Bemis and Plantic to Provide Renewably Resourced Flexible Films


Neenah, Wisconsin, USA, and Melbourne, Australia, 05 November 2007 -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Bemis Company, Inc. (NYSE:BMS) announced today that it will partner with Plantic Technologies Limited (LSE:PLNT), an Australian company specializing in starch-based biopolymers, to develop and sell renewably resourced flexible films using patented Plantic(R) technology.

The alliance between the two companies will result in the co-development of new flexible packaging materials from bioplastic resin developed using high-amylose corn starch for use as a component of or as a stand-alone structure in flexible packaging products. Targeted applications for the new films will include flexible packaging for personal care and dry goods.

"Bemis shares customers' and consumers' concerns about sustainability and environmental impact," states Henry Theisen, Bemis president and chief operating officer. "We also understand that while sustainability is desirable, consumers don't want to give up the convenience and safety offered by current packaging. We feel that in working with Plantic, we will be able to build on the current environmental efficiency of flexible packaging. The Plantic partnership will provide material options that further encourage long-term sustainability and responsibility without sacrificing the quality and functionality our customers have come to expect from Bemis films."

This agreement also enhances existing efforts by the Bemis Company to provide sustainable solutions throughout the entire lifecycle of packaging materials by increasing in-plant processing speeds, reducing packaging bulk, reducing shipping weight, improving efficiency throughout the distribution system, and ensuring food safety.

Under the agreement Bemis and Plantic will collaborate in the joint development of various resins that can be blown into packaging and functional films for use in the Americas.

Grant Dow, chief executive officer of Plantic Technologies, commented: "This agreement with Bemis further expands the existing market potential for Plantic(R) renewably sourced polymer technology. The new films will bring to the market flexible packaging applications with a very high content of renewable resources.

"Bemis' industry-leading technology, market access, and outstanding reputation for innovation make them the ideal partner for accelerating Plantic's application development in the flexible packaging film market. We are delighted that one of the world's largest and most respected packaging companies sees the opportunity that surrounds our technology."

About Bemis

Bemis Company is a major supplier of flexible packaging and pressure sensitive materials used by leading food, consumer products, manufacturing, and other companies worldwide. Founded in 1858, the company reported 2006 net sales of USD 3.6 billion. The company's flexible packaging business has a strong technical base in polymer chemistry, film extrusion, coating and laminating, printing, and converting. The company's pressure sensitive materials business specializes in adhesive technologies. Headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, Bemis employs about 15,700 individuals in 55 manufacturing facilities in 10 countries around the world. More information about the company is available at www.bemis.com.

About Plantic

Plantic Technologies Limited is based in Australia, where its head office, principle manufacturing, and research and development facilities are located. The company also has sales offices in Germany and the United Kingdom, employing approximately 50 people internationally.

Plantic Technologies has emerged as a world leading bioplastics innovator. The company has won numerous international awards of for achievement in science and has built an international network of major corporate customers, distributors, and research and development partners.

For more information visit the company's website www.plantic.com.au.

Source: Bemis Company, Inc.