#Ready-to-Eat Food Packaging Machine

[nichromepackaging]

Taste the Difference: Elevating Ready-to-Eat Foods Packaging with Nichrome

In this fast-paced world, people require everything on the go. That’s why convenience is so important, especially when it comes to food. Ready-to-eat foods have become a staple for individuals and families, providing delicious and easy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. At Nichrome, we understand the importance of not only providing convenient food options but also ensuring that the packaging…

[osamucide]

BITCHBOY ⊹

ALL I WANT IN THIS WHOLE WIDE WORLD IS TO BE YOUR BITCHBOY . . . ft. Osamu Dazai

wc: ~6.8k

cw: 18+ MINORS DO NOT INTERACT. icky pervy stoner roommate!Dazai <333 also pathetic wet cat mess of a man Dazai, afab+gn!reader, established roommate relationship, no established romantic relationship, implied bi!Dazai if you squint, referenced whore!Dazai, weed smoking+intox/noncon (reader says "stop" once and he does not stop), dubcon (becomes 'consenual' but Dazai's coercive+they're high), noncon elements can be interpreted (esp at the end) to be roleplay with prior consent! dirty talk, shotgunning, fingering, squirting, kissing, penetration, creampie, insulting nicknames (Dazai receiving), biting, this is depraved and I will answer for it on judgement day

reid: he’s all i think about.

tags: @kalsplace

You’re grumbling under your breath when you’re about to cross the threshold to your apartment because, as if the rest of your day hadn’t been annoying enough, your stupid key decides to give you extra trouble—as of late, it’s not working unless you jam it in the lock at a very specific angle and jiggle violently until just before you’re sure the knob will fall off, all whilst cursing your landlord’s neglect of the crummy old building like some enchantment or spell that ties the whole rage-inducing, access-granting ritual together.

Couldn’t your good-for-nothing roommate hear you struggling with it?

“Hey, sorry,” he chirps too brightly for the evening hour, floating out of his room as you shut the door behind you with a sigh—ever the mind reader. You forego your eye-roll this time; you’re convinced that one of these days they’ll get stuck in your skull what with how much you do it. You hear Dazai sauntering toward you as you’re shrugging your jacket off, hanging it up, tossing your bag on the table. “Was busy.”

You’re ready to turn and scowl at him, but when you face him, he’s waggling the little pipe in your face—the green one with blue flecks in the glass, undoubtedly what he was busy with while you broke into your own home—and you won’t admit that you already feel your irritation start to melt away when it slides from his fingertips to yours. You clutch it, latch onto the mouthpiece, and watch as the brunette flicks the flame out and lights you up.

You exhale gratefully, take one more pull, and hand the glowing bowl back for him to catch the remainder of before he lights it again. “Thank you," you croak before short cough leaves you. “Was real close to bitching you out for not leaving the door unlocked.”

Dazai blows his smoke directly back in your face with a small grin. “Redeemed by my weed once again.”

You chuckle and wave it away, making a point of sliding by him and toward your room to change. You need to unwind a second before dealing with him for the rest of the night. “‘S’all that ever redeems you. Crack a window, will ya?”

It’s really not a bad arrangement to have a live-in pot dealer—that’s basically what Dazai is and has been as long as you’ve roomed with him. Sure, he's also a pain in your ass; the man can hardly cook, you had to show him how to use the washing machine in the common area when you first moved in, and only a bit ago, after almost half a year of sharing a living space, have you convinced him to keep his mess of discarded socks and food packaging contained within his bedroom. It took a lot of harsh reprimanding about how you're not his parent and he's not your teenage son for you to realize it'd be a little of his own medicine to get him to start taking you seriously. Leaving your empty takeout box on the coffee table right where he liked to eat his, tossing your sweatshirt over his spot on the couch and refusing to move it for days—he took the message, albeit smugly, after that, and hasn't given you trouble since.

Even despite being a pain in the ass, though, especially now that he at least cleans up after himself, you have to admit you don't hate his presence in your home and in your life. You chalk it up to how infuriatingly charming he can be—you know he's a detective, and he's certainly got talents for sniffing out your emotions, solving your day-to-day problems, and smooth-talking, but all of that falls under being nosy and weird when he tries to guilt you into praising him for it. If he was any less annoying, you'd maybe even admit to yourself that he's kind of attractive; only physically, of course, which you've known since the day you met him, but any other way he might be—retaining a heavy air of mystery in spite of how bubbly he is, occasionally inviting you out drinking (mostly so you can drag him home once he overdoes it), smoking you up without asking for money—is just so overshadowed by what a fucking weirdo he is. You can’t separate it.

He certainly keeps you on your toes.

That’s really the worst thing about him. You know you’ll exit your room to grab your leftovers from the fridge and he’ll be pestering you to watch some movie with him—probably one of his cringy rom-coms (the fact that he watches and unironically enjoys them serving only marginally to make him a little more of an interesting character) during which he'll sling his feet across your lap or curl up into you so he can pinch your side once or twice just for your reaction, leaving you red in the face and mildly irritated while he giggles condescendingly at you. But as you always do, you think as you sigh and lift the hem of your sweater to curl it over and off, you’ll concede.

Your head’s caught in your sleep shirt when you hear your door creak open.

“Um, privacy?” you half-yelp—something you’re still figuring your way around with him. You jump out of line of the door as you poke your head through the neckline to shoot him that glare you saved from moments earlier.

Dazai just snickers, eyes wide and innocent. You're naked from the waist down. “Could’ve locked it.”

“As if that would stop you,” you snap back, stretching the hem over your thighs and ass as you skitter awkwardly back over to the edge of your bed where a pair of comfy shorts lay. “Get out!”

“Will you hurry up and put your pants on? I got My Big Fat Greek Wedding locked and loaded.”

“Yes, yes, just get out.”

He’s still snickering when he disappears behind the door. He doesn’t shut it all the way, and you mutter freak beneath your breath, secretly hoping he hears you.

You tug your shorts on and meander back out as the intro rolls, set on your leftover homemade tonkatsu; as you settle cross-legged with your plate on the couch, Dazai reaches over and plucks a piece of cabbage off it.

You side eye him as you chew. He’s already occupying himself with packing another bowl—he must've finished the first one himself. You'd half-expect him to reach for one of the prerolls he keeps in the coffee table drawer so as not to have to go to the trouble again, but he does.

“You eat yet?” you ask carefully.

He shakes his head as he uses the butt of the lighter to press it down. Of course not. Even weed doesn’t make him eat. You’ve expressed concern over his eating habits before, but he always dismisses you with a hum and that smug smile.

You make a point of tearing the remainder of your cutlet in half with your utensils. When he reaches out to pass you the pipe, you reach back, chopsticks pinching a hefty piece of pork.

Dazai raises his eyebrows at you.

You raise yours in reply, as if to say, take it, or I’m not smoking anymore with you.

So he does, reluctance veiled thinly by amusement. You know him well enough by now; or, you think you do, at least. As he chews, he balances the chopsticks back on your plate and turns to you with the lighter, curling his own legs beneath himself.

Only satisfied when he swallows, you set your plate aside, face him, and press the pipe to your lips again, looking to him. To his pretty brown eyes that search you owlishly, that you swear sparkle with a little more vigor after even the smallest bit of sustenance enters his system. Maybe you should just leave him to starve, but then where would you get your weed? You’re an idiot, you’d say if you weren’t waiting on his flame.

But before he can light it for you, he pulls the lighter away, and you chase it with a soft hey—he’s grinning at you again, like a devil, like always.

“You always do that, you know?” he asks.

“Do what?” you mumble impatiently against the piece.

He gives in and dips the flame down into the bowl; you inhale deep, flower crackling softly as you do, and he only answers when the smoke’s halfway down your throat.

