On July 22, SÜDPACK announced the launch of Planova®, a bio-based PLA film designed for fresh herbs and cut flowers.
Whether for fresh-cut flowers, potted herbs, or cut herbs, horticultural products require optimal protection at the point of sale while maintaining an attractive appearance. SÜDPACK's Planova® is a bio-based, biodegradable PLA film solution offering high transparency, breathability, and dimensional stability. It is particularly well-suited for producing conical packaging, commonly known as "conical sleeves."
According to forecasts by Kings Research, the global cut-flower packaging market is expected to grow from approximately $6 billion today to over $8.5 billion within the next six years. In Germany, more than two-thirds of cut flowers are already sold as pre-packaged bouquets, primarily through food retail channels, garden centers, and gas stations. The global market for fresh potted herbs and cut herbs is also expanding rapidly, with food retailers and garden centers dominating sales in this segment.
Restrictions on the use of conventional plastic films, the continuous rise in packaging waste, and the industry's growing focus on eco-friendly packaging solutions are prompting the sector to re-evaluate its development strategies.
The Planova® PLA-based film series from SÜDPACK combines environmental benefits with outstanding performance. Made from renewable raw materials such as sugarcane or corn starch, this bio-based material helps reduce the consumption of fossil-based resources. Life-cycle assessments indicate that bio-based plastics facilitate more resource-efficient material choices. Additionally, PLA is compostable under industrial composting conditions.
Despite its thin gauge, Planova® film offers excellent dimensional stability, reliably protecting fresh produce during handling and transport. It effectively prevents damage or breakage to delicate flowers, stems, and herbs, while the film's high transparency and brilliant gloss ensure the product remains clearly visible, showcasing its freshness, quality, and color. Consequently, this packaging is ideal for enhancing the premium appeal of high-quality bouquets and organic herbs in supermarkets, garden centers, and flower shops.
Another key advantage lies in the properties of PLA (polylactic acid): thanks to its molecular structure, Planova film is naturally breathable, eliminating the need for the micro-perforation required by many other plastic films. This breathability allows moisture to escape and air to circulate, effectively preventing spoilage and extending the shelf life of delicate products. Unlike paper, the material does not soften upon contact with water buckets or during watering, thereby maintaining its protective function and aesthetic quality.
Planova film is available in thicknesses ranging from 15 to 100 μm and widths from 200 to 2,300 mm. For the conical sleeves commonly used in horticulture and floristry, a 25-micron film can be selected; despite its reduced thickness, it offers excellent dimensional stability. Furthermore, the film boasts outstanding printability, enabling customized designs for branding, variety identification, and the display of consumer information.
SÜDPACK is a leading manufacturer dedicated to providing high-performance films and packaging solutions for the food, non-food, and medical sectors, as well as customized composite materials for technically demanding applications. Founded in 1964 by Alfred Remmele and headquartered in Ochsenhausen, Germany, the family-owned company operates production sites in Germany, France, Poland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and operate according to the highest production standards. Its global sales and service network spans more than 70 countries, ensuring close customer relationships and comprehensive technical support.
