ECONOMIC IMPULSES ALTMÜHLFRANKEN – PLASTIC PACKAGING WITH RESPONSIBILITY

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 demonstrated the potential of modern plastic films: targeted material savings, well-designed recycling concepts and efficient packaging processes. He also showed how plastic films can offer significant advantages over alternatives such as paper or composite materials, depending on the application.

Verpa uses innovative film technologies to reduce material consumption and transport weight while supporting effective recycling loops. This is how we combine technological innovation with efficient resource use and economic benefits for our customers. Many participants expressed surprise at how well-designed packaging solutions can reduce resource consumption in practice while offering clear economic advantages.

Responsibility with a 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 returned bags are then recycled and used as recyclate in new products – a compelling example of how Verpa puts circular economy principles into practice and keeps valuable materials in circulation.

Another example was the new Verpa reusable system used in PP twin-wall sheet production. The specially developed reusable plastic system allows the twin-wall folding boxes to be reused up to 25 times before being regranulated and processed into new products. These examples demonstrated how environmental responsibility can be combined with economic efficiency and how well-designed return systems support the circular economy.

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. Verpa is actively shaping the future of film packaging. We are already developing innovative packaging solutions with upcoming PPWR requirements in mind, helping our customers prepare for new regulatory requirements at an early stage. 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.”

Participants learned how Verpa develops customized concepts that combine individual sustainability requirements with economic efficiency.

Professional exchange on sustainable packaging

Another highlight was the presentation by Mara Hancker, Managing Director of Communications at the German Association for Plastics Packaging and Films (IK), who provided valuable insights into current market developments and legal frameworks. A guided tour through Verpa’s production facilities followed, showcasing the recycling processes, extrusion systems used to produce films according to individual customer specifications, converting operations and the in-house printing department with state-of-the-art 10-color flexographic technology. Guests were consistently impressed by the entire production process, the innovative workflows and the ways in which Verpa combines 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 once again demonstrated its innovative strength and expertise as a specialist in modern film packaging. With innovative technologies, consistent material optimization and practical recycling solutions, we are helping to shape the future of packaging.