This Month in Packaging... [May 2023]

Packaging News May 2022

Welcome to the May edition of Rocket Industrial’s ‘This Month in Packaging’ blog series, a monthly wrap-up of packaging related content that catches our eye.

From limited-edition packaging inspiring street art to the world's first fiber-based closure, here are five things that caught our attention this month.


Limited-Edition Packaging Inspires Street Art

Jolly Rancher Gummies Packaging

WHO: Hershey's Jolly Rancher

WHAT: Hershey's Jolly Rancher brand partnered with Beautify Earth, an agency dedicated to connecting brands and local artists to bring outdoor murals to communities, to bring a vibrant new look to their limited-edition packaging.

WHY IT MATTERS: The three artists chosen for the project unveiled murals in their communities that inspired the packaging design. Jolly Rancher hopes that the packaging inspires fans to visit a mural near them.


World’s First Fiber-Based Closure

Fiber-Based Cap Closure

WHO: Stora Enso

WHAT: In partnership with Blue Ocean Closures and AISA, Stora Enso has developed the first paperboard tube with a fiber-based closure. This tube contains more than 85% fiber content and is intended for cosmetic and personal care applications.

WHY IT MATTERS: The fiber-based screw cap closure ensures that all components of the tube are designed for recycling. Expected to be commercially available in 2024, this sustainable closure will help companies stay competitive.  


Plastic Packaging Causes Food Waste

Strawberries in Plastic Packaging

WHO: Fresh Food Industry

WHAT: In a new study, researchers discovered a significant correlation between plastic packaging and the surge in fresh food waste. Since plastic packaging creates a false sense of security, consumers make impulse purchases and bulk buy fresh foods.

WHY IT MATTERS: The researchers found that plastic packaging hampers the natural ripening process and accelerates food spoilage as the tight seal traps moisture and restricts airflow, increasing bacteria and fungi. This research accelerates the need for alternatives to plastic packaging to address the escalating issue of fresh food waste.


Personalization with Digital Inkjet Printing

Personalized Printing Labels

WHO: HP Thermal Inkjet Technology

WHAT: Unique designs and new customization options are available through HP's thermal inkjet technology. This print system completely transforms products into meaningful experiences with customers.

WHY IT MATTERS: Personalization is a mainstream expectation for consumers and increases customer loyalty 1.5 times more than brands without it. Print-on-demand enables a brand to stand while enhancing consumer engagement.


2023 Sales Meeting

Booths at sales meeting

WHO: Rocket Industrial

WHAT: The annual Rocket Industrial sales meeting was hosted in Milwaukee, Wisconsin this year at the historic Pfister Hotel. We held a reverse trade show with our vendors and celebrated vendor and sales team accomplishments during an awards ceremony.

WHY IT MATTERS: This meeting is a chance for our vendors to educate our team on new products and projects while recognizing our top vendors and internal achievements.  


Submit to the Monthly Packaging Wrap-Up

Do you have a packaging example, industry news article, or idea that your peers should see? Share it with us here! Our blog team will pick a few suggestions to mention in our This Month in Packaging blog series at the end of each month. If your suggestion is used, we will send you a Rocket hat!

Sign Up for Rocket's NewsletterSign Up for Rocket's NewsletterSign Up for Rocket's Newsletter