FIBRE FOCUS

The ethos at Go-Pak Group is a stringent quality management programme, enabling the consistent delivery of quality products to customers. With a global network as part of the SCG Packaging (SCGP) family in Asia, the UK-based business is enjoying the fruits of its labour. 

Go-Pak’s latest innovation is a range of paper cutlery, which has already won a THAIFEX- HOREC Asia 2025 Innovation Award. It aligns with the ongoing shift towards sustainable, fibre-based disposables in FTG.

“We’re proud to offer solutions that combine functionality with environmental responsibility, meeting the needs of both operators and consumers,” said Adrienne Wheeler, Go-Pak assistant marketing manager. “We were also honoured to receive the Manufacturer of the Year Award at the Foodservice Packaging Association (FPA) Awards 2025. Such industry recognition is hugely important, as it validates our ongoing efforts to drive positive change and leadership within the sector.”

And Go-Pak has its finger on the pulse of what’s coming next. 

“A key trend continues to be the shift away from plastics towards fibre-based packaging solutions. However, the challenge now lies in ensuring these alternative materials are genuinely recyclable or compostable, aligning with consumer demand for real sustainability – not just the appearance of it. 

“While this shift is evident across the market, Go-Pak remains committed to a material-neutral approach. We focus on the most suitable materials for each customer, based on their specific end-of-life infrastructure, regulatory requirements and sustainability objectives. Our goal is to support global customers in making informed choices – whether through fibre, plastic or alternative materials.”

Go-Pak is also acutely aware of how customers are seeking cost-neutral innovations. While fibre-based packaging may carry higher initial costs, potential savings through Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes or reduced food waste can make the total cost to operators neutral or even beneficial. “We help our partners evaluate these trade-offs to find the most effective, sustainable packaging solutions for their business.”

PARTNERSHIP EXPANSION

Go-Pak works with most major foodservice distributors, as well as high-street FTG and quick service restaurant (QSR) chains. As operating costs rise, it is focused on delivering throughout the supply chain. “We highly value strategic partnerships with customers who are looking to align with a manufacturing partner – not just a supplier,” continued Wheeler. “Looking ahead, we are expanding into retail and building relationships with manufacturers, to provide sustainable solutions across a broader range of FTG channels.

Navigating expectations and legislation in 2025 is not easy, particularly around Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

“To support customers, we’ve developed a comprehensive EPR guide that helps operators understand their obligations and make informed packaging choices.

“In 2021, Go-Pak was acquired by SCGP, the largest vertically integrated packaging company in Asia. It is listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, and as part of this group, we’re involved in a coordinated effort to reduce carbon emissions across our entire manufacturing and supply chain. 

“We’ve recently launched our OCC Backhaul programme, offering customers the option to return their old corrugated cartons (OCC) for recycling back into our paper mills – closing the loop and reinforcing our circular economy approach.

“And FTG is booming, with new names entering the market. Established brands are expanding their footprints into new regions and product categories. Retailers have also become more sophisticated, partnering with well-known high street brands to offer chilled and hot FTG options, further fuelling growth.

“The market has evolved significantly since the pandemic. Hybird working has reduced weekday lunchtime footfall in city centres, while evenings and weekends now see busier high streets and retail hubs. Brands are expanding into out-of-town locations, drive-thrus, and travel hubs such as motorway services and airports. Many have also enhanced delivery, click-and-collect, and takeaway options.

“Additionally, many are opening later and extending menu offerings with popular items like cold coffee drinks, reflected in the significant uplift we’ve seen in sales of our cold drinks cups,” concluded Wheeler.