5 Modern Innovative Packaging Concepts

Flexible packaging can now been seen in nearly all consumer products across the board because it provides the durability, transportability, and convenience that buyers are seeking out. Pouches, bags, and tubes come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes, and features such as stand up capabilities and resealable options. In fact, demand for pouches in the US is projected to increase 4.6 percent per year to 9.4 billion dollars in 2018, according to a new study from The Freedonia Group. By incorporating flexible packaging materials for their products, brands will be able to differentiate themselves from the rest of the market and cut transportation costs and material usage in hopes of increasing operating profits. Aluminum plays a vital role in the flexible packaging sector because it is light weight, strong, and has the ability to keep contents fresher for longer. We took a deeper look into 5 clever concepts in modern packaging: 

This two part beer crate consists of a carrying case with classic plastic handles and an aluminum base with a separate 12 bottles beer holder. The aluminum used is lightweight enough to not add much added mass and the sturdy handles allow customers to carry the case more easily.

Boring milk containers can be replaced by this innovative packaging idea. The visually appealing jug is lined with aluminum to keep the milk cold and fresher for longer. The packaging is the same dimensions as a 2 liter milk carton making it a smooth transition for customers.

Delhaize soup brings to life the principle ingredient through photo-realistic images. The packaging is not only eye-catching but allows consumers to indulge even for those with an on-the-go lifestyle. The aluminum lining creates a barrier between the contents and outside label making it safe for people to hold even when the soup is extremely hot.

Affordability and convenience were the main ideas behind offering wine by the glass in tubes. Research showed that 88% of experts acknowledge that consumers are demanding more interesting wine by the glass and are willing to spend more to have a glass of wine, rather than a bottle.

Shepherd’s Purse artisan cheeses are kept fresh in aluminum foil that can easily be resealed and disposed of once finished making it a great appetizer to bring to parties. The brand was able to cut costs by reducing the packaging material used by sticking to aluminum foil.

Shanghai Metal Corporation understands the potential in the packaging industry and offers a wide array of aluminum foil for flexible packaging. We are committed to providing value-added quality products with competitive pricing and prompt delivery. View more information on this product and more at our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn Group, Facebook, and Twitter. 

Sources: The Freedobia Group and Packaging World

By: Kristie K. // SMC Editor

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World’s Most Iconic Sporting Venues Utilize Aluminum to Portray Modern Feel

Sporting complexes must be able to withstand tough weather conditions, hold masses of screaming fans, and, in some cases, be built in a few years span. Aluminum is used in building such structures because its lightweight capabilities lead to greater flexibility while minimizing the expenditure on foundations. It is durable enough to withstand feet of snow falling in Baltimore, Maryland during Ravens games where the stadium packs 70,000 plus fans decked out in black and purple, as well as the beating sun’s ultraviolet rays in multiple stadiums used in the 2014 World Cup games hosted by Brazil, where fans from across the global gather to show off their patriotism.

After devastation struck in New Orleans, Louisiana, many locals were packed into the Louisiana Superdome as a “shelter of last resort” for thousands of New Orleans residents unable to evacuate in August 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated the city. Renovations occurred after to show the world that the city is capable of battling and overcoming any obstacle the world throws at them, on and off the field. The transformation into an ultra-modern stadium was made possible by more than 40,000 square feet of aluminum that was turned into 16,000 bronze-hued anodized aluminum panels which now give the Superdome its iconic structuring.

Mercedes Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana

Many sporting stadiums have similar stories that go deeper than the material used to build them and here are a few examples.  

Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janerio, Brazil

The Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janerio, Brazil housed 199,854 fans, being the world’s largest stadium by capacity, during the 1950 FIFA World Cup in which Brazil was defeated by Uruguay 2-1. To prepare for the 2014 World Cup, more than 50 metric tons of extruded aluminum was used to refurbish and modernize the stadium. The Maracanã Stadium and Aztec Stadium in Mexico City are the only two venues ever to host two World Cup Finals.

