ECONOMIC IMPULSES ALTMÜHLFRANKEN – VERPA SHOWS: PLASTIC PACKAGING CAN BE SUSTAINABLE
On October 29, 2025, Verpa hosted the “Economic Impulses Altmühlfranken” event series in Gunzenhausen, focusing on a highly relevant topic: sustainability in the plastic packaging industry – opportunities and challenges. Entrepreneurs and executives from the region gathered to learn how sustainable business practices can be successfully implemented in plastic packaging and which innovative solutions Verpa is already applying today.
Among the participants were Managing Directors André and Susanne Baumann, Thomas Grebner, Plant Manager and Authorized Officer Marco Stenglein, and Mara Hancker, Managing Director of Communications at the German Association for Plastics Packaging and Films (IK). District Administrator Manuel Westphal also attended, recognizing Verpa’s innovation strength and regional significance. The guests were welcomed by Andrea Koch, representative of the Future Initiative Altmühlfranken.
Plastic and sustainability – no contradiction
In his presentation, Managing Director and Owner André Baumann vividly demonstrated that plastic and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Using practical examples, he showed how modern plastic films, through careful material selection, recyclability, and consistent circular use, can be not only resource-efficient but often even more environmentally friendly than supposedly “green” alternatives such as paper or composites.
Verpa’s sustainable plastic packaging contributes actively to CO₂ reduction through material savings, reduced transport weight, and closed-loop systems – combining ecological benefits with economic efficiency. Many participants expressed surprise at how sustainable packaging solutions can conserve resources in practice while offering clear economic advantages.
Sustainability with system – practical examples
Marco Stenglein presented a concrete example: an online supermarket delivers goods in Verpa plastic carrier bags using a deposit system. Each bag costs customers 50 cents, which is refunded upon return with the next delivery. The bags are then recycled and reprocessed into new products – a perfect closed loop that prevents waste and keeps materials in the value chain.
Another example was the new Verpa reusable system for PP twin-wall sheets. These folding boxes can be reused up to 25 times before being regranulated and reintroduced into production – a practical demonstration of ecological responsibility paired with economic efficiency.
PPWR in focus – opportunities instead of obligations
Managing Director Thomas Grebner discussed the upcoming EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) and how Verpa is proactively addressing it. Already today, Verpa is “PPWR-ready” and considered a leading innovator in sustainable packaging solutions. Grebner emphasized: “We don’t need one-size-fits-all rules but smart, tailored solutions – every package, every product, and every process must be viewed holistically.”
Professional exchange on sustainable packaging
Another highlight was the presentation by Mara Hancker, who provided valuable insights into current market developments and legal frameworks. A guided tour through Verpa’s production facilities followed, showcasing state-of-the-art recycling processes, extrusion systems, and in-house printing using cutting-edge 10-color flexographic technology. Guests were consistently impressed by the innovative processes and how Verpa integrates sustainability, precision, and efficiency.
Verpa: a family business with vision
In closing, André Baumann emphasized that Verpa’s success is built not only on technological innovation but also on team spirit, long-term thinking, and a lived family culture. These values have shaped the company for over 40 years and form the foundation for sustainable growth and strong partnerships.
The event highlighted how initiatives like “Economic Impulses Altmühlfranken” help share knowledge and correct misconceptions about plastics with facts. Through inspiring lectures and discussions, one message became clear: sustainability and plastics can go hand in hand – economically, ecologically, and with a view to the future.
Verpa demonstrates as a European innovation leader that modern packaging solutions can successfully unite environmental protection, efficiency, and profitability – turning responsibility into genuine future viability.
