resources and minimize any hazardous impact on the environment during the stages of development, production, use and disposal.