Saudi Halal Center launches ESG-aligned Halal Mark Track to integrate product credibility and sustainability

    RIYADH — The Saudi Halal Center, operating under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, has introduced a Halal Mark Track aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. The initiative is designed to integrate halal certification with ESG compliance to strengthen product credibility and promote sector-wide sustainability.     The Halal Mark Track …

DS Smith and Raymarine develop fibre-based packaging to replace plastic in radar products

    DS Smith and Raymarine have introduced a fibre-based packaging solution for electronic and radar display products, replacing expanded polyethylene (EPE) foam previously used in Raymarine’s packaging. The collaboration is focused on eliminating single-use plastic and improving supply chain efficiency.     Developed by DS Smith’s design team, the new solution uses corrugated cardboard …

Durst marks 90 years with focus on global growth and technology evolution

    Durst has begun marking its 90th anniversary in early 2026, tracing its origins back to 1936 in Brixen, South Tyrol. Founded by Julius and Gilbert Durst in a former brewery, the company initially focused on camera repairs before developing photographic enlargers. Despite political pressure during the fascist era in Italy, the company retained …

ASRY and Roboze establish advanced additive manufacturing facility in Bahrain

    Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard (ASRY) and Roboze have signed a partnership agreement to establish Bahrain’s first facility dedicated to advanced additive manufacturing, to be located within ASRY’s premises in the Kingdom of Bahrain.     The agreement was signed in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, …

Borouge completes AI autonomous operations proof of concept at Ruwais facility

      Borouge Plc has announced the completion of a proof of concept for AI-powered autonomous operations at its Ruwais production facility, developed in partnership with Honeywell. The milestone forms part of the company’s broader AI, Digitalisation & Technology (AIDT) programme, which aims to generate $575 million in value during 2025.     The …

Hotpack adjusts production as UAE enforces second phase of single-use plastic ban

    Dubai, UAE – As the UAE prepares to implement the second phase of its nationwide single-use plastic ban from January 1, 2026, local packaging manufacturers, including Hotpack, are adjusting materials, production lines, and supply chains to meet the expanded regulatory requirements set by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This phase …

Apax funds invest in iD Fresh Food to support expansion of cold-chain packaging operations

    Funds advised by Apax Partners have acquired a significant minority stake in iD Fresh Food through a secondary transaction involving Premji Invest and NewQuest. Both existing investors will retain a portion of their stake following the deal. Financial terms have not been disclosed.     The transaction is aimed at supporting the company’s …

UAE enforces wider single-use plastic ban across retail and manufacturing sectors

    The United Arab Emirates implemented the second phase of its federal single-use plastic ban on January 1, 2026, expanding restrictions across retail and manufacturing sectors. The ban, led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), prohibits the import, manufacture, and trade of single-use plastic products including beverage cups and lids, cutlery, …

Amcor launches all-plastic Grace head for Wave pump with focus on design and recyclability

    Amcor has introduced the Grace head for its all-plastic Wave 2cc pump, aimed at the personal care market. The development focuses on combining consumer-friendly design with recyclable materials, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support circular economy practices.     The Grace actuator is designed for both function and form. Its …

EPBP launches consultation on Design for Circularity guidelines for PET bottles

      The European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP) has launched a two-month industry consultation to gather feedback on its newly developed Design for Circularity (DfC) guidelines for PET bottles. The initiative, which runs until February 15, 2026, aims to engage stakeholders across the PET value chain in refining the draft framework before its finalisation. …