Media Releases

An itemised list of the most recent media releases (cross referenced to any relevant item in other places on the site, Statistics, Reference Library etc.). Journalists are invited to add their details to our database for the direct and regular receipt of EAFA press materials by completing this media form.

2022
Strong domestic demand continues to offset export decline for European aluminium foil rollers

The first quarter of 2022 saw strong domestic demand offset a continuing decline in exports for European aluminium foil deliveries. Overall, the tonnage produced, 244,700, was just 0.2% below the same period last year. Demand in the larger domestic market segment was up 5%, while exports dropped sharply by 27%, as pressures on several non-domestic fronts continue to weigh, according to figures released recently by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

European foil rollers are focusing their efforts on the strong recovery in European demand, particularly for thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and other kitchen applications, which saw a remarkable growth in Q1 of almost 9%. This is considerably higher than the 6% seen in Q4 2021 and the overall growth trend last year of 3%. This is attributed to increased packaging requirements caused by renewed stocking trends in retail. Outside Europe deliveries fell about 25%.

Thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, performed less well, with declines of 1.5% in Europe and 30% elsewhere. After a strong end to 2021 production for these gauges is mostly down due to weaker demand in some technical areas and stock adjustment.

When taking account of the drop in exports the total demand for thinner gauges was 2.4% ahead in the first three months of the year, while thicker gauges ended down 4.6% in this period.

Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA believes the figures show a strong temporary recovery of the European economies while being very uncertain about the future development. “Fortunately, the resilience of the European market is very encouraging and gives us reason for optimism that this will keep our foil production at a high level over the entire year. But external disruptions and availability in the global logistic chain or further sudden rises in energy costs as well as expected high inflation force the manufacturers to continue being on high alert.”

“New foil rolling capacities went online recently and existing ones are going to be modernised. This shows the industry is very committed to meet the growing demand for aluminium foil in Europe caused by strong packaging and technical end-markets like battery foil for e-mobility.”

Aluminium foil: the most beautiful garment for chocolate Easter bunnies

Easter without chocolate bunnies? Unthinkable. According to the BDSI (Association of the German Confectionery Industry), a good 239 million bunnies will be produced in Germany alone in the 2022 season. Of these, 119 million will remain in Germany, while the remaining 120 million chocolate bunnies will be exported. The bunnies are very different: small, large, milk or dark chocolate. But almost all of them have one thing in common - a garment made of aluminium foil. There are good reasons for this, and not just the look.

Aluminium foil gives rabbits character
Aluminium can be rolled into very thin foils - easily much thinner than a human hair. In this form, the material has extraordinary plastic properties. By applying gentle pressure, it clings tightly to contours of all kinds, for example to chocolate Easter bunnies. In combination with a coloured print, chocolate figures with character are created. No wonder that chocolatiers rely on the popular foil to showcase their delicate chocolate art.

But that is not all. "Aluminium foil has numerous advantages as food packaging, from safety to recycling," emphasises Patrick Altenstrasser of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

The individual advantages in detail:

High food safety
As a metal, aluminium forms an absolutely tight barrier against bacteria, germs and sunlight even in thin layers. This protects the product on the supermarket shelf as well as in the morning damp lawn when it is hidden at Easter. At the same time, aluminium foil is literally child's play to remove in order to access the sweet contents.

Fresh taste
Tight packaging has a double benefit for chocolate Easter bunnies. Just as germs cannot get to the chocolate from the outside, the material prevents gas exchange between inside and outside.

Why is that important? "Flavours and moisture volatilise in gaseous form," explains Patrick Altenstrasser from EAFA. "Due to the tight packaging, aluminium foil effectively prevents this. As a result, the chocolate stays fresh and edible for a long time." So it doesn't have to be consumed directly on Easter - also good news for all those who had a big bunny in their basket.

Sustainable material
Furthermore, aluminium foil is a particularly sustainable material. Once extracted from ores, it can be recycled almost indefinitely. In 2019, more than 90% of aluminium packaging in Germany was recycled.

The aluminium experts have a tip for this: reuse works best if the foil is crumpled up before disposal.

Light weight
Aluminium foil is lightweight. Two factors come into play here: On the one hand, it is the very thin layer that is literally hardly bulky. In addition, aluminium is a light metal with a much lower density than iron or silver. Even compared to plastic, aluminium foil scores points. This reduces the effort required for transport and thus lowers the energy demand of logistics.

Aluminium foil: a success story for over 100 years
Anyone who gives their children a chocolate bunny for Easter today has probably held a colourful bunny in their hands as a child. The patent for the production of aluminium foil for packaging purposes is over 100 years old. Many of the European manufacturers can therefore look back on a long tradition.

Consumers encounter the sustainable and safe packaging not only at Easter. Chocolate Santas also dress up in glittery garb. By the way, there are slightly fewer of these than chocolate bunnies - in 2018 there were 150 million Santas compared to 220 million bunnies. In addition, there are various trays, foils and outer packaging made of aluminium foil for different purposes.

European aluminium foil sector with record level of deliveries as domestic demand surges

Full year results for Europe’s aluminium foil rollers saw 2021 finish on a record high, as the sector delivered overall growth of 3,9% compared with the previous 12 months. Total tonnage increased to 967.000 (2020: 931.000t) led by sustained recovery in domestic demand, which added 7,5% across the whole year and 12,8% in Q4 alone, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Deliveries of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, continued the trend from Q3 of stronger growth, up 6% in the last three months and 3,0% ahead for the year as a whole. Thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, also finished the year strongly with demand up 7% from October to December and almost 6% in the total year.

Exports continued to decline, down almost 15% in 2021, as the disruptive effects of the pandemic on production and supply chains are yet to fully unwind. But they were more than offset by European deliveries. Now, with the war in Ukraine, further disruption is expected, as Covid-19 has yet to be eradicated and supply shortages, as well as surging energy costs, are likely to see increased prices for most raw materials and commodities in 2022.

Bruno Rea, Chair of the EAFA Roller Group expressed satisfaction about the development in European markets, “This is a strong set of figures and shows the resilience in domestic demand. 2021 had many challenges as the pandemic continued to cause disruption across many aspects of production and supply. Not the least of these is the dramatic increase in energy costs which has very direct impacts on all foil rolling operations and will continue to do so for some time. Combined with high and very volatile raw material prices credit insurance lines can become insufficient in particular for our small- and medium-sized customers.”

“However, demand for aluminium foil in Europe remains strong, with volumes more than making up for the downturn in exports, which, while not welcome, was at least anticipated,” he added. “We will have to wait and see how the war in Ukraine and the continuing, if more muted, pandemic situation effects demand and supply patterns for 2022. But the industry is generally positive about market prospects going forward and looks to maintain the momentum seen in most of 2021.”

2021
European foil rollers maintain production amid disrupted supply chains

Total deliveries of aluminium foil products from Europe in Q3 2021 slowed slightly compared to the previous quarter, but remain ahead of the same period last year, according to figures released recently by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Shipments were 1,3% ahead, year on year, at 236,500 tonnes (Q3 2020: 233,400). In the first nine months of the year production of 723,000t is a healthy 2,7% above 2020 levels (706,500t), driven by continuing increased domestic consumption, which is offsetting export volume declines.

Demand in European markets continues to recover strongly, at +7%. Deliveries of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, were up 6% from the previous year. Thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, were also well ahead in these domestic markets, improving by 9%.

Exports were decreases by continuing global supply chain and trade issues and other pandemic related factors but also due to more focus on domestic deliveries.

Overall deliveries of thinner gauges continue to maintain an increase of over 1% in the first nine months. Thicker gauges put in a strong showing of more than 5% increase when compared to 2020.

Commenting on the figures Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA said, “Demand remains high in all foil consuming sectors, both packaging and technical applications, and European foil rollers continue to do their outmost to satisfy customers using all the capacity at their disposal. The year on year increase in deliveries this quarter is a very good performance when one considers the headwinds being encountered.”

“Challenges caused by a general aluminium material shortage, difficulties in logistics, as well as many other production issues, which include shortage of packaging materials such as wood but also exploding energy costs, mean that rollers must be highly adaptable to changing circumstances. The outlook is good but the last few months have shown that small things can have great effects, so we must continue to be vigilant,” he added.

Domestic recovery boosts European aluminium foil deliveries in first half of 2021

Following solid first quarter growth, led largely by exports, the second quarter of 2021 saw domestic deliveries of aluminium foil accelerate rapidly (+8,8%) as European demand recovered from the pandemic crisis. Exports declined slightly but were more than offset by growing internal demand. At the halfway point of the year total deliveries reached 488.900 tonnes, 3,4% ahead of the first six months of 2020, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Production of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, was slightly ahead in Q2, compared to the year before, contributing to an overall H1 increase of 2,5%. Thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, put in a strong performance, with double digit growth of 12% for the April-June quarter and a half year result 5% ahead. This is a dramatic turnaround compared to the -13% of Q2 2020 and -4,4% seen at the halfway point last time.

The ups and downs of the exports with YTD figures showing a drop of 4,6% are primarily caused by logistical difficulties to supply abroad.

Bruno Rea, Chairman of the EAFA Roller Group believes the figures are encouraging for the sector, but some headwinds remain, “The strong demand for aluminium foil products continues and even accelerates in Europe after the opening up of many markets after the pandemic. This growth is very broad across all categories. While our core market of packaging remains very strong, also the construction sector is growing once again, combined with a solid demand for automotive applications such as e-mobility.”

“However, the supply chain disruptions and shortages of raw materials in terms of metal and foil stock are affecting production and deliveries. The European foil rollers are using all their capacities to meet the demands of their domestic customers. Overall, the trend is encouraging, but we will remain vigilant and react accordingly,” concluded Mr Rea.

Aluminium foil deliveries see steady growth in first quarter of 2021

The first three months of 2021 saw deliveries from European foil rollers reach 245.000 tonnes, up by 2,3% compared to 2020 (239.500t) led by very satisfactory performance in overseas markets, where growth of over 10% was achieved, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Domestic demand also showed modest improvement, achieving 0,9% growth in the same period.

The first quarter is traditionally a strong one for the industry, as packaging converters and other customers re-stock after the festive holidays. But, with the disruption in demand caused by the pandemic, making predictions has become more difficult. The impact on deliveries was seen in the Q1 figures last year, which dropped compared to 2019, so a return to steady growth is welcomed by the sector.

Production of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, was up by 4,2%, as demand from ‘in home’ use and packaging remained strong. Thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, closed 0,9% down.

Once again, the bright spot was in exports, which returned to double-digit growth once again, after a very mixed performance last year, with only one three-month period showing similar improvement. This indicates a return to expansion in many overseas economies as lockdowns ease.

Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA commented, “The general recovery, post COVID-19, we predicted at the end of 2020 seems to be underway. However, this differs in many parts of the world, so it is difficult to predict a clear path to improved demand in all the markets served by European aluminium foil rollers.”

“The packaging sector is certainly strong now and this major market for aluminium foil is forecasted to further increase this year. But supply chains continue to see disruptions either caused by limited raw material availability, global logistics or trade defence measures in place or expected.,” he added.

“Overall, this is an encouraging first quarter result and something to build on, meaning the European foil rollers are looking cautiously optimistic into the next quarters.,” stated Aufdemkamp.

Statistics 2020 - European aluminium foil rollers deliver solid performance in a disruptive year

Despite major disruption to markets, supply chains and production during 2020, European deliveries of aluminium foil, to both domestic and overseas markets, ended the year only fractionally (0,2%) lower than the previous year. Total production was 930.700 tonnes, compared to 933.100 in 2019. Overall domestic deliveries were 0,5% lower, while exports showed an encouraging 0,8% increase, according to the latest figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Production of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, ended the year up by 2,1%, while thicker gauges, used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, closed 4,3% down. These figures are accounted for by relatively strong demand for packaging, household foil and foil containers due to lockdowns, as well as increased retail sales plus take-away and delivery consumption. This was offset by a drop in orders for technical and industrial applications and some other foodservice uses, which underwent major upheavals in the pandemic.

The figures for the final quarter of 2020 were 2,9% up, revealing stable demand, at 224.300 tonnes (2019: 218.000). This period is usually affected by the long Christmas and New Year holiday and totals are traditionally lower than for Q1-Q3. Thinner gauges accounted for much of the solid performance, with deliveries +5,5% while thicker gauges dropped only marginally, down 1,6%.

With global markets experiencing major disruption, exports of aluminium foil from Europe achieved a strong outcome, increasing by 0,8%. At a time, when most markets and supply chains have been turbulent, this is seen as a very positive result.

Bruno Rea, President of EAFA expressed his satisfaction at the year-end results. “Compared with some other sectors of industry, European aluminium foil rollers have achieved a very satisfying performance across all markets in 2020,” he said.

“The outlook for 2021 is for a slow general recovery, post COVID-19, which could have a continued impact on the business for a time, as uncertainties about trade continue. But generally, we are confident of a stable, positive year ahead.  Also, we look forward to the results of the EU Commission anti-dumping investigations for converter foil, which will be published in May this year,” he added.

2020
Aluminium foil deliveries recover in Q3 as exports grow

The third quarter of 2020 saw some welcome recovery in deliveries of aluminium foil which experienced growth of 1.7% in the period. This was caused, to a large extent, by a stronger export performance, with sales outside Europe increasing by 13.7%, according to figures just released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Total deliveries in the year to date now stand at 709,000 tonnes (2019: 715,000 tonnes), a slight decrease of 0.8%

These figures were helped by improved deliveries of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils. This category added 5.2% in the third quarter and for the first nine months of 2020 it increased by 1.3% compared with 2019 figures. Thicker gauges, typically used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications fared less well, recording a decline of 4.7% in the three months to September and overall YTD deliveries are 4.5% below the year before.

While domestic consumption continues to be flat, showing a 0.6% drop in the 3 months period, the first nine months for these markets remained stable – and even positive in the packaging sector. The return to growth for exports reflects the easing of COVID-19 disruption to trade in the summer. The first six months of this year saw a steep decline in deliveries outside Europe, but as factories reopened across the world, the demand for aluminium foil improved.

Commenting on the figures, Guido Aufdemkamp, EAFA Executive Director said, “The figures reflect a period when the pandemic seemed to be in retreat and the business world was seeing a certain recovery. We now know that coronavirus is not going away as we had hoped and new measures to fight its spread will cause more disruption to trade until the end of this year and beyond.”

“The lead up to the holiday season is normally a good time for the aluminium foil sector, but if lockdowns continue this could severely impact sales in our traditional markets in both directions. While most factories continue to operate and the food packaging sector has been very robust, it is hard to predict what the next three or six months will bring. Fortunately, the foil rolling sector is experienced in dealing with fluctuating demand patterns, so should be able to adapt accordingly,” added Aufdemkamp.

Demand for packaging sustains Q2 aluminium foil deliveries during pandemic

Aluminium foil deliveries inside Europe stayed relatively strong thanks to more demand for some gauges used in packaging application, during the current pandemic. Exports continued to decline due to lockdowns in many economies and disrupted supply chains. Total deliveries were down 4.5% in Q2, compared to 2019, at 234,000 tonnes. The first six months of this year saw production fall 2.0%, to 476,000 tonnes, according to figures just released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

However, closer analysis shows domestic deliveries of thinner gauges, mainly used for flexible packaging and household foils, actually increased marginally (0.3%) in these three months. This helped European deliveries of all gauges in the first six months of 2020 to add 0.5% over last year. The increase is accounted for by demand for food and pharmaceutical packaging caused by the pandemic, with more home consumption and less out-of-home usage, it is believed. Overall there was a small drop in total deliveries for thinner gauges, down 0.6% in the first half.

Unfortunately, the effects of the coronavirus weighed heavily on thicker gauges, typically used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications - so in the automotive and construction sectors, which have been badly affected. There was a steep decline in second quarter deliveries (over ten percent) leading to an overall drop of 4.4% for the first six months.

Unsurprisingly exports have been negatively affected by the global situation, as many traditionally strong overseas markets are badly disrupted.  Q2 saw deliveries fall over ten percent and this figure also reflects the downturn in exports for the first half of the year.

Commenting on the figures, Bruno Rea, EAFA President said, “While the strong demand for food and pharmaceutical packaging can partially compensate the drops in exports and technical applications it is not something we want to see continue. Hopefully Q3 will see resumptions in construction and car production.

“Fortunately, the majority of European foil rollers have continued almost normal production, despite the difficulties. We expect the demand for packaging applications to return to typical levels while technical applications and exports will remain weaker. Nevertheless, we are more optimistic than at the very beginning of the pandemic,” he added.

Typical surface characteristics of aluminium foil uniformly explained

To help packaging manufacturers and other end users understand the different visual characteristics which may occur on the surface of the aluminium foil they receive for printing, laminating and converting, the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) has created an illustrated catalogue explaining these.

The catalogue lists typical surface characteristics which may occur on finished rolls of aluminium foil. These include scratches, spots, stains, gloss differences and roll marks. Others such as stripes and stains have been sub-divided to show different types of these respective characteristics.

Each characteristic is clearly illustrated and accompanied by an explanation of the possible root causes. The catalogue is intended to help foil rollers and their customers to communicate "in a common language", since quite frequently there is a problem when the parties involved have a different understanding of the terms used to describe these characteristics. This publication, which is available online and can be downloaded, should help both sides to identify the respective surface detail in the same way and thus be able to talk about the same phenomenon.

These terms are available in English, German, Italian, Spanish and French.

EAFA’s Surface Characteristics of Aluminium Foil catalogue is available at surface.alufoil.org

First quarter of 2020 sees domestic aluminium foil deliveries rise due to restocking and pandemic

Total shipments of aluminium foil in the first quarter of 2020 increased slightly compared with the same period in 2019, reaching 242,100 tonnes (2019: 240,700t.) European deliveries rose by 3.4%  but this was largely offset by a steep drop in exports, down 13.3%, according to the latest figures from the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

While restocking after the long Christmas break accounts for some of this increase, the strong demand for domestic uses, pre-packed foods and takeaway services caused by the COVID-19 lockdowns across Europe are believed to have been positive factors. The drop in exports is partly accounted for by disrupted supply chains due to earlier lockdowns in these markets.

Having experienced soft demand throughout the previous year, thinner gauges, mainly used for flexible packaging and household foils, saw production for domestic use rise 3.2% in the first period of 2020. But there was a pronounced decline in deliveries outside Europe, down 20.9%. Thicker gauges used mainly for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, continued to show resilience in all markets, with Europe adding 3.7% and exports returning to growth with a 7.4% rise. Overall deliveries of thinner gauge products declined 1.5% in Q1, while thicker gauges increased by 4.2%.

