K.D. Feddersen Holding GmbH, the parent company of the Feddersen Group, together with its partners, has been recognized with the German Packaging Award in the category of Sustainability – Use of Recyclates. The award acknowledges a collaborative project that developed a packaging solution designed to advance the circular economy in the plastics and packaging industries. The project brought together expertise from saperatec GmbH, which supplied post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, Palbo GmbH, the container manufacturer, and AF-Color, a masterbatch specialist within the Feddersen Group and a branch of Akro-Plastic GmbH.
The awarded packaging solution is notable for its use of composite materials, specifically a container composed of 50% PCR polyethylene (PCR-PE) and 50% high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The PCR material is sourced from recycled beverage cartons, demonstrating a practical application for material streams that are often challenging to recycle. To achieve the desired appearance, AF-Color provided PCR-based masterbatches in blue, black, and silver, ensuring both functional and aesthetic requirements were met.
Collaboration across the value chain
The project was coordinated by Dirk Schoening, Development Manager Circular Business Models at K.D. Feddersen Holding GmbH. His role was crucial in facilitating cooperation between the three companies, aligning their expertise to realize the packaging concept. According to Schoening, the success of the project highlights the importance of close collaboration within the value chain. By leveraging the strengths of each partner, the team was able to deliver a product that not only meets quality standards but also contributes to resource conservation and sustainability goals.
Schoening emphasized that the award is a testament to the group's collaborative approach and the use of technology to drive progress in the circular economy. He noted that the commitment of all involved parties was key to integrating various areas of expertise and successfully implementing the project.
Recognition and future outlook
K.D. Feddersen Holding GmbH and its partners expressed gratitude to the German Packaging Institute (Deutsches Verpackungsinstitut e. V.) for the recognition. They view the award as an endorsement of their ongoing efforts to develop sustainable solutions for the plastics industry and to further expand their knowledge in circular economy practices.
Looking ahead, AF-Color will present the award-winning project at K-2025 at the Feddersen Group's joint stand in Hall 6/C76. This event will provide an opportunity to showcase the innovative packaging solution to a broader audience and to highlight the potential of recycled materials in high-quality packaging applications.
PCR-based masterbatches in use in new packaging ideas – oil container 50/50 HDPE & PCR-PE (Photo: AF-COLOR, branch of AKRO-PLASTIC GmbH)