Wembley Stadium in London, England

The Wembley Stadium in London, England, seen today is a new structure that opened in 2007 to replace the earlier Wembley Stadium that was constructed in 1923. The previous model was sometimes referred to as “The Church of Football” or more officially known as “The Empire Stadium”, where major rugby matches are played such as the FA Cup Final and often the Champions League final, where the two best rugby teams in Europe go head-to-head. When the old stadium was renovated in 1963, an aluminum roof was added to give the structure a more modern feel.

FirstEnergy Stadium Fan Section “The Dawg Pound” in Cleveland, Ohio

The FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio, is home of the Cleveland Browns. Its renounced fan section, called The Dawg Pound, is where the Browns extremely zealous fan base sits to cheer on their home team. The bleachers are made of aluminum because of its durability and strength. No matter how rowdy the fans get, the bleachers are sure to withstand the wear and tear.

Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Mexico

The Azteca stadium is the most iconic in world football, as well as being both the fifth-largest ground in the world and the largest football pitch on Planet Football. Its dome consists of hyperbolic paraboloids of tubular aluminum covered with waterproof copper-sheathed plywood and supported by huge steel arches to endure tough weather conditions. It has been the place of some of the most memorable international matches in soccer history including the 1970 World Cup final between Brazil and Italy and the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England.

Shanghai Metal Corporation is proud to offer products that are used in building and construction projects that are used in a variety of venues. Check out our website for a full list of our products and details on our commitment to building value across the globe. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn Group, Facebook, and Twitter.

By: Kristie K. // SMC Editor

Sources: The Aluminum Association and Bleacher Report

Aluminum Ensures Smooth Sailing At Sea

Whether it is a leisurely Sunday afternoon fishing trip to the river, an excursion around the world by sea, or shipping containers full of vital materials from one country to the next, aluminum has shown to be a first-choice option for construction of vessels used in the boating and marine industry. No matter the activity, may it be for recreational or professional use, safety is always made priority and aluminum is trusted by captains across the industry.

Yachts constructed from aluminum are able to withstand areas of rough seas without worrying about hazardous materials, in the water that go undetected, puncturing their vessel.

Its lightweight compound, durability, resistance to stress, and rigidity lead to better performance, low cost of ownership and most importantly higher security. Aluminum’s superior strength to weight ratio allows for building stronger and stiffer boats while keeping them light for performance. When compared to steel, it has been proven that aluminum hull boasts about 29 percent dent resistance and 12.5 percent greater resistance to puncture due to the ductile nature of the aluminum. That means that in the case of sudden impact, aluminum based boats will not rupture, making it a safer option than other materials. In addition, aluminum does not burn nor does it support combustion. Fire resistance is the second element of safety at sea after resistance to puncture.

Volvo Ocean Rate 2014-2015 Route set to start in September.

When it comes to water sports, the need for speed is critical and aluminum’s light weight composition allows boats to reach speeds unobtainable before. For example, one of the most famous infamous global circumnavigation boat races is the Volvo Ocean Race, which takes place every four years. The race usually takes over nine months and covers 39,000 nautical miles. It takes place over 11 legs and incorporates stops at 12 ports around the world. Weather permitting, the race usually begins in Europe in September and runs through the Atlantic Ocean, corners around Africa’s southerly point, and then braves the often treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean before cornering again at Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America and heading home up the Atlantic.

Shanghai Metal Corporation understands the importance of safety in the boating and marine industry and is committed to offering products that abide by quality standards and are sustainable for the environment as well. Learn more about the products we offer and services we provide at our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn group, Twitter, and Facebook.

Kristie K. // SMC Editor

The Truth is Revealed About the Health Concerns Associated with Aluminum Cookware

Speculations about the risks of cooking with aluminum utensils have put stress on consumers for years. In the 1970s, a Canadian researcher published a study showing Alzheimer’s patients had high levels of aluminum in their brains. Since then, research has been back and forth on the correlation between aluminum and Alzheimer’s. As of today, there is no clear proven connection between the two but some are still hesitant to use aluminum cookware and cans.

Evidence

In 2011, Health Canada released a study that cooking a meal in an aluminum pan can add 1 to 2 mg of aluminum to your food. But what exactly does that mean? The World Health Organization estimates that people can safely consumer about 50 mg a day without harm. So adding a few mg wouldn’t be detrimental but people still need to be cautious about the amount consumed.

