FoodTech Qld wrapped up in Brisbane this week, after three days of exhibitors, speakers and forums. More than 130 exhibitors showcased the latest manufacturing, technology and product development for the food and beverage manufacturing sector.
Automation and pneumatics specialist SMC was front and centre with its eight step process for customers to save energy and dollars from their bottom line. It was also a chance for SMC ANZ Group MD Wayne Driver to lead a celebration of the company's 60th birthday and introduce new ANZ sales and marketing director Tim Keech. A baptism by fire having been in the role for less than a week.
SealedAir showcased the new Cryovac brand’s food tray, the HydroLoQ. Sustainability, retail and market director Alan Adams told PKN’s sister title Food & Drink Business it offered the ideal “sustainable elimination”. The base of the tray is a design that draws liquid away from the contents (like raw chicken) and holds it in the bottom pockets by surface tension. It removes the need for absorption pads, which inevitably end up in landfill, Adams said.
Professor Pierre Pienaar from the World Packaging Organisation and Australian Institute of Packaging and Yann Pastor from Deloitte led a discussion into how to unlock value through sustainability.
Professor Pienaar also joined Adams to talk about the sustainability drive for 2025, what the road there looks like and what some leading organisations are doing to have a real impact.
The expo ended with a power panel on sustainability and minimising waste with Professor Pienaar; Jayne Paramor, Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation; Yann Pastor, Deloitte; Nerida Kelton from the Australian Institute of Packaging; and Alan Adams, Sealed Air.