Guido Aufdemkamp, EAFA Executive Director commented, “The markets for aluminium foil products have seen the COVID-19 pandemic become a major influence on demand patterns in the later part of this quarter. With so many people under lockdown and having to cook at home, or purchase only takeaway foods, the use of foil has increased. Likewise consumers now prefer pre-packaged foods, and this has helped all packaging materials, not just foil, to improve sales.”

“But, of course, the downside is that global exports are almost at a standstill and we see disruption to supply chains in overseas markets remaining for some time. We anticipate European demand will stay very strong through Q2 and probably into Q3. But it is difficult to predict anything at present, so we will continue to watch events closely and act accordingly,” he added.

No worries when barbecuing with aluminium

A healthy outlook for the barbecue season: aluminium foil and trays offer protection against carcinogenic substances

A balmy summer’s evening, chilled drinks, mouth-watering aromas, delicious culinary treats. The invitations to the BBQ party are out, and everyone’s licking their chops in anticipation. To make sure that the big sizzle over the hot coals will be a hot and tasty experience for their guests, hobby and professional BBQ aficionados often reach out for aluminium foil or trays. Since opinions are frequently divided about the use of the metal in cooking, some BBQ parties can be the scene of heated debate. Is grilling with aluminium utensils a health risk? Or does grilling on aluminium trays or foil have a protective effect, ensuring that fat doesn’t drip into the hot coals, where it can burn and release carcinogenic substances into the food?

Both questions are justified – but people shouldn’t allow the great BBQ experience to be spoiled by worrying too much. True, grilling pre-seasoned meat and vegetables or fish drizzled with lemon juice can result in aluminium ions migrating from aluminium trays or foil into the food on the grid. On the other hand, however, the use of aluminium trays or foil helps prevent fat from dripping into the hot coals, where it can burn and release carcinogenic substances. The decisive aspect, there­fore, is to make sure that the trays are used in the proper way.

 

To help prevent “German angst” from spoiling your BBQ experience, here are a few tips on how to use aluminium trays and foil properly to prepare your food in a healthy and safe way:

  1. Practical helpers: BBQ trays protect against PAHs

Aluminium grilling trays and foil protect the consumer against hazardous substances that may occur during the grilling process, since the health risks involved when grilling directly on the grid are many times greater than when cooking the food on a tray. So-called poly­cyclic aro­matic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which may cause cancer, occur in all situa­tions in which meat fat or oil used in the marinade drips into the hot coals or onto the heat­ing coil of the electric grill. BBQ dishes or foil made of aluminium act as a barrier here, pre­venting the grilled food from absorbing these hazardous substances. These practical drip-catching aids are also ideally suited for preparing vegetables and meat spits.

  1. Spices are the aluminium tray’s worst enemy

Please don’t leave acid- or salt-containing food (e.g. strongly salted or marinaded meat or fish drizzled with lemon juice) to stand in uncoated grilling trays, also don’t wrap it in household aluminium foil.
Always season your grilled food only after it comes off the grill and onto your plate. This ensures that you get the maximum protection from your BBQ helpers.

  1. Don’t panic – there’s no danger

So aluminium is in principle ideally suited for grilling: it offers protection against high tempera­tures, the food doesn’t burn so quickly and doesn’t stick to the grid. Food that’s wrapped in aluminium foil, e.g. fish and vegetables, stays tender and succulent, and has a more intense flavour. When the instructions mentioned above are heeded, there’s no risk of an excessive uptake of aluminium ions with the food. Another general point that’s worth bearing in mind is that only about four percent of our overall uptake of aluminium comes from uncoated alumin­ium utensils like grilling trays, aluminium foil, or meal trays: by far the greater part of the up­take originates from untreated food and cosmetic articles (see www.allesueberalu.de/Alufolie.html).

  1. When the party’s over: aluminium foil and barbecue trays belong in the Yellow Bin

Using aluminium foil and grilling trays also helps reduce waste. After use, the aluminium from which the trays and foil are made can be recycled many times over, without any forfeit of the material’s quality and with a low energy investment. This is why such items should be dis­posed of via the “Yellow Bin” after their use. The recycling of aluminium consumes only about five per cent of the energy needed to make aluminium from bauxite. In 2018, the recycling rate for grilling trays and (foil-similar) aluminium packaging materials in Germany in general achieved a record high of 90.4% (see https://davr.de/index.php/zahlen-und-statistiken.html).

  1. Cooking “au point”

Thanks to the excellent heat-conduction properties of aluminium, the food is cooked evenly throughout, in other words aluminium distributes the cooking heat homogeneously. The grilled food doesn’t burn too quickly.



Interview with Dr Ulrich Nehring, certified food technologist:
DE / EN / FR / IT

Additional Pictures: Aluminium Foil / Aluminium Trays / Picture Dr Nehring

Alufoil Trophy 2020 - The Winners

Alufoil Trophy 2020: Winners show engineering, marketing and sustainability of aluminium foil at full potential

The winners have been chosen – and the entries awarded with an Alufoil Trophy 2020 once again demonstrate the wide range of applications and uses to which this truly flexible material can be successfully applied. As the most important competition for innovation and performing excellence in the sector, the Alufoil Trophy, this year, attracted a very diverse range of products across the five categories.

From the purely marketing to purely engineering, and including outstanding environmental responsibility, every aspect of aluminium foil was scrutinised by the judges, who were headed by Veith Behrmann, Group Packaging Manager for Nestlé Nespresso. Commenting on the overall results Behrmann said, “Aluminium foil is a very multi-talented material and the entries in this year’s Alufoil Trophy showed just how clever innovators are at coming up with fresh ideas. In particular we were impressed by the potential for some of these products to be applied to wider markets.”

“We felt two entries, one packaging and one automotive application, were so worthy of recognition, that special awards for Innovative Use of Aluminium Foil were given. A special gas bag made from an alufoil laminate, in a new suspension system for Mercedes Benz, plus a range of reusable dining plates to replace disposable plastic and paper ones, show just why aluminium foil is so special and has innovation potential,” he added.

Speaking about the awards Guido Aufdemkamp, executive director of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), organisers of the competition said, “The issues of sustainability and resource efficiency are at the top of the agenda for packaging material suppliers especially now. So we were not surprised to receive multiple entries in the Resource Efficiency category where we had two winners in the end. But it was also good to see exciting marketing applications and clever products addressing real modern consumer needs taking well deserved awards.”

The competition is open to products which are either made from aluminium foil or contain aluminium foil as part of a laminate, structure or packaging system, as well as aluminium closures. Categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil usage across many diverse markets. The classifications are Consumer Convenience; Marketing + Design; Product Protection; Resource Efficiency; and Technical Innovation. The judges also have discretion to award an Alufoil Trophy for products displaying excellence across a number of categories, or for an outstanding or clever application.

Aluminium Foil Statistics 2019

Continuing trade turbulence holds back European alufoil deliveries

In common with many other manufacturing sectors the European aluminium foil sector saw a slowdown in demand for its products during 2019, particularly in domestic markets. But the total tonnage delivered, 933,056t, represents only a small 1.0% drop compared to the record levels of 2018 (942,496t), according to the latest figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Continuing the trend seen throughout the year, total deliveries to European customers declined 3.1% to 781,320 tonnes. Once again exports showed more resilience, ending 11.4% up at 151,736 tonnes overall. However Q4 figures, often a strong period in recent years, saw overseas demand down 16.7% (32,043t) with domestic orders flat at 185,953t, a fall of 2% on 2018.

Once again production of thinner gauges, mainly used for flexible packaging and household foils, was soft in European markets, ending down 2.6% at 591,720t for the year, and 6,3% lower in the final quarter. However thicker gauges, typically used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, continued to put in a strong performance, finishing the year 2,0% up, at 341.335t delivered, but recording a small decline of 1.2% in the last three months of 2019.

“Given the continuing trade dispute between China and the USA, flat demand in Europe and now the disruption to global trade caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, we should be satisfied with such a small overall drop in demand,” said Bruno Rea, EAFA President.

“Prior to the pandemic signs were positive that the trade dispute would be resolved soon. Most European aluminium foil rollers are currently running at full capacity and supplying aluminium foil to the food and pharmaceutical sectors. These depend on aluminium foil’s unique barrier properties, which demonstrates the essential role of the foil industry based in Europe,” added Mr Rea.

Telling the story of aluminium foil in packaging: new infographic gives the full picture

Why is aluminium foil great for packaging? A new infographic, released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), has the answers! The cleverly designed infographic covers the three main benefits of aluminium foil in packaging: as a highly effective material with unique properties, its great resource efficiency and its contribution to a circular economy.

In turn, each of these themes highlights clearly in words and pictures key elements of the story. So aluminium foil’s unique physical properties and barrier performances are shown, together with its variable formats and applications. Next its lightweight advantages while maintaining a high barrier performance are explained, which saves both material and energy resources and, at the same time, helps to reduce food waste. Lastly the need for proper collection is emphasised, as are the many industry initiatives to improve its recycling and so recover as much aluminium material as possible. The infographic comes in a simple one-page format and can be used for internal information in workplaces, or as an educational tool, says the Association.

“We wanted to provide an educational tool to explain the great value aluminium foil brings to the packaging sector and highlight the key reasons for that,” explains Marika Knorr, Deputy Executive Director at EAFA. “The infographic has been designed for a broad and varied audience. This way it can help to show younger people why foil is used so extensively, while, at the same time, explain to factory staff and others the positive technical, environmental and commercial aspects of this material.”

“More and more we can demonstrate how aluminium foil is very fit for a circular economy, both in terms of ability and performance. Aluminium material is highly recyclable without loss of quality. Plus the industry, through many initiatives across Europe, is working continuously on improving the collection and recycling of packaging containing aluminium foil. We strongly believe aluminium foil will continue its success as sustainable, but also highly effective packaging material,” she added.

To the "Aluminium Key Messages"

‘High five’ as Alufoil Trophy winners scoop WorldStar Awards

A record breaking five products, which were recognised earlier this year for excellence in aluminium foil innovation by the Alufoil Trophy 2019 competition, have received internationally recognised WorldStars following judging by voting members of the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) at its meeting in Bali, Indonesia.

Constantia Flexibles International, no stranger to Worldstar success, has won two awards in the Food category. The first was for its EasyOpenLidretort, a newly developed solution for alufoil-based food container systems, used for in-pack sterilization processes, allowing easier and more convenient opening.

The company’s second award comes for a joint development with saturn petcare which offers modern styling for premium pet food products. The round, alufoil container is designed to communicate a high quality packaging appearance by printing 100% of the surface, fully visible at the point of sale. The design also improves stability while the ergonomic bowl shape supports the easy removal of the contents.

Another joint development, this time by Amcor Flexibles and Glaxo SmithKline has won in the Medical and Pharmaceutical category. The Formpack® Dessiflex Ultra for Augmentin® offers enhanced protection for this antibiotic, which is very moisture sensitive. The desiccated blister pack combines a Formpack® Dessiflex Ultra Blister System with a specific lidding foil.

The Ardagh Group, working with Orkla Foods of Norway has picked up a WorldStar in the Labelling & Decoration category. A new Hansa can for Stabburet, which is a printed, easy open, alufoil-based container for a traditional fish fillet pack, achieves a reduction in material thickness from 0.21mm to 0.19mm, without changing the format, or any loss of performance during the retorting process.

Finally, the winner of the overall Discretionary Award for the Alufoil Trophy, the e-WAK® from Guala Closures Group has been being recognised with a WorldStar in the Packaging Materials & Components category. This is the first patented NFC (Near Field Communication) closure dedicated to wineries. The aluminium screwcap with NFC technology allows every bottle to become a “connected bottle” and wineries to establish one-to-one relationships with consumers.

“Once again it is great news to see so many Alufoil Trophy winners recognised by WPO for their contribution to the advancement of packaging technology,” said Guido Aufdemkamp, executive director of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). “We are confident Europe’s aluminium foil rollers will remain at the cutting edge of new pack developments, using this fully recyclable material to create exciting and sustainable products. These WorldStars add strength to the purpose behind the Alufoil Trophy – to encourage innovation,” he added.

2019
Millions of reasons to be jolly!

Chocolate Santa Claus production set to break more records in 2019 and comes with a fully sustainable wrapper

Each year one of the great icons of the Christmas Festival, Santa Claus, is recreated in chocolate for one of the most traditional of presents. This is made possible not only by the craft of chocolatiers but by the glittering aluminium foil which decorates and protects them.

Across Europe more than 156 million Santas were seen to sparkle on the shelves last season, while, in Germany alone, more than 151 million versions of the jolly white-bearded man were sold – an increase of 4% from the year before. It is estimated that the surface area of the foil used to wrap all the Santas produced in Europe is now close to 4 million square metres, so could completely cover several major European cities!

In these highly environmentally aware times it is also worth noting that Santa’s wrapper can be completely recycled. With recycling rates for aluminium packaging in Germany now well above 87% it is great to know there is a Sustainable Santa as well as the tastiest of Christmas treats.

While most images depict a jolly, portly man with lots of white whiskers, thanks to modern printing techniques for foil, Santa can be seen in his local, cultural form. So we can have Saint Nicholas for his religious origins, Sinterklaas in The Netherlands or Kris Kringle in the USA. Another example is Joulupukki, who is the Finnish Christmas figure and that name literally means "Christmas goat" or "Yule Goat". Thankfully today he looks more like a traditional Santa!

All across Europe Father Christmas’s image can be reproduced to be seen in his local manifestation. But, of course, thanks to aluminium foil’s shiny surface, he is always bright and sparkling and full of Christmas wonder!

“Of course the serious business of protecting the chocolate Santa on his journey down the chimney and to his spot under the Christmas Tree is an important reason why aluminium foil is the perfect choice for his wrapping material,” explained Marika Knorr, Deputy Executive Director at the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). “He is protected from dust, light, moisture and external odours thanks to the barrier properties of the foil and its deadfold properties mean it is a super-tight fit to ensure the barrier is effective.”

Many of these figures are sold internationally, so the bright, colourful wrappers (and what’s inside) bring Christmas joy to many parts of the world.

Aluminium foil demand slips in quiet Q3 trading

It has been a quiet period of trade for European aluminium foil rollers in the 3 months to the end of September due to continuing uncertainty in global markets generally, as well as the ongoing China/USA trade dispute. Overall demand in Q3 was down 2.2% to 228,685 tonnes (2018: 233,727t) with year to date (YTD) figures showing total production almost unchanged at 714,251 tonnes, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

The downturn can be attributed largely to slow demand in the market for thinner gauges (down 1.9% YTD), that is mainly used for flexible packaging and household foils. Figures for the third quarter show a drop of 4.4% in deliveries in this category, continuing the modest downward trend of the previous six months. This was offset by a 2% rise in deliveries of thicker gauges, typically used for semi-rigid containers, technical or other applications, again continuing the trend from the previous two quarters.

Exports reflected the ongoing global trade uncertainties with a small drop of 0.8% in the last period, but continue to be well ahead of 2018 YTD figures (+21.4%.). This is accompanied by a strong overall performance in the thicker gauge category, which is 3.5% ahead YTD.

“Predicting demand in the current market is extremely difficult,” said Bruno Rea, EAFA President. “Demand in Europe for aluminium foil has generally been weak throughout 2019 due to increasing exports from China, but there are some bright spots, particularly the consistent performance of thicker gauges and strong export deliveries,” he added.

“We are positive - the last quarter of the year is traditionally a good one for the sector and it is possible customers have held off restocking for the upcoming Holiday Season until later this year. So with incoming orders almost on a par with 2018, itself a record for the industry, we believe this is a very resilient performance in unpredictable times,” he explained.

ACG - Global upward trend of aluminium closures used for still wines continues

Screw caps as closures for wines are on the rise – during the recent Mundus Vini* 2019 summer tasting, where 170 wine experts from 45 countries blind taste wines from all over the world, award-winning wines using aluminium closures accounted for 23% of the total (397 of 1737 medal winners) compared to 20% in 2018 (344 of 1730.) – that is an increase of 15%.

Still wines overall accounted for 1551 winners (2018:1572) of which 25% were sealed using aluminium closures, recording yet another double-digit (13%) increase. In the Gold Medal category the number awarded to still wines increased year on year by 42% and aluminium closures stayed right on track with a 42% increase while also increasing its share of the medals. Altogether the number of Gold Medals awarded to still wines with aluminium screw caps reached 166, or 23% of the total.

In the so-called ‘new world’, modern wine growing markets such as Australia, Austria, Germany and New Zealand the screw cap is clearly king. Also these wines tend to favour this style of closure independent of the price category for quality, safety and convenience reasons. As these countries’ market share has increased dramatically since the beginning of the 21st Century, so the amount of aluminium closures in use have risen accordingly.

Significantly, in traditional markets such as Italy, France and Spain, where screw cap closures are usually less well represented, the number of medals awarded increased, from 36 to 65, year on year, with award winning wines from both Italy and Spain using aluminium closures more than doubling.

Recent figures released from all Meininger wine tasting events across a period of 2009 to 2018, show that aluminium closures for both still white and rosé wines now account for more than 50% of all closures used across these categories. For red wines the aluminium closure is the second most popular closure of choice with 18%, while traditional closures continue to be predominant, particularly in France, Italy and Spain.

The data also shows that in the last decade, globally, the percentage of wines using aluminium closures has increased from 19 to 34%. Meininger tasting events normally account for more than 30,000 individual wines from all origins and of all qualities each year.

“We are seeing aluminium wine closures making excellent progress across all market segments – including being increasingly used for high-quality wines,” said Marika Knorr, Deputy Executive Director of the Aluminium Closures Group. “The momentum for screw caps is clearly demonstrated by the results of Mundus Vini and other tastings. Premiumization is a big trend amongst wines and the aluminium closure is the perfect fit. We believe this modern, convenient and recyclable closure, which does not affect the contents of the bottle in any way, will be the closure of choice for the future.”

* MUNDUS VINI was founded by Meininger Verlag 18 years ago and has been one of the most important wine competitions in the world. Everywhere in the world, wines are found in the trade and gastronomy, which have been awarded by MUNDUS VINI. The target of the competition is to promote quality and the marketing of the wines entered.

Alufoil Trophy 2020: Nestlé Nespresso packaging expert to lead judging panel

EAFA Alufoil Trophy 2020 PR extra

EAFA Alufoil Trophy 2020: Nestlé Nespresso packaging expert to lead judging panel

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) today announced the Alufoil Trophy 2020 judging panel, made up of experts from all parts of the aluminium foil and closure sector, will be led by Veith Behrmann, Group Packaging Manager at Nestlé Nespresso in Switzerland. He will act as the external judge and offer insights and opinions from an end user perspective.

