HARTSVILLE, SC - Sonoco (NYSE:SON), one of the largest diversified global packaging companies, will exhibit at PMA 2017 in New Orleans to showcase its newly expanded produce packaging capabilities. Due to the recent acquisitions of Peninsula Packaging and Clear Lam, Sonoco now offers the industry’s broadest array of packaging solutions tailored to the needs of the fast-growing produce market.

“The perimeter of the store continues to experience solid growth as consumers are drawn to more fresh and natural options, with produce being the significant driver,” said Sonoco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rob Tiede. “This growth is accelerating the need for brands to offer more convenient, on-the-go options that are easy to store, consume and dispose. Shoppers are also looking for ways to reduce food waste, so packaging has a big role to play in portion control and maintaining freshness.”

The newly expanded product line, which will be featured at the show, includes options ranging from flexible pouches and peel-reseal lidding, to rigid plastic trays, tubs and hinged containers. These formats are ideal for pre-cut produce, prepared salads and snack-packs, as well as whole fruits and vegetables.

At this year’s event Sonoco will be highlighting its new SmartSeal® peel-and-reseal lidded packaging for fresh produce. SmartSeal technology features a patented precision-scored, easy-open and reclose feature and offers tamper evidence and high-impact graphics. When coupled with the company’s thermoformed PET containers, the easy-open and reseal functionality addresses the needs of consumers interested in reducing food waste and looking for more convenient product options. Visitors to the show will be able to see the product in action at both the Sonoco and DuPont booths where it will be running on commercial equipment.

“The addition of Peninsula and Clear Lam to the Sonoco family greatly expands what we can bring to produce brands,” stated Tiede. “Our material science expertise and packaging variety, combined with our focus on innovation, goes a long way toward helping us develop new packaging options for our customers that address the demands of today’s busy, health-conscious consumers.”

Sonoco will be exhibiting at booth numbers 5820 and 4526. Learn more at www.sonoco.com/freshsnacking.

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