Fiber-based packaging innovation and technical design engineering
Innovation & R&D Excellence

Innovation at Graphic Packaging

Empowering global consumer brands with fiber-based packaging engineering, plastic-replacement technology, and rapid commercialization.

Proven Engineering Impact

Delivering Real-World Results for Global Brands

Innovation is only effective when it delivers long-term technical feasibility, supply chain stability, and commercial efficiency. Our global R&D teams combine structural CAD design, material science, and high-speed packaging machinery integration to solve complex B2B packaging challenges.

Commercialized fiber-based packaging solution in retail environment
Purpose-Driven Innovation

Balancing Commercial Performance and Sustainability

Our holistic design-thinking methodology ensures every fiber-based structural concept undergoes rigorous mechanical testing, transit simulation, and barrier optimization before full-scale commercial manufacturing.

  • High-speed line integration with validated operational uptime
  • Proprietary barrier coatings replacing traditional plastic laminates
  • Design for Environment (DfE) principles aligned with global recycling infrastructure
  • Certified material sourcing (FSC / PEFC) with full supply chain traceability
End-to-End R&D Process

From Ideation to Global Commercialization

We continuously optimize our packaging innovation roadmap to help B2B buyers transition from traditional plastic to renewable fiber structures seamlessly.

1. Insights & Audit

We evaluate category trends, regulatory demands, line speed requirements, and retailer plastic-reduction targets.

2. Structural Design

Our CAD packaging engineers build custom structural samples optimized for strength-to-weight efficiency.

3. Material & Barrier R&D

Engineered paperboard substrates and functional barrier coatings are formulated for specific shelf-life needs.

4. Rapid Prototyping

Pilot sample runs undergo ISTA transit testing, thermal resistance analysis, and sensory testing.

5. Machine Line Scale

Proprietary packaging machinery and automated cartoning systems are deployed for high-volume commercial production.

Commercialized Breakthroughs

Explore patented packaging technologies designed by Graphic Packaging International to reduce single-use plastic while protecting brand identity and product safety.

KeelClip™ Multipack System

Paperboard clip-style multipack solution that replaces shrink film and plastic rings for beverage cans with optimized line efficiency.

PaperSeal™ Barrier Trays

High-barrier paperboard tray technology for fresh protein and produce, reducing plastic tray consumption by up to 80-90%.

Boardio™ Canister Systems

Rigid, fiber-based canister packaging providing gas-tight seal protection for sensitive food, powder, and dry goods categories.

CleanClose™ Child-Resistant Packs

Certified child-resistant paperboard carton engineering under 16 CFR § 1700.20 for household laundry detergent pods and capsules.

ecotainer™ Foodservice Solutions

Commercially compostable paper cups, food containers, and lids manufactured from plant-based renewable resources.

MicroRite™ Susceptor Technology

Engineered microwave packaging structures delivering superior browning and crisping performance while protecting food moisture.

Validation & Case Studies

Proven Performance in Global Supply Chains

Leading multinational brands rely on our packaging development capabilities to meet stringent ESG targets without compromising production speeds.

Commercial packaging innovation case study
Oral Care Packaging

Colgate Max White Packaging Transformation

Co-developed a recyclable fiber-based carton solution that elevated shelf presence and eliminated non-recyclable plastic film windows.

Beverage multipack packaging innovation
Craft Beverage

Oedipus Craft Beer Can Multipack Innovation

Integrated high-impact paperboard clip-style multipacks, delivering distinct branding and robust transit stability for premium beer cans.

Organic protein packaging plastic replacement
Fresh Food & Meat

Rhug Estate Organic Farm Plastic Reduction

Replaced single-use plastic MAP trays with barrier-lined PaperSeal trays for organic fresh meat products, significantly reducing virgin plastic use.

“We are committed to producing sustainable products across our territories that eliminate waste and develop a circular economy. We know that the most valuable change to reduce plastic waste occurs when bottlers and packaging producers work together in partnership.”

Paul Mulligan
Co-Owner, Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages
B2B Sourcing FAQ

Packaging Innovation & R&D Questions

How does Graphic Packaging help brands replace plastic packaging?

Our structural engineers analyze your current plastic format (such as shrink film, plastic rings, or rigid plastic trays) and replace it with high-strength paperboard substrates paired with moisture, grease, or oxygen barrier coatings engineered for recyclability.

Can custom packaging designs run on our existing filling lines?

Yes. We follow an integrated machinery approach. Our packaging design team collaborates directly with our machinery systems division to ensure custom carton structures, clips, and trays are engineered specifically to run at high speed on your existing or upgraded packaging machinery.

What testing and quality standards validate your packaging innovations?

All structural prototypes undergo rigorous laboratory evaluation, including compression strength testing, ISTA transit simulation, moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) testing, sensory analysis, and child-resistance verification (16 CFR § 1700.20) where required.

How do international buyers initiate a custom packaging development project?

Overseas procurement and engineering teams can connect directly with our application specialists by requesting a technical inquiry. Our engineering team will review your specifications, shelf-life demands, and annual target volumes to present tailored prototypes and material options.

The Next Packaging Innovation Starts Here

Connect with our packaging structural engineers and technical sales team to discuss custom fiber-based prototypes, barrier coating R&D, and global supply chain feasibility.