Veith Behrmann brings 35 years of experience in the packaging sector to the panel. After positions with machinery manufacturers TOSS and Rovema, he joined Nestlé in 1988, working in Switzerland and then Japan, developing key packaging technologies. He joined Nespresso in 2006 as project manager new packaging technology before moving to his current role.

The announcement of Alufoil Trophy 2020 winners coincides with interpack in Dusseldorf and the winning products will be displayed on EAFA’s stand throughout the exhibition. In addition there will be a special awards ceremony during the show and Veith Behrmann will join EAFA in presenting the trophies to the winners.

“Having a high calibre external judge to compliment the panel of experts from the industry ensures the scrutiny of entries is very rigorous, as an end user will see things from a different perspective sometimes,” explained Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA. “The Alufoil Trophy is now regarded as one of the top awards competitions in its field, not only because it has stood the test of time, but also thanks to the reputation and quality of the judging.”

The competition is open to products which are either made from aluminium foil or contain aluminium foil as part of a laminate, structure or packaging system, as well as aluminium closures. Categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil usage, including industrial applications, across many diverse markets. The classifications are Consumer Convenience; Marketing + Design; Product Protection; Resource Efficiency; and Technical Innovation.

Submitting an entry to the Alufoil Trophy 2020 is free and full details and application forms are available at www.trophy.alufoil.org. Applicants have between now and the deadline of 14 November 2019 to submit entries.

EAFA Alufoil Trophy 2020: Looking for innovation and excellence in aluminium foil and aluminium closures

EAFA Alufoil Trophy 2020 LAUNCH PR

EAFA Alufoil Trophy 2020: Looking for innovation and excellence in aluminium foil and aluminium closures

Entries for the next Alufoil Trophy are now being accepted. The competition highlights best practice, and turns the spotlight on the most important areas of R&D and application innovation

Finally, it’s that time of the year again! The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) is looking for the latest products, ideas and applications from all parts of the European aluminium foil sector. Entries are now being accepted for the Alufoil Trophy until the deadline of 14 November 2019.

In recent years, the winners of the Alufoil Trophy have been able to demonstrate the innovative power and excellent application possibilities from all areas of the European aluminium foil industry with brand new ideas, solutions and creative designs. Only the best entries can convince the international jury, consisting of world leading experts, and achieve recognition far beyond the industry.

This year’s competition offers an additional plus for the winners, as there will be a special award ceremony taking place during interpack 2020 in Dusseldorf, the world’s largest packaging technology fair. Their winning products will also be displayed on the EAFA stand.

“The competition has grown in prestige and importance over the years and truly highlights the ‘state-of-the-art’ in Europe,” explains Guido Aufdemkamp, EAFA’s Executive Director. “It reflects the current trends and drivers in the aluminium foil sector, particularly environmental and sustainability issues as well as innovative designs made possible by using versatile aluminium as a packaging material. We are impressed every year by the ingenuity and creativity shown by contestants. These often combine environmental and social elements with remarkable design and performance advances,” he added.

The field is very broad – so entries can come from packaging designers, brand owners, foil rollers, foil converters, foil container manufacturers, closure manufacturers, household foil manufacturers, retailers, industrial solution providers, as well as interested consumer groups or associations. It is also possible to combine entries from any of these disciplines.
The Alufoil Trophy categories honours best practices in the following categories:

Marketing + Design: Improvements to graphic and structural packaging design, ergonomics and ideas that lead to greater shelf appeal at point-of-sale, as well as industrial design applications

Consumer Convenience: Answering calls for improved technical performance that provides benefits to the consumer

Resource Efficiency: Sustainable environmental performance is among the foremost challenges faced by industry. Developments should provide benefits and demonstrate environmental and commercial advantages whether in consumer or industrial applications

Product Protection: Best practices for delivering products safely and hygienically

Technical Innovation: The development of innovative ideas should provide benefits for the brand owner, retailer, consumer and industrial user through the performance of a material, manufacturing method or conversion process

More details and application forms are available at www.trophy.alufoil.org.
Entries will be accepted from now until the deadline of 14 November 2019.

 

Exports lead the way as European aluminium foil production levels remain flat

Düsseldorf - At the half way mark in 2019 European aluminium foil production is showing a modest increase of close to 1% compared to 2018. While European demand remains soft, exports to markets outside the area are powering ahead. So far this year overseas sales have increased by 34.6%, more than double the figure seen in the whole of 2018, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Year to date total deliveries of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, declined by 1%. Thicker gauges, typically utilized for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, were ahead by 4.2%, maintaining the positive trend for this category. However overall domestic demand decreased by 4.1% compared to the same period last year.

Shipments in the three months April to June 2019 totalled 245,300 tonnes, advancing 2.9% on Q2 production in 2018. Thinner gauges reversed recent declines with an increase of 2.4%, while thicker gauge products added 3.9%. A positive export performance saw deliveries increase by 58% in the quarter.

Bruno Rea, President of EAFA believes the outlook remains hard to predict. “The fact that production levels are ahead of 2018 is encouraging. But export markets are notoriously volatile, particularly in current circumstances, when continuing trade disputes are weighing on international trade,” he said.

“We would like to see European demand improve as it has been in decline during 2019. This could be due to a number of factors, such as de-stocking or cautious ordering patterns because of the uncertainties in the marketplace. There is a dramatic increase of foil inflow from China, severely impacting domestic production levels - the impact on the European supply and demand balance by imports from outside Europe is continuing to hurt the European Foil Roller industry. The fundamentals for our European customers remain positive in our opinion and we do see the likelihood of an improvement in orders in the next six months,” according to Rea.

“Meanwhile we are happy that the quality of our foil means it is in strong demand from our overseas customers,” he added.

 

Lets Twist Again - Like We Did Last Summer!

Düsseldorf, Germany - In the hot summer months ahead white and rosé wines are at their most popular. And more producers of these delicious and refreshing beverages are turning to aluminium closures as their preferred choice. Even in the traditional European markets, increasing numbers of winemakers are using this most convenient, elegant and effective form of closure. A simple twist is all that is necessary to gain access to the refreshing liquid inside!

Indeed in France the strong market for rosé wines in the summer months has seen even traditional winemakers using far more contemporary packaging designs. The result has been that the share of aluminium closures used in this segment tripled to 38% in just five years*.

With more and more outdoor events taking place, such as festivals and concerts, as well as the huge rise in the popularity of barbecues at home, the advantages of the screwcap made from aluminium has really come into its own: they are easy to transport, store, open and close and need no other component to get inside. As the bottle can be opened and closed easily there is no danger of spilling a drop!

In Europe the volume of wine using aluminium closures has been growing continuously since 2010, along with the consumption of non-vintage wines generally in this market. The market share for bottled still wine using these closures in 2016, when the last survey was undertaken*, stood at 30% and has continued to increase since then.

Other properties of the aluminium closure include that they are perfectly neutral from an organoleptic point of view; there is no possibility of cork taint; there is complete consistency from bottle to bottle of the same wine; it is easy to store – upright, on its side, even upside down; and it is easy to see if the bottle has been tampered with.

Not only do these closures offer convenience and safe use, they can show off the product to the best advantage with endless decorative possibilities. And they are a highly sustainable option, a very important factor for the modern consumer. Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) studies* show that wine loss as a result of cork closures is more significant than for aluminium. So aluminium closures can help to reduces food waste and increase overall resource efficiency. Indeed recovering and recycling aluminium closures is very common in Europe and with the metal being fully recyclable it is one of the most sustainable packaging materials.

So for those hot summer evenings ahead, what better way to enjoy your chilled bottle of white or rosé at its best, with aluminium closures. Twisting time is here!!!

*Sources: Rosé market share – source Euromonitor International (2018); Bottled Still Wine Market – IWSR / Euromonitor International / EAFA (2018); Wine Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) study – Quantis

Slow demand for aluminium foil in domestic markets offset by strong export growth

Düsseldorf – Aluminium foil deliveries from European rollers dropped in the first three months of 2019 as users and converters are thought to have reduced their stock levels in the domestic market, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

The total volume was 239,400 tonnes, 1.2% lower than for Q1 in 2018 (242,300t). This reflects a downturn in home deliveries of 4%. However, exports from selected countries and in limited product categories continued to produce a strong performance, achieving 16% growth compared to the same period last year.

Thinner gauge foils used mainly for high-end flexible packaging and household foils declined 4.3% in the first quarter, while thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, rose by 4.5%, accelerating the upward trend seen at the end of last year.

Analysing the figures Bruno Rea, EAFA President said, “There was good development of foil shipments during 2018 so this fall in domestic orders, we believe, is the result of excess stocks being reduced to reflect current demand levels, following the long Christmas and New Year holidays.”

“Generally, foil demand in Europe is relatively stable. Supplies from China increased dramatically by almost 40%, severely impacting domestic production levels. Exports continue to be an area of alternative sales, as it was throughout most of 2018. Nevertheless, the impact on the European supply and demand balance by imports from outside Europe starts to hurt the European industry. Relying on exports in a market that is distorted by duties will not support the European foil rollers in the mid- to long-term, putting the entire industry at risk.” he added.

“The industry is concerned about current disputes which are affecting world economic development, as it does impact on foil end-markets.,” concluded Mr Rea.

Further information: communications@alufoil.org

 

Alufoil Trophy 2019 - The Winners

Alufoil Trophy 2019: Winning entries focus on more convenience and a better environment

The most important competition for innovation and new technological advances in aluminium foil, the Alufoil Trophy 2019, once again attracted a strong field of entries. In total nine awards were made across the five categories, including a discretionary award for overall excellence for one outstanding product. The Alufoil Trophy is an annual event, organised each year by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

The judges, led this year by Laura Fernandez, senior packaging technologist at Marks & Spencer, noted strong social elements running through entries this year, particularly in terms of convenience for the consumer and social or environmental aspects of the product development. One example of these themes is an alufoil lid with the capability to emboss braille – offering information to shoppers with poor vision. Another enables sensitive pharmaceuticals to be used in very humid and tropical areas of the world safely.

“We were very taken with many of the entries working effectively on more than one level. So while it was clever technically, or offered energy or material savings, there were also other aspects which made it special, such as easier opening or with the potential to reduce food waste. In particular we should mention the discretionary award winner, an intelligent and ‘connected’ aluminium wine closure which simply takes this device and its functionality to a new level,” Ms Fernandez remarked.

“Another winner was not from the packaging sector, but was an outstanding entry in the category of Resource Efficiency. It clearly demonstrated better efficiencies and reduced consumption in energy recovery rotors, made possible by very clever use of alufoil,” she continued.

Speaking about the awards Guido Aufdemkamp, executive director of EAFA said, “Again we see aluminium foil manufacturers and converters stepping up to, and meeting, the challenges of an increasingly socially aware and sustainable environment. At the same time they are addressing the real needs of consumers for smarter and more convenient packaging. The Alufoil Trophy is a very effective way to highlight how the aluminium foil sector is leading such developments,” he explained.

The competition is open to products which are either made from aluminium foil or contain aluminium foil as part of a laminate, structure or packaging system, as well as aluminium closures. Categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil usage across many diverse markets. The classifications are Consumer Convenience; Marketing + Design; Product Protection; Resource Efficiency; and Technical Innovation.

More detailed information and individual pictures at www.trophy.alufoil.org.

Chocolate Easter Bunnies Shine in Aluminium Foil

In Germany 220 million Easter Bunnies have been produced for the holiday season – the majority are wrapped in aluminium foil, giving them that shiny iconic look

Düsseldorf – The Easter holidays are coming closer and millions of chocolate Easter Bunnies and other figures are waiting on supermarket shelves to grace consumers’ Easter baskets. In Germany alone 220 million* chocolate Easter Bunnies were produced in 2018 (compared with 202 million in 2017, an increase of 8%), of which 121 million are sold in Germany while almost 100 million are exported to other countries. The primary export regions are the European Union, the United States, Canada and Australia.

Chocolate Easter Bunnies even outperform their greatest rival – the chocolate Santa Clause, with only 150 million being produced 2018. But the Bunny and Santa have one big thing in common – they both prefer to be wrapped in a shiny coat of aluminium foil printed in a variety of colours.

“Aluminium foil continues to be the packaging material of choice for many reasons,” explains Marika Knorr, Deputy Executive Director of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). “Firstly, aluminium foil provides great barrier functions, offering complete protection from the light and other external influences that might be harmful to maintaining food quality. Secondly, the dead fold properties of aluminium foil allows it to be wrapped securely to the product, adhering to the contours of the shapes, where it remains until ready to be unwrapped by the consumer.”

“After consumption the aluminium foil ideally is scrunched and can move on to its next life. At the moment the recycling rate of aluminium packaging in Germany is over 80%,” she adds. “All over Europe aluminium foil is increasingly collected and recycled and at the same time we observe to an increasing consumer awareness for recycling and sustainability.”

Many European packaging companies have a long history of producing printed foil for Easter Bunnies, Santa Clauses and other chocolate figures. The patented method, which involves aluminium foil being produced industrially and rolled, has been in existence for more than 100 years. Since then, chocolate producers in Europe and the USA have been wrapping their high quality products in aluminium foil.

*Source: BDSI

 

Aluminium foil deliveries from Europe hit record levels again

Aluminium foil deliveries from Europe hit record levels again

Düsseldorf - For the third year in a row aluminium foil deliveries from European rollers ended the year by reaching a new record, with an uplift overall of 3% compared to 2017. This was due largely to sustained demand from overseas markets as well as steady consumption in domestic markets, particularly for thinner gauges, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Overall deliveries were 942,500 tonnes against just over 915,000 tonnes the year before. Thinner gauge foils, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils added 4.1% year on year, while thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, rose by 1.1% annually. Total domestic deliveries were stable in this period, while exports continued the trend seen throughout 2018 with an increase of more than 25% overall.

The last quarter of 2018 continued to show the strong performance seen in Q3 with a total increase in output of 2.8% (228,200t vs 222,000t). While domestic deliveries remained stable, exports again lead the way with a tremendous increase of 27% compared to the last three months of 2017. Thinner gauges added 2.2% in this period, while thicker gauges improved by 3.9%.

“Consumption in all markets has improved, although domestic demand is more sluggish than we hoped for. By contrast exports have powered ahead in the last 12 months,” said Bruno Rea, President of EAFA. “But this is due to exceptional influences on supply and demand overseas. While we remain optimistic about the year ahead, the situation remains volatile and difficult to predict.”

“European foil rollers continue to see more upside influences in the market and maintain a positive outlook. The USA trade actions do have a direct influence on the foil sector, so any changes in that situation will have a bearing on the year ahead,” he added. “The current debate about circular economy can create opportunities for our sector, given that aluminium is a fully recyclable material,” explained Mr Rea.

Aluminium foil characteristics are strength, formability and barrier properties which have made it an essential part of many flexible packaging and container applications. Other uses of aluminium foil include automotive and heat exchange components, insulation material and many industrial applications.

Alufoil Trophy winners shine again at WPO WorldStars

Alufoil Trophy winners shine again at WPO WorldStars 

The 2019 WorldStar competition, organised by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) continues to recognise the performance of aluminium foil as one of the major packaging materials globally. No less than four products, which had already won the coveted Alufoil Trophy earlier in 2018, picked up WorldStars for 2019 when the winners were announced recently.

In the food category, Constantia Flexibles International, from Austria, received a WorldStar for the Cat Milk in Aluminium Portion-Pack. Animonda´s Milkies portion-packs contain 15g cat milk in four different variations. The aroma must be perfectly protected throughout the 12-month shelf life, so aluminium packs proved ideal, due to their excellent barrier properties.  Opening, dispensing and disposing of the totally recyclable packaging is very clean, hygienic and easy.  The long shelf life is a key advantage to consumers.

Another food category WorldStar went to Huhtamaki Flexible Packaging Germany for its new 3-layer laminate, Lamineo, which uses extrusion rather than adhesive in its construction. Between the PET and aluminium foil, an extrusion layer is placed instead of adhesive. This layer increases the distance between these two dimensionally stable materials, which strengthens the rigidity, according to Huhtamaki. This reduces the amount of PE by up to 20% without any loss of performance or rigidity.

Ready2Cook® Skin Packaging Solution from Plus Pack AS of Denmark also received recognition in the food category. These innovative containers improve product presentation – like standing up on shelves – as well as consumer convenience, resource efficiency and simplified storage and distribution. Skin packaging onto aluminium containers offers a fresh solution for foods as well as maximum flexibility for the consumer, as the container can go directly from the chilled cabinet to the oven or even BBQ.

Rounding off a dominant food category performance, the Tetra Fino® Aseptic 100 Ultra MiM, from Tetra Pak Italy, was chosen for its ability to enable dairy and juice drinks to be distributed in carton pouches at room temperature, and subsequently turned into frozen products in shops or at home. This means producers can tap into the $72bn global ice cream market without the need for additional investment in chilled distribution systems.  

“The continued success, at the WorldStars, for the aluminium foil sector once again demonstrates the valuable contribution our Alufoil Trophy competition makes to improving packaging globally,” said Henning Grimm, Manager Communications of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). "Foil rollers and converters continue to be at the forefront of packaging innovation and design. The addition of a WorldStar confirms the leading role aluminium foil plays in modern packaging solutions,” he added.

2018
Annually over 150 million chocolate Santa Clauses in alufoil clothing are produced in Europe for the holiday season

Dreaming of a silver Christmas - Annually over 150 million chocolate Santa Clauses are produced in Europe for the holiday season

Düsseldorf, Germany - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas – outside in the shopping windows and especially in the supermarkets where glittery chocolate Santa Clauses and other figures are lined up on the shelf. Over 150 million Santa Clauses are produced annually for the season in Europe alone – most of them in Germany but also other countries like Austria. Compared to 2016 that is an increase  Based on an average size of ??0.025 square meters per figure, this is more than 3,750,000 square meters, which is about 1.8 times the size of the Principality of Monaco.

Almost all of the chocolate hollow figures are wrapped in shiny and colorful aluminum foil - giving the figures their iconic look. But not only the looks are important here: The aluminium foil offers complete protection from the light and other influences from the outside that might be harmful for the food quality. “ The deadfold effect of the aluminum foil allows the foil to be wrapped tightly around the chocolate product during packaging and remains so in the supermarket or other points of sale until it arrives at the consumer for the ultimate moment of consumption. After that the aluminium foil can move on to its next life when properly collected and recycled. In Germany the average recycling rate of aluminium packaging is 87 percent*” says Marika Knorr, Deputy Executive Director at European Aluminium Foil Association.

This tradition is very old: The first Santa Claus figures started to be made from solid chocolate around 1820. Approximately 20 years later, they were produced for the first time as hollow bodies in the form which is used today. Many European packaging companies have a long history of producing printing foil and film for Santa Clauses, Easter bunnies and other chocolate figures. The patented method, which involves aluminium foil being produced industrially and rolled, has been in existence for more than 100 years. Since then, chocolate producers in Europe and the USA have been wrapping their products in aluminum foil.

