Sustainable packaging developers Nexgen Packaging and Seaman Paper have collaborated to expand their reach in the retail, apparel, and footwear industry worldwide with a broad portfolio of plastic-free packaging solutions.

The partnership combines Nexgen's sustainable, paper-based products with Seaman's fibre-based packaging alternatives.

This collaboration comes as the fashion and footwear industries seek to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics, with less than 15% of the 180 billion polybags produced annually being recycled.

The partnership will leverage Nexgen's global order management platform, used by more than 12,000 brands and manufacturers, to distribute Seaman Paper's Vela paper packaging solutions.

These Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified recyclable solutions offer an alternative to single-use plastic polybags and are already in use by hundreds of brands around the world.

Nexgen Packaging Global Sales senior vice-president Kevin DeSpain said: “We are thrilled to partner with Seaman Paper to bring their innovative offerings - including the Vela product line - to more brands and manufacturers globally.

“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability in our industry and providing our customers with transparency and scale in their supply chain.”

The collaboration between Nexgen Packaging and Seaman Paper will provide complete life-cycle support for customers.

This includes joint sales collaboration, global product support, factory engagement, and transparent supply chain reporting, enabling customers to benefit from the expertise of both teams.

Seaman chief strategy and commercial officer Dave Deger said: “By combining Nexgen’s extensive supply chain capabilities and diverse product range with our innovative Vela solutions and robust global manufacturing network, we’re uniquely positioned to help brands accelerate their sustainability goals and elevate their packaging strategies worldwide.”