Podcast · Business

The Metal Pack Pod

by Alex Fordham · English · Business

An industry first, The Metal Packager brings you 'The Metal Pack Pod'! The industry's only dedicated podcast for metal packaging. We bring you the latest industry analysis from this $14 billion a year industry. Make 'The Metal Pack Pod' your go-to resource for everything you need if conducting bus

New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 27 min
Latest: 6 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

6 Oct 2026 · 24 min

The Future of Metal Packaging in India: Growth, Challenges & Opportunities

In this episode, we sit down with Saket Bhatia, Director at Hindustan Tin Works, to unpack the evolving landscape of the Indian metal packaging market. From the rise of India's 500-million-strong middle class to shifts in processed foods, aerosols, and aluminium beverage cans, Saket shares deep industry insights on what is driving growth, how manufacturers are navigating international supply chain disruptions, and the impact of domestic regulations like BIS quality controls. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: Market Growth Overview: How India's metal packaging sector is expanding beyond its…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

10 Aug 2026 · 38 min
Steelforce Packaging on serving the steel and aluminium industry
Recorded live from Metpack, this episode brings together Brian Talley of Steelforce America and Angelica Papageorgiou, global director of the group's aluminium division, for a candid look at where the steel and aluminium supply chains stand in 2026. Talley sets out the North American picture: a stable but uncertain market, the legacy of Section 232, an inventory overhang in tinplate and cans, and a fresh US trade case on tin mill products from China, Taiwan and Turkey. He also explains the reasoning behind the company's expansion in Los Angeles and four new sales hires, and why he still…
30 Jul 2026 · 26 min
"Waste is a design problem" - Nick Paget on Meadow's new Refill System
Nick Paget from Meadow is back on the podcast to talk through its SleeveLock Dispenser System, a wall-mounted version of the company's beverage can refill system aimed at hotels. He explains why it locks to the wall, why Meadow tested it with housekeepers and hotel managers rather than guests, and how that produced a changeover time of around 20 seconds with no spillage or contamination. We also discuss recycling. Nick argues waste is a design problem for brands and retailers rather than something consumers should be asked to solve at extra cost or inconvenience. He also covers working with…
22 Jun 2026 · 19 min
PPG on staying ahead of the regulatory tsunami
In the latest episode of the The Metal Pack Pod , we sit down with Meghan Barrera (Leader of the Global Strategic Marketing Group for PPG Packaging Coatings) in a live episode at the recent Metpack 2026 trade show. The metal packaging industry is currently navigating significant market shifts and macroeconomic challenges. On the consumer front, there is notable global growth in the traditionally flat pet food packaging sector, alongside a rising demand for "harder-to-hold" beverages—such as functional drinks, ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails, and mixed alcoholic beverages. At the same time,…
11 May 2026 · 20 min
Future makers: The Ball Foundation Effect
Ball Foundation’s Global Impact and the $2M Boys & Girls Club Partnership Alex Fordham interviews Jessica Leary, Executive Director of the Ball Foundation – Ball Corporation’s philanthropic arm – about its mission and recent work. Leary, a 15-year Ball veteran who moved from environmental health and safety into social impact, says the foundation focuses on recycling, manufacturing education, and disaster response, supporting more than 15 partners globally and responding to disasters within 50 miles of Ball facilities (including U.S. hurricanes and South American mudslides). She highlights…
10 May 2026 · 5 min
Innovations Unveiled: Intralox at Metpack 2026
The Metal Packager interviews Jasper Joosten about Intralox’s plans for Metpack 2026, described as the leading event for the metal packaging industry and a chance to reconnect with can makers and OEMs after three years.
24 Apr 2026 · 4 min
Innovations Unveiled: Koenig & Bauer at Metpack 2026
Koenig & Bauer Previes: MetalCoat 484 Premiere and Digital Printing Updates for Metpack 2026 Damien and Alex discuss Koenig & Bauer’s plans for Metpack 2026, highlighting the world premiere of the MetalCoat 484 coating machine aimed at high automation in metal sheet coating. Key features include a closed-loop system and, for the first time, automatic wash-up. They will also display their digital printing portfolio with samples from the MetJET ONE and MetJET PROB, including improvements and new features. The company notes its sales team is trained to address emission regulation and EU Cyber…
17 Apr 2026 · 26 min
Navigating Innovation and Leadership: A Conversation with Sean Bannon, CEO of Ska Fabricating