“Look up at me all cute like that every time I light it for you.” Those brown eyes bore into yours and you become aware all too quick of the fact that you do—you do indeed peer up at him through your lashes; your eyes water as smoke burns your throat and you blink away, trying not to cough out your hit at how he’s gazing at you, but he doesn’t stop there.

He would never stop there.

“Makes me think bad things.”

So you cough out your hit anyway.

“Oh, yeah?” you ask, choked, face red from more than just the sting of the weed. You busy yourself with pulling another hit while it’s still lit.

“Mhm,” he agrees. “Lots of ‘em.”

Your head swims now—you’ve built up a decent tolerance from living with him, but forgetting to breathe at his words and zeroing the huge puff you take next surely doesn’t help. You cough again, and nothing leaves your lungs this time as you debate whether to take his challenge.

Another thing you’ve learned about Dazai—he loves to fluster people. If living with him wasn't enough proof, you’ve seen him do it millions of times to pretty bartenders, or on the off-chance his partner from work joins you drinking; off-chance, truly, because Kunikida already has to put up with Dazai all day at the office, and anything more than what’s required of him might be better off called torture rather than fun. And beyond loving it, Dazai demonstrates it like a long-honed skill—the exploitation of people’s humiliation, the monopolization on people’s most sensitive spots. He had previous work in it, he’s said, but you can’t imagine what job could possibly entail all that. You think he just doesn’t know when to shut his mouth—no, he’s smart enough to know when to; he just doesn’t like to. He’s what most people would refer to as an asshole.

And yet, you find yourself torn between feeling disgusted and entertained by him all the same. Although you often find yourself the victim of his little mind games, you’re not above jabbing back at him. What does that make you, you wonder? The question briefly crosses your mind, but you shake it off as, in your buzz, you swat away the bait; decidedly, you’d rather watch My Big Fat Greek Wedding in peace, finish your tonkatsu, and then go to bed tonight.

“You’re gross.” The scoff you let out sounds more like a chuckle.

Dazai tilts his head, flicking the lighter for you again; he sparks the bowl as he watches you, as if in exceptional contemplation, and you make a point not to do it again—you inhale and gaze straight down at the flame.

“You don’t wanna hear what it makes me think about?” he asks cutely, unwilling to let you get away just yet.

You ignore the slight flush undoubtedly on your own face as you slip the bowl back to him; doubly so, you try not to watch the way his lips wrap around the mouthpiece.

But right now, you can’t seem to help that your bleary-eyed attention is on him. Just as he exhales, you remember you haven’t replied.

You’re not quick enough. He doesn’t take your silence as an invitation; it’s an opportunity. You see it in his smirk, just a second too late.

“Makes me think about how pretty you’d be looking up at me like that from your knees.”

He’s good at his games—he invents them, after all. But you’d be damned if he thought you wouldn’t shut him down when you weren’t in the mood.

“Yeah, no, don’t particularly wanna hear about it, thanks.”

This might be a new low, even for him, you think. Who the fuck just says shit like that?

When you think about it a second longer, though, he really hasn’t brought anyone home to fuck obnoxiously (a boundary you were quick to set with him) in at least a couple weeks, so maybe he’s just pent up. Either way, his comment makes you wrinkle your nose, furrow your brow—hopefully negating the pink inevitably tinting your cheeks. Fucking weirdo.

“N’ now you’re blushing all cute, too,” he observes; you scoff again, more pointedly this time. “Thinkin’ about it?”

As if, you want to say, but the words get stuck against the roof of your dry mouth, so you conjure up some of your spit, swallow it down, and hope he doesn’t notice—but it’s Dazai; he will—that your high's settling onto your shoulders swiftly. He’s pointing the bowl back at you, and as you grab it robotically, you’re still trying to speak—a sure sign you should both shut up and keep your places on opposite ends of the couch and watch the movie and finish the tonkatsu, but instead you just balk. No matter what you do, you play right into his hands—that’s how it happens all too often, and you certainly won’t learn now or anytime when his weed’s coursing up to your brain and back down to your thumping heart. Dazai lights your next hit for you, laughing like it’s all some big joke, and maybe it is—maybe you’ll blow your smoke in his face this time and pick up your tonkatsu and shut up and just watch the damn movie.

As if you’d ever be so lucky with his antics.

You’re shaking your head in near-awe when you pass it back to him once more.

“I mean, we basically kiss through this thing all the time,” he says like it’s relevant, waving the pipe about. “I don’t think it’d be so weird if we fucked. Or if you sucked me off, at least.”

“It—it would totally be weird, Osamu,” and when you speak his name so lightly, blinking at trying to muster up your own laughter as a defense mechanism, his sight flickers up to yours. “That doesn’t even—I’m not sucking your dick.”

“Shame,” he purrs. “‘Cause I know how pretty you’d look. Your lips all wet and pouted against my t—”

“Oh, my god, shut up.” Now you laugh, out of pure disbelief at how far he’s taking it. He pokes at the tail end of what’s left in the bowl and chuckles, too, seemingly ready to let it go now that he has you laughing. "You're horrible."

The more you let him talk about it, the more you entertain him, maybe you can let it peter out.

“What about me? Do I look pretty when I do it?” he asks, batting his lashes as he pulls another hit off the pipe.

“Sure, yeah, whatever,” you let your laughter idle as he doesn't tear his gaze away from you. He looks pretty. Whatever. You cross your arms as you feel the familiar tingle of your high behind your eyes.

“Would I look pretty on my knees?” he prods.

You could slap him—if nothing else, just to make his face burn half as much as you know yours is. When he sets the bowl and lighter aside and goes back to observing you, eyes low-lidded and red, chin rested on his hands, propped up by his elbows on his crossed legs, you have half a mind to shrink away from him—but you keep cool, even if the way you're at eye level with his searing stare feels a little too intimate.

You mirror his position. “Hmm, I don't know.” You steal his thoughtful tilt, too, and tack on, “Maybe if you were begging like a little bitch.”

You're prepared for him to laugh tauntingly again and then let this die where it stands because he got a reaction out of you, right? That’s always what he’s looking for, so it’s about time he goes back to his corner of the couch where you'll bully him into a few more bites of tonkatsu.

But he stays locked onto you, quietly.

And then he's shifting forward off the couch and down to the ground.

“Osamu—”

“Uh-uh,” he chides you softly, crawling to situate himself directly in front of your figure. Looking up at you all cute. “I’m gonna be the one begging, remember?”

Your disbelief swirls with refusal as he paws at the hem of your shorts as if to say, turn, please, and fuck—what can you do other than turn red as a rose as he grabs your ankles, unfurls your legs, and props his chin on the cushion between your thighs? You feel alarmingly higher, blearier when his fingers creep up beneath the fabric, slowly, looking at you as if for reassurance.

“We're not—you can quit fooling around, seriously.” You want to laugh again but it comes out deadpan, strict; you feel heavier with each landing of his fingertips against your skin, and he just keeps looking up at you. Cute. Pretty. Taking it too far.

“I want to,” he mumbles, retracting his hands only for them to find your hips, your waistband. “Come on. ‘Wanted you so bad for so long. I know you want me, too,” he speaks your name slyly, quietly, and it prompts your breath to quicken a little; he traces circles into your hipbones with his thumbs, toys with the elastic at your waist, snapping it softly, and you squirm. “Please?”

For so long? you think. How long?

“I—I'm not high enough for this, Osamu,” you try to joke, but he just twists around to the coffee table drawer for one of those prerolls and his lighter.

“I can get you higher,” he offers—tone still much too innocent, motives still haphazardly veiled by what a big jokester he is, and he sticks the joint between his lips and lights it.

Before you can coherently protest, he rises, supporting himself on your thigh with one hand and removing the joint from his mouth full of smoke; when he leans into you, you catch his wrist to keep him from ashing on the back of the couch, grab his face in a half-attempt to stop him in his tracks—but ultimately, when his mouth meets yours, you open for him.

