Processing and packaging technologies for MSMEs highlighted at ProPak Philippines

The Philippines’ F&B industry consists of micro, small- and medium-sized companies, many of which need to be open to change in their quest to grow. While manual/semi-manual production seems to be the norm, eventually companies have to consider new technologies and processes to enhance their competitiveness and help them attract new customers. 

Many trade attendees at this year’s ProPak Philippines admit that there is much to catch up on when it comes to technologies and practices that can be applied to their businesses. This 4^th edition which takes place from Jan 31 to Feb 2 2024 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City, highlights materials, products, and machinery from international companies that fit the needs of small and big businesses alike. The trade event also emphasizes that business growth should evolve with sustainability in mind, and, large companies are helping lead the way.

“MSMEs need to know the importance of effective packaging in delivering goods to the market. Retail businesses require good packaging designs for display and inventory. Consumers on the other hand, have become more discerning when considering products and have become more discerning when considering products and have become more aware about how packaging can help reduce waste along the process of production, logistics and retail,” explained Rungphech Chitanuwat, country general manager of Informa Markets in the Philippines, organizer of ProPak Philippines.

As its biggest show yet, the 2024 edition remains an industry-focused event that will connect international suppliers with local and regional buyers who are exploring and discovering the latest innovative and sustainable solutions covering F&B, manufacturing, retail, and other related industries. Packaging also takes center stage. Exhibitors catering to the F&B, pharma and personal care sectors came from China, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, among other countries. Showcases included those from Wolf, Heat and Control, Urschel, Marden Edwards, Middleby, Octofrost, Rieckermann, some members of Italy's UCIMA, and many others. 

Associations including the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, World Packaging Organisation, the Philippine Association of Food Technologies, PARM, DOST, and the Active & Intelligent Packaging Industry Association are sharing their expertise as well. 

Opening ceremony VIPs, from left: Hon. Deogracias Victor Savellano, undersectary, Department of Agriculture attending on behalf of Hon. Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel; Hon. Sec Renato U Solidum Jr, DOST;  Hon. Mark Villar, chairperson of Trade, Commerce & Entrepreneurship, 19^th Congress Senate Committee, Philippines; Mr Ian Roberts, VP, Informa Markets Asia; Prof Pierre Pienaar FAIP, CPP, Immediate Past President, World Packaging Organization

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Department of Science and Technology Secretary, Hon. Renato U Solidum Jr stressed the value of science and technology in achieving goals for the packaging industry and its value in improving life. Sec. Solidum also mentioned the continuing work at the DOST’s Green Packaging Laboratory where modification of processes and substitution of materials are being examined in designing eco-friendly packaging.

The Hon. Mark Villar, chairperson of Trade, Commerce & Entrepreneurship, 19^th Congress Senate Committee, Philippines, who was the Guest of Honor at this year’s ProPak Philippines reminded participants of the office’s continued support to the industry.

Knowledge sharing – 40 seminars and conferences

Aside from the exhibition of technologies, innovations, and products during the three-day trade show, ProPak Phil is also keeping its tradition of imparting knowledge among attendees, especially MSMEs and big corporations, through simultaneous organising and facilitating more than 40 workshops seminars and conferences at designate areas in the venue.

Among the anticipated learning sessions are Sustainability and Circular Economy, Trends and Challenges in Packaging 2024, Packaging for Micro and Small Enterprises, Embracing Sustainability, Hygiene and Sanitation in Food, Packaging Alternatives in PH, Packaging for the export Market and PH National Standards for Packaging.

Mini training courses have been scheduled to include Sustainable Packaging Design Guidelines and Save Food Designing Guidelines as well as a Green Innovation Session about market packaging to reduce waste. Several partner organizations will hold general memberships during the conference proper including the Chamber of Herbal Industries and the Association of Local Artisans and Food and other Products of the Philippines.

Sustainability underscored

At the event, the Sustainability Square is an interactive exhibitor zone facilitating learnings about the packaging industry and related processing sectors. ProPak walks that talk by ensuring the exhibition areas are designed to meet corresponding and applicable SDG Goals. Sustainable practices are being observed at the event. For example, the seminar rooms now use LED walls and projectors as backdrops, onsite registration and survey forms are facilitated with limited printouts and using QR code instead, also to see the seminar schedule to register, check e-show directory. Traditional plastic badge holders are no longer in use.

ProPak Philippines will confer Sustainable Booth Design Awards in recognition of the creativity and resourcefulness of exhibitors. Participating exhibition partners such as the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Material Sustainability (PARMS) will showcase recycled and sustainable materials in their booths.

The event welcomes over 200 local and international companies and attendees. Organisers estimate attendees to reach 10,000-plus within the three-day exhibition/show. The event is open to the public for free from 31 Jan to 2 Feb.