In today’s episode we interview, Sean Bannon Ska Fabricating’s New CEO on Packaging Automation, Talent Development and Market Trends Alex Fordham interviews Sean, discussing his decade-long progression from engineer to CEO, and his support for a customer-close organization. Sean describes how an engineering mindset shapes his problem-solving approach and Ska’s culture of creativity across teams and explains efforts to address the labour gap through challenging work, engagement, and intentional knowledge transfer. He explains how customer demand is centred on flexibility and future-proofing…
13 Apr 2026 · 18 min
A Vision for the Future: Training Leaders in the Canning Industry
Welcome to our latest podcast on Young Packaging for Future Generations: Building Can-Making Skills at Ohio State We interview Domingo Gonzalez from Better Cans LLC, about the “Young Packaging for Future Generations” seminar, created to build foundational knowledge in two-piece aluminium beverage can making amid retirements and potential knowledge loss in the industry. Run with Ohio State University and major industry suppliers and OEMs, the pilot seminar took place last August in Columbus, Ohio at the Food Science and Technology Department, delivering 14 lectures over two days to about 60…
26 Jan 2026 · 50 min
The future of water packaging
The global water packaging market is going through one of its biggest shake-ups ever. New regulations, economic uncertainty, shifting consumer expectations, and rapid innovation are pushing brands and packaging suppliers to rethink everything they thought they knew. In a recent episode of the Metal Pack Pod, two industry leaders from very different sides of the packaging world came together to discuss where the sector is really heading. Matt Crocker, founder of aluminium bottle specialist ReWater, and John Bissell, founder and CEO of sustainable materials company Origin Materials, shared…
9 Dec 2025 · 23 min
How Hyperion Is Reinventing Carbide Tooling: The DZ23 Breakthrough Every Canmaker Needs to Know
Hyperion Materials & Technologies reveals its latest innovation — the DZ23 carbide grade — a major leap forward for canmaking efficiency, tooling durability, and high-speed line performance. In this episode of The Metal Pack Pod, host Alex Fordham sits down with Lluís Miñarro, the Global Segment Director for Can Tooling Products and Services at Hyperion Materials & Technologies, to explore how advanced carbide grades, global supply chain strategies, and customer-driven engineering are shaping the future of metal packaging. Lluís breaks down: Why lighter carbide grades improve punch dynamics…
29 Nov 2025 · 56 min
CFPA in Metal Packaging - What does the industry need to know?
In this episode of "The Metal Pack Pod," industry experts discuss the transition to chromium-free passivation (CFPA) of metal packaging. The conversation highlights the importance of innovation, rigorous testing, and unified messaging to ensure a smooth transition, while maintaining food safety, performance, and competitiveness in a changing regulatory landscape. Our panel of experts: Eastman – Andy Morse (Tetrashield Business Director), Jake Goodrich (Technical Director) ThyssenKrupp - Dr. Heiner Schäfgen (Head of Technical Customer Services & CFPA Transition Sonoco Metal Packaging – David…
13 Nov 2025 · 40 min
Sun Chemical: Standardising Colour, Sustaining the Future
In this episode, we interview Eduardo Alegria, Global Business Director for Metal Packaging Inks at Sun Chemical. They discuss Sun Chemical’s new metal packaging colour library, developed with X-Rite, which aims to standardise colour communication and streamline production. Eduardo shares insights on the evolution and resilience of the metal packaging sector, digital printing innovations, and sustainability efforts, including bio-renewable inks and waste reduction. The conversation also covers industry challenges, consumer trends, and the importance of clear messaging around metal…
20 Oct 2025 · 26 min
Can printing: Why photopolymer plates matter
In this episode, Michelle Garza from Anderson & Vreeland discuss the technology and industry practices behind photopolymer plates used in metal decorating for can making. The conversation covers plate-making processes (CTP and DLE), the importance of prepress, plate care, storage, and cleaning best practices. Industry trends, such as the growth of canned beverages and the need for skilled workers, are explored. The episode highlights the value of proper plate handling to maximise lifespan and sustainability.
8 Oct 2025 · 22 min
Shaping the future of metal packaging
In this podcast episode, we speak with Ajeeth Enjenti from Trivium Packaging about the company's latest developments and the metal packaging industry's landscape. We delve into Trivium's commitment to sustainability, market trends, and challenges like inflation and tariffs. Ajeeth highlights increasing consumer awareness of sustainability, the stability of the food can market, and Trivium's growth strategies, particularly in Asia and Africa. The discussion also covers the impact of global supply chain complexities and the role of technology in industry integration. The episode underscores…