Prevention

When you replace old pans, consider upgrading to anodized aluminum pots.

Aluminum has been effective in cookware due to its ability to withstand high heat. It is a great choice for people setting up a kitchen or camping because it is lightweight and inexpensive. If people take safe precautions when using untreated aluminum pots, the health risks can be lowered. One study showed that untreated aluminum pots react to cooking highly acidic foods such as tomatoes or sauerkraut, so use alternative surfaces such as stainless steel for such dishes. Another suggestion is to avoid storing leftovers in aluminum, because the longer the food sits, the more aluminum it can absorb from the pan. Since more aluminum will dissolve out of old utensils, throw away your aging aluminum cookware.

Shanghai Metal Corporation is committed to offering products that are safe for our consumers. SMC strives to provide the best customer service from the production phase through after-sales follow-up, our goal remains ensuring our clients receive all necessary support. Additionally, we continuously remain a trusted, responsible member of the global society. For more information visit our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn group, Twitter, and Facebook.

Sources: Health Canada, World Health Organization, Livestrong.com

Kristie Kaaa / SMC Editor

Food Trucks Industry Switching from Cheeseburgers and Fries to Lettuce Wraps and Kale Chips

Food truck vendors started to gain popularity in the United States around 2008, when citizens had to cut back on spending due to the economic downturn. Entrepreneurs saw this change in consumer preferences as a way to provide unique cuisine options to people at their convenience. Fast-forward five years, now there are many vendors in the marketplace and capturing the audience’s attention is becoming tougher than ever before. Now-a-days consumers are more cautious about the health benefits of the food they are putting in their body and, at the same time, are spending more and more time using technology to interact with the world around them. That is where unique marketing strategies by vendors come into play.

Many cities around in the US host a weekly event where food truck vendors gather at one location from lunch until early dinner. The event, called Food Truck Roundup, takes place at different lots across the city each week to attract customers from different areas.

It is not difficult to get started in the food truck industry but differentiating yourself from the masses of other trucks lined up downtown during peak lunch hours is a different story. Many food trucks are pertaining to healthy eating lifestyles by offering food catered to those who are vegan or vegetarian. Imaner Consultants, an ethical organization who specialize in vegan website involvement, calculated that 95 percent of vegans go out of their way to buy foods from ethical companies. The group also discovered that 96 percent of vegans use the internet as a way of locating vegan products. Some food trucks have taken these statistics into consideration and work to enhance the social responsibility of their trucks and portraying their vision on social media sites. When catering to vegans, vendors consider not only the type of produce they use when preparing each dish but also the type of fuel used in their trucks and the types of packaging and utensils used to eat the organic dishes.

The Cinnamon Snail, based out of New York, New York, won Mobile Cuisine’s 2013 Vegetarian/Vegan Food Truck of the Year. The truck is known for its assorted pastries and desserts, soups, salads, and burgers.

Aluminum foil is used by many trucks as a way to serve hand held meals like sandwiches and wraps. The foil is not only an easy clean up for guests but its recyclable capabilities cater to those concerned with preserving the earth. Vendors see it as a way to get the food to customers quicker and using foil doesn’t require any extra packaging material. It is a cost effective way to ensure the food inside stays the same temperature from the time it comes off the grill to the time the consumer opens it up to enjoy. Shanghai Metal Corporation offers a wide array of aluminum foil for packaging. To read more detail on the types of foil we offer be sure to check out our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn Group, Facebook, and Twitter.

Sources: IBISWorld, Imaner Consultants, mobile-cuisine.com

By: Kristie Kaaa / SMC Editor

Aviation Made Possible By Light Weight Aluminum: A Brief History

The Wright brothers built the world’s first successful airplane on December 17, 1903 in Dayton, Ohio. What was the secret to their success? To keep the weight low enough, the engine block was cast from aluminum, a rare practice for the time. Since then, advancements in aircraft and rocket technology are directly correlated with the advancement and product of aluminum alloys.Take a look at a few key events in the aircraft and aerospace market:

Orville and Wilbur Wright flew the first airplane in 1903.

