Sustainability regulations are becoming stricter, demand for circular packaging solutions is rising, and the digital transformation is advancing relentlessly. To meet these demands, Henkel Adhesive Technologies has extensively modernised its Packaging Competence Centre in Duesseldorf. This central hub is intended to foster hands-on collaboration and transform new ideas into industrial reality.
Dirk Martin, Head of Henkel Packaging Adhesives and Coatings in Europe, stresses the importance of the centre: „The choice of adhesive or coating we make today defines the packaging that will be on the shelf tomorrow.“ With the modernised Packaging Competence Centre, Henkel aims to ensure that decisions about packaging materials can be made on a sound basis.
The centre offers a unique environment where customers and partners can work together to develop, test and scale solutions that will shape the future of packaging.
State-of-the-art equipment and partnerships
The Packaging Competence Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery that replicates cutting-edge production conditions. This investment builds on the strategic partnership with Nordmeccanica, which was announced in May 2025. The aim of this partnership is to drive innovation and sustainability in the field of flexible packaging. Vincenzo Cerciello, Vice President of Nordmeccanica, explains: „With our machines at the heart of the modernised centre, we are transforming shared ambitions into real potential.“
Two new machines, the Super Combi 5000 and the Super Simplex SL e800, cover all industry-standard laminating and coating processes. Both systems are fully digital and feature online basis weight systems for systematic data acquisition and process control. This equipment makes it possible to test packaging solutions under realistic conditions and validate them for industrial use.
Future-proofing in focus
Kai Ethner, Director of Application Engineering at Henkel Packaging Adhesives and Coatings in Europe, highlights that the site is geared towards the key future issues of the packaging industry: „Recyclable solutions and the use of sustainable ingredients are the focus.“ Henkel offers a wide range of adhesive systems and coating solutions, from solvent-free, water-based to solvent-based systems.
In addition, Henkel has invested in the test area for adhesive application. Modern coating systems, as well as UV activation and measuring systems, complement the equipment in this laboratory area. These extensions enable Henkel to develop the latest solutions for the specialty tapes and labels industry in close collaboration with customers.
An integrative approach
The modernised Packaging Competence Centre is closely linked to the adjacent Inspiration Centre Düsseldorf. This enables a seamless, integrated customer journey, ranging from chemical development and application testing to industrial validation and training. Henkel supports companies with offerings such as the Converter’s Academy to provide insights into current application technologies.
„To achieve our ultimate goal of true packaging sustainability, close collaboration across the entire value chain is required,“ says Ethner. Henkel sees this not only as an investment in buildings and machinery, but also in pooling experience and expertise to advance the industry together with customers and partners.
Source: Handle
