Close×

In this episode, Lindy Hughson, managing editor and publisher of PKN Packaging News is joined by Kim Berry, editor of Food & Drink Business, to provide insight, analysis and commentary on the top news stories shaping change in Australia’s dynamic packaging industry in April.

We unravel the recent developments concerning Qenos, an Australian plastic resin manufacturer, which has been placed in Voluntary Administration and closed its Botany manufacturing facility. We discuss the impact of this decision on the local packaging industry, highlighting concerns regarding resin standardisation, supply chain interruptions, and the setback to Australia's plastics circularity ambitions.

Shifting to broader industry updates, we examine the ongoing bid by Raphael Geminder to acquire full control of Pact and delist it from the ASX. Additionally, we explore the removal of tariffs on Australian wines by China and its implications for the packaging sector, particularly in boosting demand for glass bottles and labels.

We also cover significant global mergers, such as the approved acquisition of WestRock by Smurfit Kappa, and notable acquisitions within the food packaging space, including BioPak's acquisition of Huskee.

On the recycling front, we highlight Visy's achievements in increasing recycled content in glass packaging, and Pact Group's efforts to recycle milk bottles, earning it recognition at the Chemistry Australia Industry Awards.

Wrapping up the discussion, we touch upon Australia's progress towards packaging sustainability targets, the upcoming Hive Awards, and the Women in Packaging awards, reflecting on the industry's commitment to innovation and positive change.

Links:
Sponsor - Trimatt
www.trimatt.com - 03 8761 6171 - info@trimatt.com

Qenos in VA, Botany plant shutdown confirmed
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/qenos-in-va-botany-plant-shutdown-confirmed

Geminder issues final Pact deadline
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/geminder-issues-final-pact-deadline

Industry welcomes return of China wine trade
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/industry-welcomes-return-of-china-wine-trade

Industry responds to Future Made in Australia plan
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/industry-responds-to-future-made-in-australia-plan

Smurfit Kappa WestRock merger gets green light
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/smurfit-kappa-westrock-merger-gets-green-light

BioPak acquires reusable cup enterprise Huskee
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/biopak-acquires-reusable-cup-enterprise-huskee

Visy's glass reaches 63% recycled content
www.packagingnews.com.au/sustainability/visy-s-glass-reaches-63-recycled-content

Pact’s milk bottle recycling wins CE award
www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/pact-s-milk-bottle-recycling-wins-ce-award

You can listen above or follow on your own podcast platform:

 |  |  | 

To find out more about sponsoring The PKN Podcast, contact Sharon Amos.

------------------------------
The PKN Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of PKN Packaging News, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of PKN Packaging News, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media.

If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact PKN Packaging News via their website www.packagingnews.com.au or send an email to editor@packagingnews.com.au.

MC: Grant McHerron
Host: Lindy Hughson
Producer: Steve Visscher
Editor: Chris Visscher

PKN Packaging News - © 2024

Food & Drink Business

The Central Coast is about to receive a boost to its local food and beverage manufacturing industry, with construction starting on the $17.14 million Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub, funded by the federal government’s National Reconstruction Fund (NFR).

The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) says Australia is at a “critical crossroads” when it comes to R&D and decades of rhetoric have not delivered material change.

New Zealand’s national organisation for the country's grape and wine sector, New Zealand Winegrowers, has released its 2025 Sustainability Report, highlighting the industry’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability through its climate change, water, people, soil, waste, and plant protection goals.