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The Jan/Feb issue of PKN is out now, featuring the packaging trends to look out for in 2020, and including our exclusive Machinery Matters supplement.

The latest issue is on its way to subscribers in the mail, but if you can't wait, the digital version is available here.

HIGHLIGHTS IN THIS ISSUE
On the cover, automation and integration specialist Foodmach has launched a new line of Robomatrix case packers, and CEO Earle Roberts provides pointers on Industry 4.0 integration in our feature on page 46.

In ‘Industry’s 2020 vision’ starting on page 10, a panel of experts weighs in on what the future holds for Australian manufacturers and suppliers. And for FMCG packaging in particular, we talk trends with TetraPak Oceania MD Andrew Pooch in 'The big paradox of consumer preference' (page 32).

Plastic is once again in the spotlight in this issue. In our Sustainability section on page 14 we take a look at APCO’s plans around plastics for meeting the 2025 National Packaging Targets. Meanwhile, the anti-plastic sentiment might be creating impetus for growth in biobased materials for packaging, as Des King writes in ‘Green Expectations’ – his report on the latest European bioplastics conference, starting on page 42.

We also speak to Kate Bezar, co-founder of The Better Packaging Co, who has developed a range of compostable, biodegradable, and recyclable packaging for e-commerce. (See page 45).

Packaging’s role in preventing food waste is another focus, and in the AIP’s Tech Speak column (page 16), Nerida Kelton outlines the importance of adjusting date labelling communication systems (Best Before and Use By dates) to prevent food wastage.
In People in Packaging (page 21), we talk to Richard Fine, founder of Australian-based sustainable and renewable packaging manufacturer BioPak, the recent recipient of APCO’s Outstanding Achievement in Industry Leadership award.
Other special features and regulars include Active & Intelligent Packaging (page 38), Industry 4.0 (page 46) – plus don’t miss our special Machinery Matters supplement produced in partnership with APPMA .

And of course, we have the latest news, design case studies, new products and more – all available in a click.

Food & Drink Business

Two industry leaders have been celebrated at the 2025 Australian Wine Industry Awards, which presented the Maurice O’Shea Award to Andrew Caillard, and the McWilliam’s Wines Excellence in Action Award to Dylan Grigg.

With the excise on spirits due to rise at the beginning of August, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the industry is calling for a freeze on the tax in line with the two-year freeze for beer, announced by the federal government in March.

Treasury Wine Estates (TWE) has appointed Breakthru Beverage Group (BBG) as its exclusive distributor in California for the Treasury Americas and Treasury Collective US portfolios.