Over the last decade, the beauty and cosmetics industry has become increasingly competitive, with countless brands striving to stand out. Yet packaging is not confined to cosmetics alone. We encounter it constantly, from food containers and medical supplies to building materials. For just over a century, plastic packaging has become the dominant choice, influenced by a range of factors.

Why does plastic packaging remain so prevalent when alternatives like paper, glass, and metal are available? At CJK, we provide premium plastic packaging to businesses worldwide. In this article, we will examine the role of plastic packaging and highlight the benefits it can bring to your business or lifestyle.

Advantages of plastic packaging
How does plastic packaging fit into the sustainability conversation?
Industries that benefit from plastic packaging
Innovation
Recycling and reusability
The most innovative plastic products of 2024
Conclusion

Advantages of plastic packaging
Plastic offers a range of advantages, making it hard to surpass as a storage and packaging solution:
• Durability: Plastic rarely breaks during transport or handling.
• Safety: It is shatterproof and, if damaged, does not cause injuries like shattered glass might.
• Hygiene: It can be filled and sealed without contamination and is widely used in medical devices as it remains stable and safe.
• Security: Tamper-evident and child-resistant lids help ensure products are sealed and also show if they have been opened.

• Lightweight: Plastic’s low weight and high strength make it easy to carry and transport.
• Design freedom: Plastic can be easily customised, enabling unique, recognisable packaging designs.

How does plastic packaging fit into the sustainability conversation?
Transporting goods affects their overall environmental impact. Plastic, being lightweight and compact, is easier and more efficient to transport than heavier, more fragile materials like glass. Reduced breakage, lower weight, and good longevity often make plastic packaging a cost-effective option.
Moreover, plastic’s durability and impermeability help prolong the life of its contents by preventing bacterial contamination. In medical, health, and food sectors, this reduces waste and supports better resource use.

Industries that benefit from plastic packaging
Given its versatility, many industries reap rewards from using plastic packaging.
In healthcare and pharmaceuticals, plastic ensures convenient transport, minimal contamination, and wide-ranging branding possibilities. Tamper-evident pots are ideal for capsules and tablets.
In the food and drink sector, brands can stand out with distinctive plastic containers. Plastic also helps extend shelf life for many products. Our selection of drink bottles offers the perfect container for your next product.
Chemical industries use plastic containers for volatile or potent liquids, as these containers resist breakdown and maintain the integrity and safety of their contents.
Top Tip: Searching for products to store hazardous goods? Explore our range.

Innovation
Since plastic’s earliest forms appeared in the 1850s, this material has undergone countless transformations. Today, with a growing focus on sustainability, fully recyclable and carefully considered products are entering the market. Our PCR jerrycans offer long-lasting, durable and lightweight storage solutions while reusing existing plastic. Our cold compostable PLA cups, made from plant-based materials, break down far quicker than traditional plastics.

Recycling and reusability
Almost all our stock is recyclable. Whether HDPE or PET, these can be sorted and recycled through most UK schemes. We encourage reuse wherever possible and can provide new caps for products that need tamper-evident closures.
Top Tip: Looking for sustainable plastic packaging for your business? View our full range of recycled products.

The most innovative plastic products of 2024
• Plastic sauce bottles
• Square Plastic Juice and Smoothie Bottle PET
• Clear Round Screw Top Jar
• PET Plastic Suction Preserve Jars
• 1 Litre Tall Clear Screw Top PET Jar
• Recycled Plastic Containers (PCR)
• PLA Compostable Cold Cups

Conclusion
Although the durability of plastic can pose challenges in terms of disposal and recycling, this same durability also preserves the integrity of medicine, food, and essential chemicals for longer. With responsible purchasing decisions and progress towards fully recyclable materials, plastic packaging remains a market leader, offering highly effective solutions to our customers’ diverse needs.