The plume of smoke he shotguns into your mouth is thick; you breathe it in. His palm like a brand against your thigh.

And he doesn’t stop.

“Osamu,” you whine against his lips, still mushing his face away and hating how your dry throat roughens your voice. He just kisses you, kisses you, and your fingers find the pulse point in his wrist—he’s a decent kisser, you think, at the very least. You have half a mind to let your fingers slide to the mess of brown hair beyond the apples of his sharp cheekbones, and—

You backtrack in your mind. You’re actually probably too high for this.

You have to detest the way it feels so heavenly when he squeezes the fat of your thigh, dodges your lips, and works steadily in a line from the corner of your mouth to your jaw, all tongue and teeth in his pursuit. You have to detest it. Fucking weirdo, you repeat in your mind. The joint burns between his fingers. You snatch it from his grasp and pull your head back, raising your feet to kick him weakly in the abdomen, and he relents—your toes feel asleep when they hit the carpet again, and you hoard the joint between your fuzzy fingers when he reaches for it back.

“Osamu,” you say again, stern, eyes wide. The weed. You're high. You're both high, and this is weird. He’s just your weirdo roommate and you got home wanting to end your stressful day without complicating anything else in your life today.

So why, when he looks at you like you’re a caged animal that’s just as afraid of him and he is of you and works the joint from your fingers to take another drag, do you let him cup your face and exhale more smoke down your throat?

Why do you chase his lips when he blissfully, needily, sinks to his knees once again and starts to traverse beneath your shorts?

With the right focus of mind, like staring at your hand when you’re spinning and convincing yourself that the world around you is actually moving and you’re staying still, you can almost pretend he’s a stranger—some sexy, enchanting stranger that you met on the train home after your shit day, meant to relate to you with docile nods and hums as you air your grievances about work or school or whatever, meant to kiss it off you like it’s just a little bit of dirt.

Getting out of your shorts is like getting out of second skin. You're taking another hit, unwise or not, because it's back in your hand and you don't know what else to do; you watch him in your haze with a mix of anticipation and distrust, but right now, anticipation is winning by a small margin. You’re high, you tell yourself—twitching already, in that way that has nothing to do with desire but rather just means you've smoked a little too much too quickly, and the idea that Dazai might still fake you out and send you to bed feeling half-hot and bothered, half-violated, with no pants on and a near-empty stomach bobs around in your inhibited brain—again, you expect him to laugh, say you’re fried, clap you on the shoulder and tell you it's a joke but he doesn’t, he cranes for a hit from the joint and you hold it to his lips shakily and he touches you on the exhale, the pads of two of his fingers nestling carefully between your folds over your underwear and when he brushes your clit it’s—

Fuck, it’s electric.

“Osamu, stop,” you say, hoarse and abrupt, grabbing his wrist. "I'm—"

“What?” he asks, teasing lilt to his tone. Beneath your hand his thumb comes up to replace his fingers, to loop circles around you, and you're shuddering, back bowing, and he's grinning at you wickedly.

“I—I'm high,” you admit, voice feeling thick, soupy as it leaves your throat.

“So? Me too.” He blinks at you, slow like a cat, in a way that you're pretty sure he's still mocking the way you apparently always flutter your gaze at him when he lights you up. “‘S the best way to do it.”

“Yeah, but—”

He doesn't interrupt you with but what?

And yet, you still don't finish your sentence.

You glance down to where he’s rubbing you gently, where you hold him at bay—where you could yank his arm and twist it uncomfortably if you really did want him to stop but the longer he circles over the fabric that’s growing increasingly, alarmingly wetter, the more you melt away from yourself and you think, fuck, he really is gorgeous as he’s resting his cheek against the inside of your thigh.

“Scoot forward f’me, please?” he almost whines; his voice changes, stricter when he says, “And stop letting that burn. Smoke it.”

And you comply, shuffling your hips forward and placing the filter between your teeth.

Dazai looks up at you. All cute. Heavy-lidded, red-eyed. Hungry.

And you look back, apprehension sparking but then fading with each drove of smoke you inhale. Heavy-lidded, red-eyed. All cute.

“Let me taste you, please,” he almost whispers. You almost find yourself a little endeared by his pointed pleases.

“This is fucking absurd,” you croak, but your resolve is leaving you. He’s a little blurry. “You’re such a sicko.”

His smile widens against the word. Sicko. Almost like he’s pleased to hear it leave your mouth. “Surprised it took you this long to figure out, baby.”

His touch is impatient and restless and crawling as your underwear goes, too—and you don’t appreciate how good it felt when his thumb was on your clit until it’s back again and you’re slipping the joint out of your mouth to let you jaw fall slack; you tangle a hand up in that messy hair that is much softer than you could’ve imagined and all but yank him back toward your cunt.

“Please,” you echo him, finally. “It felt so good—do it again.”

“That’s it, baby,” he encourages you in your whimpering, fingers prodding at your hole and tongue landing a feather-light lick to your wetness. “I know you want it.”

The sounds are lewd. Disgusting, really—fitting for how he’s acting. Dazai swirls his tongue in circles around your clit as he works his middle and ring fingers into you; cracked gasps leave you at the intrusion, and you can’t keep your eyes open when he curls them upward ever so slightly as he makes out with your clit. If you were sober you’d, of course, be embarrassed at how you’re already gushing for him, but all your mushy brain can think about right now is the sparks bolting to your otherwise-numb fingers and toes with each suction of his pretty pink lips against you—isn’t this wrong? Shouldn’t you feel weird? Yeah, probably—but you’re forgetting why, and you’re forgetting to care.

He hums against you and it sends a shockwave throughout your already-vibrating body; the moan you release into the air is like song, even to yourself. Is he really good at this, you wonder, or is it the weed?

Oh right, the weed. The weed, the weed, the weed.

You pull his mouth off you, almost dropping the joint that’s not much of a joint anymore—only the filter remains.

“I don’t think this is—”

Fuck, you keep going back and forth. You keep breaching the surface just for him to tug you beneath the water again and convince you the drowning feels nice. And it does, for a few seconds—until it starts burning your lungs to a crisp again, at which point you tear away from him kick up, and in the moments you spend sucking in air you don’t get how he stays beneath for so long, like it’s nothing, how he doesn’t stop—he doesn’t stop, his fingers still curling inside of you, and you’re going under again to the sound of his voice.

You feel suffocated. More delirious by the second. It’s nice.

“You already told me it feels good,” he mumbles against you, lapping at you, and you’re letting up on his hair, letting him become a weight again where you should float.

And the lack of oxygen must be getting to your brain because, even though you still don’t think you want to drown, you cease your kicking. For the last time.

“Osamu,” you cry. It sounds like a moan. It might be.

“I know, I’m such a sicko.” There’s no remorse in his words; there can’t be, not when he’s still curling up into your g-spot in just the way that makes you croon his name again—undoubtedly a moan this time—but when he comes into focus again, he looks so apologetic. “You can say it again, baby. It’s okay.”

“S—sicko,” you mutter disapprovingly, but rolling your hips all the same.

He smiles. Soft, kind, apologetic.

You’re scared to move. You know if you do, you’ll both be able to see the wet stain collecting beneath you on the cushion. You feel it.

So you barrage him with more.

“You—you’re a fucking pervert. You’re disgusting.” You feel wetness on your face, too. You deduce that it’s from how perfect his fingers feel inside you, goading that warm slick out of you and into his palm, onto the couch; regardless, you don't stop berating him, your tone harshly contrasting your wriggling hips. “You disgust me.”

“I think you like it.” He presses up, hard, and you gush, gasping. A short, clear spurt narrowly misses his face; he leans back down to lick it off, off the cushion, off your thighs, off your crying cunt. “I think you like how nasty I am.”