14 Aug 2025 · 34 min
Media and the world of metal packaging
Recently our MD Alex Fordham appeared in the IMDPA's new podcast, 'Two cans and a string'. The episode dives into the evolution of industry coverage, the growing importance of engaging with different media consumption behaviours and how to best reach audiences. From the challenges of staying unbiased in a tight-knit industry to the opportunities that come with digital publishing, this conversation uncovers what’s really happening behind the headlines. Whether you're a supplier, decorator, or brand manager, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to better understand how media can…
29 May 2025 · 40 min
How tariffs and regulations are shaping the future of metal packaging in the UK
In this podcast episode, Jason Galley, Director and Chief Executive, of MPMA UK, delve into the current state of the UK metal packaging industry, focusing on significant challenges and changes such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), deposit return schemes,and tariffs. We discuss the industry's resilience, the complexities of packaging reforms, and the necessity for effective communication and collaboration with government bodies to ensure sustainability. The conversation also touches on broader themes of sustainability, consumer behaviour, and the economic implications of current…
22 May 2025 · 21 min
Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint: Automation, Staffing and the Rise of Digital Printing
In this podcast episode, we delve into the latest advancements in the metal packaging industry, spotlighting Koenig & Bauer's new digital printing line, the MetJet One. We welcome back popular guest Damian Pollok, Head of Product and Application at Koenig & Bauer! Pollok discuses the transition to digital printing, emphasising the machine's high-quality output and customer acceptance challenges. They address staffing difficulties, highlighting efforts to attract young talent and the role of automation in easing operational burdens. The episode also covers positive customer feedback, recent…
1 May 2025 · 29 min
How Tata Steel is leading the charge with 'Electrifying Packaging Steel'
In this episode, we speak with Dr Nick Silk from Tata Steel UK about the company's sustainability initiatives, particularly the electrification of packaging steel. We discuss the industry's shift towards decarbonisation, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions by 2050. Dr Silk highlights Tata Steel's goal to halve the carbon footprint of tinplate products by 2030 and the transition to electric arc furnaces to increase recycled content. Despite market challenges, including tariffs and economic pressures, Tata Steel is committed to leading in sustainable steel production. The episode…
8 Apr 2025 · 40 min
Building sales relationships in metal packaging
In this episode, Specialist packaging consultant Greg Molinaro discusses the art of sales in the modern era, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and trust with customers. He emphasises staying updated with technology and market trends, and suggests understanding customer needs before offering solutions. With 30 years of experience in industrial manufacturing automation solutions, Molinaro has successfully developed and executed global business development strategies, leading teams across three countries and resulting in an 11-fold increase in sales across North and South…
5 Mar 2025 · 40 min
Navigating the uncertainty of tariffs in packaging and raw materials
In today’s episode we welcome Steelforce Packaging CEO, Davide Padovani. The Trump administration inauguration has created uncertainty and complications in the materials sector, particularly for steel and tinplate prices. It's too early to say what the specific consequences will be, as the administration has announced partial retreats and exclusions for certain countries, but it’s that uncertainty that is causing some turbulence. During the interview, we unpack the potential consequences to the materials sector. As well as this, I talk to Davide about how the steel industry is striving to…
20 Feb 2025 · 48 min
Gus Reall: Reflections on a career in metal packaging
In this episode, we have a very special guest, outgoing Stolle Machinery CEO Gus Reall, who discusses his stellar career in the can-making business, the industry changes he has seen, and the future outlook for the health of the metal packaging sector. He reflects on how the sector has evolved in the industry due to technological advances and the need for fresh perspectives.Gus also praises his successor, Michael Larsen, and highlights the industry's evolution, particularly the shift from a clear value chain to a more integrated global market. He identifies the post-pandemic era as the most…
21 Jan 2025 · 27 min
