Hardly any other type of packaging is used as frequently - and at the same time scrutinised as critically - as the beverage carton. At FACHPACK 2025, Martin Schröder, Managing Director of the German Association of Cartonboard Packaging for Liquid Food (FKN), comments on the future of this packaging solution.

In the interview, he explains why Elopak, SIG Combibloc and Tetra Pak, the three members of the association, see the beverage carton as a prime example of the modern circular economy. Since its market launch in 1951, the carton has evolved from a simple container to a high-tech, recyclable packaging system.

A particular focus is on the new industry campaign „Think Inside the Box“, which was launched on the day before the trade fair and addresses consumers and politicians alike. Schröder emphasises that the beverage carton offers great advantages for the environment and product protection thanks to its combination of materials and functional design - and already meets many of the sustainability requirements of the EU packaging regulation (PPWR).

Whether packaging for milk, juices and co. is really a showcase product of the circular economy, how recyclability is ensured and what political framework conditions the industry is demanding - the discussion sheds light on all of this with a clear stance and exciting facts.