Marked by an increase of 20 per cent in entries this year's UK Starpack Awards featured a record 21 Gold Stars. And for the first time in six years, the judges made a Supreme Award, which went to Blue Marlin Brand Design for its Cow and Gate infant milk packs. Based on Cekacan technology from A&R Carton, Sweden it was, said the judges, "an outstanding combination of graphic and functional design".
Over 630 guests attended the Packaging Industry Annual Dinner at London's Hilton Hotel on Park Lane where the awards presentation was hosted by BBC newsreader Fiona Bruce.
Amongst the Gold Awards was one made to Sleever International for its innovative sleeving solution for a new range launched under Unilever Bestfood's Hellman's brand. Launched last year, Hellman's range of two-part dressing and paste, is sold in two glass jars secured together with a PET/ TG 050-Z* film sleeve.
"In terms of shrinking and machine application the film formulation offers unique properties when working with high volume products on fast moving sleeving lines," said Sleever International's European sales director Eric Masson. Micro perforations have been built into the design to allow for easy opening by the consumer.
Gravure reverse printing up to 10 colours was selected to give the best colour definition on the photograph and text. "We also wanted the top half of the sleeve, which is white, to be truly opaque to ensure clarity of the design. A special lacquer was used on the front and reverse of the sleeve. It also avoids distortion and any possible ink concentrations," explained Eric Masson.
The competition was sponsored by WRAP the recycling agency, Polimoon, Pro Carton, RPC, Rockware, Seven Worldwide and Total Exhibitions.
Starpack co-ordinator Rachel Brooks of IoP: The Packaging Society, a division of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining said: "The competition plays a key role in promoting the competitiveness of the British packaging industry as it faces ever greater global challenges."
| Starpack Awards |
| IoP: Tel: +44 (0) 1780 759220 |