The Wright engine, with its aluminum crankcase, marked the first time this breakthrough material was used in aircraft construction. Lightweight aluminum became essential in aircraft design development and remains a primary construction material for all types of aircraft.

The American public was urged to contribute to the aluminum scrap supply to build fighter jets during World War II.

In 1942, a New York radio station created a show “Aluminum for Defense” to encourage Americans to contribute scrap aluminum to the war efforts. The aluminum was used in to produce one-third of planes built during World War II

The Apollo Command Module housed the first man on the moon in 1969.

In 1969, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) launched the Apollo program that was responsible for the lading of the first humans on Earth’s Moon. The Apollo Command Module, which housed the crew accommodations, equipment bays, controls and displays, was made of an aluminum honeycomb-sandwich bonded between sheets of aluminum alloy.

NASA plans to launch the Orion Multi Purpose Crew Vehicle Ascent Abort 2 test flight (AA‑2) from Spaceport Florida Launch Complex 46 in 2018.

NASA’s Orion MPCV (Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle) will serve as the next-generation space exploration vehicle. The primary structures of the Orion spacecraft are made from an aluminum-lithium alloy and will be covered by an advanced version of the thermal protection tiles used on the space shuttle.

Shanghai Metal Corporation is proud to supply products that have influenced modern technology. For details on all that we have to offer visit our website here. Be sure to join the conversation on our LinkedIn group, Twitter, and Facebook. 

Kristie K.//SMC Editor

Iconic Aluminum Roofing Around the World

Venues around the world utilize aluminum roofing because it is not only attractive and modern but because there are many advantages due to its compound. Aluminum is corrosion and water resistant; thus,  protecting the structure from weathering and erosion making it useful for buildings that are near coastlines.

The service life of Aluminum is up to about 50 years. Unlike other traditional roofing materials, there is little upkeeping that will be required once it has been installed. The panels are put together in a sort of puzzle construction, creating a seal above the building. Energy bills are cut due to the fact that aluminum has the ability to insulate heat in the winter time and keep buildings cool in hot summer months.  The list of benefits seems almost endless. Take a look at some of the famous venues that utilize aluminum as a roofing material:

La Tete-au-Carre – Nice, France (It is the first ever inhabited sculpture of the world, and it is made entirely of aluminum.)

Infosys Building – Hinjewadi, Pune, India

The Clyde Auditorium “The Armadillo” Glasgow, Scotland

Shanghai F1 Circuit – Shanghai, China

National Graduate Research Institute for Policy Studies – Tokyo, Japan

Sydney Opera House – Sydney, Australia

Shanghai Metal Corporation offers Aluminum Sheet Roofing in various types including slate, standing seam, shingle, tile, and shakes in various colors and sizes. SMC also produces aluminum magnesium manganese roofing for added protection. More information on aluminum roofing material can be found on our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn group, Facebook, and Twitter.

Kristie K.//SMC Editor

License Plates are Vital for Society to Function Properly

License plates have been used to identify registered drivers and distinguish natives from different regions. Plates are vital to law enforcement all over the world in times of emergencies and entertaining to road trippers as they make their way thousands of miles by highway. To some, it is a way they are differentiate themselves from the other drivers on the road and can show loyalty to such causes or sports teams they support. For government officials, it is used to make sure vehicles are registered properly and that the vehicle is safe to be on the road. Whether it be a puny phrases for individuals, classification for government officials, or classification for taxi drivers; licenses plates are key to any functioning society.

Government agencies are not the only consumers of sublimation aluminum sheets. Plates and signs are also purchased by designers and are mounted in homes, garages, bars, and restaurants all over the world. Road signs capture audience’s attention and can create good vibes for venues because people are not used to seeing them in setting outside the road. Travelers purchase signs as souvenirs to make trips more memorable, every time they see the sign it will bring them right back to their vacation.

Global seafood restaurant chain Bubba Gump Shrimp Company inspired by Paramount Picture’s movie “Forrest Gump,” uses red and blue plates to signal to servers whether guests need something (red) or they are content (blue).

