Turning fibers into high-performing paper packaging is a complex challenge, where every choice has consequences for performance, sustainability, cost, and brand perception.
But it’s in navigating this complexity that innovation thrives. By combining speed, innovation and hands-on collaboration, we turn challenges into opportunities and deliver measurable value at every stage of the development process. Together with our R&D partner DELSCI, we give brands and converters the competitive edge in new packaging developments, transforming ideas into high-performing barrier papers.
Q: Why is developing new paper packaging solutions challenging?
Developing new paper packaging means balancing competing requirements. Barrier papers must deliver specific protection (for example against moisture, oxygen, or grease), comply with food‑contact regulations, work on existing packaging lines, and fit into established recycling or composting systems.
Each technical decision has consequences. Improving barrier performance can affect recyclability, while reducing material weight can influence strength, runnability, or shelf life. Changes to coatings or additives often require additional testing, certification, and process adjustments.
Innovation also takes time. New solutions must pass laboratory tests, pilot trials, and customer line trials before launch, while brands face cost pressure, tight timelines, and high expectations for reliable product protection.
As a result, developing paper packaging is an iterative process that combines material science, engineering, regulatory expertise, and collaboration across the value chain to balance performance, feasibility, and risk.
Q: How does delfort address these challenges to accelerate the development of new paper packaging solutions?
The current regulatory requirements (e.g. SUPD, PPWR) are fundamentally changing the landscape in flexible packaging, and materials must achieve the fine balance of performance and sustainability. This pushes us to explore new fibers, coatings and processes.
One way we support our customers is through faster development cycles. We leverage our in-house testing facilities and deep technical expertise to move from idea to prototype efficiently. Our hands-on capabilities allow us to solve challenges early, ensuring customers reach the market with packaging that performs reliably.
Our development sprints include:
- Sheet-level prototyping in our paper laboratory
- Small reel-level testing in the rapid prototype center
- Package-level assessment in our packaging lab
- Industrial-scale validation
This process reduces risk, shortens time-to-market, and ensures every solution is high-performing and ready for production.
Q: How do brands benefit from working with delfort?
Collaboration with customers, from brand owners and converters to machine builders and coating specialists, is crucial. Our clients benefit from more than just technical expertise; they gain a trusted partner who understands the full complexity of modern packaging development. We combine deep know-how with cross-functional collaboration, risk assessment, and strategic insight to find the optimal balance between innovation, functionality, sustainability, and cost.
Throughout every project, we offer transparency, shared insights, and true co-creation opportunities. By involving our customers early in the development process, we can better understand packaging line requirements, consumer expectations, and brand priorities. This helps tailor materials that work seamlessly in production and meet end-use needs. Offering technical support, trial assistance, and sustainability expertise strengthens trust and speeds adoption.
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Inventing and revolutionizing paper products is our passion. Together with you, we will find and create the paper that perfectly meets your needs.
