Mike McCann, packaging specialist for Reiser, Canton, Massachusetts, points out that changes can be many, from a “new fresher-looking” market appeal. “Our Reiser horizontal form/fill/seal packaging machines and our Ross tray seal modified atmosphere packaging machines already have the existing technology and are well proven with many successful installations to produce very modern, ‘fresh appearing’ packages that enhance sales and the ability to meet this evolving change,” he explains.

Hobart recently introduced its new FreshServe™ Self-Serve Scale – the latest scale solution for retail self-serve and in-store order fulfillment. FreshServe is a fully integrated scale, stand, and printer for use in retail grocery stores and is a unique solution to meet increasing demand for autonomous shopping in fresh and bulk-food departments. 

From AB Mauri, Softase now offers a transformational extended shelf-life solution to multiple demands for today’s bakers. Offering state-of-the-art softening with the added benefit of elite resilience and cost-in-use savings, new Softase Platinum meets and exceeds the challenges of the modern bakery. “At AB Mauri, we are always excited about products that we deem transformational in both their application and capabilities, and our new Softase Platinum 2300 is a unique solution that definitely fits the bill here,” explains Dr. Troy Boutte, Ph.D., vice president of bakery innovation for AB Mauri North America. “Not only does it offer today’s bakers state-of-the-art softening in breads and rolls, but it also comes with the added benefits of superior texture, elite resilience and efficient cost-in-use.” 

Consumers are increasingly interested not only in what their food contains, but also in how it is produced. Ashley Robertson, director, global marketing, Corbion, Lenexa, Kansas, points out this trend provides an opportunity to promote sustainable practices within the industry. “For one, we can expect to see an increase in the use of eco-friendly packaging materials,” Robertson explains. “These could include biodegradable or compostable materials, as well as packaging made from recycled or easily recyclable materials. These sustainable packaging options would significantly reduce the environmental footprint of prepackaged bakery goods.”

Jeff Rebh, president and chief executive officer of Innoseal Systems Inc., identifies the trend toward smaller and more manageable package sizes – with an emphasis on less touch and more hygienic delivery. The Innoseal Bag Sealing system is particularly useful to increase the safety of the food served at schools. Bag and seal your meals to decrease any risk of exposure. Simply pick up the wrapped good, give it a twist, and run it through the Innoseal for a tight and reliable seal. Innoseal’s bag closure tape and paper combination mean each sealed bag is tamper-evident, easy to open and resealable.

Unifiller Systems Inc. recently introduced their new Total Care by Unifiller product that includes the app and Bluetooth-enabled device. Total Care by Unifiller is a simple plug-and-play unit that offers Unifiller customers long-term advantages at a minimal cost. Designed by Unifiller's R&D team, the Bluetooth device syncs with any Unifiller machine to transmit equipment usage information to a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop running the app. Customers can then upload, store, and track content on a Unifiller-specific framework.

The MONO Epsilon tabletop depositor features a unique front-loading design that makes placement in tight quarters a breeze. The Epsilon features a fully programmable touchscreen, a traveling hopper system, a large hopper capacity, and a pour-through hopper lid for seamless production. The Epsilon is suitable for various products, including macarons, eclairs, pate a choux, sheet cakes, cupcakes, meringues, brownies, and more.

New store formats are also opening new doors. The highly anticipated Citizens Market Atlanta at Phipps Plaza in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood is open to the public. The 25,000-square-foot immersive destination includes a culinary market with eight distinct chef-driven brands, a full indoor and outdoor bar and event space.