Intertek, a multinational inspection, product testing and certification firm, has opened a new packaging performance testing facility in the US.
Image: Intertek will use new facility in end-to-end evaluation of product packages. Photo: courtesy of digitalart / FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
Situated at the firm’s laboratory in Grand Rapids of Michigan, the new facility has been developed for use in end-to-end evaluation of product packages ranging from design to material assessment and sustainability.
Due to expansion of e-commerce and globalization of supply chains, the evaluation of packages is becoming crucial to better protect products from being damaged.
According to the company, one out of 10 packages purchased through e-commerce arrive to the consumer damaged, making it crucial for manufacturers and retailers to ensure the integrity of their packaging.
Intertek offers packaging performance services such as design evaluation, sustainability services and testing to various standards, including ISTA, ASTM International and customized specifications of retailers and manufacturers.
Intertek business development leader Brian Kneibel said: “Intertek’s focus has always been to provide services that help our customers bring quality and safety to life. We have seen the growth of e-commerce and evolution of supply chains impact our customers in multiple ways, including packaging.
“We’re excited to offer the industry a way to help ensure the quality and sustainability of their packages as they build their e-commerce platforms and strategies to meet consumer demand for quality products purchased online.”
With 15 ISTA-accredited packaging labs, Intertek provides services to supplier networks, manufacturers, retailers, and others.
The company manages more than 1,000 laboratories and offices in over 100 countries to deliver assurance, testing, inspection and certification solutions for customers’ operations and supply chains. It employs around 43,000 people.
Initially, the company will identify and mitigate the inherent risk in the firm’s operations, supply chains and quality management systems.
Now, the firm will assess products and services to meet and exceed quality, safety, sustainability and performance standards.
Following this, Intertek will validate the specifications, value and safety of raw materials, products and assets.
Finally, the firm will confirm that products and services meet all trusted external and internal standards.