Gem-Pack Berries partners on sustainable packaging initiative

Gem-Pack Berries says it is collaborating with sustainable packaging company Multisteps, which brings its digital direct printing capabilities — a solution that aligns with Gem-Pack's mission to design toward a more sustainable supply chain.

By eliminating traditional paper labels, film and adhesives, the technology simplifies the recycling process, enhances recyclability and streamlines sustainability, according to a news release. This next generation in sustainable packaging aims to boost efficiency and reduce waste, the company said.

"Gem-Pack and Multisteps share a deep passion for sustainability and innovation,” said Gem-Pack Berries Senior Vice President of Operations Madu Etchandy. “The opportunity that Multisteps brought our way to launch this technology within the U.S. berry category is very exciting and is another step in the right direction to reducing our overall environmental impact. We look forward to building on this and deepening our commitment to sustainable practices, driving innovation and leading by example."

Gem-Pack Berries said it is one of the first berry companies in the U.S. to adopt Multisteps’ digital direct printing technology, adding that the collaboration represents a dedication to sustainability and a proactive approach to reducing environmental impacts.

Multisteps said it approaches its innovation with a "design for recycling" philosophy: By eliminating the need for paper and adhesives on clamshell packages, the solution reduces the strain on recycling centers, lowers greenhouse gas emissions and keeps PET out of landfills. The printing technology uses food-grade washable inks that clean off easily in the recycling process, ensuring the materials can be recycled in the most sustainable way possible.

The technology also offers many design possibilities, delivering superior color finishes without compromising on sustainability, according to the release. Gem-Pack Berries said as it explores new projects with Multisteps’ capabilities in the coming months, this initiative will begin rolling out across a portion of their California-based products starting in the fourth quarter.

“We have spent a few years perfecting this innovation while adding an array of proprietary technologies to ensure we produce a flawless final product," said Multisteps Vice President of Sales and Business Development Monica Steinberg. "Multisteps Industries is incredibly honored to partner with Gem-Pack in this new venture, and we deeply share their beliefs in sustainability. For us, finding innovative ways to reduce plastic waste has become a lifelong commitment.

"Direct printing opens a new world for branding and marketability, far beyond what labels can offer, giving companies an array of choices to stand out from the competition," Steinberg continued. "One other benefit to this technology is the substantial cost savings. As consumers become more aware and demanding of legitimate environmentally friendly solutions, our direct printing is the latest, most advanced technology, to truly close the cycle of sustainability.”

Gem-Pack Berries said it in addition to the Multisteps partnership being a vital part of its own journey toward reducing its carbon footprint, the company hopes it can have a positive ripple effect throughtout the industry.