Amcor (NYSE: AMCR, ASX: AMC), a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions, has explored evolving packaging requirements across Europe’s animal feed and bedding markets in a recent Amcor insights article.
Across the UK, Amcor has seen feed and bedding producers continue to adapt packaging strategies as operational demands increase and regulatory requirements evolve.
Traditionally, pre-made bags have been widely used across the sector. However, Amcor reports many producers are now transitioning towards form-fill-seal (FFS) and single wound sheet (SWS) solutions. These formats typically enable higher filling speeds, greater flexibility, and simplified packaging ranges through the use of generic printed films with post-marking on the packing line.
Packaging performance is also becoming increasingly important in maintaining line efficiency. Film consistency, strength, and seal integrity help reduce downtime, minimise product loss, and ensure stable operation on high-speed filling lines.
At the same time, Amcor’s customers say that producers are navigating evolving regulatory requirements, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the UK Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), placing greater emphasis on recyclability, material usage, and recycled content.
Lorcan Mekitarian, Sales Director for the UK and Ireland at Amcor, said: “Across the UK and Europe, we’re seeing packaging decisions get more complicated. Producers are balancing performance, regulation, and material availability, often across multiple sites, and we’re working closely with them to make sure solutions perform consistently in practice.”
Requirements vary depending on the application. Feed products for export or specialist segments such as birdseed may require multi-layer films compatible with gas flushing. Bedding products such as wood shavings and straw place greater demands on durability, requiring packaging that can withstand handling while protecting against moisture and dust.
These requirements are supported by Amcor’s UK manufacturing base and wider European network, enabling consistent supply and service across multiple sites and markets, alongside access to a broad range of film structures and technical expertise.
Technical support is also playing an increasingly important role, with packaging specialists working closely with producers to optimise film specifications, machine settings, and application performance.
Sustainability is now a more integrated part of packaging decisions. Recycle-ready solutions are increasingly expected, alongside the use of recycled content where suitable.
However, incorporating recycled content introduces additional technical considerations, particularly in maintaining film performance and consistency on high-speed lines. Amcor supports this through its vertically integrated flexible recycling capabilities, including facilities in Heanor, UK and Steinfeld, Germany.
Ken Gargan, Product Development Manager at Amcor, added: “Incorporating recycled content isn’t just about adding material into a structure. It requires careful consideration of how it impacts film performance, processing, and consistency on the line. The challenge is to achieve the right balance, ensuring materials remain reliable in practice while meeting evolving requirements.”
As requirements continue to evolve, packaging is becoming a more important part of overall operational performance, supporting efficiency, consistency, and the ability to adapt across sites and markets.