“Disgusting,” you whisper. “Disgusting. You're disgusting.” It’s a little chant you hold onto as he rises again to kiss you, messily—a means to replace his lips with his wet fingers, shoving them past your lips and against your tongue where you lap at them instinctually, like you’ve been waiting for it. It’s so wrong to be tasting yourself on his fingers, but your eyes roll back anyway, just to lurch forward as his hand retracts and you find him grinning once more as he slips his sweatpants and boxers down in one swipe. “You’re disgusting.”

“You’re disgusting,” Dazai mocks, giggling. “You just tasted how fucking wet you are.”

“Osamu,” you whine as he kicks his garments aside; you begin to draw your feet up, your knees to your chin, but his hands, stronger than you anticipate, pry you open and flip you to your back and he grins, biting into his bottom lip all the while. Why, you wonder, when the dim living room light glints off his teeth as he situates himself between your legs and leans down to cage you in between his arms, do your hips hitch toward his? Why are you so adamant to deny him?

“You gonna say it again? C’mon, I love hearing my name,” he breathes, ducking down to lick across your jawline. “But I love when you call me those words. Say it again. Tell me how nasty I am.”

“You’re the worst,” you groan, but it sounds comical, even to your own ears, because you’re scratching at his shoulders in a way that draws him closer to you rather than further away.

“More, baby,” Dazai hums into your neck, reaching down to swirl his tip against your wetness. When you feel him, you jump.

It feels good. It feels even better than his thumb and you don’t know if you’re still on your way up but you feel higher and higher by the second and the instinct to push him off is slipping further beyond your grasp. When he pulls back to watch your mouth fall open as he rubs himself into you, you almost let the word pretty slip past your lips—he looks so pretty, tongue flicking, eyes dark, and you catch yourself with your lower lip between your teeth, reflecting the desperation he conceals in everything but his words.

Pretty isn’t what he wants right now, though—and suddenly you feel compelled to give him what he wants, if only it means he’ll keep touching you like this.

“S’fucking nasty—degenerate fucking freak—” you eek out; you don’t know much longer you can tiptoe the line between repulsion and sheer need, but you’re tilting further and further with each circle of his dick and you can tell he’s getting off on the way you’re lurching into him now, running toward his touch instead of away from it.

You think you need him to fuck you, now, or you’ll cry.

“Osamu, please,” you continue, sounding on the verge of tears now—where you should’ve been before, when you genuinely wanted him off you, yes. You wanted him off of you before. Didn’t you? There was a time, a mere few minutes ago, when his fingers in your skin and his animalistic gaze were revolting. Right?

“What’re you beggin’ me for?” Dazai asks like he doesn’t know. He knows. He knows what you don’t want to admit to yourself and he’s going to dangle it over your head, he’s going to rub it in your face, he’s going to make you answer through your hazy high that he never should’ve come onto you through to begin with, and you’re going to give him what he wants—you always give him what he wants, even if you don’t mean to, even if you don’t want to, but now you think you want to. You want to, because it feels so good, and he’s slowing down, he’s stopping and when he takes his hand away to swipe his thumb across your chin, pull your lip from between your teeth and work your mouth open with his fingers again, the loss almost hurts. You want it. You want to.

It’s going to hurt even more to say it, but you want it. And before you can even get it out, before the words even hit what little air is between your lips and his, Dazai looks thrilled at what you say next.

“Please, fuck me,” you whisper.

“Well, since you’re asking so nicely—” He reaches back down, but the smugness doesn’t waver; his tip catches on your entrance—emitting a lewd squelch that should make you cringe but instead prompts your lip to fly between your teeth again—and you hook your tingling feet behind his back, legs astride his waist as you're pushing his bangs from his face all in one motion. “I guess I’ll fuck you, pretty baby.”

"Yes," the dreaded word falls from your lips when he finally works his way into you, past that tight ring of muscle, to nestle snugly inside you until the head of his cock kisses your cervix.

The noise you draw from him—something between a sigh and a moan—is heavenly. His nose nuzzles the trail he licked across your jaw before and you find your hands linked behind his neck, urging him down, onto you, into you—and when he recoils his hips to thrust back in again, quick and short, you keen against him, pathetically, in a way your past self—the one from four or five touches ago—would hate you for.

You should hate how gross this is. How gross he is for this.

But you don't, and you're not going to torture yourself with asking why anymore.

The friction inside you doesn't feel comparable to anything; for the first time in a second, you feel grateful for the weed pulsing through you. You let your eyes roll back and flutter shut without consequence.

Dazai moves against you like water. Water you're content to drown in this time; his touch doesn't crawl anymore as much as it seems to soothe and as he picks up his pace, brings a hand to your cheek to wake you back up, pull you back above the surface.

"You sound s'fuckin cute," he sighs; those eyes, predatory before, are now just brown and melty, honey-colored backgrounded with red fog, not so searching as much as they seem attentive, not making you feel so uncomfortably vulnerable as they do softly seen. He thinks you sound cute. You giggle through the unrivaled pleasure, giggling through your own moans which hit your ears and do sound cute—sound especially cute woven through his.

"Y'sound... so," you start, "so fucking—unh, Osamu, don't stop!"

He chuckles now, low and breathy, and you push his hair back from his face again; his eyes roll back when you do it, and you just do it over, over, over, drawing clipped groans out of him, stealing the words from his throat as he steals yours and you tug, you tug on his hair and the moan he lets out, broken between thrusts, is so raw and laced with need that you moan in reply, clenching around him because, fuck, he sounds so cute, too. "Wanted this for so long, baby. Pussy feels s—so much fuckin' better than I could've imagined."

"How long?" you finally poke back—you want to know. You want to know how long he's been holed up in the mess of his room, jerking off to the thought of his cute little roommate finally falling between his fingers—you want to know how bad he's wanted this, and if getting you high out of your mind just to get it was worth it. You focus your voice to ask him. "How long you wanted this, 'Samu?"

"So long—since—" he gasps, fucking into you harder, faster, deeper; you tug his hair again, exposing his neck, and yank him down to sink your teeth into his neck. You need the reprieve as he starts hammering against the deepest parts of you, eliciting wet smack! after smack! from between your writhing bodies. You jostle beneath him as he finds his breath; "Since I fuckin' met you. Always wanted you."

"Yeah?" You mean it to be a teasing little rhetorical question but it comes out more like encouragement amidst the bliss radiating from your cunt throughout your whole body, but you find it in you to continue— "You been—you been thinkin' of me under you like this? Like the sicko you are?"

Unbelievably faster and harder. You choke on a scream; Dazai's grunting above you, and it hits you that those names really do spur him on. You're far from offending him—you're bringing him closer and closer to filling you up with each and every insult and jab you throw his way and if you were any less cockdrunk you'd be hurling even more barbs at him about how that makes him so much worse, so much more gross but it just spurs you on, too, right now—and you realize, when he looks at you with those fucking eyes again how bad you want him, how bad you've wanted him, too, for so long; you couldn't—wouldn't admit it because he's just your weirdo roommate but really, maybe that's what you love about him. You certainly love the way he makes your toes curl when he reaches down to play with your clit again. You cry out against him.

"Osamu, fuck!"

"Say it again," he begs you, pretty brown eyes glassy as they fall shut, as the tip of his nose touches yours. "Say it again, please, baby."

You know what he wants.

"F—fucking pervert," you huff, doing everything you can to hold onto the rope that's uncoiling rapidly inside you, coming further and further undone with each slam of his hips into your ass. "Ah—you're disgusting. Disgusting."

You fall back on your mantra and it has his thumb moving faster, harder, just like his thrusts, just like his voice, even if it sounds unconvincing through the shockwaves of pleasure; you feel it, the unraveling, it's washing up on you so quickly, so much quicker than it should be at the hands of your weirdo roommate.

