Muller improves sustainability of plastic packaging

Muller, a global leader in tool making and automation technology for thin-wall plastic packaging, is working closely 

with brand owners and processors to employ a range of strategies to enhance the sustainability of plastic packaging. The company highlighted its successful sustainability practices for the packaging industry at the K 2019. 

 

“We take our responsibility as stewards of the environment very seriously and we’re committed to helping our customers meet the growing demands for more sustainable packaging,” said Taras Konowal, director of sales and marketing for Muller 

CO. 

 

Muller has worked closely with its customers throughout the design development stage to reduce the amount of plastic in containers by up to 30%.  The company’s latest automation equipment designs have reduced energy consumption by up to 40%.  These efforts have distinguished the company in the automation industry as manufacturers explore new packaging alternatives that deliver sustainability benefits and cut costs, according to Mr. Konowal.

 

Muller is focused on the development and production of lightweight packaging that has a low carbon footprint. In its own business operations, Muller  is driving the development  of  energy-optimized  equipment  and  highly  sustainable  operations and facilities.  

 

 

“The company’s commitment and expertise will be instrumental in supporting the growing group of brands and retailers that have set similar targets for themselves,” said Mr. Konowal.

 

Among its efforts to drive sustainable packaging, Muller is working with leading brand owners in the U.S. to develop polymer-coated paperboard solutions which deliver strong barrier properties and a more sustainable and environmentally-sound packaging 

option.  

 

Muller worked closely with Swedish packaging manufacturer Arta Plast to develop a renewable paperboard cup called Fiber Cup.  To ensure strong barrier protection and freshness, for products such as crème fraiche, butter, and chilled food, the paperboard is coated with a thin polypropylene (PP) layer on both sides. The cup is recyclable and its attractive shape and excellent printing and design capabilities showcases the brand. This new package takes a fresh approach to improved sustainability, accoring to Mr. Konowal.

 

During a two-year developmental process, the intercompany project team refined the injection molding process and developed a specialized mold and in-mold labeling (IML) technology.  The fiber-based cup significantly reduces plastic use and keeps the product fresh. The container incorporates a lid that is composed of a standard PP material. 

 

Leading brand owners are considering this technology for a range of dairy products including yogurt, cheese spreads, and margarine in multiple sizes.   

 

                                                           

   

Swiss-based Muller is the first globally acting industry and technology leader in tool making and automation technology for thin-wall plastic packaging. With an established presence in the U.S. and Europe, the holding company has three subsidiaries. Swiss company Muller Technology Conthey (formerly H. MÜLLER-Fabrique de Moules SA) was founded in 1959 and is a pioneer and leader in the field of packaging design, mold, and automation solutions for injection molded thin-wall packaging with leading-edge expertise in in-mold-labeling (IML). 

 

Muller Technology CO (formerly CBW Automation), based in Fort Collins, Colo., is a leading U.S. supplier of robots and automation solutions with a focus on injection molding and thermoforming applications in the packaging and medical sectors. 

Muller Technology MO (formerly Dollins Tool), based in Independence, Mo., is one of the leading U.S. toolmakers for thin-wall packaging.