In addition to Europe, many Santas are exported to the United States, Australia and even to Japan to make sure that everyone has something they can enjoy during the festive holiday season. 

*Source: DAVR - Deutsche Aluminium Verpackung Recycling GmbH

 

European aluminium foil deliveries power ahead on all fronts

Düsseldorf, Germany – The third quarter of 2018 saw demand for Europe’s aluminium foil surge to record levels, and well ahead of the same period in 2017. This was principally led by a continued spectacular performance in overseas markets. Deliveries in Q3 reached 237,700 tonnes, an increase of 6.4% on the same period of 2017. Domestic demand has remained solid throughout 2018 and continued to reflect (+0.5%) a steady recovery in consumption.

Year to Date (YTD) figures are even more impressive. In marked contrast to the first nine months of 2017 the export performance is 28.8% ahead. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, rose by 4.8%. Thicker foils, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications added 1.9%, moving into positive territory after a small decline in the first half of this year. Overall the YTD deliveries, at 718,000 tonnes are 3.7% better than last time (692,500t).

Remarking on the figures Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA said, “These good results are based on a unique combination of improved domestic demand and particularly high demand from outside Europe. The international trade flows of aluminium foil have been changed significantly due to the trade actions in the USA and elsewhere. These unusual circumstances may not continue in the long term.”

“While the European sector remains satisfied with the current situation, it is very cautious about the effects of a volatile global political situation, which is impacting directly on the industry at present. But we remain confident that the current year will set another record for deliveries from European foil rollers,” he added.

Increased strong exports and solid domestic demand push aluminium foil deliveries ahead

Düsseldorf, Germany – A solid performance in both domestic and overseas markets in the six months to June indicates 2018 could be a good year for European aluminium foil rollers, according to figures released recently by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Total deliveries of 464,000 tonnes in the year to date are 2.3% ahead, almost double the increase seen for the same period in 2017, indicating increasing demand in all markets.

Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, led the way with a 3.8% increase. Deliveries of thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, were down 0.5% in the first six months.

Exports continued towards an overall increase of +21% for the first half of 2018, well ahead of the year before. Domestic consumption from European suppliers was steady, at just 0.1% more. The excellent performance in overseas markets is largely attributed to high demand from North America, following specific trade actions in that market.

Taking the three months April to June (Q2) production gathered pace, as overall deliveries increased by 2.7%. Domestic consumption added 2.4% compared with Q2 2017. The export performance continued positively with +5.5%.

EAFA President Bruno Rea, commenting on the figures said, “We believe demand from overseas markets will continue to be strong. At the same time domestic demand remains robust and assuming there are no further disturbances in global trade, we are confident that the trend for the rest of the year is going in a positive direction.”

The European Aluminium Foil Association is the international body representing companies engaged in the rolling and rewinding of alufoil and in the manufacture of aluminium closures, alufoil semi-rigid containers and of all kind of flexible packaging. Its more than 120 members include companies in Western, Central and Eastern Europe. www.alufoil.org

Alufoil Trophy 2019 calls for novel alufoil and aluminium closure concepts

Düsseldorf, Germany – The Alufoil Trophy, organised annually by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), provides practitioners from across the European foil and closure sectors with the most prestigious and widely recognised stage to showcase their products and concepts, rewarding both excellence and innovation. The call for entries for the 2019 competition is now open until 23rd November 2018.

Each year these groundbreaking developments are scrutinised by a leading panel of experts before the award of Alufoil Trophies across five categories. Winning entries are recognised as major advances in the ’state-of-the-art’ for aluminium foil and closures and offer insights into the latest trends and new market opportunities.

The competition is open to packaging designers, brand owners, foil rollers, foil converters, foil container manufacturers, closure manufacturers, household foil manufacturers, retailers, industrial solution providers, as well as interested consumer groups or associations. It is also possible to combine entries from any of these disciplines.

Announcing that entries for 2019 are now being accepted, EAFA’s Executive Director Guido Aufdemkamp commented, “The current spotlight on packaging and product lifecycle performance makes it ever more important to show how aluminium foil and closures contribute to the circular economy. In industrial applications too there are strong environmental as well as technological advantages. The Alufoil Trophy is a unique platform to highlight these qualities.”

Competition categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications are accepted from packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative product providers, users and Designers:

Marketing + Design: Entrants should deliver real improvements to graphic and structural packaging design, ergonomics and ideas that lead to greater shelf appeal at point-of-sale, as well as industrial design applications.

Consumer Convenience: Answering calls for improved technical performance that provides real benefits to the consumer.

Resource Efficiency: Sustainable environmental performance is among the foremost challenges faced by industry. Developments should provide real benefits and demonstrate environmental and commercial advantages whether in consumer or industrial applications

Product Protection: Consumers are increasingly demanding fewer preservatives in food and this is where packaging can really come into its own by delivering products safely and hygienically.

Technical Innovation: The development of innovative ideas should provide benefits for the brand owner, retailer, consumer and industrial user through the performance of a material, manufacturing method or conversion process.

Entries will be accepted from now until the deadline of 23 November 2018. More details and applications forms are available at www.trophy.alufoil.org

The European Aluminium Foil Association is the international body representing companies engaged in the rolling and rewinding of alufoil and in the manufacture of aluminium closures, alufoil semi-rigid containers and of all kind of flexible packaging. Its more than 100 members include companies in Western, Central and Eastern Europe. www.alufoil.org

Increased aluminium foil deliveries led by export boom in first quarter of 2018

In complete contrast to the Q1 results last year, the first three months of 2018 saw an export-led increase in deliveries, rather than improved domestic demand. Overall production was up 1.8% to 234,000 tonnes (2017: 230,000), according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA)

Domestic deliveries dipped slightly by 2.2%, while exports of aluminium foil to non-European markets surged by 36%. Exports remained buoyant, continuing the trend seen at the end of year when increased overseas demand was also well above thirty percent.

Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils increased by 3.7%, accelerating the steady recovery in demand seen in the previous year. Thicker gauges, typically used for semi-rigid containers and technical applications saw a downturn of 1.8%, reflecting the flat demand seen throughout the past 12 months.

Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA, commented on these results: “This is a good and promising start into 2018 and, importantly, a continuation of the 2017 trend. Exports jumped mainly due to US anti-dumping measures on aluminium foil. The short to medium term expectation is that the climate will remain positive, provided there are no major geopolitical disturbances and the general economic climate stays friendly,” he added.

Export surge drives aluminium foil deliveries from Europe to new record in 2017

Strong demand from overseas aluminium foil markets in the final quarter of 2017 saw aluminium foil deliveries from European foil rollers reach a new record tonnage for the full year, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Overall deliveries for the full twelve-month period were at 886,300t (2016: 874,900t), even higher than pre-crisis levels for the second year running. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils added 1.8% year on year, while thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, slightly increased by 0.3 percent.  Total domestic deliveries were ahead by 0.6% in the period, while exports improved strongly, by 5.7 percent.

The final three months of 2017 saw deliveries to non-European markets increase by 37.2%, with domestic deliveries going down by 2.2 percent. After a buoyant 2016, demand for thicker gauges has climbed by 1.0%, whereas deliveries of thinner gauges have gone up by 2.8%. At 214,800t in total, Q4 deliveries were 2.2% ahead.

Bruno Rea, EAFA President and Roller Group Chairman, commenting on the figures said, “These results indicate a satisfying full year 2017. High demand seems set to continue, both at home and abroad, meaning our members carefully forecast a positive outlook for 2018.”

“We are seeing an improvement in domestic markets, as well as some local structural supply issues in key overseas markets. These offer good opportunities for increasing output and sales from European suppliers,” he added.

 

More winemakers turn to aluminium closures

More winemakers turn to aluminium closures

New research shows the global wine market shifting towards aluminium closures

Aluminium closures now account for just under 30% of the total global bottled still wine market, according to research recently conducted by Euromonitor. With 30 billion bottles sold worldwide in 2016, the aluminium closure market size is now around 9 billion units annually. This shift towards aluminium screwcaps is particularly evident for the largest still wine markets – Europe and USA.

Europe still represents the largest market for bottled still wines with volumes of more than 17 billion in 2016, according to other research by IWSR, which looked at 0.75L equivalent bottle measurement units. Both reports show a decline in bottled still wine volumes in Europe of between 5.3 and 6.4% in the five years under study. But aluminium closures made significant progress in the same period, growing by 14.5% with a CAGR of 5.2% from 2012-2016.

Commenting on the figures, Guido Aufdemkamp, representing the Aluminium Closures Group said, “These reports show that aluminium closures are continuing to show strong advantages over other wine closure types. Their convenience and increasingly strong branding and decoration enhancements mean more and more winemakers are turning to aluminium closures.”

“In addition, it is worth noting that while the global volume of bottled still wine measured in 0.75L equivalent bottles by IWSR decreased by 2.8% in the period of 2012-2016 to 28.3 billion bottles, Euromonitor shows the total number of wine bottles sold worldwide was stable These figures rely on a more differentiated research method which results in higher numbers than many other sources forecasts in the media and elsewhere,” he added.

The situation in the United States of America continues to show a strong market for wine with aluminium closures. The number of 0.75L bottled wines of all varieties sold in 2016 increased 4.4% versus 2015, according to the study by IWSR. Sales reached over 3.8 billion bottles. Euromonitor confirms that aluminium closures accounted for 44.9% of all sales of bottled wine in the US in that year. The CAGR for aluminium closures in the US for the five-year period was 6%.

Expressing his delight at the continued growth of the aluminium screwcap market, Guido Aufdemkamp continued, “There is a truly global acceptance of aluminium closures, particularly with younger consumers and those new to wine, who show a real preference for screwcaps.”

“Consumers are convinced by their ease of use, as surveys of our Turn 360° campaign have demonstrated. In addition, these closures are completely recyclable, so fit completely with the current demands for more sustainable performance of packaging,” he concluded.

Sources: Euromonitor International, IWSR and EAFA

Aluminium Closures Group sponsors international wine award Mundus Vini 2018

Düsseldorf – The Aluminium Closures Group will sponsor this year’s prestigious international wine award, the Mundus Vini Spring Tasting. Via this engagement with a group of internationally recognized experts in the wine industry, the Group aims to expands its presence within the core market segment of fine wines.

“It is a unique opportunity to take part in Mundus Vini and be directly involved in an activity of such high quality and cultural importance to the world of fine wines. We are convinced that aluminium closures can generally support the qualitative growth of wine, while we continuously develop new solutions for the industry,” said Franco Bove, Chairman of the Aluminium Closures Group

The Group’s ‘Turn 360°’ campaign gives a fresh twist to the numerous advantages of aluminium closures for the wine, water and other beverage industries. The initiative focuses on the benefits of alu closures – such as convenience, conservation of taste and quality for the consumers.

The opportunities for design customization, sustainability and recyclability while achieving cost-effectiveness are of key interest to beverage makers and fillers.  For the wine trade, the reduction of spoilage and the associated economical risks are additional important considerations.

Mundus Vini is an internationally recognized wine award which takes place 20. – 25. February in Neustadt, Germany. An international jury delivers an independent, expert verdict on over 6000 wines from around the globe to guarantee a fair and professional competition. For more information on the award: www.mundusvini.com

2017
More WorldStar glory for Alufoil Trophy champions

More WorldStar glory for Alufoil Trophy champions

Düsseldorf, Germany - Once again the WorldStar competition, organised by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO), has recognised excellence in aluminium foil innovation by naming four winning entries from the Alufoil Trophy 2017 in its own list of winners. Amcor and Constantia Flexibles provided the successful entries in the prestigious and globally recognised WorldStars

In the food category Constantia Flexibles scooped three of the WPO`s awards for products for very diverse uses. The Bone Shaped Container for wet dog food features very high-impact printing for maximum shelf appeal, as well as being lightweight and easy to stack when empty. The second Star was awarded to a container and lid combination for Bäckerei Stiebling`s Cakees ready to eat cake products, enabling them to be kept at ambient temperature for long periods. Finally an aluminium capsule system, containing liquid flavour syrup, specially designed for a unique beer dispensing technology was honoured.

A Multi Chamber Blister System won Amcor Flexibles a WorldStar in the medical and pharmaceutical category. The product is described as a frangible blister utilizing the company`s Formpack® material. The aluminium foil blister pack has several chambers, made of Formpack® bottom web and a lidding foil. It enables moisture sensitive, dry drugs or vaccines requiring delivery in a liquid, to be contained in the same package safely, prior to mixing and dispensing from it.

Commenting on the news of more WorldStar success in the aluminium foil sector, Henning Grimm, manager communications and global relations of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) said, "Once again the valuable contribution our Alufoil Trophy competition makes to innovation in packaging has been recognised on the world stage. It underlines the value of such events in helping to foster new product development and market expansion. WorldStar gives an extra dimension and we congratulate Amcor and Constantia for receiving these awards."

Entries for the 2018 Alufoil Trophy competition now extended until 15 December 2017

Alufoil Trophy: Setting the pace for innovation

Entries for the 2018 Alufoil Trophy competition now extended until 15 December 2017

sseldorf, Germany - The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), organisers of the Alufoil Trophy, have announced the closing date for the next competition has been extended to 15 December 2017. This is to enable as many companies as possible to prepare entries, which will be judged in January 2018.

 The Alufoil Trophy is the most prestigious competition recognizing excellence and innovation in aluminium foil, for resource efficiency, consumer convenience, technical innovation, product protection and marketing/design. Past winners have gone on to claim many other significant awards, such as WPO WorldStars.

 Entries can cover a single category, or be entered across several, increasing the chances to capture the most coveted award in the aluminium foil sector. At least one product will gain the highly prized Overall Excellence Award. The brochure and entry form is available to download from a dedicated section of the EAFA website, (trophy.alufoil.org).

Commenting on previous Alufoil Trophy competitions EAFA`s Executive Director Guido Aufdemkamp said, "Every year the entries demonstrate just how innovative the aluminium foil sector can be in both packaging and industrial applications. Recent winners have shown a remarkable ability to create products to expand into new markets. We look forward to another exciting and diverse set of entries this year."

Aluminium foil deliveries stay positive in Q3 despite continuing drag on exports

Continuing recovery in European markets more than offset volatility in exports of alufoil products, according to figures just released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Deliveries of all gauges rose 0.5% year on year, in the three months to September 2017, with domestic deliveries ahead by 1.4% compared with last year. Exports performance continues to be weak, falling 2.8% in that period.

In the first nine months, total deliveries improved 0.9% to reach 671,000 tonnes (2016: 664,700t) +0.9%, maintaining the positive performance seen in the first two quarters. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, rose by 1.4%, while thicker foils, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, were just 0.1% better – but maintaining this upward momentum is encouraging, given the big jumps seen last year after a long period of declining demand.

Overall domestic deliveries added 1.5% in the year to date, a modest improvement on the same period in 2016, with exports, while decreasing by 3.1%, offer some encouragement, as this is far less than the double digit fall recorded in 2016, indicating the demand for European materials in overseas markets is stabilizing.

Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA commented, "We reach the end of the year these figures offer the prospect of a good year in total. Demand for alufoil products is expected to grow in line with economic developments, which remain promising and continue to improve generally. However the climate for recovery also depends on factors such as US trade policy, competition from other producers and circumstances in other markets, particularly Asia."

Letter to EU officials to support all packaging to be separately collected for increased recycling

Düsseldorf, Germany - The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) co-signs, with five other leading packaging and material associations, a high-level letter to urge the European Commission and Council of the European Union to support the European Parliament’s call to amend the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD) with a requirement for all packaging material to be separately collected. A prime objective is to ensure that all packaging materials contribute to the ambitious recycling targets of the Waste Framework Directive (WFD) for a more circular economy.

Click here to see the original letter.

The signatories and supporters of this letter include:

  • The Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment (ACE)
  • European Aluminium
  • European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA)
  • The European Federation of Corrugated Board Manufacturers (FEFCO)
  • Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE)
  • PlasticsEurope
New recipe book goes wild for game meat

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) is pleased to announce it has produced a new online barbecue recipe book specifically for wild game meat, using preparations made possible by aluminium foil.

The book recognises that game meat, such as boar and roe deer, has become popular again. So it not only contains some great meals to try but also useful tips about the health properties of these cuts and how best to keep them in the freezer. It also shows why aluminium foil is an ideal partner to help cook these meats to perfection and store them too.

The Association teamed up with Ed van de Schootbrugge, the 2012 European BBQ champion, to put together a delicious range of barbecue recipes which all use aluminium household foil or foil containers in the preparation and grilling. There are three recipes for each type of meat, including a Sliced Boar Roast and a Back Fillet of Roe Deer with Truffles and Asparagus.

As well as great recipes the book, which can be downloaded from EAFA’s ‘Cuisine’ website (bbq.alufoil.org), additionally explains about the origins of the meats and how they get their very unique tastes. For example Roe Deer meat derives its very delicate flavour because the animal eats only tender shoots, leaves and fresh herbs.

Valuable foods, such as game meat, deserve the appropriate material to ensure the best protection, waste minimization and hygienic conditions, as well as the best cooking results. Aluminium foil is the most appropriate material for barbecues as it combines heat resistance with perfect protection and preservation of the food.

The book demonstrates how both aluminium foil and containers provide a perfect material in which to cook and wrap the game meat. So get ready to go wild and enjoy these new taste experiences!

Visit bbq.alufoil.org to download "Wild BBQ Recipes" and other tasty barbecue recipes.

Steady second quarter for aluminium foil deliveries and half year results continue to show progress

Aluminium foil deliveries in the period April to June 2017 showed little difference to the same period in 2016 according to figures just released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Total domestic deliveries of all gauges increased by only 0.2% compared with last year, while exports dropped by just 1%, an encouraging sign this area of trade could be improving again.

Focusing on the half year to date, there are clear signs that the gains made at the end of 2016 are consolidating. Total production is ahead 1.2%, 454,400t (vs. 449,100t), with thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, up 1.6% and thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, also remaining positive at +0.3%, compared with the first six months of 2016.

Overall domestic deliveries, up 1.9%, continue to show steady improvement year on year. Export activity continues to be more challenging and declined 4.2% in the first half of 2017. But this is a marked improvement on the -13% shown in the same period of the previous year and could be a good springboard for the better figures shown at the end of last year to be repeated.

Commenting on the results, newly elected EAFA President Bruno Rea said, "This is a very promising first half year, which gives us some confidence that the next six months will see improving performances across the board. In particular, recent anti-dumping measures by the US Department of Commerce, against Chinese foil producers, might provide some opportunities for the export business of European foil rollers," he explained.

