Linpac Packaging says it can now provide packaging with 100 percent recycled content from one of its German plants as it works to meet a growing demand for PET and rPET.
The company, based in Featherstone, England, recently added a third extruder at its Ritterhude facility, which allows it to expand from making mono sheet average 93 percent post-consumer recycled content to 100 percent.
In the past five years, Linpac has invested 9 million euros ($9.76 million) in a new plant and equipment at its two German sites, including 3 million euros ($3.25 million) on PET extrusion and automation facilities in Ritterhude, in a bid to significantly increase market share in Germany and surrounding countries.
Adam Barnett, managing director for northern Europe at Linpac, said: “It is vital that, as the German market continues its shift from [polypropylene] towards PET, we are able to meet growing customer demand for products which are lighter, cheaper and more sustainable.
“The installation of the new extruder in Ritterhude extends our capabilities greatly and being able to manufacture using 100 percent post-consumer recyclate is a major breakthrough for Linpac in northwest Europe. It will enable us to offer a wider variety of products to customers to ensure they receive the best packaging for their application.”
PET and rPET is becoming increasingly popular as a packaging material across Europe due to its versatility, lightweight nature, barrier and food safe properties, as well as its recyclability.