"Don't stop," he pleads like he's not the one fucking you to orgasm; you see white, you feel as light as air—god, has cumming always felt like this? Shouldn't you hate it? Shouldn't you hate that it might never feel like this again?

You do, you do—you hate weed and you hate sex and you hate your weirdo roommate Osamu Dazai for coaxing the most mind-blowing climax you've ever felt out of you, but you don't hate any of those things, not really; you hate that it's never felt like this before, and that it can again if only you can push your pride down for a few more moments and call him a—

"Freak—gonna—gonna cum in me?" you goad, breathless, lucky for speech as he fucks you through the otherworldly high, as you clamp down on him and screw your eyes shut until you can keep going. "Gonna fill me up like the nasty motherfucker you are?"

"Ngh—yeah, yeah, yeah...!"

Dazai, in all his depraved beauty, fucks his fat load into you mercilessly; you twitch, shake beneath him, driving strained sobs from his chest and talking him through with soft yeahs, want y'r cum, filthy fucking sicko freak, you disgust me. He loves it. He falls apart, and you tug on his hair once more as he slows, as he spills out of you, as he looks at you with so much adoration in his eyes.

"You—" Dazai's breathless, heaving. "You're amazing."

You giggle again, wiggling a bit and trapping him further close to you, fingers in the hair at the base of his neck. Soft. You don't feel any less high; just blissed out. "You're cute."

"Knew you thought so," he sighs, lopsided smile coming back; you don't know where in the pleasure he'd lost it, but its return has you tilting your chin up to kiss him once more. Soft. Gentle, sweet, no tongue; not gross, not hungry, just sweet. Satisfied.

"But you're still weird," you tease against his lips. Sly.

When Dazai pulls back, the hunger in those eyes sparks again.

"Want me to show you how weird I can get?" he threatens.

"I dare you," you taunt back.

And he grins, fully and wickedly, once more; you can count on it. He'll show you, alright.

[naomis-daydream]

seven deadly sins // shuri udaku

summary: self explanatory tbh

warnings: descriptions of sex, mentions of accidentally skipping meals

a/n: ik some of these aren’t the real meanings behind the seven deadly sins, just a fun take on it. something quick & cute until i get other stuff out. also, i finally learned how to add the ‘keep reading’ tab🤭 enjoy!

✧

LUST - a strong passion or longing, especially for sexual desires

a soft moan escapes shuri’s lips as she tugs lightly on your hair. she’d been gone on a mission for three days, yet it felt like a lifetime since she felt you against her. you were buried between her thighs, her legs swung over your shoulders as you gripped her supple flesh under your fingertips.

your lips were wrapped around her clit, her walls were around your fingers which were pushing slowly in and out of her. the sound of her clenching around you filling the room as she whimpered.

“miss me that much, sithandwa sam?” you mutter, lips still against her, the vibrations making her squirm slightly.

she nods quickly, head thrown back against the pillows.

“how about you show me, then?”

GREED - the excessive pursuit of material goods

no matter how many times you attempted to tell her otherwise, shuri continuously showered you in gifts. whether it was high-end or hand-me-downs, your girlfriend spared no expense to show her everlasting love for you.

like the time you mentioned a garment you liked, but said it was too expensive to buy. later that week, a package was left on your side of your shared bedroom with a note on the top saying “open me :)”. you knew better than to dissuade her, because when you looked at the label in the corner, you found pen scribbled over the return address.

GLUTTONY - an excessive and ongoing eating of food or drink (or in this case, when shuri works so hard she forgets to eat)

it wasn’t unusual for shuri to miss a meal every now and then because of her duties. she was the head of the design group, queen, and black panther. it was perfectly understandable if she skipped lunch or fell asleep before having dinner, because when you’re the world’s smartest woman, ruler of the most powerful nation on the surface, who wouldn’t?

though, that didn’t mean you would simply let her.

like tonight, when shuri had refused to leave the lab, which she’d been in for over fourteen hours, until she finished her newest contraption. she was gone when you woke up and still missing when you were ready to sleep, so you hauled down to her lab at nearly midnight to persuade her to take a much needed break.

“shuri?” you called, looking around the empty room. “baby, you in here?”

the sound of mechanical wiring answered your question, leading you to look over to a large machine which hid your girlfriend.

“you need to eat.” you called, raising your voice over the noise.

her response was low and vague. “i’m busy.”

“i made your favorite,” you say, attempting to get her out of her lab and food into her stomach.

she peaks her head up from behind the large machine. “fufu?” she asks quietly.

“mmhm,” you hum.

“with nkatenkwen?” she says, the top of her face still being the only visible part of her.

“yep.”

“and your homemade peach drink?”

“all waiting for you upstairs, my love,” you say, walking up to the machine. you go around to the back, tugging her hands so her focus would be on you. “your work will always be here when you’re done, shuri, but you won’t if you don’t eat. let me take care of you. can you let me do that, sana (baby)?”

SLOTH - excessive laziness or failure to act & utilize one’s talents

hardly anything, or anyone, for that matter, could pull shuri away from her lab. that was until she met you. now, you had to practically pry her off of you in order to attend to her duties.

you groaned quietly as you glanced at the clock in your nightstand. “shuri, you must get ready for work. you are supposed to be at the lab in less than twenty minutes.”

to which she’d hush you while pulling you closer to her frame. “shh, intombi entle (pretty girl), just a few more minutes,” she mutters, pushing her chin further into the soft skin of your neck.

“you said that yesterday. we never left the bed.”

“and i heard not one complaint!”

though your back was to her front, she could feel you playfully rolling your eyes, prompting her to whisper against your lips, “who’s queen?”

“you are, my love,” you’d say into a soft kiss.

WRATH - a strong anger or hate towards another person

hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, or in this case, a woman whose girlfriend had been. when it was announced shuri would be courting you, people were ecstatic that the lone udaku had found someone she was going to spend the rest of her life with. though, there were unpleasant whispers about a non-wakandan sitting on the throne.

one afternoon, the two of you were making rounds to all the tribes to formerly make acquaintance of their soon queen, when a member of the border tribe had a few words to say about the matter.

“an american ruling over us? wakandans?” he smacked his teeth. “i’d rather turn my blade onto myself than serve under someone who comes from such barbaric land.” he chuckles as two men beside him laugh shortly.

you overhear the conversation, frowning a little, but determined to not let them get to you. you look over to shuri, whose eyes are cutting daggers into the three men a few feet over.

before she could do anything, you stop her. “my love, it’s okay. i promise. it takes more than a few assholes mouthing off to get to me, okay?” you assure her. she looks down at you, momentarily glancing back over to the men before nodding. though as you walk with the Doras and make your way to the exit, shuri slips from your eyeline and in the faces of the three mouthy men.

“utter another word about my fiancé, who is soon to be your queen, might i remind you, and you will find yourself wishing that you had turned your blade onto yourself once i am done with you. kuqondwa (understood)?”

ENVY - the intense desire to have an item someone else possesses

before you two got together, you were in a relationship…with a man, and that bothered shuri to no end. you would talk about how he would flake on dates and forgot special occasions like your birthday and anniversary, and she couldn’t stand it. she could treat you so much better.

“you don’t deserve that, uthando (love). you should be with someone who cherishes you, appreciates you, worships you endlessly.” she’d say, rubbing the back of your hands which where held by hers.

you’d sigh, warmed by her words but conflicted between your head and your heart. the lines between platonic and romantic often blurred with you two, and the feelings you had for shuri overpowered the mere comfort of familiarity that kept you in your relationship. your head was tilted down, mostly so you didn’t have to meet her eyes. “i don’t know. he’s a good guy-”

“and you need a great woman,” she interrupted, “i can be that for you.”

your heart rate picks up as she hooks a finger under your chin.“let me show you how you deserve to be treated, hm?”

