Packaged snacks: how packaging is evolving
ACMA responds with the new Flow Pack Portfolio in three models: FP ONE, FP PRO, and FP EDGE
The packaged snack market – including various types of bars, single-serve biscuits, multipacks and seasonal mixes – is currently one of the most dynamic segments in the European food industry. Demand is growing, driven by consumers seeking convenient, healthy, and increasingly sustainable products.
However, this evolution brings increasing complexity: to stay competitive, producers must tackle challenges related to line flexibility, automation, the introduction of new materials, and overall production efficiency.
One of the key aspects is the ability to manage a broad and constantly evolving product portfolio. Packaging lines must quickly adapt to different formats, from single-serve to multipacks, without compromising on visual quality or speed. On top of this, there’s a growing need to integrate the different phases of production – from bulk product to palletization – with a level of automation capable of keeping costs down in a context of shrinking margins.
The need for advanced digital systems
At the same time, sustainability is now a non-negotiable requirement. European packaging regulations are pushing towards recyclable and reusable materials, favoring mono-material or paper-based solutions, which are more challenging to handle on machines compared to traditional multilayer films.
For producers, this means investing in solutions that can maintain high performance even with next-generation packaging materials.
Managing overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is another critical factor. Being able to track waste, format changeover times, unplanned maintenance, and actual production speed in real time is essential, but requires advanced digital systems and predictive monitoring and maintenance solutions that help reduce downtime and identify bottlenecks.
The human factor also plays a role. The shortage of skilled operators and high turnover rates make it essential to simplify the user experience of technology, through intuitive interfaces, ergonomic design, easy cleaning, and remote support. This is the only way to reduce training times and increase production autonomy.
The Flowpack Portfolio by ACMA
ACMA responds to the diverse needs of the market with FP ONE, FP PRO and FP EDGE, three models designed to offer versatility, speed and compatibility with sustainable materials. More than just machines, this is a comprehensive approach that combines modular design, digitalization, remote support, and the option of full lines, from primary to secondary packaging, all the way to end-of-line solutions.
In a sector worth over $180 billion in Europe alone – and expected to grow to $230 billion by 2030 – packaging is becoming a competitive asset. No longer a mere tool for distribution, but a strategic lever to bring together innovation, environmental responsibility, and efficiency. The Flow Pack Portfolio was created to support producers through this transformation.
“Our goal is to empower customers to confidently face market changes by providing solutions that combine sustainability, efficiency, and ease of use,” comments Daniele Ponzinibbi, CEO of ACMA.