Alufoil Trophy 2018 Announcement

Alufoil Trophy 2018: The hunt for excellence and innovation in aluminium foil and closures begins

The hunt for the very best products using aluminium foil, or aluminium closures, is underway once again, with the announcement that entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2018 are now open for submission, until 24 November 2017.

Organised by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), the competition is seen as the most influential competition in the industry. It is widely recognized as identifying the most original ideas and developments currently on the market. Past Trophy winners are seen as trendsetters who have helped to shape the future direction of aluminium foil.

Entries are accepted from packaging designers, brand owners, foil rollers, foil converters, foil container manufacturers, closure manufacturers, household foil manufacturers, retailers, industrial solution providers, as well as interested consumers and consumer groups or associations It offers them the chance to demonstrate their very latest ideas and products. It is also possible to combine entries from any of these disciplines.

Competition categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications are accepted from packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative products:

  • Marketing + Design: Entrants should deliver real improvements to graphic and structural packaging design, ergonomics and ideas that lead to greater shelf appeal at point-of-sale, as well as industrial design applications.
  • Consumer Convenience: Answering calls for improved technical performance that provide real benefits to the consumer.
  • Resource Efficiency: Sustainable environmental performance is among the foremost challenges faced by industry. Developments should provide real benefits and demonstrate environmental and commercial advantages whether in consumer or industrial applications.
  • Product Protection: Consumers are increasingly demanding fewer preservatives in food and this is where packaging can really come into its own by delivering products safely and hygienically.
  • Technical Innovation: The development of innovative ideas should provide benefits for the brand owner, retailer, consumer and industrial user through the performance of a material, manufacturing method or conversion process.

Entries will be accepted from now until the deadline of 24 November 2017. More details and applications forms are available here.

EAFA Elections: New President looks to market growth and new opportunities

Bruno Rea, commercial director at Laminazione Sottile Group of Italy, has been elected the new President of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) at the Association’s summer conference in Bilbao, Spain. He succeeds Jan Homan of Constantia Flexibles, who served two terms. EAFA is the international body representing companies engaged in flexible packaging, in rolling and rewinding of alufoil as well as in the manufacture of aluminium closures and semi-rigid containers. Its more than 100 members include companies in Western, Central and Eastern Europe.

Following his election Mr Rea looked forward to his term of office with an optimistic message for the sector, “It is a great honour to receive this responsibility and the trust of my colleagues to lead EAFA. The industry enjoyed a record breaking 2016 and the economic outlook, both in Europe and the rest of the world, is very positive. In all the core markets for aluminium foil, such as packaging and construction, the story is one of increasing demand and new opportunities for growth.”

“EAFA has a strong voice thanks to its strong membership and organisation. It is my task to ensure we continue to represent the sector at the highest levels and that the Association leads the way in promoting good practice, resource efficiency, sustainability and innovation,” he continued.

Our sector must work together for improved business opportunities, so EAFA has always set itself an ambitious agenda and l hope our voice and actions will grow even stronger in the future, for the benefit of our members and the industry at large,” concluded Mr Rea

Cooking up a BBQ feast with aluminium foil

As part of the new, dynamic European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) website alufoil.org, the association has teamed up with Ed van de Schootbrugge, the 2012 European BBQ champion, to put together a delicious range of simple and straightforward recipes so that anyone can add a professional touch to their barbecue party.

A click on the Cuisine tab, on the redesigned homepage, leads to an exciting range of recipes using everything from pulled pork to pineapples! From apple cobbler in an aluminium can to the most succulent whole salmon side ‘on skin’ Ed shows, in a series of videos, what can be achieved on a modern barbeque – thanks to alufoil’s wonderful ability to keep the juices and flavours in and any and unwanted smoke or burnt bits out! And as the foil distributes the heat quickly and evenly the delicious food is cooked to perfection. Indeed barbeque lovers from all over the world will be able to appreciate the many advantages of aluminium.

Cédric Rauhaus, EAFA’s manager communications, “We want the website to reflect not only the many valuable commercial and industrial uses, but also how the everyday consumer can enjoy a wider world of food experiences thanks to the many useful characteristics of foil. What better than this range of spectacular recipes!”

“We hope to add more consumer focussed features in future, expanding the recipes and looking at other cooking methods made better by using alufoil,” he added.

Aluminium foil and containers are light yet strong and can be easily formed, making them ideal for wrapping, cooking and displaying food. Aluminium quickly dissipates heat and is safe for use in contact with foodstuffs, making it the obvious partner for your barbecue – or indeed many other meals.

To download the recipes and watch the videos please go to: alufoil.org and click on the Cuisine tab.

Strong domestic demand drives up alufoil deliveries in first quarter

The year started with strong demand for all grades of aluminium foil in European markets. Production increased to 226,900 tonnes in the first quarter of 2017, 1.5 percent higher than the same period last time, according to the latest figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). Exports continued to be volatile, showing a downturn in Q1 compared to the previous year, after a strong finish to 2016.

Deliveries of both thicker foils, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications - ahead by 0.7% - and thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils - up 1.5% - confirm a continued steady recovery in the economies of the EAFA region, where total domestic shipments were up by 3.6% in the three months to March 2017.
Strong competition from overseas foil rollers continues to affect aluminium foil exports from Europe, which dipped by 14% compared with the same quarter in 2016. But some of the influences which have had an adverse impact, such as currency factors, are now moderating, offering European manufacturers more opportunities.

EAFA’s Executive Director, Guido Aufdemkamp confirmed that the prospects for the rest of the year are positive, “Certain factors, such as strong domestic demand from the flexible packaging sector and for technical applications, show an underlying strength in key markets for aluminium foil. This enables us to feel more confident about the upward trend we are seeing. Even exports, which remain harder to predict, are showing signs of recovery,” he added.

Aluminium foil characteristics are strength, formability and barrier properties which have made it an essential part of many flexible packaging and container applications. Other uses of aluminium foil include automotive and heat exchange components, insulation material and many industrial applications.

New EAFA website brings the modern world of alufoil in focus

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) has upgraded its website to improve navigation and give it a contemporary look and feel. It takes into account the greatly enhanced content, which has been added over the last six years and aims to help users find the answers they seek quickly and easily.

The main aim is to provide information in a far more attractive and visual way, leading quickly to the content required. But the Association wishes to retain all the existing popular elements, such as market information, the latest news on sustainability and its very dynamic media section, while offering new interactive content and functionality. The website is now fully responsive with mobile devices, making it easy to navigate on a wide range of web browsers and portable devices.

Talking about the improvements EAFA’s Manager Communications, Cédric Rauhaus explained, “We wanted to retain the best elements of our old website, but with a refreshed and modern design - as well as a wide range of enhancements. The better navigation will help visitors efficiently manoeuvre through the wide selection of information offered on the site.”

Several new sections have been added, including Cuisine, which features barbeque recipes supported by cooking demonstration videos and images, and a lively events section.

In addition the member search facility has been improved to make it easy to navigate this section and locate EAFA’s member companies, as well as potential suppliers of alufoil products.

Foil & Taste at interpack: aluminium foil, at the heart of the packaging industry

Interpack 2017, the biggest packaging show on the planet, provides the perfect platform to demonstrate the continued importance of aluminium foil as one of the major forces in packaging development and technology; keeping it at the heart of the industry. The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), stand C53 in Hall 10 at the exhibition, will once again feature live Foil & Taste events, showing all the benefits of alufoil packaging in a diverse range of markets and with experts on hand to answer questions.

In addition, the stand, which will be shared with Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE), will enable visitors from across the world to see how aluminium foil works with other materials too, such as plastics and paper, to provide the best solutions for an ever-increasing range of products.

Each day a different demonstration will highlight one of the many talents of alufoil. Thursday is the turn of the chocolatier, Friday a leading sommelier will offer his views on the best wines using aluminium closures as well as mineral waters. Monday an expert barista takes centre stage and finally Tuesday is the time for a fantastic BBQ, all made possible with alufoil. Demonstrations will take place four times every day at 11.30, 13.30, 15.00 and 16.30.

Here is what our experts say about packaging with aluminium foil:

Arno Steguweit, sommelier

“I am really looking forward to showing visitors at interpack the advantages of aluminium closures and addressing some of the doubts which have been expressed. Contrary to widespread opinion, aluminium closures can be found on top of wine and water bottles of all price categories and are not restricted to products of lesser quality. Indeed, because of the reclosability, after l take a tasting sample of some excellent wine or mineral water from a bottle with an aluminium closure l can be totally confident what remains in the bottle will maintain its quality and aroma for a long period.”

Georg Maushagen, chocolatier

“In the daily preparation or the presentation of products, the flexibility and formability of aluminium foil offers me two ways to implement my ideas creatively. Visitors to the Foil & Taste feature can look forward to seeing aluminium foil cornets filled with pleasurable spheres of taste experiences from the world of molecular cuisine.”

‘Mystery’ barista

“As a barista, I only use the best quality ingredients when preparing a coffee. This is the reason why I need packaging that does not affect the quality of that coffee and preserves it over a long period. Flexible packaging, made with aluminium foil, provides the best conditions for effective protection of the grounds or beans from external influences, until the moment of preparation.”

Ed van de Schootbrugge, European BBQ Champion 2012

“Aluminium foil is an integral part of a modern BBQ and opens up possibilities for numerous recipe variations. Meat, fish and vegetables can be perfectly prepared thanks to the heat resistance of household foil made from aluminium. And when there is something left from the last barbeque, aluminium foil is the ideal wrapping for taking home the grilled delicacies and keeping them clean and safe.”

So be sure to visit the EAFA stand to discover how this multi-talented material continues to set the standard for quality and impact for many types of foods and beverages.

Alufoil Trophy 2017: Winning entries define new and expanding market opportunities for aluminium foil

A strong set of entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2017, the sector’s leading awards competition, showed, once again, the strength of product development programs and creative thinking in the aluminium foil industry. There were nine winners across five specific categories, plus a Trophy given for Innovation in Application for the first time.

Leading the judges this year was Guido Schmitz, Director of Packaging Design in Consumer Health, Bayer, itself a previous winner of a Trophy for its Shamrock aspirin pack. He was full of praise for both the standard and ingenuity of entries, “We can only recognise the very best of the products entered and the judging proved very close in several categories.”

“We were impressed with packs which showed real technical advances to create better sustainability, improved quality, more convenient or flexible solutions. Particularly, one or two winners offer the aluminium foil sector a real opportunity to jump into new market segments or enable customers to put their products in places they could not reach before. That marked them out as very special and it fully justified their award,” he added.

Organised each year by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) the Alufoil Trophy 2017 competition winners will be on display at the Association’s booth during interpack 2017, in Düsseldorf. The association’s Executive Director Guido Aufdemkamp commented on this year’s winners, “The different competition categories allow aluminium foil products made for a variety of industry sectors to demonstrate a wide range of innovations. It confirms the ‘strength in depth’ of the industry that so many excellent products were recognised again this year.” 

The competition is open to products which are either made from aluminium foil or contain aluminium foil as part of a laminate, structure or packaging system, as well as aluminium closures. Categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil usage across many diverse markets, particularly those for packaging and technical applications. The classifications are Consumer Convenience; Marketing + Design; Product Protection; Resource Efficiency; and Technical Innovation. The judges also have discretion to award an Alufoil Trophy for products displaying excellence across a number of categories, or for an outstanding or clever application.

Bright end to 2016 lifts aluminium foil deliveries to new record level

A strong performance from European aluminium foil rollers in the last half of the year has lifted deliveries above pre-economic crisis levels for the first time in a decade. Domestic deliveries showed a marked improvement (+1.5%) compared with a year earlier, and exports performed better than expected, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

While Q3 saw flat demand, generally the October- December period returned to solid growth, enabling overall production to reach 874,480 tonnes, an increase of 1.5% on the previous twelve months. This is an all-time high, as the last time it approached this level was ten years earlier when production hit 865,870t in 2006.

Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, ended the full year 0.5% higher, thanks to a very strong result (+4.0%) in European markets for Q4. Thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, have been performing better for most of the year and ended 3.4% ahead, returning to a 1.4% increase in the final three months, after a dip the previous quarter.

Exports, were less impacted by overseas competition, recording an increase of 1.3% compared to 2015. Although the final quarter saw a decline, it was not enough to push deliveries into negative territory following strong growth in Q1 and Q3. In particular, thicker gauges were up by more than 20%.

EAFA’s Executive Director, Guido Aufdemkamp, said he was pleased with the figures but warned that it was too early to say the upward trend was established. “To have exceeded the previous all-time high is very encouraging. But we have seen volatile swings in demand patterns quarter on quarter for both thinner and thicker gauges through the last years. While the overall performance is very robust we will remain alert to continuing changes in market circumstances.”

Aluminium foil characteristics are strength, formability and barrier properties which have made it an essential part of many flexible packaging and container applications. Other uses of aluminium foil include automotive and heat exchange components, insulation material and many industrial applications.

WorldStar success for Alufoil Trophy winners

In recognition of their packaging excellence six products, which won the prestigious Alufoil Trophy, have been awarded a WorldStar by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO). The winning alufoil products were made by Ampac Flexibles; Ardagh and Amcor Flexibles; Constantia Flexibles; Guala Closures and Huhtamaki Flexible Packaging.

Five WorldStars were received by Alufoil Trophy winners in the food category. Ampac were given the award for its Marinade Pouch, an innovative, 3-side-sealed pouch with a special zipper solution, which contains 200ml of sauce, to marinate fresh meat within 30 minutes.

Ardagh claimed the accolade for a unique pack created for Emmi, a ready-to-eat cheese “All In One Fondü”. The pack comprises a microwaveable metal bowl with an Easy Peel® alufoil lid that uses Amcor’s AluFix® Retort Pro membrane, a stand and tea light.

Constantia Flexibles achieved two WorldStars: one for its aluminium foil tray and lid system, Ofen-Fleischkäs’ – ready for baking @ home, which contains pre-cooked meat preparations and another for Sustainer, a retortable alufoil container system for improved sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Huhtamaki Flexible Packaging’s award honoured its Refilly pack, a 3-dimensional round pouch consisting of four elements, all produced of aluminium-based laminates, created for Italian coffee specialists illycafé.

Guala Closures took an award in the beverage category for its Sunrise aluminium closure which combines a highly visible tamper evident, tear off band within the aluminium shell, together with plastic non-refillable fitments for security, plus an easy pour mechanism.

Commenting on these successes for the alufoil sector Cédric Rauhaus, Manager Communications of the European Aluminium Foil Association, EAFA – which organises the Alufoil Trophy – said, “Our industry always strives to be proactive and innovative with its packaging solutions. These important WorldStars are proof that our members make both clever and highly practical packs and demonstrate the overall performance and environmental contribution aluminium foil can make to packaging.”

The next Alufoil Trophy winners will be announced in Spring 2017 and will be a major feature of the EAFA stand at the interpack exhibition in Düsseldorf next May.

2016
Export Headwinds and Destocking Drive Down Aluminium Foil Deliveries

Deliveries of aluminium foil from European rollers fell by 1.6% in Q3, putting year-on-year targets under pressure, according to figures released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. Total deliveries for the first nine months of 2016 stand at 655,800 tonnes, down slightly, by 0.4% (2015: 658,500t).

Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, have dropped by 1.1% year on year and by 2.0 % in the three months to the end of September. This continues a trend seen over the first two Quarters, reflecting flat demand.

Unexpectedly, production of thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, dropped, by 1.0% in the same period, following strong growth in the last quarter. However, the first nine months still remain positive, 0.9% ahead of 2015 figures.

Overall Q3 domestic deliveries within Europe increased by only 1%, less than expected in the pre-Christmas production period. Exports continue to decline, recording a drop of 11% in markets outside Europe.

Commenting on the latest results Guido Aufdemkamp, EAFA’s Executive Director said, “These figures are not as good as we anticipated from the performance of the first two quarters. The unexpected destocking among European customers meant deliveries were not as high as usual at this time of year. In addition, exports are under severe pressure from overseas competition.”

“2016 will remain challenging and our overall outlook for the rest of the year is cautious. It will be difficult to reach last year’s production levels,” he added.

Alufoil Trophy 2017: Deadline Extended until 9 December

The deadline for entries has been extended to 9 December!

The search for the best innovations in aluminium foil and closures continues until 9 December 2016. The Alufoil Trophy is recognised as the most highly valued award in the sector, with categories covering every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications include packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative applications.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

Every second aluminium closure in Europe is now recycled

The average recycling rate for aluminium closures in Europe has increased to more than 50%, according to figures released recently by the “Aluminium Closures – Turn 360°” campaign by the European Aluminium Foil Association. Much of this improvement is due to national initiatives and better collection and recycling schemes across Europe, according to the Association.

Aluminium closures, mainly used on bottles of wine, spirits, water and olive oil, can be collected either with the mixed packaging fraction or together with the glass collection stream. Thanks to modern processes the aluminium is easily extracted and recycled, from both material streams.

Because packaging collection and recycling systems in Europe vary considerably from country to country, national initiatives are proving to be most effective. For example, the UK’s “You Can Leave Your Cap On” scheme has enabled local authorities to increase the recovery of aluminium closures for recycling. Initiated by ALUPRO, in partnership with British Glass and EAFA, it encourages recyclers to screw the closures back on their empty bottles before recycling so that more aluminium can be successfully recovered. Sharing best practices in the European network of aluminium packaging recycling organisations, ALU DK initiated a similar project in Denmark with the “Keep the Cap on” campaign, supported by the Danish government. Other national organisations like CIAL in Italy increasingly refer to aluminium closures in their general and special announcements to raise the awareness that aluminium closures are perfectly suitable to be collected and recycled.

Commenting on the figures, EAFA’s Closures Group Chair Franco Bove said, “It is encouraging to see the industry continues to support national initiatives which enhance the collection and recycling of aluminium closures. Recycled aluminium is a valuable commodity, so supports the economics of the recycling process.”

These aluminium closure recycling rates are calculated on the basis of publicly available national overall aluminium recycling rates, plus consumption data from market research companies.

Aluminium foil replicates heritage building facades at Favoriten 2016

Stunning aluminium foil artwork pieces were a central feature of an exhibition by the Manchester Urban Pioneers at this year’s Favoriten Theatre Festival in Dortmund, Germany. The aluminium foil, supplied by European Aluminium Foil Association member Eurofoil, was used to create replicas of heritage building facades by overlaying and embossing the detail onto aluminium foil sheets.

The biennial festival for the performing arts, which took place 23 September to 2 October, also featured art installations, music and dance performances as well as a film and a literary program. This year’s theme was the complex interaction between art and urban society.