PRIDE - an excessive view of one’s self without regard for others (or in this case, how shuri cannot go a day without the admiration she has for you spilling from her lips)

the warm feeling in her chest whenever she was with you, the burn in her cheeks that came from smiling so hard, and the tranquility that overtook her only when you were by her side. to everyone else, the two of you were almost an annoyingly adorable couple. whenever in your presence, shuri could not draw herself away from you. her eyes followed you wherever you went in the room, and if you were within arms reach, hers were wrapped around you. and when shuri was away from you, there’d be rarely a day she went without mentioning her to wife to be.

“ngangamsha (your majesty), what is this…music?” okoye asks hesitantly, face lingering with slight distaste for the current song choice in the training room.

“she calls herself megan thee stallion with two ‘e’s,” shuri responds, effectively blocking okoye’s spear with her forearm.

“her lyrics seem a little provocative, no?”

“yes, but, the beat is nice, eh?”

shuri relaxes her defensive stance to dance to the lyrics of ‘cash shit’ for all of three seconds before okoye sweeps her leg, hitting shuri’s ankle and bringing her back to the mat.

“unfair! i was showing you the dougie!”

“since when do you listen to american rap?”

“y/n plays it while she gets ready.” shuri says simply, rising from the ground.

okoye shakes her head, “whipped.”

✧

[keelt9]

Chapter 3

Masterlist

Christmas was a magical day, like every year our parents built the perfect day for us. I realized I started to forget how magical it is. Last 3 years I just came home for Christmas dinner and the day after I flew back to Chicago, it didn't bother me if I came back or not, because I knew my parents or Peter’s family would be in Chicago for New Year.

On Christmas morning, Archie's footsteps were the first thing we heard, and his screaming for illusion and happiness when he saw the Christmas tree surrender by presents was memorable; the present that my parents were so worried to keep hiding was his new keyboard, which he felt over the moon. 

We spent the day in pjs eating and relaxing, watching movies all day, enjoying the time with family.

“Yeah, let's do that.” Peter claps his hands.

Mom and dad put on the table the plan to make a small New Year party, just friends and usual customers, like a small expression of gratitude.

“I'm in! Sounds fun.” Nora and I entered with plates and spoons for the cake Peter prepared.

“I can help! I'm a big boy now, grandma.” Archie turns around in my mom's legs.

“I guess I'm in too.” I lift my shoulders. “It will be bad if I refuse it right?” 

Dad pulls me by my shoulder and kisses my head. “Well, we have a party!” 

And no, no one warned me what it would mean.

“9? Isn't it too much?” Leah offered to help me with the shopping of supplies.

I shake my hands. “I stopped talking since I saw the amount of things we’re buying for a few people.” 

Leah giggles but puts the 9 bags of balloons in the basket. It's our last shopping day. Tomorrow we all spend the day cooking and decorating the coffee shop.

“Thank you so much darling.” Mom grabs Leah's face after she leaves the bags. “Don't forget to bring your parents all right?”

Leah chuckles but her parents, right now, are taking a cruise. “I'm afraid you have to deal just with me, Mrs. Stratton.”

“Enjoying life, huh?” Leah's parents spent all her childhood, teens and early 20 focused only on her and what she could need. After turning 25, the story changes and they start to enjoy themselves.

“Like teenagers.” We laughed as we kept putting our bags and packages in the living room.

The next morning, we were just finishing our breakfast when we saw the most hilarious thing of the day. Archie is wearing his small apron and huge gloves, ready to work.

“Seems you have all the cover here.” I joke as I put my plates on the washing machine. “I'll better go and start to decorate the coffee.” 

“Leah will be there?” Dad asked but Leah said she will be there in the afternoon, a wedding crisis-photo of last minute.

“Don't worry, I have everything under control.” Nora and Pete will help mom with the food and drinks, meanwhile dad, well he has a little boy to keep busy.

“See you later.” I wave my hand, taking my coat and leaving home.

I knew it! 9 bags of balloons were too much. I was here for 1 hour blowing up gold, white, black and silver balloons and I barely empty 3 bags.

“Agh, if I just…” I pretend pinching all the balloons in the bag, one more time talking alone. I take a deep breath and I stand walking to the piano.

I start touching the keys when slowly a few notes of one of my favorite songs start to be heard in an empty coffee shop, Träumerei.

“Lovely.” The voice of Peter made me jump, removing my hands from the piano. When I look at the door, I notice he wasn’t alone, Leah and Joe are with him carrying a couple of trays and boxes.

Leah smiles and leaves the boxes in one of the tables. “I found them in the street, I guess we need backups.” She put her hand at her waist looking at all the balloon mess. Joe kept in silence looking at the huge amount of balloons, but when I turned around to see him I found him with a cute smile on his face, making me smile.

Slowly the time passes as we decorate all the coffee shop, follow Leah’s orders and be helpful as much as we can.

“I'm amazing.” Leah coordinates all the decorations and without a doubt she’s amazing, still I pushed her. The gold, silver, black and white stop being a mess of colors all over the coffee now looks with balance making the perfect mix.

“You should go, to getting ready. We waited for mom and dad to go too.” Peter said to us. “Joe thank you so much, you know you're welcome if you want.”

Joe keeps all day helping us, but if I remember well, he prefers avoiding big crowds on special days

“I’ll think about it, thanks anyway.” He said putting the last balloon next to the door.

Leah, fighting for her life, can't avoid expressing what's in her mind. “Mr. I Stop Talk…” I cover Leah's mouth. My family just knows we stop being closer as we were, however they didn't know we just stop talking at all.

I pulled her to the door. “We're leaving!”

“I have things to say.” Leah musters as we get into her car. “A lot actually.”

By 11 pm, in the coffee shop all our guests were there eating, drinking, chatting and some dancing. Archie is stealing everyone's heart, a lot of the people there know him since he was a little baby.

The small fruit tarts that mom made are the sensation of the night; Peter and I remember stealing a few of them everytime she made it at home. “We have more, let me bring it.”

I put my glass of wine on the table. “It's ok, I'll go.” I said after walking to the kitchen for more.

The sound of gasps and the sudden silence made me intrigued as I walked back with a new tray of tarts; my answer came across the room, Joe talking with my parents and one of their closest friends. 

“And now he comes, I still have a lot of things to say.” Leah claimed as she took the tray to put it on the table. 

During the night I practically avoid any unnecessary talk with him, still something calls for my attention; the fact that a few friends of my dad already seem to know him for the way Joe talked to them in a relaxed mood, even from time to time I heard him laughing so freely and joking back with them.

As the countdown started, all gathered next to their special one, Leah and I stuck together as the clock mark 00:00 and everyone started to hug and kiss; Leah and I hugged each other when we split, Archie came running to jump and gave me his big bear hug.

“I feel left aside.” Leah jokes with him, making Archie extend his arms and go right to her. “Yeah, I feel love now.” Archie laughs and runs to my parents.

“Go. I’ll be fine for a couple of minutes.” She points to a goodlooking guy with whom she’s been talking all night.

My favorite place from the coffee shop is the terrace. You find the perfect spot between the big buildings where you can see the sky and right now the fireworks. The view is spectacular but the cold breeze makes me shiver, closing my coat tighter around my body.

I close my eyes making my New Year wish, when I open it again, I see a small cupcake with a candle in front of me, and hands at the side of it avoiding the flame go out. 

“You can’t miss this.” Joe said at my side looking at me, the light of the fireworks making his blue eyes shine with different colors.

Every time I make a wish I blow out a candle, since I was a kid I believe if you do it, dreams have more possibility to come true.

I shutter but in Joe's eyes I can see that softness which he used to see me years ago, so I blow the candle.

“Any special wish?” I took the candle of the cupcake, catching him by surprise from my question.

“Mmm…” He clears his throat and pretends thinking. “Be better, fix mistakes and reconnect with important people in my life.” The last three words he said looked at me.

He’s honest, I know because the way he speaks clearly and confidently, reminds his eyes of mine.