Shanghai Metal Corporation manufactures aluminum used to create such plates, signs, and information boards. We provide the highest standard of quality at a competitive price. Whatever your vision may be, let us assist you! Check out more information on sublimation aluminum sheets and be sure to join the conversation by joining our LinkedIn group and following our twitter feed. 

Kristie K.//SMC Editor

Chocolate Bar Industry Trends Are Volatile While Aluminum Foil Industry Remains Steady

Chocolate bars were the first product to be wrapped in aluminum foil in 1910 by the Nestle Company and the trend caught on like wild fire. Fast forward more than 100 years, the candy industry in the United States has had its ups and downs. Chocolate and candy consumption has followed the movements in the economic cycle; decreasing when money is tight during a recession and increase when consumers have more disposable income during periods of expansion. At the current state of the US economy, chocolate consumption is growing because people are more willing and able to spend their money on indulgences but in order for candy companies to stay afloat, they will need to adjust to consumers changing tastes and buying habits.

There are a few barriers in the chocolate bar industry. First, leading producers in this industry collectively account for an estimated 67.7 percent of industry revenue. This stronghold on market power makes it difficult for small companies to enter the market. Mergers and acquisitions are becoming more common, adding to the muscle of the few. Second, Americans are showing growing health concerns shifting demand for white and milk chocolate to healthier alternatives such as reduced-fat, dark, and organic chocolate. Lastly, the price of sugar is expended to increase later in the year, posing a threat to the industry. Large firms will be able to pass the cost increase on to consumers but many small chocolate shops will not have the ability to do so.

While health trends have hampered demand for industry products, producers responded quickly by introducing new products that appeal to health-conscious Americans.

Luckily the aluminum foil industry has been less volatile than the chocolate bar industry. As producers become more creative with their packaging techniques, aluminum foil for flexible packaging has expanded into goods with steady demand indicators. Consumers are now looking for their food and beverage products to be transportable, convenient, and lightweight to accommodate their on the go lifestyles. Shanghai Metal Corporation offers a wide array of aluminum foil for flexible packaging options, for the full line of products visit our website here.

Be sure to join the discussion in SMC’s Linkedin group page, Facebook, and Aluminum specific twitter.

Kristie K.//SMC Editor

Aluminum Sector Analysis in Brazil

Growing demand for aluminum in Brazil is powered by the packaging, transportation and construction industries. Aluminum foil is used in flexible packaging and many consumer products are making the transition in packaging material, leading to greater demand across the world.  Increases in demand for transportation and construction needs are powered by the 2014 World Cup and the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, where extrusion-related programs include stadiums and airports. The Brazilian Aluminum Association (ABAL) technical director Arton Filletti says “We also see great potential for extrusions in other modes of people transport, such as railways, urban surface trains and subways.” He also sees potential in the shipping and offshore industry.

Four industries account for three fourths of aluminum consumption in Brazil: packing, transportation, construction and electricity.

 

Aluminum is on the rise in the auto industry and has plenty of room for growth in Brazil. In 2013, vehicles produced domestically have average aluminum content per vehicle at around 110 pounds. In leading markets such as the U.S. and Europe, average aluminum content per vehicle exceeds 300 pounds. Inovar Auto is a government program established to boost vehicle technology innovation should raise demand by the industry as well as tax breaks for cars that reach a set level of energy efficiency. Demand should increase for aluminum since it is known to make cars lighter and run more efficiently.

Last year, Brazil dropped to 8th from 6th largest producer globally as production of primary aluminum fell 9.2%. The main barrier is poor competitiveness in the cost of electricity. The loss of competitiveness will mean that Brazil will have to become a net importer of aluminum. The People’s Republic of China remains at the top of the list and Shanghai Metal Corporations is a leading manufacturer in Aluminum sheets and plates committed to providing value-added quality products with competitive pricing and prompt delivery. Our group of competent engineers develops and improves our products using specially design and advanced equipment to meet the special needs to our clients. To find out more about our wide variety of products check out our website here.

Sources: The Brazilian Aluminum Association (ABAL), Bain & Company

Kristie K.//SMC Editor