Graphic Packaging International Expands Innovation Center to Support Strategic Growth in Plastic Substitution

GPI has been purposefully creating alternatives for plastic packaging by developing sustainable technologies and structural designs which utilize renewable and recyclable paperboard. Recent innovations include KeelClipTM, a paperboard clip for beverage cans to replace plastic rings and shrink film, and PaperSeal®, a barrier-lined paperboard tray to replace plastic trays for meat, seafood and produce.

“This expansion demonstrates our commitment to the discovery and support of new packaging concepts not only for our customers and their end users, but for the environment as well,” said Ricardo De Genova, Graphic Packaging’s senior vice president of global innovation and new business development. “Our expert team of chemists, engineers and designers is dedicated to improving the environmental profile and performance of our products and to meeting consumer needs for convenience, health and enhanced experiences.”

The research and development center footprint was increased by more than 30 percent. The facility is customer-centric and equipped to perform trials, develop prototypes and host seminars. The center is also fully equipped to conduct state-of-the-art structural and performance testing for new packaging solutions.