“I appreciate your words Joe, but some wounds don't heal easily, I prefer to keep things the way they are right now.” He deserves an honest answer too, I press my lips together forming a smile, before going to the stairs.

“Hey, go for that ring, all right?” I said to him before I tried to cross the door.

“Y/N” I turn around, and he has a strange expression, a one I think I have never seen before. “I understand, I really do, still, I’ll be here, at any moment, any time, and any place… For you.”

His words still linger in my mind for days. Three days after our New Year, it’s time for Archie and family to go home.

“Drive safe, honey.” Mom hugs Peter and Nore before giving Archie a big kiss.

“Call when you’re home.” Dad told them as they said goodbye.

I lift Archie. “I already miss you!” He gives me a peck on my cheek. “I’ll stay a couple of days in your home before going back to work, all right?”

Archie raises his pinky finger. “Promise?” I tingle our fingers and kiss his forehead.

I carry him to his car and say goodbye to Nora and Peter, who always hugs me softly.

“Whatever you and Joe are getting through, take your time, all right?” I hold my breath but he splits from seeing me to my eyes. “Joe can be a little…mmm confused from time to time.” 

He saw my confused expression. “Oh come on, we notice that you practically ran away from the guy.” He chuckles. “I admire you, it’s hard to resist his puppy eyes and you do it like they were what? Just two blue circles.” 

I laugh and open the door for him. “I'll call when I go there all right?” Peter nods and closes the door to set all and start their way home.

Late at night dad knocks on my door like he actually didn’t want to, although he opened the door. “Are you busy?”

I was drowning in papers and my computer; I was so immersed in the manuscript that it was like something forced myself to print some drawings for some corrections and watch them live.

“Not, not that much.” I take my glass off and stand so we can sit at the window, the most clear space in my room.

Dad is searching for something with his eyes. “I wonder if you have the small <book> that I made you years ago? With the paper of the composition you like.” 

“What?” The memories of the strange visits from Joe and my dad giving him file's came. “What is happening between you and the mystery delivery of papers to Joe?”

Dad was surprised by my direct question. “Mysteriously? I won't call like that. After his wrist surgery Joe found playing piano helpful and asked me for help, so from time to time I gave him some lessons and he keeps playing as much as he can.”

I don't believe it at all. “The sheet music is for him?” 

“Of course.” Dad innocently answered but just opened the conversation for another talk.

“Why that one?” 

My mind is repeating his answer over and over making it impossible to close my eyes and rest.

“Promise me you won't say anything, but he wants to play something you like, before you go, you know like a small Christmas present.”

I swear I could be arrested for keep knocking the door of a fucking mansion in the middle of the night.

“What the…?” Joe opens the door, his eyes held close and his hair messy.

“What do you want?” I enter, raising the sheet music . “A Christmas present? What the hell?”  Angry, that's what I'm feeling right now. 

“Years ago, you stopped talking to me, looking at me, even avoiding me and now out of blue you decide you can erase everything and that's fine?” He tried to talk but I didn't let him, I felt each one of my muscles start to get tense.

“Well no, that is not happening! You can’t open or create wounds like you want. You left clear you don't want anything to have with me, FINE!” I put the papers on his chest. “Stuck with that, don't be around me trying to be my friend again!”

In vain try to leave his house but he grabs my wrist on his chest.

“Stuck?” His eyes darkened and his jaw tense. “Want to know what 's been stuck in my mind for years?”

He slowly let go of my wrist but held my hand and pulled me to him. His face was just a few centimeters from mine.

“Your kiss.”  He whispers and I raise my eyes from his mouth to his eyes.

“What are you talking about?” I observed him in detail trying to find a small sign of a lie.

“See, you talk about unfairness, but how unfair is it that you keep lingering all those years in my head, in my heart?” He raises his hand at the level of my face not touching me. “There were days where I dream of kissing you one more time but…” He closes his eyes, breathing in.

“But you didn't even remember…” I saw how slowly his eyes turned into those comforting eyes that looked at me years ago. Joe let me go but tingled his fingers on mine to avoid me going.

“Years ago, you and Leah went to a party, you're parents were so worried because you didn't pick your phone, and your dad was about to leave and picked you, but I…I didn't know, still I don't know what happened, when I noticed where I was, I'm parking in front of a house where people stumbled really drunk.” I fight for remembering but nothing comes to my mind.

“Thankfully you and Leah were sitting on the sidewalk leaning on each other; when you saw me, ran and hugged me, sober enough to recognise me. Together we leave Leah at his house but when I tried to take you home, you asked me to please stop for a while as you try to calm down.” I panic when I finally see his hand on mine, making me unable to move.

“We walked around a small park, and you slowly calmed down, after 1 hour you said you felt tipsy.” He laughs. “You sit in the grass sighing, so I sat in front of you, you talked about the college, how sacred you were of the future but at the same time exciting.”  

I have small flashbacks but at any moment a kiss appears in my mind.

“Suddenly you stopped talking and saw me right to my eyes with that…sparkle and shining eyes.” A wide open smile appears on his face. “You didn't give me time to think, you took air and you leaned with a soft peck on my lips.”

I let go of his hand shaking. I remember having a dream about this but that's what I thought it was, a dream.

“Why didn't you tell me?” I cover my face. “I'm sorry, I can't remember but I'm sorry if that…”

“I was selfish.” He whispered. “I thought those feelings, at that moment, were stupid, I was still a rookie who was injured in his first seasons, and you were in your last semesters. I won't ruin our future.”

I'm so confused, trying to figure out something about this. “You keep me away.” He nods, biting his lip.

“I knew that was the only way you keep focus on your stuff and I keep on mine… Works however look at us now.” I blink as I find support in the wall, trying to remember something about those moments.

“I’m confessing to you in the most awkward and awful way.” I slip stick to the wall, my legs definitely stop working and I sit on the floor.

“Yo…you…You what?” He turned around and breathed slowly before sitting in front of me, his eyes moving all over my face.

“I like you.” I scoff. “I mean, how could I not? A girl who drove to the other side of the city just for make me eat something sweet, the girl who spends all his free time in vacations making me company in a random talks at the coffee, the girl who was the first one in be at the hospital as soon as she arrived when I get injured, the girl who I found myself  looking for in the crowd every game.”

[twoidiotwriters1]

Copycat: Genesis —(Marvel Fem!Oc)

A/N: Cat is so pathetic lately I love her so much -Danny

Words: 1,320

Phase Six Masterlist

Previous Chapter // Next Chapter

Listen to: ‘Afterglow’ -by Taylor Swift

iii: Cat Needs A Friend

When Cat got out of the bathroom Parker was already placing two plates with food on the coffee table. She took a moment to examine his apartment:

It was definitely smaller than Matthew's, consisting of one room with no divisions. Next to the front door, there was a small kitchen with no cabinets and a tiny breakfast bar with a variety of canned goods and spices on top of it. A half-empty package of crackers was there too, but overall it looked organized and clean.

In front of the kitchen, she found his living room. The electronic devices were not that different from the ones in her world, but they did have different logos and the shows were clearly not the same as the ones in her universe. He had a couch that could fit two or three people, and in the middle, the coffee table where he was putting their dinner. A few feet from where she was standing at the bathroom's entrance, Peter's bed was on display. That was the only thing that looked almost new, Cat suspected that he didn't get to use it often.

"There you are!" He smiled before returning to the kitchen. "Juice or milk?"

She approached the living room and took a peek at the food on her plate. "Juice." Cat sat down and pointed at the tv. "Is that the news?"

Parker looked over his shoulder at the screen. "I don't really listen to them, it gets me down. I use it as background noise while I cook and I turn it off once I sit down to eat."

Cat had a hard time hiding her concern. "I don't own a tv, but I'm not sure that's how you're supposed to use it."

