We’re proud to share that our Co-CEO and GM of Innovation, Stuart Gordon, spoke at the prestigious Biomass to Biobased Chemicals and Materials Gordon Research Conference (GRC) in Newry, Maine.
This international event brings together leading minds in sustainable chemical manufacturing to explore new materials derived from biomass, a critical step in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and eliminating single-use plastic.
This year’s theme focused on how the global chemical industry, responsible for 95% of manufactured goods, can transition to circular, low-impact alternatives.
At a conference filled with leading scientists focused on biobased material breakthroughs, Stuart’s presentation, Material Innovation: From Research to Retail, brought a unique perspective on turning lab discoveries into real-world retail products. Drawing on Varden’s experience, he shared what it truly takes to scale sustainable packaging from concept to store shelves.
To successfully introduce a disruptive technology into a mature market you need to locate the pressure point between the market and supplier. The supplier wants to supply tomorrow what they supplied yesterday but the market, and access to the market, ultimately has the final say.
He shared insights on:
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The three criteria for launching biobased products: technical feasibility, economic viability, and market desirability
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The performance of Varden’s fibre-based packaging in both laboratory and real-world conditions
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Key considerations when scaling new materials, including business models, manufacturing compatibility, and market readiness
The art lies in having a solid understanding of the challenges of the supplier and reducing the barriers to adoption of the technology.
The session resonated with attendees across academia and industry, reinforcing the importance of turning sustainable innovation into scalable packaging solutions.
We’re honoured to contribute to the global conversation on biobased materials and help shape a more sustainable, plastic-free future, from research to retail.
Interested in how Varden’s fibre-based, biobased packaging can reduce single-use plastic in your supply chain? Get in touch with us.
