Only two Canadian companies exhibited at Fruit Logistica in Berlin last week. It was likely a combination of reduced travel due to the pandemic and the fact that Canada had its own trade show and convention for fresh produce at the same time. “Despite attendance from some regions being lower than usual, it was worth going and exhibiting,” says Shannon Boase with CKF, Inc., manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions. “For us, the traffic to our booth was very steady and Wednesday was a super busy day,” she added.
“It was a great opportunity to meet our existing clients as well as new clients.” CKF acquired new customers during the pandemic but hadn’t had an opportunity yet to meet with them in person. “It was so important to get the face-to-face interaction going again,” said Boase. Most people who stopped by CKF’s booth were attendees from Europe, but with the company’s booth being located near the US Pavilion, a number of American visitors stopped by as well. “It was high-quality traffic with people in decision-making positions searching for sustainable solutions,” she commented.
More than ever before, Boase felt there was a focus on sustainable packaging at Fruit Logistica. “There was so much buzz. My impression is that growers and packers were leading with their non-plastic options as much as possible or showing bulk displays”.
Shannon Boase, Fiona Meads and Christie Nikolai in CKF's booth at Fruit Logistica Berlin.
Printed punnets for messaging
Throughout the event, CKF team members noticed there was a greater interest from attendees how to convey the non-plastic message. To give customers ideas, the company had several different packaging options on display. From home compostable and recyclable punnets with different types of top seal lidding to carton sleeves and the company’s latest innovation, printed punnets. “The printed punnets were very well received,” said Boase. “They help with merchandising on the shelf as they allow for trial messaging, messaging for charity, or messaging per variety for instance. Messaging stands out with full color high impact graphics.”
Another new launch are carton sleeves. “Now that there is a way to automate the packaging, carton sleeves are an attractive new packaging solution.” On display at Fruit Logistica were carton sleeves designed by Pack Co. for Ballberry. In addition to berries, they are also available for many other produce items including avocados, kiwis, and tomatoes.
The regular (non-printed) punnets are available with many different top seal lidding options. “We were able to show them with home compostable film and home compostable netting to show customers the different options.” [insert picture of punnet with cherry tomatoes]
All in all, CKF was happy to be present in Berlin. “Everyone was taking a big risk being together again, but it was so important to re-activate Fruit Logistica”.
Contact:
Shannon Boase
CKF, Inc.
Tel: (+1) 604-377-8965
sboase@ckfinc.com
www.ckfinc.com