The importance of diversity in STEM: Why women matter
In this episode, we welcome Helen Anderton, finance director for INX in the UK. In 2024 Helen was nominated for the prestigious British Coatings Federation Young Leader of the Year Award. The award celebrates exceptional talent for an individual under the age of 35. During this episode, we discuss Helen's unusual career path so far, what it means to be a woman in the coatings and packaging sector, and we discuss some of the key findings at the 2024 BCF conference, including how the chemical supply chain can promote careers and find future leaders. We also delve into the opportunities…
7 Jan 2025 · 11 min
Can Sized- women in metal packaging
A bonus 'Can Sized' mini episode from The Metal Pack Pod, as we welcome back Jag Bains, vice president of Commercial, EMEA, at Ball Corporation. We discuss what it means to be a woman in a male-oriented industry, and how the industry can do more to promote women in the packaging sector. Essential listening for HR professionals in particular!
11 Dec 2024 · 39 min
A new era of printing technology
We welcome Jag Bains, Vice President of Commercial, EMEA, at Ball Corporation During this episode we discuss Ball’s Dynamark technology for its beverage cans in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). This upgraded technology introduces an advanced tier of printing capabilities, unlocking leading-edge features to deliver greater flexibility and enhanced value for brands. We also chat about some pertinent topics creating the headlines at the moment, including the health of the industry in EMEA and how Jag’s experience in other industry sectors is transferable into the canmaking business.
30 Oct 2024 · 39 min
Unpacking the regulatory landscape in metal packaging can coatings
In today’s episode we welcome 3 of Sherwin Williams’ senior management team to discuss some of the pressing issues in the can coatings space, including recent EU draft regulation on bisphenols in food contact and how Sherwin’s valPure V70 non-BPA epoxy – non-BPA technology is preparing the industry for this legislation. During the episode we speak with: Donald Le, the Global Household Products Marketing Director Michael Sawayda is the Global Beverage Marketing Director for the Sherwin-Williams Packaging Coatings Division. Lynn Grega is the Vice President, Global Compliance and Technology…
1 Aug 2024 · 27 min
William Say- Appreciating the old and the new
William Say & Co Ltd, the London canmaker, has recently invested over three quarters of a million pounds in its site, introducing new ultramodern technology as part of an extensive refurbishment of the factory’s essential equipment, some dating back to the early 1900s. Stuart Wilkinson, Sales and Marketing Director at William Say & Co, outlines to Alex Fordham the heritage of William Say as the only can maker left in London, and how the company plans to keep the company looking ahead.
19 Jul 2024 · 21 min
Roeslein- Supporting can makers across the world
Roeslein & Associates has recently announced a significant expansion of its operational services for the can manufacturing industry. The Metal Packager speaks to JC Harrison, Partner and Vice President of Systems and Operational Services and Robb Williams, Director of Operational Services, to find out the company's hollistic approach to can success and what the new expansion means for the industry.
8 Jul 2024 · 27 min
A pathway to decarbonisation in aluminum
A new report from environmental consulting firm ICF and the Aluminum Association, Pathways to Decarbonization: A North American Aluminum Roadmap , highlights potential strategies to dramatically reduce carbon emissions in the North American (United States and Canada) aluminum industry by mid-century. Charles Johnson, president & CEO of the Aluminum Association, outlines this pathway to The Metal Packager, and how the metal packaging industry can also play its part.
21 Jun 2024 · 36 min
Metal Packaging and Coatings Trends until 2029
Joining us is Mark Smyth, author of research company Smithers’ new report on the future of the metal packaging and coatings. In the podcast, Mark explains the findings of Smithers’ recent report into the 'Future of Metal Packaging and Coatings to 2029'. A friend of the show, having been a guest previously, we discuss the latest findings from the report and examine the key variables involved. We also examine the recent downturn in the market, the causes of this and whether the industry is still on track for growth. Mark also summarises whether he is still optimistic for the furutre health of…

About The Metal Pack Pod

The Metal Pack Pod is a English business podcast from Alex Fordham. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Alex Fordham
Language: English
Category: Business
New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 27 min
Latest episode: 6 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1548478905
Rights: Copyright Alex Fordham

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