Alexandra Burgess, Technical Applications Manager at Coveris, was named Innovative Materials Leader, recognising her pivotal role in redefining dairy packaging formats. Her award-winning developments, including the recyclable MonoFlexBE pouch for grated cheese now adopted by major UK retailers, and the game-changing PolyFlex block cheese format, have helped remove over 30 tonnes of plastic and make more than 400 tonnes recyclable annually.
Speaking about being a part of the evening, Alexandra said, “It was a really empowering evening and it made me feel proud to be a woman working in the packaging industry! Especially being surrounded by so many successful females in our industry.”
Joanne Scrimshaw, Packaging Development Manager took home the Contract Packing Leader award, sponsored by BCMPA. Her leadership on the RecyclaLite skillet, which features the lightest film liner ever used in a sandwich pack alongside an integrated antifog layer, has delivered a 40% reduction in plastic content. Judges praised her ability to lead complex, collaborative projects that align with future facing sustainability targets and evolving regulations.
Joanne commented, “It’s such an honour to receive the Contract Packing Leader award at the very first WIPEA ceremony and to be surrounded by so many inspiring women across our industry. Being recognised for leading collaborative, future-focused packaging projects is incredibly rewarding, particularly at a time when sustainability and regulatory change are transforming the landscape. It’s a real privilege to be part of such a dynamic, forward-thinking sector, and to celebrate the incredible female talent driving it forward.”
Both awards were presented at the inaugural Women in Packaging Excellence Awards ceremony hosted by Packaging News on Thursday 10th July in London, which celebrates women making outstanding contributions to packaging innovation, leadership, and sustainability across the industry.
These wins honour not only the incredible individual achievements from Alexandra and Joanne but also helps recognise women driving change in our sectors.
Ian Vickery, the UK HR Director for Coveris remarked, “We’re incredibly proud of our colleagues [Alexandra] and [Joanne] for their well-deserved recognition at the first ever Women in Packaging Excellence Awards. Their success reflects not only their individual talent and hard work, but also the kind of culture we’re building at Coveris - one where people are respected, supported, and given the space to thrive. Celebrating their achievements is a reminder of the importance of inclusion and opportunity across our business.”
Stephanie Moran, Energy Procurement Manager at Coveris, was also nominated at the awards for the Sustainability Champion Award. Being nominated in three categories and becoming finalists in the very first Women in Packaging Excellence awards ceremony is a remarkable milestone for the Coveris team, one that reflects their collective hard work and passion. The team looks forward to building on this momentum and achieving even greater success in the years to come.
