Amcor Partners with Kelpi to Develop Next-Generation Barrier Solutions for Fiber Packaging

Amcor, a global leader in responsible packaging solutions, has announced a collaboration with U.K.-based startup Kelpi to develop next-generation coating technologies aimed at improving the performance and sustainability of packaging materials.

The collaboration with Kelpi aligns with Amcor’s broader innovation strategy to develop sustainable packaging solutions without compromising performance. As part of the partnership, Amcor’s research and development teams are evaluating Kelpi’s proprietary bio-based seaweed coating technology, which is designed to provide high barrier performance while remaining compatible with existing recycling streams for fibre-based packaging.

By evaluating advanced bio-based coating technologies, Amcor aims to strengthen its AmFiber™ fibre-based solutions platform and expand its ability to meet demanding packaging requirements, including superior barrier performance, high-speed processing, and circularity. The adoption of such bio-based coatings could reduce dependence on fossil fuel-derived feedstocks, increase the use of renewable resources, and help lower the overall carbon footprint.

“This collaboration reflects how we are advancing our material innovation pipeline, and it supports the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s call for accelerated innovation in paper-based flexible packaging, ” said Peter Ettridge, Director, Research and Development, AmFiber™, Amcor. “We’re excited by the potential of Kelpi’s technology, which combines processability, gas and moisture barrier performance, and paper recyclability.”

“Partnering with companies like Kelpi is a key part of how we bring new technologies into our innovation ecosystem,” said Frank Lehmann, vice president, corporate venturing and open innovation, Amcor. “Its innovative approach to leveraging nature-sourced materials that won’t compromise packaging performance is promising, and we’re excited to explore opportunities to scale the technology within our global packaging portfolio.”

By combining Kelpi’s technology with Amcor’s global R&D expertise and scale, the companies aim to deliver scalable, commercially viable packaging solutions that support a circular economy across consumer goods markets.

Source: AMCOR