The Manchester Urban Pioneers, students from the Manchester School of Architecture and the Manchester School of Art, collaborated with Urbane Künste Ruhr on a project to develop spatial strategies and installations for the Union District of Dortmund. Their work was presented at an exhibition, “Seven Visions of Heritage”. The aluminium foil artefacts, which examined the value of the physical form and heritage within it, were also displayed at various festival locations.

Alufoil industry helps European BBQ Championships 2016 roll into town

The official WBQA European BBQ Championship will take place on 17-18th September 2016 at the Bremen Exhibition Centre in Germany and once again will be supported by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

About 78,000 visitors are expected across the two days to watch the 50 BBQ teams from 20 nations display their skills at the grill across the full range of BBQ disciplines.

For all teams aluminium foil will be a major feature in the preparation and creative barbecuing on display for the five mandatory competition categories (fish and side dish, chicken and side dish, pork ribs, pork shoulder and beef brisket). In addition teams can enter two optional freestyle categories: home country cooking and dessert.

Aluminium household foil, supplied by EAFA, will be an essential tool used by the participants throughout the championship. An indispensable part of the barbecue experience, the practical, versatile and protective household foil, will also be used by all teams to present their grilled food in the most attractive and innovative ways.

Visitors will have the chance to enjoy tasty samples provided by the competing teams and can be sure that aluminium foil will enable them to enjoy the food conveniently and safely.

Improving demand pushes Aluminium foil production ahead

First half year deliveries of aluminium foil in 2016 confirmed the improving trend seen in the final 6 months of 2015, according to figures released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. Demand in Q2 increased by 0.8%, reversing a decline of 0.7% in the first quarter of this year.

After a drop in the first three months of 2016, thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, returned to growth with a strong 4% increase in deliveries – a clear sign that the upward trend seen throughout 2015 is being maintained. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, were robust, adding 0.6% from January to June to stay well ahead of the drop of 3.2% seen in the same period last year.

Overall, in the first 6 months of 2016, deliveries improved marginally to 438,800 tonnes (2015: 438,500t), where demand increased by 1.8%. Exports continue to be affected by strong competition from non-European rollers and declined by 13.1%, more than 2015 (7.8%), but showed a marked improvement vs. the first three months of the year, when the decline was above 20%.

The newly elected Chairman of EAFA’s Roller Group, Willem Loué, gave his assessment of the results at the half way stage of the year. “Foil rollers continue to see positive signs of improving demand. But challenges also continue to exist, notably the possible consequences of the UK’s Brexit vote affecting Europe’s entire economic performance,” he said.

“The main markets for aluminium foil, such as the food and beverage sectors, are growing markets and less volatile, which supports the optimistic outlook among our members,” he added.

“The export market will continue to be challenging for the foreseeable future. But there is evidence that European rollers are responding to the tough competition and winning back some market share. The decline in deliveries is slowing as this happens,” concluded Mr Loué.

Alufoil Trophy 2017: Open for entries

Search for the best innovations in aluminium foil and closures begins

Entries for the 2017 Alufoil Trophy competition are now open and will be accepted until 18 November 2017. The Alufoil Trophy is now recognised as the most highly valued award in the sector, with categories covering every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications include packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative applications.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

EAFA Elections: Taking the Initiative to Grow and Develop Markets Responsibly

Jan Homan, Supervisory Board Member of Constantia Flexibles, has been re-elected President of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) at the organisation’s summer conference held in Hamburg. The European Aluminium Foil Association is the international body representing companies engaged in flexible packaging, in rolling and rewinding of alufoil as well as in the manufacture of aluminium closures and semi-rigid containers. Its more than 100 members include companies in Western, Central and Eastern Europe.

Speaking during the conference, following his re-appointment, Mr Homan said, “It is a great honour to have been given the task to continue leading EAFA. Currently there is great optimism that the industry is well positioned to take advantage of the improving economic position, both in Europe and beyond. Membership has never been higher and the portfolio of products they represent means there are opportunities in many sectors.”

“EAFA has the experience and insight to deal with the challenges ahead. Our organisation has been instrumental in keeping the issues of innovation, sustainability, resource efficiency and globalized markets at the forefront of discussions. My job, along with my colleagues on the board, will be to ensure these roles continue and the Association stays at the centre of the industry’s ambitious plans. I look forward to continuing to move EAFA forward and to the Association growing stronger and even more effective in the future.” 

Demand for Alufoil in Europe Picks Up, Exports Still Under Pressure

First quarter results for aluminium foil deliveries from European suppliers showed positive growth in domestic demand, after a sustained period of mixed or declining results. Exports, however, remain under pressure due to strong competition from non-European producers. Overall the first three months of 2016 saw a small decline of 0.6% in total tonnage to 217,000, compared with 218,500t for 2015, according to figures released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association.

After declines in all four quarters of 2015, production of thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, recorded an increase of 0.1%, in fact these are the first positive figures since mid-2014 - reflecting a recovery of demand in Europe, which increased by 2.2%. This was offset by a drop of 2.2% in total deliveries of thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, which are more affected by export performance.   

Exports continue to have a drag effect on overall performance with the first three months of 2016 showing around 20% decline in deliveries outside Europe, compared with last year. EAFA believes increasing competition from aluminium foil producers outside Europe will continue to put pressure on sales from European suppliers. However, exports make up a smaller percentage of the overall market, so a sustained improvement in domestic demand will have a stronger impact.

Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA commented, “We see these as a positive set of figures. The improving economic performance in Europe is finally beginning to show through in increasing demand for aluminium foil in the domestic market, where most of our sales are made.”

“The fact that thinner gauges have come out of a long period of declining demand is also very encouraging for the rest of the year,” he added. “The increasingly competitive export scene is not likely to change in the short to medium term. But it is good that we can focus on a recovery in our home markets, which are showing signs of a sustained expansion.”.

All Smiles at the ALUNCH

The ALUNCH event in Brussels throughout April and May, staged to promote the benefits and convenience of aluminium foil products across the range, has had a great start with lots of happy, smiling participants. Many young men and women, living, working and studying in the city have been attracted to the Grapevine restaurant, near the European Parliament, to enjoy a ‘feast in foil’ and pay for it using only aluminium bottle closures.

Many smiling faces have been seen at the tables enjoying a range of meals and refreshments – all served in aluminium foil or containers. The closures used to pay for the food are being collected in a transparent tube and this ‘bank’ is filling up fast.

Organised by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association, ALUNCH is running each Thursday until the end of May. Invitations to ALUNCH are being posted on Social Media, including Facebook and Instagram as well as around the restaurant. EAFA hopes to see the ALUNCHers post pictures of their experiences and spread the word about both the event and the value of aluminium foil.

Of course all the aluminium closures collected as payment for ALUNCHes will be sent for recycling, showing that the value of aluminium foil does not stop at the table.

For more information about the ALUNCH initiative visit www.alunch.eu

Irish Schools Full of Bright Ideas in Tea Light Recycling Competition

A campaign launched late last year to encourage children in the greater Dublin to seek out used tea lights for recycling and to let their creativity shine with a recycling-themed colouring competition was a huge success, according to organisers Alupro Ireland. The competition, which ran until the end of January 2016, in conjunction with IKEA, WEEE and co-financed by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association, attracted 1,600 very colourful competition entries.

Representatives from the winning school, Hedgestown National School in Lusk, plus the age category winners attended a special ceremony at IKEA in Dublin to collect their prizes. EAFA’s executive director Guido Aufdemkamp also attended to see the entries and congratulate the winners.

Both Alupro Ireland manager Karen Mahon and IKEA’s Regional Sustainability Manager, Grainne Breen pronounced themselves highly satisfied with the result and believe the campaign certainly raised awareness of the wide range of alufoil container which can be recycled.

The winners:
Overall Winner: Hedgestown National School, Lusk
Category 4-6yrs: Amy Van Kampen (6), Lindsay Road National School
Category: 7-9 yrs: Siobhán Watson (7), Hedgestown National School
Category 10-12 yrs: Clíona Igoe (11), The Harold School

Alufoil Trophy 2016: Summary of all winners

Once again the Alufoil Trophy competition has underlined the versatility and practical advantages of aluminium foil to create highly original new developments as well as fresh ideas to enhance existing products.

The aluminium foil sector’s annual premier awards competition, the Alufoil Trophy brings out the best in both multinational and specialist foil manufacturers and converters. This year is no exception with 65 entries across the five major categories producing 10 outstanding winners, plus an Overall Excellence winner, which scored extremely high marks in all categories.

“The sheer variety and diversity of the entries clearly demonstrates how innovative the alufoil sector can be,” commented the head of this year’s judging panel, Louis Lindenberg, global packaging sustainability director at Unilever. “There was a very fine line between those who won an Award and those who missed out, such was the highly original thinking and quality of manufacturing which went into all the products entered.”

“Even for regular, well established and popular packaging formats, such as containers and aluminium closures, there were a huge amount of fresh ideas combined in the need for performance, sustainability and visual impact. Consumers and the environment will both benefit from these clever, yet commercially viable products,” he added.

The Alufoil Trophy is organised each year by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. The association’s executive director Guido Aufdemkamp expressed his satisfaction at the outcome of the 2016 judging. “Each entry is judged on its own merit before we compare the relative strengths against others in the same category. It is a very rigorous judging process and those who win an award can truly feel they have achieved a notable success.”

The   competition   is   open   to   products   which   are   either   made   from   aluminium   foil   or   contain aluminium   foil   as   part   of   a   laminate, structure   or   packaging   system, as   well   as   aluminium closures. Categories cover every aspect of aluminium foil usage across many diverse markets, particularly those for packaging and technical applications. The classifications are Consumer Convenience; Marketing + Design; Product Protection; Resource Efficiency; and Technical Innovation. The judges also have discretion to award an Alufoil Trophy for products displaying excellence across a number of categories, or for an outstanding or clever application.

Click here for more information and the complete press material.

European Aluminium Foil Production Ends 2015 with Positive Mood

Production and deliveries of aluminium foil from European rollers has ended 2015 ahead of results for 2014, but only by a very small margin. The total of 860,152 tonnes was just 0.5% higher than the previous year. However, Q4 provided a very positive quarterly growth for the year with a 1.4% rise compared with the final three months of 2014, according to figure recently released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association.

One bright spot was the continued increase in deliveries of thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications. These ended the year 4.5% ahead, thanks mainly to increasing demand from the building, construction and automotive sectors – all of which saw growth in 2015. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, continued to be a very flat market, closing 1.5% down compared with the previous 12 months.

Overall shipments within the EAFA region increased by 1.1%, indicating a slow but patchy recovery in these markets. Exports continued the downward trend seen throughout 2015, with the total ending 4.8% lower than the year before, which was a period of growth for overseas sales. Strong competition from suppliers outside the European zone continues to impact on this performance.

Commenting on the results Guido Aufdemkamp, EAFA’s executive director said, “Markets remain fragile and making predictions about future growth is still very difficult. But we see plenty of underlying signs that our core end user sectors are improving. If these trends continue the outlook for 2016 remains positive. But we will monitor the situation carefully as uncertainty still exists.”

“In particular we believe aluminium foil, with its absolute barrier properties, will continue to play an essential role in flexible packaging, by delivering resource efficiency and avoiding food waste, as well as preventing packaging materials becoming waste,” he added.

Join EAFA for ALUNCH and pay with aluminium closures: You are just a twist away!

Young professionals in Brussels are being invited to join ALUNCH at the prestigious Grapevine restaurant, near the European Parliament each Thursday through April and May. To ‘pay’ for their meals the lunchers need to bring along some aluminium bottle closures, which will enable them to feast on a variety of delicious food – all served in aluminium foil or containers, of course!

The initiative, which will run from 14th April until 26th May, aims to show the value of aluminium closures as well as other aluminium foil products and raise awareness of their benefits and convenience. All the closures will be collected in a transparent tube so that there will be a ‘bank’ full of them at the end of the period.

Guido Aufdemkamp, executive director of the organiser EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association explained the reasoning behind the event, “We wanted to make our point about the value of aluminium closures and, indeed the entire aluminium range, in an interesting and amusing way, which would be particularly appealing to the many international young men and women living, working and studying in Brussels, the Heart of Europe!”

The ALUNCHers will be treated to a menu (in French, Dutch and English) which will give them a choice of meals, desserts, coffee and treats all served in aluminium foil, containers, pouches or capsules.

EAFA will involve Social Media, including Facebook and Instagram to promote ALUNCH and hopes that guests will post some pictures on line showing their experiences, particularly the funny ones! Flyers and posters will also be placed in the restaurant which, being in the Place du Luxembourg is in a vibrant and busy location in the heart of the Brussels European Quarter.

All the closures collected will be sent for recycling; showing their true value to the community is simply a twist away.

For more information about the ALUNCH initiative visit www.alunch.eu

Aluminium Closures Campaign Makes Convenience Fun at ProWein

Following last year’s first, successful attendance at ProWein, the leading trade fair for wine professionals, the Aluminium Closures – Turn 360° campaign that promotes the advantages of aluminium closures for winemakers, will be back in Düsseldorf in March.  The campaign team can be found in the dedicated “Packaging & Design” sector adjacent to the ProWein Forum, Hall 13, Stand E50.

With a fun focus on the convenience that aluminium closures bring, there will be a daily competition on the stand to find the ‘Turn 360° Champion 2016’ who demonstrates the fastest opening & closing time!  The competition will take place daily on the hour from 12pm with the last opportunity to participate at 6pm. Each contestant will be asked to open, re-close and turn five bottles of wine upside down as fast as they can, demonstrating just how good aluminium closures are for efficient opening, re-closing and storage. Every hour the winner with the fastest time will be rewarded and the fastest overall contestant will be crowned ‘Turn 360° Champion 2016’.

Several members of EAFA’s Closures Group will also be exhibiting in the “Packaging & Design” section, where visitors can learn about all the benefits of aluminium closures for wine: Amcor, Astro, Closurelogic, Guala Closures Group, Herti and Mala Verschluss-Systeme.

2015
The Tea Light Fantastic - EAFA supports ‘tea light hunt’ recycling campaign in Ireland

The hunt is on in Ireland with thousands of school children in Dublin seeking out used tea light holders to collect for recycling, thanks to an initiative from Alupro Ireland, which is being co-financed by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association.

Alupro Ireland’s Tea Light Hunt campaign, launched in conjunction with retailer IKEA and WEEE Ireland, seeks to encourage recycling of used tea light holders in the Greater Dublin area and includes some fun activities for children. A collection challenge and a colouring competition for 2nd to 4th classes have been initiated, with colouring sheets distributed to local schools and available at IKEA’s Dublin store. Within the first two months of the campaign over 1,200 entries were submitted.

Alufoil Trophy 2016: Deadline Extended until 4 December

The deadline for entries has been extended to 4 December!

The search for the best innovations in aluminium foil and closures continues until 4 December 2015. The Alufoil Trophy is recognised as the most highly valued award in the sector, with categories covering every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications include packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative applications.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

Statistics: Continued Recovery of European Demand keeps Production on Track

The steady recovery of demand for aluminium foil products in Europe has continued to see the gap between 2014 and 2015 production narrow to just a 0.3% drop by the end of Q3, compared with 2.5% in the first quarter of the year. This continues the trend seen in Q2. Deliveries for the first 9 months of the year reached 652,900tonnes, (2014: 654,900t) according to the latest figures released by EAFA.

“Volatility remains across most markets,” said Stefan Glimm, EAFA’s Chief Executive Director, “but the European area is finally seeing more consistent growth than before. We expect that to continue into 2016 and are confident to reach the same full year totals achieved in 2014.”

Greater Awareness Takes Alufoil Container Recycling to New High

New data released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association, confirms that recycling rates in Europe for alufoil trays and semi-rigid containers in 2013 reached about 55%. The previous reporting period (2010) saw that figure rise above 50% following concerted efforts by the industry to promote the benefits of resource efficient and sustainable packaging options.

The Association says continued work by the industry to promote the value of collection and recycling; along with national campaigns are having significant effects. Increased awareness has seen consumers recognise all aluminium foil trays and containers, not only those used as primary packaging, can be recycled, as well as other kitchen products, such as disposable alufoil BBQ and oven trays.

Alufoil Trophy 2016: Open for entries

Search for the best innovations in aluminium foil and closures begins

Entries for the 2016 Alufoil Trophy competition are now open and will be accepted until 20 November 2015. The Alufoil Trophy is now recognised as the most highly valued award in the sector, with categories covering every aspect of aluminium foil and closures use. Applications include packaging, construction and automotive, as well as industrial and decorative applications.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

Statistics: Alufoil deliveries pick up in Europe in first half of 2015

The European domestic market for aluminium foil made a welcome return to growth in Q2. It improved by 0.3% compared with the same period in 2014. This means that the shortfall on total deliveries has narrowed to just 0.7%, down markedly from the 2.5% seen in the first three months of 2015, according to new figures released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association.

From January to June deliveries in the EAFA region* were 439,300 tonnes (compared with 442,200t for the first six months of 2014). Once again thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, led the way with an increase of 4.5%, continuing the growth established at the end of last year, following a considerable period of decline.

Demand for thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, fell by 3.2%, again affected by a drop in exports. However this figure is almost half that recorded in Q1, reflecting an underlying pick-up in demand in the domestic market. Continuing strong competition from rollers in other parts of the world meant exports fell 7.8% at the halfway stage this year compared with last.

New World BBQ Champion British Bulldog BBQ supported by aluminium foil

The British Bulldog BBQ team is the winner of the official WBQA World Barbecue Championship 2015. The Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative (GLAFRI) and the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) supported all of the 60 competing teams from around the globe with aluminium foil and semi-rigid foil container which were major components in the preparation of creative barbecuing. Over two days the competition took place in the city centre of Gothenburg, Sweden.

All teams very much appreciated the aluminium household foil especially produced for the event by international foil roller Hydro and Dutch rewinding company ITS, as well as the sets of aluminium foil containers produced by Danish Plus Pack. Aluminium foil is practical and versatile in use for preparation and the actual barbecuing.

Alufoil industry supports WBQA World Barbecue Championships 2015

The Official WBQA World Barbecue Championships 2015 will take place 13-14 June in the city centre of Gothenburg, Sweden, and is supported by the Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative (GLAFRI) and the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

About 50,000 visitors are expected to watch more than 60 BBQ teams from 18 countries from Europe, Africa, North and South America displaying their skills at the grill across the full range of BBQ disciplines. For all teams aluminium foil and semi-rigid alufoil containers will be a major component in the preparation and creative barbecuing of the seven competition categorie.

Statistics Q1 2015: Alufoil demand starts 2015 weaker, but signs of recovery

Deliveries of aluminium foil products fell by 2.5% to 218,500 tonnes in the first three months of 2015 compared with the first quarter of 2014 (224,000 tonnes). But clear signs of stronger demand emerged in February and March, according to figures released by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. This followed a ‘short’ month in January, due to later than usual production start-ups after the Christmas and New Year breaks.

