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Fuji Kikai Triumphs at the 2026 Japan Packaging Contest

Fuji Kikai, a packaging machine manufacturer based in Aichi Prefecture, has been honored with the prestigious Japan Star Award (Chairman's Award of the Japan Packaging Technology Association) at the Japan Packaging Contest 2026. This award signifies the highest recognition for their innovative packaging work titled "Reducing Film Waste through Direct Printing on Packaging Machines with Water-based IJP."

Collaborative Development

The award-winning project was a collaborative effort involving Fuji Kikai, Fujipack System Co., Ltd, printer manufacturer MST Co., Ltd, Konica Minolta, known for its water-based inkjet technology, and Duck Engineering Co., Ltd, specializing in inspection equipment. The jointly developed packaging machine, the "FPW3410ⅡB Horizontal Pillow Packaging Machine with Water-based IJP," was instrumental in achieving this recognition, marking a significant milestone as it is the first time Fuji Kikai has participated in and won this award.

About the Japan Packaging Contest

Initiated in 1967 by the Japan Packaging Technology Association, the Japan Packaging Contest has been recognizing outstanding packaging designs and technologies that respond to societal demands. The 2026 contest attracted 352 submissions, culminating in the selection of 12 Japan Star Awards, 6 Packaging Technology Awards, and 13 Packaging Division Awards.

Winning entries are allowed to display the "GP (GOOD PACKAGING) Mark" on their products and will be featured in a special exhibition at the upcoming TOKYO PACK 2026 event scheduled for October 2026. Additionally, winners qualify to compete in global packaging awards such as the WorldStar Award and the AsiaStar Award.

Background of the Awarded Work

The recent instability in the supply and pricing of naphtha, a key ingredient in plastic production, has driven the costs of packaging films higher, posing significant challenges both economically and environmentally. To address this issue, the collaborative team aimed to optimize the use of water-based inkjet printing directly onto the packaging film. This process significantly reduces waste by minimizing obsolete film during product renovations while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

The innovative concept of using safe-for-food water-based inks was recognized for its effectiveness, leading to their success at the contest.

Features of the FPW3410ⅡB Packaging Machine

The FPW3410ⅡB incorporates a printing and drying unit that allows for direct printing onto the film while packaging up to 80 products per minute. This breakthrough solution not only enhances production efficiency but also improves product value by eliminating the need for separate film production for each product. The elimination of old film waste further contributes to environmental sustainability.

Using this machine, companies can switch between products without the hassle of replacing films and ribbons, making it ideal for small batch orders and increasing workplace productivity. The use of low-odor, safe water-based inks also allows for high-resolution multi-color printing on various substrates, negating the need for separate labels or ribbons, thus reducing costs significantly.

Statistical comparisons show cost savings of approximately $15,000 per production run compared to traditional gravure printing methods and a remarkable 53% reduction in annual CO2 emissions.

Exhibition at TOKYO PACK 2026

The award-winning packaging solution will be displayed at the TOKYO PACK 2026, taking place from October 14 to October 16, 2026, at the Tokyo Big Sight. This exhibition will showcase Fuji Kikai's technologies, allowing visitors to experience the advanced packaging solutions firsthand.

Upcoming Exhibitions

In addition to TKYO PACK, the award-winning projects will also be featured in the "Modern Japanese Packaging 2026" exhibition at the Printing Museum in Tokyo. This exhibition aims to spotlight the evolution of packaging in response to societal needs.

The materials will be on display from October 17, 2026, to January 17, 2027, highlighting the significance of sustainability in packaging design.

Online Showcase

As part of the ongoing engagement and educational outreach, an online exhibition featuring the FPW3410ⅡB will occur from September 16 to September 30, 2026, where product videos will be available for public viewing, aiming to boost productivity insights amongst attendees.

About Fuji Kikai

Founded in 1946, Fuji Kikai has emerged as a leading manufacturer of packaging machines in Aichi Prefecture, offering tailored solutions for various sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, and daily goods. With over 1,000 domestic and over 68 international clients, Fuji Kikai has established itself as a pioneer with over 950 unique technological innovations in packaging machinery. The company strives for continued excellence in developing advanced technologies that meet the evolving demands of the industry.

For more details about the company, visit Fuji Kikai's Official Website.