SHOWCASING THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY

Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge

The student, or team of students, who develops the first place winning entry will receive $1,000 and the second place winning entry will receive $500.

Enter the competition today! The deadline for concept outlines is March 3, 2023.

A Prestigious Competition

The Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge has become a prestigious competition within the flexible packaging industry honoring flexible packaging solutions developed by students. Flexible packaging is used to package a wide variety of items. From retail food to medical and pharmaceutical products, the packaging possibilities are endless. The only limit is imagination!

The Challenge 

The Challenge for students is to develop a flexible package solution that addresses a packaging issue, such as consumer convenience or the protection of food. The package should:

  • Advance the use of flexible packaging;
  • Make an improvement over an existing flexible package;
  • Convert a non-flexible package into a flexible package; or
  • Package a product that is not currently available in flexible packaging.

How To Compete

Students are asked to submit a concept outline which will be evaluated and when approved, students may begin the development of the package prototype/bench sample. Students may work on the design in conjunction with their packaging schools. FPA members may be available as mentors to students advancing to the flexible packaging prototype/bench sample development round.

2023 Competition Dates:

  • March 3, 2023 – Deadline for Concept
  • March 10, 2023 – Concept Approval Notification
  • April 14, 2023 – Deadline for Prototype/Bench Sample, Written Defense, and Video Proposal
  • May 12, 2023 – Winner Announcement

FPA 2023 Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge

Thank you for your interest in the Student Flexible Packaging Design Challenge! The "Challenge" honors flexible packaging solutions developed by students. Flexible packaging is used to package a wide variety of items. From retail food to medical and pharmaceutical products, the packaging possibilities are endless. The only limit is your imagination!

Enter today!

Congratulations to the 2022 Winners

FIRST PLACE HONORS

Pistachio Pal Package

Student Team: Ben Boie, Aria Elfering, Payton Klaslo, Aaron Kurschner, and Connor Walechka

School: University of Wisconsin – Stout

Professor: Gary Borges, Lecturer

Our pistachio packaging solves the societal issue of having nowhere to conveniently dispose of old pistachio shells. Our improved packaging features a thin barrier dividing the pouch creating a convenient space to dispose of the unwanted shells. The improved pouch could also be used for products beyond pistachios including other shelled nuts and individually wrapped candy. The pouch features a transparent eco-friendly material allowing consumers to easily see the product and the improved design.

SECOND PLACE HONORS

Microwavable Ramen Pouch

Student Team: Ethan Myers, Riley Runnels, Hayden Zachgo, and Hannah Zastrow

School: University of Wisconsin – Stout

Professor: Gary Borges, Lecturer

Ramen, the cheap and convenient staple of the college student, has now become safer, more convenient, and more sustainable. With a new flexible doyen pouch designed to be microwavable and act as a bowl, students have the convenience of no dishes, along with the added benefit of reducing their waste and avoiding the adverse health effects of heated styrofoam. All these benefits along with the addition of greater graphic marketing capabilities.

HONORABLE MENTION

“Vetchables” Flexible Veggie Tray

Student Team: Ethan Myers, Riley Runnels, Hayden Zachgo, and Hannah Zastrow

School: University of Wisconsin – Stout

Professor: Gary Borges, Lecturer

The flexible veggie tray is a unique change to the typical rigid packaging option. Not only will this package allow for better printing options, but make shipping the product cheaper, and more environmentally friendly. Its square shape allows for more economical packing and its collapsible nature further increases its packing capabilities prior to filing. The flexible veggie tray provides all the same benefits as the typical packaging but will help companies financially and everyone environmentally.