Bavarian surface finishing specialist Leonhard Kurz has presented a high-quality cosmetic jar that combines sustainability with design. It is made from a bio-based material from partner company Weimako, which develops organic packaging solutions that combine plastics such as polypropylene with renewable raw materials – including second-generation wood components. The jar is complemented by outer packaging made from the recyclable paper material Algro Volume from Kurz's partner Sappi, which is finished with Colorit using a hot stamping process. The combination of recyclability and natural materials ensures an improved environmental balance and a high-quality brand experience, emphasises the Kurz Group.

Design that feels good

"When it comes to design, the choice of material is an important building block on the path to greater sustainability. This is especially true when the material is also intended to convey a high-quality feel," says Kurz manager Annie Kuschel. The combination of a bio-based jar, recyclable paper box and colourful, tactile embossing is intended to convey an environmentally conscious, brand-strong message. The packaging design is implemented using technologies from Kurz subsidiary Isimat: Direct Digital Decoration enables high-resolution motifs to be printed directly onto the substrate, while Conical InLine Foiling metallises even complex conical shapes without creases and to a high standard. A screen printing machine combines digital printing with metallising finishing in a single step. It allows a throughput of up to 80 jars per minute.

A stage for sustainable innovations

The product combines flexible decoration processes, multicolour metallisation and compatibility with plastic, glass and aluminium to offer brands greater design freedom. "Packaging is a decisive factor in the cosmetics industry for brand perception, differentiation and customer loyalty," emphasises Kurz manager Dr Laurin Leeb. "With our new solutions, we are demonstrating that sustainable materials, efficient processes, and high-quality design are not mutually exclusive." According to Kurz, the packaging concept is intended to create a stage for sustainable packaging innovations. The new cosmetic jar represents a new generation of products that combine environmental awareness, brand experience and production efficiency. The Leonhard Kurz Group employs more than 5,800 people at international locations.

Source: Kurz Group