ITASCA, ILL. — Silgan Holdings Inc. is working on tomorrow's pouch closures, and closures marketing manager A.J. Miller said the segment is growing broadly.
Miller, speaking at the Plastics Caps & Closures Conference, showed data on pouches of 5 ounces or less, with a closure.
“Shelf-stable fruit is driving the unit volume right now and also driving the growth. But the growth is being driven across all segments and it's still got a ways to go,” he said.
Miller gave some insight into the future of pouches.
“We expect filling lines to get much faster,” he said. Currently a 9-millimeter opening is standard, but he said Silgan thinks a 12-mm opening is a growing category for two reasons: More adult products in pouches and faster filling.
Silgan also has developed what Miller called a “canoe,” a canoe-shaped fitment in the pouch cap designed for optimal ultrasonic welding.
The company also is working on a clear barrier film for a customer, Miller said. Customers will be able to see the organic product, and fully view its quality.
Silgan's pouch caps include a tamper-evident band, and they give an audible sound when first opened. Miller said the company takes its time thoroughly testing closures in advance, to avoid the need to tweak them after the product is out on the market.
Silgan has an innovation center at its closures headquarters in Downers Grove, Ill. One area of interest is improving the functionality of spouts for pouches, Miller said.