Australia’s plastic packaging industry bracing for prolonged disruption, as conflict in the Middle East continues to drive sharp increases in resin costs, freight rates and supply uncertainty.

ASX-listed Papyrus Australia is progressing towards commercialisation of a proprietary process that converts banana plantation waste into refined pulp for use across paper, board and packaging applications.

Following its acquisition of Oji Fibre Solutions in late 2025, Abbe has confirmed full integration of the business, positioning itself as a scaled, national alternative in the corrugated packaging market.

Visy has released independently verified lifecycle analysis results indicating its fibre-based insulation product, Visycell, delivers measurable environmental benefits compared with expanded polystyrene.

As construction progresses on its $500 million glass recycling and remanufacturing facility at Yatala in Queensland, Visy is ramping up efforts to prepare the workforce that will operate the site.

Perth-based materials company Uluu is set to scale production of its seaweed-based alternative to plastic packaging after securing $2.1 million through the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program.

At a time of heightened sensitivity around plastic resin supply, pricing volatility and import dependence, the government has launched new funding streams under the National Reconstruction Fund.

Australian packaging converters are continuing to adapt to ongoing volatility in global polymer markets, with a focus on material optimisation and supply resilience.

This year’s Best Packaging finalists in The Hive Awards showcase how innovation is reshaping performance, sustainability, and scalability across the food and beverage sector.

Orora has downgraded its FY26 earnings outlook for Saverglass, citing both direct operational disruption and broader market impacts stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Thrace Group has acquired 100 per cent of BHA Holdings Pty Ltd, which operates through Bulk Handling Australia and Bulk Handling New Zealand, strengthening its presence in Oceania.

Automation & Robotics Technology has been acquired by a consortium of investors including Foodmach, Packaging Partners, Rob Niggl, and Frank Floriano, former CEO of Aldus.

From fibre-based formats to premium gift tins, a PKN store check reveals how Easter chocolate packaging is evolving across Australian supermarkets and speciality chocolatiers.

Reckitt is rolling out a 75% paper-based, kerbside recyclable pack, supplied by Mondi, for Finish dishwashing tablets in Australia, targeting a reduction in plastic use while maintaining product protection.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has installed a new Return and Earn reverse vending machine at its Northmead site, strengthening EPR in practice and expanding access to container recycling.

Good news for last-minute nominators – the entry deadline for the 2026 PKN Women in Packaging Awards has been extended to midnight 2 April. Entries have been rolling in this week, don't miss out!