Discover the packaging trends!

The packaging sector is changing faster than ever. What’s in store? And how is Smart Packaging Solutions planning to evolve and grow?

The European PPWR Directive, which aims to reduce the volume of plastic packaging, is accelerating the shift towards cardboard as a sustainable choice. “A growing number of products that were once packaged in plastic are now being packed in cardboard,” says Smart Packaging Solutions’ Managing Director, Johan De Neef. “Our solid board packaging meets every requirement. Extensive testing conducted by bodies including Eurofins shows that the cardboard satisfies all European migration standards. Shelf life is another area where we’re seeing great success. The Lavetan laboratory’s research indicates that solid board products offer a shelf life comparable to plastic.”

Small-scale solid board packaging is gaining ground and will continue to grow in popularity in 2026. To meet this demand, we’re offering customers specialty packaging solutions like Repun and Stackpack. Stackpack is the patented top-seal tray – lightweight, stackable and 100% recyclable. Available in an array of sizes and designs, Repun, the solid board punnet for fruit and vegetables, makes the switch from plastic to cardboard simple and efficient for flowpack packaging.

To support this growth, in 2026 we’re also going to invest in our plants in Meer, Oudegem and Loenen.

• We plan to expand our Meer facility with a new production hall of almost 7,000 m², dedicated to the production of stackable machine-erected trays, Repun and Stackpack. We’re also installing a new offset printing machine, representing an investment of 5.5 million euros.
• In Oudegem, we’re investing in a modern sheetline this year.
• In Loenen, the focus is on optimising the cardboard machine and further process improvements following the recent installation and introduction of the new Celmacch printing machine.

Smart Packaging Solutions is also expanding globally. For example, Spain has seen the first successful on-site assembly of machine-erected trays at the new set-up station in Murcia, realised in partnership with Frutipack.

Smart Packaging Solutions is confident about what’s next, fuelled by volume growth sales, innovative products and strategic investments. “Today’s customers want reliability and stability,” states Johan De Neef. “They want to work with a partner who knows the market, understands the product, and has a clear long-term vision. Which is why we’re investing in innovation, our plants and our people. Last year was fantastic, and this year is set to continue that success, offering plenty of opportunities for us to grow alongside our customers.”