FORPET: a leader in sustainable packaging and circular plastics economy

FORPET, a trailblazer in sustainable packaging solutions, has evolved significantly since its inception, championing creativity, innovation, and market foresight. In an exclusive interview, Dr. Sven Wolf, a Board Member of FORPET GmbH with over 25 years of experience in the plastics industry, shared insights into the company’s journey, its contributions to the circular economy of plastics, and its vision for a more sustainable future. “With over 20 million euros already invested, we’re poised for exponential sustainability-driven growth alongside our customers,” Dr. Sven Wolf told The Baltic Times Magazine.

                                            A journey rooted in innovation

FORPET's story began with a focus on lightweight and sustainable packaging solutions. In 2016, the company showcased its first developments at the K Fair in Düsseldorf, Germany, the world's largest plastics trade exhibition. By pioneering the use of recycled PET (rPET) for thin-walled, foamed, and non-foamed products, FORPET tapped into a material with established collection systems and recycling processes, accredited by agencies like the FDA and EFSA. “From the start, we aimed to provide affordable and safe packaging for food and non-food sectors using rPET,” says Dr. Sven Wolf, adding, “Our goal was also to replace difficult-to-recycle materials like laminated or coated disposable paper packaging.”

                                      Weathering challenges and building resilience

Despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical instabilities, FORPET thrived by leveraging strategic investments. Supported by the Iakobachvili family office, the company established a state-of-the-art 5,000m² production facility in Ventspils, Latvia. This facility integrates all production stages for high-quality rPET packaging, meeting the stringent demands of global clients like HOCHLAND. Patented packaging and process innovations have positioned FORPET as a leader in the industry.

 “Our deep vertical integration ensures we deliver unmatched quality, quantity, and price,” emphasizes Dr. Sven Wolf.

                               Expanding presence in the Baltics

FORPET is optimistic about its prospects in the Baltic region.  “The Baltics have demonstrated resilience to external shocks, with robust economic support, infrastructure, and skilled labor,” Dr. Sven Wolf says. While the region is shifting away from being a low-cost labor hub, its focus on high-tech manufacturing and renewable energy investments aligns with FORPET's strategic goals. 

“This is where FORPET fits perfectly,” the CEO emphasized.

                                 Championing the circular economy

FORPET's commitment to sustainability aligns with the European Union’s vision of a circular plastics economy. 

 “Plastics are essential, but their value chains need to become more sustainable,” the company asserted,” Dr. Sven Wolf says. The use of rPET is central to FORPET's operations, allowing for advanced recycling and simplified designs that meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. 

“Our innovations set a new standard for how packaging contributes to a sustainable future,” says Dr. Sven Wolf noted.

                                   Challenges of the European Green Deal

While supportive of the European Green Deal, which aims for climate neutrality by 2050, FORPET recognizes its challenges. High implementation costs, regulatory burdens, and technological demands are significant hurdles for businesses. “Balancing environmental responsibility with economic viability is key,” Dr. Sven Wolf said.  However, thanks to its state-of-the-art technology, FORPET is confident in its ability to navigate these disruptions.

                                       Circularity in plastics: the road ahead

FORPET is optimistic about achieving near-complete circularity for PET plastics, which are already well-integrated into recycling systems. However, the company acknowledges that circularity remains a distant goal for other plastic types. “The EU’s Plastic Packaging Waste Directive provides clear targets, and we’re committed to meeting them through continuous innovation,” Dr. Sven Wolf explained.

                                                   Collaborative efforts in R&D

FORPET’s success is supported by collaborations with leading R&D institutions like CHASE and Johannes Kepler University in Austria. The company has also partnered with top-tier equipment suppliers, including Leistritz, SML, and WM Thermoforming, to develop cutting-edge processes.

Looking ahead, FORPET plans to expand its operations, exploring new molds for customized packaging and integrating rPET washing processes on-site. Joint ventures abroad are also on the horizon, though details remain under wraps.

                                                                What is next?

By 2025, FORPET expects the Baltic economies to outpace the EU in GDP growth, driven by consumer spending and sustainability trends. “With over 20 million euros already invested, we’re poised for exponential growth alongside our customers,” Dr. Sven Wolf concluded.

Undoubtedly, FORPET’s commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it as a key player in the transition to a circular plastics economy, setting a benchmark for the future of packaging.