Hartmann will present its FiberWise™ fibre-based tray solutions for fresh protein and convenience food applications at EMPACK Birmingham in February, positioning the product as a plastic-reduced alternative to conventional rigid trays amid growing sustainability pressure on food packaging.
Developed under the FiberWise™ brand, the trays are designed to replace traditional PET or PP formats in fresh meat and ready-meal applications, while remaining compatible with existing tray-sealing lines. The solution draws on more than a century of Hartmann’s experience in rough-moulded fibre technology and is aimed at producers seeking to reduce plastic content without reconfiguring their packaging operations.
According to the company, the pulptray component of FiberWise™ is produced from 100% renewable resources and reduces plastic use by more than 70% compared with rigid plastic trays. The design supports waste reduction and circularity objectives by enabling separation of fibre and plastic components after use, allowing both materials to be recycled through established streams.
Hartmann is positioning FiberWise™ not only as an environmental upgrade but also as a consumer-facing solution. As sustainability becomes an increasingly influential purchasing factor, the company says fibre-based packaging can help brands better align with shopper expectations around recyclability and material choice. FiberWise™ is designed to fit into standard re-pulping processes, with separable components intended to simplify disposal and recycling for end users.
From an operational perspective, the trays have been developed with a plug-and-play approach. Hartmann states that the sturdy MAP barrier trays offer proven machinability, with easy denesting and reliable performance at high speeds on existing tray sealer lines. The system is designed to run without new tools or major capital investment and can seal against a range of standard top film options.
“FiberWise™ is a sustainable alternative with real potential to transform the packaging market in the long term,” said Kati Ørskov, Business Unit Director, Hartmann.
FiberWise™ will be showcased at EMPACK Birmingham, taking place on 11–12 February 2026, where Hartmann will exhibit at Booth C54.
