Amcor to acquire New Zealand’s Moda Systems in protein packaging expansion

09 May 2023 --- Amcor will acquire New Zealand-based Moda Systems, which creates state-of-the-art protein packaging machines. Moda designs, assembles and supports innovative, high-performance modular vacuum packaging solutions for the meat, poultry and dairy industries. 

The consumer packaging giant says the acquisition will complement its strength in flexible films, positioning it to offer end-to-end packaging solutions that encompass primary packaging, equipment, on-site technical service and parts. 

“This acquisition will enable Amcor to offer an exciting new option and choice in automated protein packaging, making us the only flexible packaging manufacturer to own a high-speed, rotary equipment solution for fresh meat,” says Amcor Flexibles North America (AFNA) president Fred Stephan.

In 2020, AFNA first partnered with Moda to combine its shrink bag and roll stock film for meat and cheese with Moda’s technology to give producers better operational efficiencies and drive down costs. 

“Combined with our best-in-class film portfolio, we see great strategic value in adding Moda’s automation technology, technical expertise and services for a range of customizable format solutions beyond a standard shrink bag. This transaction will enable Amcor to further enhance its winning value proposition for its global protein processing customers.” 

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and expected to be completed in the June 2023 quarter.The acquisition is expected to boost packaging solutions for the meat and dairy sectors.

Moda Systems 
Moda’s rotary vacuum system is designed to improve operational efficiencies for protein producers, enabling them to optimize labor, improve safety and reduce waste. According to the company, the system is composed for ease of use in connecting, operating, maintaining and cleaning, and improving throughput and quality. 

Combined with Amcor’s portfolio of meat, poultry, seafood and cheese shrink packaging options, the rotary vacuum system is expected to enhance value for Amcor’s protein producing partners. 

“Together, we will deliver innovative expertise at scale, with a mutual dedication to outperformance. Our complementary capabilities will accelerate Moda’s founding mission to offer the most advanced vacuum packaging solutions for our customers,” says Moda founder and CEO Richard Newcombe. 

Amcor’s continued expansion 
Last year, Amcor acquired a world-class flexible packaging plant in the Czech Republic and expanded its Innovation Center Network with a new facility in Jiangyin, China. The company says the flexible packaging plant’s strategic location boosts its ability to meet strong demand and customer growth across its European network.

Meanwhile, the Chinese facility is bringing advanced packaging technologies and more environmentally sustainable material science to Asia Pacific, helping to drive growth and innovation across the region. 

Recently, Amcor teamed up with Swedish coffee roaster Löfbergs to launch monomaterial coffee packaging, which can be chemically and mechanically recycled. The two companies partnered to overcome one of the key challenges facing coffee roasters – switching to easier-to-recycle coffee packaging while preserving flavor and aroma – and say they have achieved a technical breakthrough.

Edited by Louis Gore-Langton