Footprint and Qwarzo have announced a strategic partnership to accelerate the development and commercialisation of PE-free paper cup solutions using mineral-based coating technology. The collaboration aims to support the next generation of fibre-based foodservice packaging by replacing traditional polyethylene-lined paper cups with alternatives designed for improved recyclability and compostability.

The agreement combines Footprint’s manufacturing capabilities, customer network and experience in fibre-based packaging with Qwarzo’s proprietary mineral coating technology. Together, the companies will work on scaling PE-free solutions for hot and cold paper cups, as well as complementary applications including lids and straws.

Mineral-based barrier coatings could help paper packaging maintain performance while improving compatibility with circular economy systems.

Traditional paper cups often rely on plastic linings to provide resistance against liquids, heat and grease. While these barriers are essential for product protection, they can complicate recycling because the paper fibre and plastic layer must be separated during processing.

The new partnership targets this challenge by developing coatings that provide the required functional performance while supporting alternative end-of-life pathways. According to the companies, Qwarzo technology uses mineral-based coatings designed to deliver barrier properties while maintaining recyclability and compostability potential.

Demand for PE-free packaging solutions is increasing as brands, foodservice operators and regulators seek alternatives to conventional single-use plastics. Companies are under pressure to reduce plastic content, comply with evolving packaging regulations and provide solutions that meet consumer expectations without sacrificing convenience.

• Paper cup applications will include both hot and cold beverage formats.
• Mineral coatings aim to replace conventional plastic barrier layers.
• Fibre-based packaging can support improved circularity when compatible with recycling systems.
• Foodservice operators are seeking scalable alternatives for high-volume applications.
• Industrial scale-up will be a key focus of the collaboration.

Footprint CEO Corey Berends said the partnership supports the company’s objective of bringing scalable alternatives to single-use plastics to market. He highlighted Qwarzo’s mineral-based coating technology as a way to expand the company’s portfolio of PE-free solutions while maintaining the functionality required in everyday packaging applications.

Qwarzo CEO Alessio Facondo said the agreement represents an important step in expanding adoption of its coating technology globally. The companies will initially focus on European markets, with the possibility of wider international expansion as production capabilities develop.

The partnership reflects a broader movement within the packaging industry towards fibre-based formats with improved barrier performance. Paper and board packaging can offer renewable material advantages, but successful replacement of plastic structures depends on technologies that can protect products while remaining compatible with recycling and composting systems.

Other companies are also investing in similar solutions. Michelman has introduced bio-based, plastic-free Nuvita Life coatings designed for high-barrier fibre packaging applications, while Kelpi is collaborating with Amcor to explore seaweed-derived barrier coatings for fibre-based packaging.

For paper cup manufacturers and foodservice brands, the development of reliable PE-free coatings could become increasingly important as regulations tighten around single-use plastics and packaging recyclability. The challenge will be achieving commercial-scale performance while maintaining affordability and compatibility with existing production systems.

The Footprint-Qwarzo partnership highlights how material science innovation is helping redefine fibre-based packaging. By combining manufacturing expertise with advanced coating technology, the companies aim to create packaging formats that meet modern expectations for performance, sustainability and circularity.