At the recent Gulfood Manufacturing Food-Tech Summit, sustainability dominated discussions as packaging industry leaders gathered to explore innovative solutions that balance environmental responsibility with economic feasibility. Moderated by Ben Daniel, Chief Editor of Packaging MEA, the panel featured experts from packaging material producers, machine manufacturers, and converters. Together, they tackled pressing issues such as …
Edita partners with TJA to expand operations into Iraq
Edita Food Industries S.A.E. (EFID.CA on the Egyptian Exchange & EFID.L on the London Stock Exchange) has entered the Iraqi market through a strategic partnership with Tuama Jebur Abbas (TJA), a Baghdad-based snack manufacturer. The agreement includes the acquisition of a 49% stake in TJA for $8 million, alongside the establishment of Edita Iraq …
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Coca-Cola Al Ahlia partners with Emerge for solar energy at Al Ain facility
Coca-Cola Al Ahlia Beverages Company, in partnership with Emerge—a joint venture between Masdar and EDF Group—has inaugurated a 1.8 MW solar power plant at its production facility in Al Ain. The project, unveiled during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, underscores the company’s commitment to renewable energy and aligns with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030. …
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Is Plastic Fantastic? Part 2: The rPET Revolution in the Middle East – Drivers, Technology, and Challenges
In Part 1 of “Is Plastic Fantastic?”, we examined the regulatory hurdles of plastic sustainability in the Middle East. Now, we explore the region’s growing adoption of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), driven by environmental concerns, shifting consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. As Middle Eastern businesses adapt to new packaging standards, rPET is …
Korozo Group supports Zertus with stand-up pouches for Baileys snack range
Korozo Group has partnered with Zertus UK & Ireland to develop stand-up pouches for Baileys Chocolate Nut Mix, a new product that extends the Irish cream liqueur brand into the adult snack market. The range includes chocolate-coated almonds, caramelized nuts, salted toffee popcorn, and a hint of Baileys flavor. The stand-up pouches, designed …
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Amazon trials biodegradable bags to boost circular economy
Amazon has initiated a trial for bio-based delivery bags in Spain as part of its efforts to develop sustainable packaging solutions. The new bags, made from European-sourced vegetable materials like corn starch and vegetable oils, are being tested for Amazon Fresh orders in Valencia. Developed in collaboration with Italian company Novamont (part of Versalis, …
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Tetra Pak unveils sustainability and innovation focus highlighting circular economy and plant-based solutions
At Gulfood Manufacturing 2024, Tetra Pak unveiled its commitment to sustainability and innovation under the theme “Unlocking Potential.” The company aims to empower its customers to achieve growth, enhance operational efficiency, and diversify product offerings. Sonya Kayani, Communications Director for Greater Middle East and Central Asia at Tetra Pak, with Ben Daniel, Chief …
Rasasi unveils Riyaz Kalsekar Signature Fragrance, reflecting his vision and brand legacy with elegant grey and blue design
In an exclusive interview with Ben Daniel, Chief Editor of Packaging MEA, Riyaz Kalsekar, Managing Director of Rasasi Perfumes, shared insights into the launch of the Riyaz Kalsekar Signature Fragrance at Beautyworld Middle East 2024. The event, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, marked the unveiling of a fragrance that blends Kalsekar’s personal …
MENA: Forecast for the Packaging Industry in 2025
The packaging industry faced major challenges in 2024, from escalating material costs and stringent sustainability mandates to soaring energy prices, supply chain disruptions, and growing awareness of circular economy and sustainable packaging demands. Despite these difficulties, the sector demonstrated resilience through innovation and collaboration. However, the journey is far from over. In 2025, new …
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Sukkur Beverages celebrates launch of sustainable Aqua Fina production facility
Sukkur Beverages’ new Aqua Fina production facility in Pakistan, inaugurated on January 6, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. The state-of-the-art plant is designed to be self-sustaining and eco-friendly, showcasing the leadership of Madam Sayeeda Leghari. The inauguration was attended by Eugene Willemsen, CEO of International Beverages …
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