PMMI Report: Sustainability Is Reshaping Equipment Requirements Across the Packaging and Processing Industry

A recent report from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, shows how sustainability initiatives are changing the relationship between consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

The report—called “The Ripple Effect: CPG Sustainability and the New OEM Spec Sheet“—finds that sustainability influences equipment design, material selection, operational requirements, and supplier expectations throughout the packaging and processing supply chain.

The study found that 82% of end users actively engage in sustainability initiatives, while 64% of OEMs say sustainability directly influences equipment design decisions. Additionally, more than half of end users report that limitations in packaging machinery are preventing them from achieving their sustainability goals.

The report is based on research conducted among CPG companies, co-packers, OEMs, and component suppliers, PMMI says.

“The report highlights growing demand for equipment capable of handling lightweighted packaging, post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, smaller pack sizes, elimination of secondary packaging, and handling other sustainable formats,” PMMI adds. “It also underscores the increasing importance of energy efficiency, waste reduction, sustainability reporting, and compliance with evolving regulations such as extended producer responsibility programs.”

To produce the 40-page report, the researchers used a mix of methods, including quantitative data from a structured survey with insights drawn from in-depth interviews.

“The sustainability conversation has moved well beyond packaging materials,” says Jorge Izquierdo, PMMI’s vice president, market development. “Today, sustainability is influencing equipment specifications, production processes, reporting requirements, and supplier relationships.”

Both OEMs and end users agree that greater collaboration, earlier engagement, and improved communication will be critical to meeting future sustainability goals, PMMI says.

PACK EXPO

PMMI also produces PACK EXPO International 2026, noting that sustainability issues will be a focus of the show that takes place Oct. 18–21 at McCormick Place in Chicago. Some of the show’s features include:

• Sustainability Central, presented by Packaging World, allows attendees to connect with experts, explore emerging trends, and gain practical guidance on sustainability strategies and technologies, PMMI says.

• The Sustainability Solutions Finder is an online planning tool that helps attendees identify exhibitors offering equipment, materials, and services that support sustainability objectives.

• Sustainability-focused education on the show floor will feature expert-led sessions on regulatory developments, sustainable materials, circular economy initiatives, package design trends, energy efficiency, and best practices for sustainability programs.

• The Showcase of Packaging Innovations^® showcases package designs and sustainable packaging solutions.