Amcor, a global leader in the packaging industry, has entered into a strategic collaboration with the United Kingdom-based start-up Kelpi to investigate the potential of next-generation seaweed coating solutions. This initiative aligns with Amcor’s ongoing commitment to identifying and scaling packaging alternatives that prioritize environmental sustainability while maintaining essential performance standards. The research and development teams at Amcor are currently evaluating Kelpi’s proprietary coating technology, which utilizes seaweed-derived materials to provide necessary barrier properties. These seaweed coating solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing recycling streams for fibre-based packaging, potentially expanding the capabilities of the AmFiber product line. This focus on material innovation ensures that functional requirements are met without compromise.
The partnership focuses on the environmental benefits of bio-based coatings, including a reduced reliance on fossil fuel-derived feedstocks and an increased use of renewable inputs. Such advancements are expected to contribute to a lower overall carbon footprint and support the transition toward a circular packaging model. Amcor and Kelpi are assessing the commercial feasibility and scalability of these materials for various consumer goods categories. Peter Ettridge, Amcor’s AmFiber R&D director, stated: “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. We are excited by the potential of Kelpi’s technology, which combines processability, gas and moisture barrier performance, and paper recyclability.”
Frank Lehmann, Amcor’s vice-president of Corporate Venturing and Open Innovation, emphasized the importance of external partnerships in the company’s growth strategy. He noted: “Partnering with companies like Kelpi is a key part of how we bring new technologies into our innovation ecosystem. Its innovative approach to leveraging nature-sourced materials that won’t compromise packaging performance is promising, and we are excited to explore opportunities to scale the technology within our global packaging portfolio.” In addition to this R&D focus, Amcor recently expanded its operational footprint in Latin America by implementing the Moda rotary vacuum chamber sealing system at Barra Mansa Alimentos in Brazil. This move is part of Amcor’s broader investment strategy in the region, involving enhancements to production capacity and technical support. The integration of the vacuum chamber technology, alongside the pursuit of renewable inputs and a reduced carbon footprint, highlights the company’s dual focus on equipment efficiency and moisture barrier advancements.
