Paper, Pulp & Film (PP&F), a family-owned paper converting company based in Fresno, California, has expanded its sustainable packaging offerings by partnering with UK-based packaging specialist Ravenwood Packaging and UK linerless printer, Reflex Group. This collaboration introduces Ravenwood’s innovative sustainable linerless labelling technology to PP&F’s product lineup, enhancing its eco-friendly TrayCycle range of paper produce trays.
PP&F’s TrayCycle boxes, already popular among suppliers of apple, stone fruit, and citrus, can now be paired with Ravenwood’s linerless fruit lids. This combination creates a complete, sustainable packaging solution that eliminates the need for traditional plastic packaging such as poly clamshells or plastic flow wrap.
Transatlantic Partnership Powers Eco Packaging Launch
The collaboration with UK-based packaging expert Ravenwood has empowered PP&F to offer its customers an alternative that is not only 100% kerbside recyclable but also cost-effective. To bring this solution to market, PP&F worked closely with Reflex Labels, a UK linerless printer, to supply a recyclable packaging alternative to an apple grower – launching the first project of its kind in the U.S. for 4-pack apple trays.
“Linerless labelling combined with our TrayCycle box is the perfect solution,” said Tal Cloud, President and Owner of PP&F. “We’ve been looking for ways to move away from plastic, and the paper-based linerless label paired with our recyclable tray creates a winning combination.”
The new packaging format delivers both strength and sustainability. The combined tray and lid offer robust protection for fresh produce, matching the durability of traditional plastic options while providing a sustainable alternative.
“Plastic is incredibly durable, and produce needs that protection,” said Cloud, “but now we can offer the same benefits with a greener footprint.”
In addition to its environmental advantages, the linerless lid offers increased surface area for branding, product information, QR codes, and UPCs, enhancing both shelf appeal and traceability.
Ravenwood has appointed Cloud as an approved distributor of its labelling machinery in North America. “It made sense,” Cloud explained, “to offer our customers a complete, 360-degree solution – from the packaging materials to fully automated packing lines.”
Following the successful apple project, PP&F is already expanding the concept to other fruit categories including apricots, oranges, and additional apple varieties. Conversations are also underway with avocado and kiwi producers.
Ravenwood’s linerless Fruit Lid is rapidly becoming the preferred choice among retailers, brand owners, and packers thanks to its zero waste-to-landfill design and low environmental impact. Unlike traditional labels, linerless labels require no backing paper, reducing waste and production costs.
Linerless Key USPs
- Fewer Roll Changes
Since there’s no backing paper, linerless label rolls contain more labels per roll, resulting in fewer roll changes and less downtime on packaging lines. - Space-Saving & Lightweight
Cartonboard trays and linerless labels are usually more compact and lighter than bulky plastic clamshells, improving transport efficiency and reducing storage needs. - Retailer Preference
Many large retailers are pushing suppliers to reduce plastic packaging and adopt sustainable alternatives. - Regulatory Trends
Cartonboard and linerless labels are helping companies stay ahead of upcoming regulations banning or limiting single-use plastics.
Founded in 1986, Paper, Pulp & Film operates out of a 115,000-square-foot facility on seven acres in Fresno, complete with a BNSF railroad siding and 14 truck doors. The company supplies a wide range of paper grades tailored for industrial, printing, and agricultural applications.
For more information on Ravenwood’s sustainable linerless labelling, contact the marketing team at +44 (0)1284 749144.