Sales of thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, rose by 5%, confirming that industrial applications are continuing to recover after a long period of stagnation. However demand for thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, fell by 6%, mainly driven by EAFA exports. Strongly expanded exports throughout 2014, fell by 2.6% in total during the first three months of 2015. That was an anticipated adjustment after the increased export growth from the EAFA region had been spectacular in the previous 12 months. Overall domestic demand remains flat and fell by 2.5%.

Alufoil Trophy 2015: Summary of all winners

Once again companies from every part of the aluminium foil industry have embraced the opportunity presented by the Alufoil Trophy. With the diversity of the 57 entries, covering a wide range of products across all the entry categories, the judges had a demanding task but finally selected 12 worthy winners.

The judges were led this year by Jean-Paul Duquet, global packaging eco design manager of Bel Group, who brought a wealth of experience in aluminium foil to the table, having had a long and distinguished background in the alufoil industry. He commented, “It is very refreshing to see so much creativity from the aluminium foil sector at a time when market conditions continue to be challenging. There are some fine examples of highly original concepts to open up new market opportunities or expand existing ones.”

“The ability to meet environmental and sustainability targets without losing any degree of performance or quality is very clearly demonstrated. In addition the technical innovations, to solve complex problems or meet difficult conditions, illustrate the talent available in the industry. Overall it is clear innovation and creativity are alive and well in the aluminium foil sector,” he added.

Click here for more information and the complete press material.

Statistics: A year of ups and downs for aluminium foil ends on optimistic note

Despite 2014 providing a very mixed set of results in the aluminium foil sector, overall, it was a satisfactory performance, in the face of continued economic difficulties and competitive influences, according to EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. Total production in Europe reached 852,685 tonnes, just 0.3% below the previous year’s total of 855,510t.

Once again exports put in a strong performance, ending 2014 with a rise of 17.2%, from 84,126 tonnes (2013) to 98,668t (2014), helped by currency factors. In the EAFA region deliveries retreated by 2.2%, recording sales of 754,018 tonnes (2014) compared with 771,385t (2013).

Aluminium Closures takes centre stage at ProWein 2015

The “Aluminium Closures – Turn 360°” campaign will be present for the first time at ProWein (15-17 March 2015 in Düsseldorf), the leading international fair for the wine sector. The campaign, which promotes the advantages of the growing segment of aluminium closures for wines, is taking part in a dedicated “Packaging & Design” show adjacent to the ProWein Forum.

The stand “Aluminium Closures – Turn 360°” organised by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association, will be located in Hall 13 D44. There they will explain how wine makers, retailers and other professional users in catering and hospitality can benefit from the convenience, taste and quality protection, technological and economic advantages, as well as the sustainability and recyclability offered by aluminium closures. The excellent design and branding opportunities made possible by using these closures will also be demonstrated.

GLAFRI ‘Initiative’ Success Leads to Formation of Global Foil Association

Mid of January, supporters of the Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative (GLAFRI) have decided to turn this activity into a legal trade association. It started operating immediately with 42 member companies, including 5 supporters, from all major foil producer areas worldwide.

This follows the remarkable success of GLAFRI so far, particularly the three annual conferences held to spearhead its activities. Thereupon, the supporters have decided to formalize the initiative by creating a trade body to continue and develop its work. 

Initially the major objective of the new association will be to continue ‘one voice’ on foil promotion and sustainability issues globally, with the aim to support foil market growth in general. The new organization will enable more continuity in carrying out the decisions and actions decided during the conferences and allow other projects and ideas to be developed.

See also www.global-alufoil.org

A Good Choice for 2015 – Aluminium Closures

The aluminium closures market, particularly for wine, is expected to continue strongly growing in 2015. This growth is attributed to a number of factors including the convenience offered to consumers as well as to wine makers and fillers.

An end-consumer survey by IPSOS in five major European markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) and the USA, demonstrates that the majority of consumers prefer an aluminium closure over other closure options for its convenience. Whether for opening, re-closing or avoiding wine spoilage due to cork taint aluminium closures scored top.

More details about consumer preferences and the market growth of aluminium closures are summarized in an attractive brochure titled “A good choice!” which can be downloaded from www.aluminium-closures.org.

2014
Statistics Q3 2014: Aluminium foil demand remains stable

Results issued by EAFA for the first nine months of 2014 reflect continued sluggish demand in European markets of aluminium foil. But these have been more than offset by the continued strong recovery in export deliveries, resulting in overall sales of 643,000 tonnes, ahead by 1.5% compared with the same period in 2013 (633,000t).

The figures also show an underlying trend of recovery for thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, which have shown a welcome increase in volumes of 6% in the year to date. While demand for thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, was flat, recording a small decline of 0.4%.

In the third quarter of 2014 deliveries with 209,000 tonnes remained at almost the same level as 2013 (210,000t). However, once again exports boosted this figure with an increase of 15%, while European demand fell by 2%.

Closing date for Alufoil Trophy 2015 extended

Entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2015 competition are now extended until 5 December 2014.

The Alufoil Trophy recognises and rewards the use of aluminium foil and aluminium closures in all its many forms and uses. From rolls in the kitchen, through sophisticated laminates or as insulation, for use in packaging, construction and automotive products, as well as in many other industrial and decorative applications it is used daily and, in many ways, can be regarded as indispensable.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

Improved recycling performance for aluminium closures
  • Average aluminium closure recycling rate in Europe hits 45 per cent
  • Even though small in size, aluminium closures are widely collected and recycled – either separately with other packaging or together with glass bottles
  • Recycling of aluminium needs up to 95% less energy than its primary production

Aluminium closures are mainly used for wine, spirits, water and olive oil. The advantage of aluminium closures is that they can be collected either together with the mixed packaging fraction or along with the glass collection stream. The aluminium is easily extracted from both material streams so that it can be recycled.

“Aluminium closures are probably the world’s most recycled closures in the wine and spirits sector.”, comments EAFA‘s Executive Director Stefan Glimm about the improved recycling results. “Particularly, European consumers are increasingly aware of the sustainability and convenience benefits of aluminium closures. Nevertheless, the industry will continue supporting national initiatives to enhance the collection and recycling.”

More information at www.aluminium-closures.org

Alufoil’s role in reducing environmental impacts - Global website Relaunch

Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative website relaunched

Prior to the world leading ALUMINIUM exhibition the Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative (GLAFRI), which supports foil growth globally and coordinates information on sustainability and recovery, relaunched its website, www.global-alufoil.org.

In line with objectives of GLAFRI to build ‘one voice’ on foil sustainability issues globally the animation video on Alufoil’s role in reducing the environmental impact of food and drink products is now available in 10 languages, including Chinese, Japanese and Portuguese, representing all major markets for foil globally.

Visit EAFA at ALUMINIUM 2014 in Düsseldorf (Hall 12 K 30)

EAFA will be present at the world's leading trade show and B2B-platform for the aluminium industry and its important application area.

Visit us at hall 12 K 30.

See also www.aluminium-messe.com

Alufoil Trophy 2015 open for entries

Rolling out excellence in aluminium foil applications and design

Entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2015 competition are now open until 21 November 2014. The Alufoil Trophy recognises and rewards the use of aluminium foil and aluminium closures in all its many forms and uses. From rolls in the kitchen, through sophisticated laminates or as insulation, in packaging, construction and automotive products, as well as in many other industrial and decorative applications it is used daily and, in many ways, can be regarded as indispensable.

More information in the Alufoil Trophy section.

Statistics: Exports drive growth of aluminium foil production in first half of 2014

The European Aluminium Foil Association, EAFA, has reported half year results which continue to show a modest, but steady, recovery in demand for both thin and thicker gauges. This is largely led by a strong showing from exports, which are 28% ahead of 2013. European* deliveries remains flat with demand showing a very small decline of 0.2% compared with last year.

In the six month to June overall production was 434,100t, 2.5% above the 2013 figure (423,000t). Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, held steady with growth of just 0.9%, but continuing the increases seen for the last 5 quarters.

Thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, held on to the gains seen in the first quarter, with deliveries running 6.3% higher than 2013. This year has seen a welcome upturn in demand for these gauges after declines for all of the previous twelve months.

EAFA Elections 2014 - Jan Homan re-elected as EAFA President

The Association recently held elections to its Board and is pleased to announce the results:

EAFA Board: Re-elected Jan Homan as EAFA President (and FPE Chairman), Manfred Mertens as Roller Group Chairman, Franco Bove as Closures Group Chairman, Hans Hogeveen as Rewinder Group Chairman and Ulf Wienböker as Chairman of FPE German Group. Peter Wallach from Constantia Flexibles was newly elected as Container Group Chairman. The elections took place in Dublin at the annual conference with record participation. The Association welcomed 11 new member companies since the last conference was held.

European BBQ Championship 2014 supported by Europe’s alu industry

Aluminium and BBQThe European BBQ Championship will take place 20-21 June at the Charlotta Valley Resort and Spa on the Polish Baltic Sea coast and will be supported by the European aluminium industry.

About 12,000 visitors are expected to watch more than 30 BBQ teams from 15 European countries displaying their skills at the grill across the full range of BBQ disciplines. For all teams aluminium foil will be a major component in the preparation and creative barbecuing of the seven competition categories (home cooking from the homeland, fish, chicken, pork ribs, pork butt/shoulder, beef brisket and dessert).

Statistics: Bright start to 2014 for alufoil deliveries in Europe and abroad

Deliveries of both thin and thicker gauges of aluminium foil have made a bright start in the first quarter of 2014, according to figures released recently by EAFA, the European Aluminium Foil Association. In particular exports from Europe recorded an excellent increase compared with the same period in 2013.

Overall alufoil production during the first quarter reached 219,000 tonnes (2013: 208,000t), an increase of 5.5%. After a slowdown through most of last year there was a welcome return to growth for thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, which saw a 10% improvement compared with the first three months of 2013. Thinner gauges, used mainly for flexible packaging and household foils, added 3.3% to continue the steady recovery seen for most of last year.

Inside Europe* the still slow, but improving, economic situation led to a 2.2% increase in production to 193,000 tonnes. Markets outside Europe, where economic activity is increasing sharply, accounted for shipments 26,000 tonnes (2013: 19,000t).

EAFA at interpack 2014: FOIL & TASTE in Hall 10 / C53

Experience alufoil live at interpack: FOIL & TASTE

At interpack visitors will have the chance to experience alufoil and aluminium closures live. Experts will run the FOIL & TASTE shows which will take place every show day at 11.30, 13.30, 15.00 and 16.30 hs at EAFA’s booth in hall10 / C53.

A short overview:

  • Thursday, 8 May: Wine Sommelier Taste & Quality Show
  • Friday, 9 May: Chocolatier’s Treats
  • Monday, 12 May: Coffee Barista Tasting Performance
  • Tuesday, 13 May: Wine Sommelier Taste & Quality Show
  • Wednesday, 14 May: Cocktail Champ Action
Study proves aluminium household foil a sustainable sandwich wrap option

A study undertaken by IFEU (The Institute for Energy and Environmental Research) to measure the relative environmental performance of two different sandwich packs: aluminium household foil and a rigid plastic lunchbox, found that aluminium foil performs very favourably in terms of environmental impact and should be considered a sustainable and convenient alternative product for packed lunches.

The IFEU project manager Frank Wellenreuther wrote in the recommendations section of the LCA: “From an environmental point of view the aluminium foil performs no worse than the plastic box to which it is compared. The environmental impacts due to the aluminium foil are lower than those of the plastic box in most relevant environmental impact categories and equal in the remaining ones ..."

More information at www.sandwich.alufoil.org.

Alufoil Trophy 2014: Summary of all winners

This year's Alufoil Trophy featured many original, yet practical, solutions for products using alufoil packaging and aluminium closures. Some shining examples of the skills and innovation on offer from the sector were among a record number of entries. The panel awarded 12 trophies from the 67 entries, recognising excellence in all five competition categories, plus one discretionary award.

Head of the judging panel this year was Dr Mark Caul, technical manager for packaging at Tesco, who brought a valuable retail perspective to the table. Commenting on the overall competition he said, “We were particularly impressed by the combination of alufoil with other materials to come up with some very well engineered and novel packaging solutions – many of which could lead to new market opportunities for alufoil or closures. In addition some of the finishing and print quality was simply outstanding and took some, often quite established concepts, to a completely different level. I was genuinely excited by the potential of some of the winning entries.”

Click here for more information and the complete press material.

Statistics: Alufoil markets stable in 2013 as outlook for growth improves

Full year results for the European aluminium foil sector show a stable, but largely flat market in the past twelve months, while the outlook for 2014 is viewed optimistically, with a general recovery in demand expected to gather pace both in Europe and overseas. Final output figures for the year were 842,700 tonnes, 0.3% ahead of 2012 (840,600t). Q4 results showed production declined by 3.3% to 199,800 tonnes compared with 2012 (206,700t).

Deliveries of thinner gauges, used largely for flexible packaging and household foils, remained positive throughout 2013, although the strong growth figures seen in the first half of the year did not carry on into the second. The decline in demand for thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, continued into Q4, largely caused by ongoing uncertainty in construction and technical markets and depressed demand from overseas.

Survey proves aluminium closures are top choice for consumers

An in-depth survey of 6,000 consumers, undertaken by IPSOS*, to discover consumer preferences on wine and spirit closures has confirmed that the majority prefer an aluminium closure over other closure options for its convenience.

The study, which took place in five major European markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and UK) and the USA, was commissioned by the European aluminium closure manufacturers and suppliers who are members of the EAFA Closures Group, part of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Aluminium closures also scored top when the consumers were asked about their preferences for re-closing a bottle of unfinished wine for later consumption. Four out of ten surveyed confirmed they had poured away wine from a bottle closed with a cork closure which had been tainted or gone bad.

More information at www.aluminium-closures.org

New global aluminium foil roller initiative supports market growth

More than 30 foil rollers from all continents have joined forces in a new Global Aluminium Foil Roller Initiative (GLAFRI) to support foil growth globally and coordinate messages on sustainability and recovery.

With the market for aluminium foil expected to grow by 4-5% CAGR up to 2018 the industry gathered in Dubai for the third Global Aluminium Foil Roller Conference (GLAFCO), organised once again by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). The main outcome was the establishment of the global initiative, enabling the industry to speak with ‘one voice’ on issues of central importance to the industry’s growth.

See also www.global-alufoil.org

More alufoil packaging recovered from incinerator bottom ashes than expected

A new fact sheet presents an up-to-date overview concerning the behaviour of aluminium packaging items during and after incineration in Waste-to-Energy (WtE) plants including quantifying the percentages of aluminium metal typically available to be recovered from the incinerator bottom ashes.

Based on five tests performed in different European household waste incinerations and on additional scientific research it can be concluded that the metallic transfer ratios for beverage cans, foil containers and even thin (laminated) foil are relatively high. This means that most aluminium packaging can be found back in the bottom ashes of the incinerators and – depending on the individually arranged combination of Eddy Current separators and / or other advanced sorting technologies - can be extracted for further treatment and recycling into new valuable aluminium products.

More info in the Fact Sheet and in the section 'Sustainability'.

Alufoil Trophy winners scoop more honours with WorldStar awards

Four products, which won the coveted Alufoil Trophy in 2013, have been recognised by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) with the award of a WorldStar 2014 for packaging excellence. The winning alufoil products were made by Constantia Flexibles and Amcor Flexibles and cover food, beverage and pharmaceutical applications.

The next Alufoil Trophy winners, for 2014, will be a major feature of the EAFA stand at the interpack exhibition in Düsseldorf this May. The winners will be announced in Spring 2014, shortly before the exhibition.

2013
Importance of Foil to Total Aluminium Output Underlines GLAFCO Conference Aims

New figures show that the worldwide aluminium foil production currently accounts for 12% of global primary aluminium output, making it a key product for the sector. These figures underline the importance of the up-coming third Global Aluminium Foil Roller Conference (GLAFCO), organised by EAFA, which will take place from 15th – 17th January 2014 in Dubai, where about 90 leaders around and from the alufoil business will meet to discuss future strategies and mutual projects.

See also www.global-alufoil.org

UN Report Recognizes Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Work of EAFA

A new report, from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has used a number of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) undertaken by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), in a wide ranging, in depth, report to understand best practice in using LCA as an assessment tool for packaging.

The report, produced under the Life Cycle Initiative - a joint organisation of UNEP and the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) - summarizes the results of a project designed to consolidate outcomes of existing research on the environmental performance of packaging, namely LCA studies, in order to demonstrate the value of applying LCAs to evaluate environmental impacts for food and beverage packaging.

Aluminium foil, with its proven barrier properties against light, gas, moisture and odours has long been at the forefront of food and beverage packaging developments to achieve extended shelf-life and improved ambient shelf performance.

Aluminium Closures – Turn 360: Campaign Extension and New Supporters

The information campaign to promote awareness of aluminium closures, 'Aluminium Closures - Turn 360°' has been extended from wine to take in new content on the wide range of bottled products using this form of closure, including spirits, water and oils. These new contents, underscore yet again the campaign’s proactive approach in this sector.

  • The ‘Aluminium Closures – Turn 360?’ is a dynamic awareness campaign initiated by Europe’s leading manufacturers of aluminium closures. It provides detailed information on the advantages of aluminium closures as a state-of-the-art closure for many bottled products
  • The campaign features the most up to date information and data with support given by the suppliers to the alu closures industry
  • It demonstrates the high growth rates for the use of aluminium closure in recent years (2012: 16 billion closures for wines, spirits, table waters, and oils)

More information at www.aluminium-closures.org

Statistics: Total Alufoil Deliveries Stay Positive at Q3 Despite Weaker Demand

Overall Year To Date (YTD) deliveries from Europe’s aluminium foil manufacturers stayed ahead of comparative figures for 2012, despite a weakening in demand through the summer. At 639,100 tonnes the totals are 0.8% higher than for the same 9 month period last year.

Demand for thinner foils, used largely for flexible packaging and household foils, has been continuously positive throughout 2013 and once again performed well in a sluggish summer market. Figures were 0.6% ahead in Q3 compared with 2012. But thicker foils, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, continue to struggle, with deliveries falling by 1.3% against the same three month period a year ago. Total alufoil deliveries in Q3 were 1.6% down at 207,300 tonnes.

In addition the figures were affected by slower demand in overseas markets which have been experiencing strong growth in the previous 6 months. Deliveries for trade outside the European area fell by 5.1%*. Although, taken as a whole, the first nine months of 2013 has seen good performance in exports.

