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.
© © Chris Guetl
Q: Why is developing new paper packaging solutions challenging?
A: Developing new paper packaging solutions involves balancing a variety of often competing demands: technical performance, regulatory compliance, sustainability goals, changing customer expectations, cost pressures, performance requirements, and market dynamics.
It requires deep expertise across material science, engineering, design, and regulatory compliance. Each material choice, design decision, or functional enhancement can have ripple effects on shelf life, recyclability, product protection, and brand perception.
Development cycles are long and involve extensive testing, certification, and adaptation to existing production lines. At the same time, brands and consumers expect packaging that is sustainable, attractive, and reliable without compromising product quality. As a result, packaging innovation is a careful balance between creativity, technical precision, and calculated risk.
Q: How does delfort address these challenges to accelerate the development of new paper packaging solutions?
A: 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 that wouldn’t have emerged under easier conditions. Each challenge becomes a trigger for innovation, driving smarter design, better functionality, and more responsible solutions.
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.
some of our recent paper packaging innovations
Q: What makes delfort’s packaging solutions innovative and different?
A: A key way we give our customers a competitive advantage is through innovation and differentiation. We believe that complexity also sparks innovation. Challenges, constraints and uncertainty are not just obstacles; they are catalysts for creativity and progress. We use design thinking, a non-linear, iterative approach that helps us understand users, challenge assumptions, and prototype creative solutions. Testing new concepts in-house gives us the freedom to push the boundaries of what paper can do.
Read more about our barrier papers
Read more about our transparent paper
Read more about our PFAS-free papers
Innovation comes not only from methodology but also from diversity. Our international team brings unique perspectives that inspire bold solutions, from novel coatings and functional designs to unconventional approaches.
Additionally, every packaging solution is rigorously tested for performance and recyclability, ensuring our clients can confidently lead the transition from plastic to paper.
Q: How do brands benefit from working with delfort?
A: We believe collaboration with customers, from brand owners and converters to machine builders and beyond, 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.
explore our recent collaborations
Stay Ahead, Together
In an industry defined by rapid change and growing complexity, success comes from expertise, collaboration, and foresight. Partner with us to shape the next generation of paper packaging – our paper experts are here to support you!
Interested in switching to function paper packaging?
We would love to hear from you!
Food inquiries on food packaging papers: food@delfortgroup.com
For inquiries on non-food packaging papers: retail@delfortgroup.com
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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.
