Background

The background of the association is best reflected in the inauguration speech of the association's first president held during ISM in Cologne in 1998.

In 1998 several waxed paper converters realised that not all end users were aware of the advantages and benefits of waxed paper packaging. The main problem was:

"How to make the very positive environmental and packaging performance of waxed paper better known."

The need for communication resulted in the creation of a platform to raise the awareness of decision makers to this unique packaging solution.

This may sound curious, because waxed paper has been around for such a long time, even almost as long as packaging itself. It has certainly been much longer in use than most alternative materials, and is still extensively used in packaging, e.g. of difficult sticky products. Bear in mind that the revolution in plastic packaging only started 25 years ago.

This is exactly one of the reasons for our existence:

"People have become so accustomed to our product that today it is hardly noticed and its values are not really appreciated. This is partly due to the lack of attention waxed paper converters have paid to promote their products."

In spite of its age, waxed paper is a modern product, thanks to continuous innovation by converters and raw material suppliers. We should mention here the development of:

•  Waxes based on vegetable natural oils
•  Translucent papers
•  Low weight packaging solutions

Waxed paper is primarily used for food packaging and, today particularly for wrapping confectionery, cheese, bread and meat. It offers high performance on even the fastest packaging machines and can beat competitive materials in most areas.

Waxed paper is based on a 100% renewable resource: paper. The wax can either be mineral or based on vegetable natural oil, which is fully renewable.

Waxed paper can also be reused in the production of recycled papers and board. Some mills producing recycled paper use waxed paper waste from converters for certain applications. EuroWaxPack's objective is to set up a collecting system for waxed paper waste, to reuse it in special recycled-papers.

Waxed paper is also biodegradable. A sweet wrapper made from waxed paper, accidentally left in the forest, will disintegrate at the same rate as leaves from the trees. Responsible use of resources and environmental consciousness remain important issues for consumers, governments and local authorities.

Our members are leaders in all aspects of waxed paper production in Europe . Join the wealth of knowledge and experience available to you! Subscribe now!

Application form membership (PDF)