Programme for 3rd Global Foil Roller Conference (15-17 Jan 2014) is now online

The programme for the 3rd Global Aluminium Foil Roller Conference (GLAFCO) taking place from 15th – 17th January 2014 in Dubai is now available.

The leading foil rolling companies from all continents have already committed to either chair a session or to report on regional market developments. Moreover, the who’s who of the foil supplying industry as well as from the customer side will present on latest market trends and developments. A further focus will be on foil sustainability and recycling.

More info at www.global-alufoil.org

BBQ Championships 2013 – Aluminium the natural barbecue partner!

Aluminium and BBQThe Belgium BBQ Championships 2013 took place last week in Oostende, Belgium and were supported by the European aluminium industry. The jury was composed of the main Belgium Michelin star chefs and it was, in general, very impressed by the high quality of the dishes served by the teams. The new Belgium BBQ Champion is Team HERTALS.

About 30,000 visitors enjoyed watching the 36 BBQ teams from Belgium and neighbouring countries displaying their skills at the grill across the full range of BBQ disciplines. For all teams aluminium foil was a major component of their creative barbecuing and practical preparation of the five required barbecue dishes (fish, pork, chicken, beef and a dessert dish).

The thick aluminium household foil and the sets of small rectangular and round aluminium foil trays, kindly supplied by the aluminium packaging companies Hydro, ITS Foil and NOVELIS, were an essential tool used by the participants.

Statistics: Steady progress for alufoil continues as overall tonnage improves again

Deliveries of aluminium foil products continued to move ahead in the second quarter of 2013, confirming that the recovery in demand seen in 2012 continues. Overall production for the year to date reached 419,800t, a rise of 2.5% compared with the first half of 2012 (409,500). Exports too maintained momentum, increasing by 3.2% in the second quarter of 2013, helping first half sales outside the European market to an impressive 6.6% rise.

Q2 results showed thinner gauges, used largely for flexible packaging and household foils, once again led the way with a rise of 2.3%. Thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, dropped back by just 1.8%, indicating recovery is more uneven for these products. Total deliveries, at 210,400t achieved a rise of 1.3% compared with Q2 2012.

Alufoil Trophy 2014: A chance to 'shine' in aluminium foil!

The Alufoil Trophy 2014 is open for entries. It is  an established major prize, which recognises innovation and creativity in the use of foil across a number of applications and very well received in the media. In addition, the 2014 winners will be featured at interpack, the world’s largest packaging exhibition, in Düsseldorf next May.

Five entry categories place the spotlight on the many different contributions alufoil and aluminium closures makes to the modern world: Marketing + Design, Consumer Convenience, Resource Efficiency, Product Preservation and Technical Innovation.

The deadline for entries is 29 Nov 2013. Click here for more information.

3rd Global Foil Roller Conference 2014 in Dubai

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) announced that the third global aluminium foil roller conference (GLAFCO) will take place from 15th – 17th January 2014 in Dubai. Delegates from the international aluminium foil roller industry are expected to continue the coordinated actions on foil sustainability and promotion to support market growth globally and highlight innovative developments.

More info at www.global-alufoil.org

Statistics: Alufoil sees Production Growth on all Fronts

First quarter 2013 figures for aluminium foil showed growth across all gauges for the first time since mid-2011. Overall Q1 production grew by 3.7% to 209,400t (2012: 201,900). Meanwhile exports* from European manufacturers maintained the momentum seen in the later part of 2012 with a first quarter growth of 10.3%, according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) recently.

Thinner gauges, used largely for flexible packaging and household foils continued their steady recovery during 2012 with a 2.4% increase in the first three months of 2013. Thicker gauges, used typically for semi-rigid containers and technical applications, advanced by 2.5%, showing growth in this sector for the first time in 18 months.

Alufoil Trophy 2013: Summary of all winners

Great ingenuity to create innovative products, some with the potential to take alufoil into new markets, underlined the entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2013. Practicality was combined with style and creativity across all sectors. So good was the quality of entries that the judges were challenged to pick ‘the best of the best’, but eventually selected 12 winners.

Judging was led by Professor Dr. Markus Prem, principal of the Department of Food Packaging Technology at the University of Applied Sciences Kempten, who commented on the overall standard of entries saying, “The originality and quality of the entries generated much discussion among the judges. In these tough economic times we always look to focus on developments which can add value or reduce cost, as well as meeting sustainable requirements. But it impressed us how some very imaginative and stylish ideas were presented which could open new doors for alufoil, or create better, eye-catching solutions for existing products.”

More information can be found here.

Aluminium Foil Deliveries 2012 - Outlook 2013

The moderate increase in demand and deliveries for aluminium foil products from European manufacturers, seen during the first three quarters of 2012, was maintained in Q4. The year ended with total production up 1.5% at 813,800t (2011: 801,600t) according to the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). The deliveries in the fourth quarter 2012 were 5% up compared with Q4 2011.

Thinner gauges used for flexible packaging and household foil continued to lead the way with an increase of 3% compared with the previous year. The increase in Q4 compared with same period in 2011 was even 8%. Deliveries of thicker gauges which are typically used for semi-rigid containers and technical applications continued to decline, falling in total by 5% in the last twelve months, although the rate of decline is continuing to slow down with only a 1% decrease in the fourth quarter.

Good Recycling Performance for Aluminium Closures

Across Europe the average recycling rate for aluminium closures is 40 per cent

  • Despite their small size, aluminium closures are collected and recycled – either separately with other packaging or together with used glass bottles
  • Recycling of aluminium needs up to 95% less energy than its primary production

More information about aluminium closures on www.aluminium-closures.org.

3rd Global Aluminium Foil Roller Conference early 2014 in Dubai

EAFA announced that the third global aluminium foil roller conference (GLAFCO) will take place from 15th – 17th January 2014 in Dubai.

Delegates from the international aluminium foil roller industry are expected to continue the coordinated actions on foil sustainability and promotion to support market growth globally and highlight innovative developments.

The 3rd GLAFCO is organised by EAFA, the global network leader of foil producers. The conference is open for foil rollers worldwide. Previous conferences were held in Oman and Thailand. Supporters are Achenbach Buschhütten, Kampf, Novelis PAE, Thiel & Hoche and the International Aluminium Institute (IAI). The strategic partner is CRU.

2012
Aluminium Closures – Turn 360° (www.aluminium-closures.org)

Campaign to promote the quality and advantages of aluminium closures for wine

  • The leading manufacturers of aluminium closures launch the pan-European promotional campaign ’Aluminium Closures – Turn 360° to enhance public awareness about the advantages of a sustainable and state-of-the-art closure form
  • New internet portal www.aluminium-closures.org goes online to provide comprehen­sive information on the advantages of aluminium closures
Every Second Alufoil Container is Recycled in Europe

Recycling rates for alufoil trays and semi-rigid containers across Europe rose above 50 per cent in 2010 (2008: 45 per cent) helped by the industry’s commitment to promote the benefits of resource efficient and sustainable packaging options.

Aluminium is endlessly recyclable, which saves up to 95 per cent of energy use compared with its primary production. This message is increasingly recognised by the packaging supply chain, while consumers are showing greater willingness to play their part across Europe.

Positive Development for Alufoil in the First Nine Months

The first nine months of 2012 showed a positive development for the European manufacturers of aluminium foil. According to European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) 618,500 tonnes were delivered in the three quarters (2011: 611,400 tonnes), representing an increase of 1.2%.

Thinner gauges mainly for flexible packaging and household foil were up more than one cent while thicker gauges typically used for semi-rigid containers and technical applications decreased five per cent. Exports outside the EAFA region further improved by twelve per cent, indicating a recovery in demand from emerging markets and others outside Europe.

Alufoil Trophy 2013 - Call for entries

Alufoil reaches every part of the world we live in: packaging or helping with the preparation of the food we eat; protecting the medicines which help to fight disease and illness; in transport to make vehicles more efficient and sustainable; and in buildings to keep us warm, cool or safe. The Alufoil Trophy celebrates all these activities and recognises the best of the best as well as highlighting new and exciting applications using aluminium foil and closures.

The Alufoil Trophy is now established as a major prize, which recognises innovation and creativity in the use of foil across a number of applications.

European Alufoil Manufacturers optimistic for 2012

After a slow start into the year 2012 the European manufacturers of aluminium foil saw clear signs of recovery in the second quarter. According to EAFA 411,500 tonnes were delivered in the first six months (2011: 420 100 tonnes), representing a decrease of two per cent.

Thinner gauges mainly for flexible packaging and household foil were down two per cent while thicker gauges typically used for semi-rigid containers and technical applications dipped almost eight per cent. A major boost came from exports which leapt by almost ten per cent, indicating a recovery in demand from emerging markets and others outside Europe.

However, these figures mask a better performance in the second quarter of 2012, where deliveries were above the year before, indicating more steady demand from inside Europe.

Alufoil Blister Packs: 50 years of solid service

The first blister pack was introduced to the market 50 years ago. Today it is hard to imagine a world where unit doses of solid form pharmaceuticals are not available in this user-friendly format. So many advantages for the end-user have emerged and its most obvious benefit is that it is always clear how many tablets have been used.

Jan Homan elected as new EAFA President and FPE Chairman

Jan Homan, Chairman Constantia Flexibles, has been newly elected President of EAFA. The association also welcomed 17 new member companies.

Speaking recently at the association’s annual conference Jan Homan said, “The excellent work of EAFA is proven by the high number of new companies joining. Common interests like the promotion of the material and challenges in the world of sustainability as well as food contact issues form an important industry voice.”

He added: “Especially alufoil and flexible packaging applications can contribute to a more sustainable consumption and production as illustrated in our thought leadership papers ‘More is Less’ and ‘The Perfect Fit’. Our association will continue serving its members and their customers and will deal pro-actively with new challenges.”

European Alufoil Production starts calm into 2012

The start into 2012 was calm for the European aluminium foil manufactures in line with the European economic markets. The first three months showed an overall shipments decrease of almost five per cent to 204,000t compared to last year’s first quarter according to figures published by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Thinner gauges mostly used for flexible packaging and household foil declined by almost six per cent. The shipments of thicker foil segments typically used for semi-rigid container and technical applications fell by almost ten per cent. However, exports* from Europe rose by almost nine per cent underlining the competiveness of the European foil rollers on a global level.

Commenting the start of the year and the outlook EAFA’s Executive Director Stefan Glimm said: “The slow start reflects the overall European economic situation with quite stable regions and less performing areas. The prevention of food waste through its excellent barrier and preservation properties should provide aluminium foil a healthy future.”

Alufoil deliveries down in 2011 – Cautious outlook for 2012

Full year figures for European output of alufoil in 2011 showed a modest decline in overall production levels, reflecting the cautious outlook throughout the European economic markets. However exports from Europe remained steady according to figures released by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

Total production fell back by 5.2% to 801,900 tonnes (2010: 846,300 tonnes), with thinner gauges declining by 7.9%. Thicker gauges fared much better registering only a 2.4% drop from 2010 levels. Exports* held up better, down by just 0.7%.

Alufoil Trophy 2012: Summary of all winners

Entries for the Alufoil Trophy 2012 showed great originality in developing advanced forms of familiar products as well as some ground breaking new ideas. The competition attracted 52 entries across five categories and ranged from household goods to packaging, on through to automotive applications and a remarkable survival product.

“The great diversity of applications and multiple functionality of alufoil were clearly demonstrated by the entries for this year’s Trophy.” observed Antoinette Devine, global packaging consultant for SABMiller, who headed the judging panel. “But we were particularly impressed by the original thinking which had gone in to some traditional items which took them to a new level of performance and technical innovation.”

More information can be found here.

EAFA Joins United Nations backed SAVE FOOD initiative

EAFA has become a full member of the SAVE FOOD initiative which was launched officially in 2011 at the world’s largest packaging fair, interpack, in Dusseldorf.

The SAVE FOOD initiative is a joint campaign instituted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations and Messe Düsseldorf to provide a platform for activities and the promotion of initiatives to reduce food waste.

A key element in this programme is the development and adoption of appropriate packaging solutions. This aligns completely with the work of EAFA to offer innovative and sustainable packaging formats for the protection, distribution and preservation of all kinds of food products. www.save-food.org

2011
EAFA presents its new website www.alufoil.org

The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) announced the launch of its newly designed website, dedicated to providing comprehensive information on the European aluminium foil industry.

Featuring a comprehensive overview of aluminium foil, its history, market information, Alufoil properties and applications, the new website has a completely new look and feel. The design incorporates performance optimised navigation to enable access to the right information quickly and easy. It also offers a search facility to locate EAFA’s member companies and potential suppliers of alufoil products.

3rd Quarter statistics: Calming alufoil production

The economic slow down in Europe also affected the deliveries of aluminium foil in the first nine months of 2011. According to data published by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) the total production declined by almost 4% to 609,000t. 

Alufoil Trophy 2012: An invitation to reward excellence in foil usage

Aluminium foil impacts on every area of our lives from the kitchen to the retail shelf and on to technical industrial applications, which is why excellence in aluminium foil and flexible packaging within Europe will be recognised and rewarded with an Alufoil Trophy 2012. Organised by EAFA, these sought after awards are presented to manufacturers and users of  aluminium foil across all market sectors and applications, and celebrate the creativity and flexibility of aluminium foil. The Alufoil Trophy encourages the industry to show off innovative new material structures which offer true consumer convenience, technical development and sustainable solutions across packaging applications and industrial solutions. 

1st half year 2011 statistics: Alufoil sector stabilises on high level

Alufoil sector stabilises on high level

After bullish growth rates over the past quarters the aluminium foil deliveries stabilised on a high level according to data published by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). 

The production of the European aluminium foil industry slightly declined by 0.9 % to 419,000 t in the first six months of 2011.

World Grill and Barbecue Championship 2011: And the winner comes from Austria

The World Grill and Barbecue Champion 2011 is Christoph Gollenz. Together with his team Goli & Chef Partie from Austria, he convinced the expert judges at the 2011 World BBQ Championship which was sponsored by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) and held last weekend in Gronau in Germany. 

Statistics Q1: Optimism as Alufoil sector continues to grow

Signs of buoyancy continue for the European aluminium foil sector with a rise in production of 1.3 % to 214,400 t for the first quarter of 2011 compared with the same period in 2010. Thicker alufoil gauges, used mainly for the manufacture of semi-rigid foil trays and technical applications rose by 6 %, while thinner gauges used mainly in flexible packaging and household foil fell slightly by -0.7 %. Exports outside the EAFA region* remained stable.

Alufoil Trophy 2011: Summary of all winners

Variety was the key to a fantastic array of product developments entered for the Alufoil Trophy 2011, organised by the European Aluminium Foil Association. “Covering almost every market, entrants offered something for each category and gave the judges plenty to assess making it very difficult to pick the eventual winners,” said head judge Alan Moffat, Packaging Development Manager, H. J. Heinz R&D.

More information can be found here.

Launch of first global foil project - A Global Moment with Alufoil

Sustainable Development is a global challenge that transcends geographical boundaries and national borders. The way environmental considerations are addressed and tackled to promote resource efficiency around the globe also have a local impact and will shape the future of the way we all live.

Aluminium foil - an indispensable BBQ partner

This May is going to be hot, hot, hot, with everything revolving around barbecue and grilling! The European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) invites all to celebrate the beginning of summer at two major international BBQ events that will demonstrate just how many different features of aluminium foil can be put to good use for barbecues and grills.

Global Foil Roller Conference – Agreement for global action on sustainability

Sustainability was at the top of the Agenda at the 2nd Global Aluminium Foil Roller Conference held in Bangkok, Thailand, 12-14 January 2011, at the initiative of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). The importance of aluminium foil usage to the global market was underlined by 90 participants from China, Europe, India, Japan, Middle East, North America, Russia, South Korea, Thailand and Turkey representing almost 80% of global aluminium foil production. The conference programme covered the development in global aluminium foil demand (over 4% for the last 10 years, to 3.2 million tons in 2010), the environmental performance of the smelters and its impact on the eco-performance of end-products, technical development in the rolling sector and foundries, the position of aluminium foil in the sustainability debate. The first common project “A Global Moment with Alufoil” as a result of the first conference was launched. It covers a brochure and a website www.global-alufoil.org.

2010
Statistics 2010: Rising Alufoil Production Figures Mark European Optimism for 2011

Soaring growth to bring alufoil production within Europe to the record levels experienced in 2006 before the 2008 economic crisis took hold, is shown by the year-end figures for 2010. Published by the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA), these show overall shipment growth of 10.6 per cent to 850,300 t (2009: 768,600 t), creating in confidence in the outlook for aluminium foil products. EAFA President François Coëffic said, “The figures represent a return close to the record pre-crisis levels of 2006 and, even though we live in more unpredictable economic times, confidence is returning and we as EAFA arecautiously optimistic for 2011.”]

Joint EAA-EAFA event - Aluminium industry celebrates 100 years of aluminium foil

Policy makers, industry stakeholders, NGOs and media representatives were invited to attend an event jointly organised by the European Aluminium Association (EAA) and the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) to celebrate the 100th anniversary of aluminium foil. The invitees assisted to a live cooking show and could taste quality dishes using aluminium foil.

European alufoil container recycling on the up

An upward trend is emerging in European recycling rates for alufoil trays and semi-rigid containers which rose to 45 per cent in 2008 (2007: 40 per cent), thanks to an increasing understanding of its benefits in providing more sustainable packaging options.  Aluminium is endlessly recyclable. Recycling of aluminium saves up to 95% of energy use compared with its primary production. This message is being increasingly understood by the packaging supply chain. It is also heartening that consumers are showing an increasing willingness to play their part. 

EAFA Elections: Big Challenges Call for Pro-active Initiatives

François Coëffic, Novelis, has been re-elected President of the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA) and chairman of the Roller Group for a second term. Speaking in at the association’s annual conference François Coëffic, said, “Sustainability is a key challenge and will continue to be at the top of the agenda of our members and their customers, particularly for packaging applications. Our association has a very pro-active stance on raising the debate and implementing actions for sustainable consumption and production. Ongoing globalisation is another challenge we are dealing with and for key issues like sustainability we are managing and addressing questions while also proposing solutions at the global level.” 

Second Global Foil Roller Conference in 2011

EAFA announced that the second global foil roller conference will take place from 12th – 14th January 2011 in Bangkok, Thailand. François Coëffic, EAFA President:”The first conference in 2008 represented more than 75 per cent of the global foil industry and far exceeded our expectations identifying a range of challenges and opportunities in terms of growing global markets but also in terms of sustainable development.” 

100 years of alufoil and still moving forward

There is no better way to celebrate the future than to draw lessons from history, which is why the European Aluminium Foil Association is celebrating the 100th anniversary of aluminium foil with a look at past, current and some future technical developments.