Carton packaging is typically sourced as an integrated system, from the complex through to the capping line. As a result, many buyers assume that changing the closure means changing everything else.
Separating the closure decision
Buying the complete carton packaging system from one source can simplify procurement and technical coordination. It can also mean that the complex, the equipment and the closures depend on the same supply relationship. If availability, lead times or commercial conditions change, buyers may have limited room to respond without reopening the wider system. Treating the closure as an independently sourced component gives procurement teams another option. A qualified second source can reduce dependence on a single supplier while allowing the established complex and equipment to remain in place.
This is not an argument against integrated systems. It is an argument for choice: carton packaging buyers should be able to evaluate the closure on its own technical and commercial merits, just as they would any other packaging component.
A proven closure, with the portfolio set to expand
Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in carton packaging closures, UNITED CAPS’ portfolio currently centres on the established 23 H-PAK and will expand with 27 H-PAK (Alu & Alu-Free complexes).
The 23 H-PAK has proven itself. In its tethered configuration, the closure locks in the open position and remains clear of the pouring area, supporting unobstructed pouring.
Testing of 27 H-PAK (Alu & Alu-Free complexes) has been completed and validated, with market launch confirmed for the end of 2027. Once launched, it will give customers a further option when defining future carton packaging specifications.
Reviewing closure sourcing in the PPWR context
As packaging teams prepare for the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), many are reviewing material choices, recyclability and the resilience of their packaging supply chains. The closure can form part of that assessment without automatically reopening the entire packaging system.
Both closures can be produced using mass-balanced biobased resin or recycled material as part of customers’ preparations for PPWR.
A real alternative for carton packaging closures
For carton buyers, the proposition is straightforward: change the cap, keep the complex. The closure can be evaluated and sourced as one component of the pack, while the established filling system remains in place.
“A closure is one component of the carton pack. Buyers should be able to evaluate and source it according to the same technical and commercial criteria as any other component, without changing the rest of the line. We are here to give buyers that choice,” said Alan Quéméneur, Chief Growth Officer at UNITED CAPS.
UNITED CAPS invites carton packaging manufacturers and brand owners to discuss independent closure sourcing and the suitability of 23 H-PAK and 27 H-PAK (Alu & Alu-Free complexes) for dairy, juice, stocks, soups and selected non-liquid products.
Editors interested in further background or in discussing an expert contribution are invited to contact Monika Dürr.
Short version of this press release
With nearly two decades of experience, UNITED CAPS is positioning 23 H-PAK and 27 H-PAK (Alu & Alu-Free complexes) as alternative closure options for existing lines. Both products are compatible with legacy and alternative complexes and run on existing tethered and non-tethered lines without line modification or changes to machine settings. In its tethered configuration, the 23 H-PAK locks open and remains clear of the pouring area. Testing of 27 H-PAK (Alu & Alu-Free complexes) has been completed and validated, with market launch confirmed for the end of 2027. Both closures can be produced using mass-balanced biobased resin or recycled material as part of customers’ preparations for PPWR. The approach provides an additional sourcing route and supports supply resilience across dairy, juice, stocks, soups and selected non-liquid product applications. Buyers can retain their chosen complex and line configuration. Change the cap, keep the complex.
