Sonoco, a global leader in metal packaging, will for the first time enter the UK market under the brand Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA, unveiling advanced sustainable packaging and immersive AR tools at London Packaging Week 2025.
Strategic Move Following Eviosys Acquisition
In December 2024, Sonoco finalized the acquisition of Eviosys, and the rebranded division—Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA—will make its UK debut at London Packaging Week on 15–16 October 2025 at ExCeL London.
This event marks a crucial step in Sonoco’s expansion across Europe, bringing its sustainable metal packaging portfolio directly to the UK market.
Matt Brimble (Promotional NPD Manager, Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA) commented that the Expo provides an ideal platform to introduce the company’s new identity and innovations, especially its AR-enabled design tool.
Aidan Ruddock (Commercial Director, North Europe) emphasized that local UK production offers faster lead times, increased flexibility, and more sustainable supply chains—advantages Sonoco aims to showcase.
Key Innovations on Display
At the event, Sonoco will spotlight a trio of its flagship solutions designed for sustainability and consumer convenience:
Innovation
Benefit / Highlight
Emission or Performance Metric
Ecopeel™ (3-piece can)
Fully recyclable, waste-free food packaging
Reduces CO₂ emissions by ~20 %
Horizon™ Overcap
Lightweight, infinitely recyclable overcap
Cuts CO₂ ~33 %
Orbit™ 66 closure
Easier open performance
Reduces opening force by ~50%
* Metrics as claimed by Sonoco in promotional materials.
In addition to the physical prototypes, Sonoco is introducing an augmented reality (AR) visualization tool. With it, brands can:
View packaging in 3D
Customize colors, finishes, and design elements in real time
Generate bespoke packaging concepts using AI
This AR tool is intended to accelerate the design-to-production pipeline, reduce design waste, and enhance client engagement.
Sustainability Credentials & Market Positioning
With roots stretching over 200 years, Sonoco brings a legacy of packaging innovation. Following the Eviosys acquisition, Sonoco claims it has become “the world’s largest metal packaging manufacturer.”
One strong proof point of its environmental commitment is earning a perfect 100/100 Ecovadis Platinum rating in the environmental category—for two consecutive years.
In the UK event space, Sonoco will also highlight its “Made in the UK” manufacturing capabilities, aiming to appeal to brands that value local sourcing, reduced shipping emissions, and supply chain agility.
Beyond simply exhibiting product lines, Sonoco will host interactive demonstrations, networking sessions, and brand-owner discussions to illustrate the full value of metal packaging—from durability and recyclability to waste reduction and premium design flexibility.
Visitors are invited to explore the latest Sonoco innovations and engage with the team directly under the rebranded EMEA identity.
Manufacturer’s Perspective: The Future of Tinplate Packaging
From a tin packaging manufacturer’s standpoint, the tinplate packaging market is evolving around three key themes: lightweight design, local production, and digital innovation.
Modern tin packaging is no longer just about durability—it’s about reducing material usage without compromising protection, producing closer to end markets to lower emissions, and adopting tools like AR design platforms to help brands visualize packaging instantly.
This transformation reflects a broader shift toward sustainable and smarter metal packaging, positioning tinplate as one of the most future-ready materials in global packaging.
