Packaging from the future: Grupo Plastilene at PackExpo 2024

We attended for the first time one of the largest packaging conventions in the world, PackExpo, Chicago. Our main objective with our own presence and booth was to stand out in the North American market by sharing our innovations that redefine notions of sustainability and efficiency.

Innovation and sustainability takes center stage

Paperlike: a sustainable innovation

Paperlike was one of the most important projects that we shared. This product is made of 100% polyethylene and is a sustainable alternative to laminated paper, combining rigidity with higher recyclability.

This journey began a few years ago in Colombia. We found a way to reduce the density of plastic while maintaining a product that is 100% polyethylene with the same properties as paper -shredding and look and feel. This product has been used in the protein industry in the US, and facilitated our presence in this market. Our Paperlike product replaces laminated paper, which has a limited supply and is non recyclable.

Paperlike in liquid packaging

We launched an innovative box for beverages, made out of high density polyethylene. It is compatible with filling machines that are used for multimaterial (cardboard+plastic+aluminium) packaging. Facilitating the shift into more sustainable packaging without hefty investments into new machinery.

High Barrier films for fresh products

Another important product line was our high barrier film products for meat and dairy products. This technology allows us to vacuum seal packaging that extends the life and freshness of the product, a solution for meat, poultry, cheese, and other perishable products. Our booth had a fridge, where attendees could see the efficacy of our packages in real life conditions.

PackExpo: a great success for Grupo Plastilene

During the four days our booth attracted a great number of visitors, including potential and current clients, raw material and machinery suppliers, as well as representatives of organizations.

We were also able to interact with several important actors in the area. From the first day, we had technical conversations with visitors interested in our products, as well as organizations that are interested in recyclability. We were also able to assist panels and talks on legislation like Extended Producer Responsibility, and recycled content mandates. It gave us a valuable vision of the future of legislation in the US, and how we can work alongside it.

PackExpo offered us an excellent opportunity to showcase our innovations and our commitment to sustainability, by positioning ourselves as an excellent ally in the US and Americas packaging market. We are prepared to develop and implement solutions that intrigue our clients and allies, and take advantage of the opportunities that arise.