Sustainable, Gourmet, Gut-Friendly: What’s Next for Private Label

PLMA’s 2025 International Salute to Excellence Award winners will be announced at PLMA’s annual World of Private Label International Trade Show this month. Judith Kolenburg shares a preview of the 550 nominated products. Among the trends: natural and sustainable detergents, cleaners and personal care items, as well as gourmet foods, sauces and desserts. Plus, Hans Kraak examines the growing appeal of fermented foods. Consumers are embracing gut health and worldwide traditional methods, fueling a market poised to surpass €1.1 trillion by 2034. Click here to download video.

The Future of Packaging: Embracing Sustainability and Regulatory Policies

The packaging industry is undergoing a critical transformation, driven by heightened sustainability concerns and new regulations like the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Regina Mestre, Packaging Analyst at RaboResearch Food and Agribusiness, discusses the increasing consumer and corporate interest in the health and environmental impacts of packaging. Mestre advises private label suppliers to collaborate closely with packaging providers and waste managers, advocating for the adoption of sustainable materials and practices to minimize environmental impact. CLICK HERE FOR FULL INTERVIEW. Click here to download video.

Schwarz Group Extends Reach with New Ventures

German company Schwarz Group has expanded beyond retail into many sectors, including logistics, waste management, and healthcare. Judith Kolenburg discusses how the group's subsidiaries, such as Lidl and Kaufland, benefit from vertical integration, ensuring control over their supply chains. Plus, Pascal Kuipers highlights innovative uses of spent grains from beer production, showcasing companies transforming this by-product into sustainable food ingredients, enhancing both ecological and economic value. Click here to download video.