(UPM, Helsinki, May 7, 2026 at 10:00 EEST) – UPM Specialty Materials, Michelman, and BOBST have joined forces to develop two validated paper-based packaging concepts for brands navigating the EU packaging rules, such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive (SUPD). By combining fiber-based materials, bio-based coatings, and coating line expertise, the three companies have built ready-to-implement structures that deliver strong barrier performance and heat sealability over a wide sealing window.
“Fulfilling strict expectations demands scalable solutions. Our base papers are developed to support co‑creation and reduce unnecessary complexity. Combining them with the right chemistry enables partners to arrive at fit‑for‑purpose packaging solutions faster,” says Mika Uusikartano, Senior Manager, Product Portfolio Management, UPM Specialty Materials.
The concepts combine UPM’s packaging papers with Michelman’s bio‑based coating solutions and BOBST application know-how to deliver functional performance while supporting recyclability and, where relevant, compostability across selected applications.
“There is a growing market demand for SUPD-compliant packaging solutions. At the same time, barrier performance must remain equivalent to existing market solutions, and proposed materials must be fully compatible with current packaging lines, without the need for major equipment modifications,” says Iulia Mihai, Senior Scientist at Michelman.
From an implementation perspective, the collaboration takes into account process requirements and runnability to support efficient industrial production.
“When materials and application parameters are developed together, packaging converters can implement new solutions more easily while achieving stable performance and production efficiency,” says Luca Nespolo, Competence Center Manager, BOBST.
The collaboration showcases two solution concepts. The first concept1 supports SUPD‑compliant paper packaging for applications such as tea bags, oatmeal, and sugar stick‑packs, incorporating bio‑based coatings that impart good moisture and mineral oil barriers along with good heat sealability. Packets and wrappers are among the product categories in the scope of the EU's SUPD, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of certain plastic products that are used once and discarded.
The second concept2 is designed for applications requiring an improved oxygen barrier level, such as single pack cookies and chocolate, while enabling lower coat weights and improved material efficiency.
Sample structures of both solutions will be available at Interpack 2026 at UPM Specialty Materials’ stand in Hall 8A, Stand F29 and Michelman’s stand in Hall 8A, Stand B25.
The partners will also share insights in a joint presentation “Simplifying Adoption of Sustainable Packaging for Brands” which will take place Monday, May 11, at 11am on the SPOTLIGHT Forum stage in Entrance North B.
1 Michelman coatings are Certified OK Bio-based Class 5 (TÜV Austria) and SUPD compliant (PTS; Directive (EU) 2019/904) and components are home compostable (per raw material suppliers). UPM base paper is home compostable (NF T51-800:2015). The structure has been certified as recyclable (Cepi/4evergreen v2).
2 Michelman coatings are Certified OK Bio-based Class 5 (TÜV Austria) and components are home compostable (per raw material suppliers). UPM base paper is home compostable (NF T51-800:2015, AS 5810:2010). The structure has been certified recyclable (Cepi/4evergreen v2).
Link to images: https://materialhub.upm.com/l/2-n8NfRLMKpM
For further information please contact:
UPM
Säde Lindvall, Director, Marketing and Communications, UPM Specialty Materials, tel. +358 20 415 0627
Michelman
Marce Epstein, Content Marketing Manager, tel. +1 513 794 7878
BOBST
Gudrun Alex, BOBST PR Representative, tel. +49 211 58 58 66 66
UPM, Media relations
Mon-Fri 9:00–16:00 EEST
tel. +358 40 588 3284
media@upm.com
UPM Specialty Materials
UPM Specialty Materials has over 40 years of experience producing high-performance, transformative papers for packaging and labelling. In APAC, we also offer office and graphic papers. Our global team of 1,800 experts and mills in China, Finland and Germany serve customers consistently and reliably around the world. upmspecialtymaterials.com
Follow UPM Specialty Materials on LinkedIn.
UPM
UPM is a material solutions company, renewing products and entire value chains with an extensive portfolio of renewable fibres, advanced materials, decarbonization solutions, and communication papers. Our performance in sustainability has been recognized by third parties, including EcoVadis and the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. We operate globally and employ approximately 15,100 people worldwide, with annual sales of approximately €9.7 billion. Our shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.
UPM – we renew the everyday
Read more: upm.com
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Michelman
Michelman is a global developer and manufacturer of environmentally friendly advanced materials for industry, offering solutions for the coatings, printing & packaging, and fibers & composites markets. The company's surface additives and polymeric binders are used by leading manufacturers around the world to enhance performance attributes and add value in applications including wood and floor care products, metal and industrial coatings, paints, varnishes, inks, fibers, and composites. Michelman is well known as an innovator in the development of barrier and functional coatings, and digital printing press primers that are used in the production of consumer and industrial packaging and paper products, labels, and commercially printed materials. Michelman serves its customers with production facilities in North America, Europe and Asia, product development and technical service centers in several major global markets, and a worldwide team of highly trained business development personnel.
BOBST
We are one of the world’s leading suppliers of substrate processing, printing and converting equipment and services for the label, flexible packaging, folding carton and corrugated board industries. Our vision is to shape the future of the packaging world based on four pillars: connectivity, digitalization, automation and sustainability.
Founded in 1890 by Joseph Bobst in Lausanne, Switzerland, BOBST has a presence in more than 50 countries, runs 21 production facilities in 12 countries and employs more than 6 300 people around the world. The firm recorded a consolidated turnover of CHF 1.622 billion for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Follow BOBST:
LinkedIn: www.bobst.com/linkedin
YouTube: www.bobst.com/youtube
