Yorkshire puts best foot forward with collaborative packaging initiative

A multi-partner packaging innovation initiative using the 'surgery' format to focus and accelerate commercial projects is being funded by the Yorkshire Forward Regional Development Agency.

Appetizing Innovation will be headed up by the Food Processing Knowledge Transfer Network (FPKTN). Other partners include: Design Futures, a packaging consultancy based at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU); SHU's Centre for Food Innovation; Leeds Metropolitan University and the Regional Food Group.

Ian Blakemore, FPKTN regional manager for the northern UK, explains: "Our role is as a facilitator and project manager. Business and academia tend to speak very different languages, and our skill set is in being able to talk to both of them." At Design Futures, commercial director Gail Wyman says: "If you're making changes to your packaging, there are usually a number of stakeholders involved."

The surgery format allows up to four participants to consult with a variety of experts. "It's a quick hit to gain a clear idea of the opportunities and challenges."

Given Yorkshire Forward's involvement, the main focus is on food companies large and small from the region. Here, the subsidised cost for each two-hour session, preparatory work and a final written report will be under £300.

Fees for companies from outside the region will be significantly higher, says Wyman, unless support can be won from another RDA. The initiative is scheduled to run for at least three years.