SOUTH AFRICA – The Propak Cape exhibition, taking place from 24-26 October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, will showcase the latest technologies and innovations in packaging and related industries.
Over 200 local and international exhibitors will be displaying their products, machinery, equipment, services and solutions across packaging, food processing, plastics, printing and labeling. Live demonstrations will enable visitors to see machinery and equipment in action.
“The packaging industry is driven by the demands of consumers and the latest global trends, which leads to innovative technology developments and product solutions to meet these needs,” says the event organizers.
“Many packaged products on the retail shelves are large as a result of the collective food processing, packaging, plastics, print and labeling industries, which is why it’s so important to showcase these industries together.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to source new products, find out about the latest trends and technologies, and meet new and existing suppliers.
Expert advice will be available from technical specialists who will be on hand to discuss the right solutions for business growth.
A series of free-to-attend seminars will host industry leaders who will be sharing their knowledge and expertise on a variety of important topics.
Plastic to take center stage
Plastics are a valuable part of the packaging materials mix which offers functionality that is difficult to replicate with other packaging materials.
Its barrier properties for food and product preservation are extremely valuable in ensuring the integrity of the product enclosed.
By safeguarding the product, plastic packaging saves resources and reduces the carbon and water footprints associated with manufacturing that product.
The growing medical and pharmaceutical industries rely on plastic packaging to ensure that equipment remains sterile.
Incidences of infections are growing the market for sterile packaged pouches for medical devices. Medicines can also be safely stored in plastic containers.
Plastic packaging plays a major role in creating a barrier for preserving and ensuring the safety of food, which reduces overall food waste, which is a very large problem in South Africa.
The light weight of plastic as a packaging material also results in the transportation of products of equal volume generating fewer carbon emissions than the same products packaged in heavier materials.
Plastic is also highly durable, which can lead to reduced spoilage or breakage during transportation and handling, in comparison to other materials.
