Manufacturer: Flex Films (USA) Inc.; flexfilm.com 

Description: Flex Films has launched an innovative new product, F-ETS, designed with sustainability and cutting-edge technology in mind. F-ETS is an easy-tear, heat-sealable polyester-based film specifically engineered for healthcare packaging applications. This advanced material is a micro-perforated, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET) film, offering enhanced tear resistance and heat-sealing properties for pharmaceutical packaging needs. F-ETS is versatile, capable of being printed and laminated with paper or aluminum foil, making it ideal for flexible packaging solutions such as tablet strip packaging. It features an MST coating that can be sealed with pharmaceutical wrapper paper and is also compatible for use as a single-web lamination with aluminum foil. 

Award: Silver Award—Technical Innovation 

Manufacturer: ProAmpac; proampac.com 

Description: The ProActive Recyclable® RP-1000 is a curbside-recyclable, fiber-based packaging solution for Marks & Spencer Select Farms Organic potatoes. It offers robust product protection with premium sealant technology, optimized for high-speed form-fill-seal equipment. The eye-catching design enhances shelf impact with high-quality flexographic printed graphics. Made from renewable resources, this sustainable packaging replaces conventional laminates, aligning with eco-conscious consumer trends that promote recyclability and reduce environmental impact. 

Award: Silver Award—Sustainability 

Manufacturer: Amcor Flexibles North America; amcor.com/afna 

Description: Once Upon a Farm™ refrigerated spouted pouches offer farm-fresh nutrition from baby’s first foods to school snacking to extra nutrition. Made with organic, non-GMO fruits and veggies and no added sugar, the products are offered in CHEERCircle™ PE recycle-ready spouted pouches. The premade spouted pouches feature AmPrima® Plus material, which is designed to meet the APR Design® Guide for recyclability but retains needed quality and durability. The spouted pouches incorporate Cheer Pack® Vizi™ caps, reducing the amount of plastic in the spout and cap by over 30% compared with the previous Once Upon a Farm™ spouted pouch and cap package. 

Award: Silver Award—Technical Innovation 

Manufacturer: Printpack; printpack.com 

Description: As part of Mars’ continued work to create a healthier planet, the Mars Skittles® Commercially Compostable Peg Bag was developed in partnership with Printpack and Danimer Scientific to give consumers a more sustainable way to Taste The Rainbow®. This commercially compostable packaging was the subject of focused development over the past three years, where maintaining packaging performance, aesthetics, and consumer experience were necessities. In 2024, the Mars Skittles® Commercially Compostable Peg Bag received Biodegradable Products Institute certification, providing consumers with another sustainable option to eliminate packaging waste. 

Company: Paharpur 3P; paharpur3p.com

Description: This 900 mL spouted stand-up pouch for engine oil offers a sustainable alternative to traditional rigid plastic bottles, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, packaging waste, and plastic usage. Paharpur 3P’s patented, colorful spout is equipped with a natural spout and a vibrant, tamper-proof cap. In designing the pouch, we prioritized both functionality and durability, ensuring it delivers superior resistance to leakage, dart impact, and punctures. Additionally, the sleek design enhances the pouch's physical appearance. Compared to rigid plastic bottles, spouted pouches take up far less storage space, offering significant space efficiency for inventory management.

Company: Amcor Flexibles North America; amcor.com/afna

Description: Agropur’s Grand Cheddar™ signature premium cheddar cheese transitioned from a paperboard overpack with plain flow wrap film to a stunning all-flexible package from Amcor. The dramatic source reduction—resulting in an 82% lower packaging weight—significantly reduced costs and streamlined packaging logistics. To maintain the signature high-end look, Amcor employed Amplify^® finishing technologies, including matte overlacquer and metallic inks, to make the product stand out. The film is recycle-ready AmPrima^® Plus high-barrier flow wrap, designed to meet the stringent protocols of the Association of Plastic Recyclers. The redesign and leaner footprint are prominently promoted on the package, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.