Paperboard packing specialist Graphic Packaging International (GPI) has opened a European microwave test facility near Cambrai in northern France to help brand owners and retailers develop and test new microwaveable food and packaging solutions.
The company is keen to duplicate in Europe the success it has seen at its similar facilities in the US and Canada.
Martin Gustavsson, who has just joined GPI as technical manager, Microwave, from a large global food manufacturer, says: “The development of a microwave packaging solution is intertwined with the development of the product itself. The packaging supplier has to work in close partnership with the food company to ensure the consumer enjoys the best possible sensory experience.”
Mike Healey, GPI European marketing manager, adds: “ Consumers are now very well used to microwaveable foods of all types, to the extent that brand owners and packaging companies wanting to differentiate are now having to develop second and third generation packs – a major focus at our new European facility. The days of microwaveable packaging innovation being based solely around grey susceptor board are long gone.”