How Löfbergs coffee switched to more sustainable packaging

Amcor and Löfbergs have joined forces to revolutionize Löfbergs' coffee packaging with a new, more sustainable packaging solution that prioritizes recyclability and environmental impact.

Flexible packaging has been used for roast and ground coffee for decades. It is lightweight, convenient, and offers product protection. Coffee packaging serves as a barrier against anything that can impact aroma and freshness, such as exposure to air, moisture, and light.

Historically, coffee packages have been made of a 3-layer structure containing PET, Aluminium and Polyethylene. However, these traditional structures, while providing a good barrier against oxygen and moisture, do not meet recycling guidelines.

As the world moves towards circularity, coffee brands are embracing more sustainable packaging solutions, revolutionizing the way coffee is packaged and consumed. Recognizing the need for more sustainable packaging, Löfbergs are leading the way by moving to an innovative mono-material coffee packaging solution.

Embracing more sustainable packaging for coffee

Leveraging Amcor's AmPrima® Plus, recycle-ready packgaging, Löfbergs offers their customers a packaging solution that is easily recyclable. The new pack directly addresses growing consumer demand for a more sustainable coffee experience, both in terms of the product itself and its packaging. It builds upon Löfbergs' commitment to sustainability, demonstrated by their earlier transition to bio-based PE and now to an easier to recycle mono-PE packaging.

Extensive testing was conducted for barrier properties, machine performance, run speed, and recyclability to ensure the packaging solution provides great shelf-life, flavor protection, visual appeal, and efficient operation on Löfbergs' packaging lines. The new pack preserves the aroma of coffee at its best while matching the machine speeds of traditional, non-recyclable alternatives.

Reduced carbon footprint and adherence to recycling guidelines

One of the key advantages of the new packaging solution is its significantly reduced carbon footprint. Compared to standard coffee packaging, the AmPrima® Plus mono-PE pouch boasts a 55% reduction in carbon emissions.* Designed in accordance with the Circular Economy for Flexible Packaging (CEFLEX) guidelines, it is readily recyclable in most European countries and certified for recyclability by the Institute cyclos-HTP. By adopting the AmPrima® pack, Löfbergs aligns with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

With the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in focus, coffee brands across Europe are actively seeking new packaging solutions that align with their sustainability goals and upcoming regulations. While other recyclable options exist on the market, AmPrima® Plus offers additional advantages such as reducing excess plastic while maintaining the desired barrier level. With over 50 different packing machines successfully running AmPrima®, it is a fully industrialized solution ready for widespread adoption by brands.

As an early adopter of more sustainable packaging, Löfbergs is at the forefront of driving a more sustainable and responsible coffee industry.

Download our case study PDF here.

*Based on an ASSET life-cycle assessment, using Amcor’s life-cycle assessment tool certified by the Carbon Trust.