"You don't spend much time in your apartment, so I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't know how to work a coffee machine," he replied without looking at her.

Cat remembered her time working as a secretary. Parker placed her drink on the table and then sat next to her, the first-aid kit was there, and his hand was wrapped in a bandage.

"Nice outfit," he joked. Cat looked comically small in his shirt. "You know, the good thing about wearing oversized clothes..." he rolled up her sleeves, "is that you don't have to be half-naked in order to patch up."

Cat held the fabric while he began to apply some sort of ointment on the cuts. "Speaking from experience?"

"It's hell when I have to take off the suit and I'm bleeding," he sighed. "It clings onto the body like it's a second skin."

She wrinkled her nose. "That's why nanotech—"

"Yeah, yeah, god bless nano," he glanced into her eyes. "But I didn't fail to notice you're not wearing a suit..."

Cat was absently staring at the corner of the room. "Sergei took it."

"The hunter?" She nodded, still lost in thought. Parker started to gently apply the ointment to her face. "It's a nice change to be patching you up instead of myself, makes me feel better."

The mutant hummed. "No friends to help you still?"

"Don't feel ready to have the talk," he laughed shortly.

Cat tilted her head. "No one knows you're Spider-man yet?"

"No."

"Not even your aunt May?" Cat's frown deepened. "Are you still not talking to her?"

Parker's eyes brightened. "You remember that?"

"I remember everything. I don't really know what I know unless it's brought up, though," the young man lifted her chin and she continued. "So, May..?"

"We're talking again," he nodded. "I went back to school."

"That's great!"

"It's exhausting," Parker admitted. "But I found my way back to your universe thanks to that, so I'm not gonna complain."

"You still sell pictures to the daily bugle?"

"Yeah."

"My Peter works there too."

"Really?" He sprayed something on her neck and Cat flinched away, hissing at the sensation. "Sorry! I should've warned you—"

"It's okay, it didn't hurt," she shivered. "It felt weird, that's all."

Parker shook his head, he was trying really hard to hide how worried he was about her current state. "Tell me the whole story."

Cat lowered her face and he stopped curing her. "Promise you won't judge me too hard."

"I would never."

Parker was a great listener as usual, but this time he didn't even make a noise during the whole thing, he focused on healing her, sometimes she could feel his breathing shaking a little as if trying to hold back his tongue.

"You know, when I was fourteen," she said, "everyone wanted to hear my story. The Avengers, S.H.I.E.L.D... then I went to school and everyone wanted to hear about my past, and I always found it so..."

"Repetitive?"

"Unnecessary. They wanna know everything about you to figure out ways to get a hold of you. That's why I was such a good agent as a kid, my weak spots were hidden. Then I grew older, I found out things about my past, and my past found out things about me in turn..."

"But not everyone is looking to control you," he told her, "some of us just want to know who you are."

"Not enough people are like that," she sighed. "Not enough." Parker picked up their empty plates and Cat sat back and stared at the ceiling so the ointment around her throat could be fully absorbed. "But I would hand in my biography to Kingpin if it could protect everyone," she continued out loud. "Isn't that ironic? I'm supposed to be the mightiest hero of all, and I can't even look after myself."

"I don't think tonight's the night for self-pity. Maybe I should show you my research so we start working?"

"I won't be of help," she lamented. "I'm not smart. Mouse would always..." her voice cracked, M.O.U.S.E. was a whole universe away.

Parker startled her when showed up, her ears were still not fully recovered. The young man took a seat beside her and clasped his hands together, deep in thought. Cat stared at him, this time trying to spot the differences between him and the twenty-six-year-old he'd been when they'd met.

His hair was shorter, the shadow of his beard was easier to see, and his frame was a few inches broader. He had a couple of wrinkles, probably thanks to the lack of sleep and sunscreen, it could also be that he smiled a lot. He still had dark circles under his eyes, and his voice was still the same, but he carried himself with a confidence that he hadn't exhibited the first time they interacted.

"You should sleep," he said at last. "I'll come back in a few hours."

With a quick assessment of his appearance she noticed he was wearing the suit under his sweatpants and hoodie. "You can't leave," she stated.

Parker looked at her with a grin. "There's only one bed here, and I want you to use it. I'm not tired, don't worry about it."

She felt her face getting warmer. "I don't know your— I'm... please... don't leave." She took a quick breath, begging not to stammer in the process. "I know I left you when you were lost— but there were bad guys all over the city and I had to help my Peter— you don't have to go outside tonight, and I know how that sounds but I'm not—"

Parker stopped her rambling by placing his hand above hers.

"You'll be safe. My world's quieter than yours."

"But I don't need quiet," she pouted. "I need a friend."

Parker glanced towards his bathroom, thinking of the people out there and all that could happen if he didn't do his patrols. He also remembered his promise to her, it'd been a thing none of them had really meant nor believed at the time, but he still felt obligated to keep his word.

"Okay," he gave in, feeling her hand shaking under his. "Alright. I'm staying."

She pulled him closer and leaned against his arm. Parker froze, Cat had to be hurting a lot if she was that comfortable touching him. "Thank you."

"I'll figure things out," he wrapped his arms around her. "I promise you'll go home."

Next Chapter—>

Taglist.

@mikaelsonwhxrebae​​​​ @ieatpanicattacksforlunch​​​​​ @jesuswasnotawhiteman​​​​​ @siriuslysirius1107​​​​​ @greengarsstuff​​​​​ @itsyagirl01 @23victoria​​​​​ @espressopatronum454​​​​​​ @jkthinkstoomuch

[pearlsmith25]

Self-heating Food Packaging Market: Catering to the Changing Lifestyles of Consumers

Self-heating food packaging refers to a specialized packaging solution that incorporates an integrated heating technology to heat food products without the need for an external heat source. This innovative packaging concept has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its convenience, portability, and ability to provide hot and fresh food on the go. The self-heating food packaging market has witnessed substantial growth and is expected to continue expanding as consumers increasingly seek convenient and time-saving food solutions.

Market Overview:

The self-heating food packaging market has experienced a rapid surge in demand owing to changing consumer lifestyles, the rise of on-the-go eating habits, and the need for instant and hassle-free meal options. This market segment caters to a diverse range of food products, including ready-to-eat meals, soups, beverages, and even baby food.

Key Market Drivers:

• Convenience and Portability: Self-heating food packaging offers consumers the ability to enjoy hot and fresh meals anytime, anywhere, without the need for traditional heating methods. • Time-saving Solution: In today's fast-paced world, self-heating food packaging provides a quick and convenient solution for busy individuals who have limited time for meal preparation. • Increased Outdoor Activities: The growing trend of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and sports events has led to a rise in demand for self-heating food packaging among adventure enthusiasts. • Product Innovation: Continuous advancements in self-heating technology, packaging materials, and designs have expanded the market's potential and attracted consumers looking for unique and novel food experiences.

Market Segmentation:

The self-heating food packaging market can be segmented based on various factors:

Packaging Type:

a. Self-heating Cans: Traditional metal cans with integrated heating elements that activate upon the press of a button. b. Self-heating Pouches: Flexible pouches with heating elements that utilize chemical reactions or electric currents to heat the food contents.

Application:

a. Ready-to-eat Meals: This includes various cuisines, such as pasta, rice dishes, curries, and meat-based products. b. Soups and Beverages: Self-heating packaging solutions for soups, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and other hot beverages. c. Baby Food: Self-heating containers designed specifically for heating and serving baby food while on the go.

Distribution Channel:

a. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets b. Convenience Stores c. Online Retailers d. Others (Vending Machines, Specialty Stores)

Regional Analysis:

• North America: The United States and Canada are major contributors to the self-heating food packaging market due to the increasing demand for convenient and on-the-go meal options. • Europe: Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy have witnessed substantial growth in the self-heating food packaging market, driven by changing consumer preferences and busy lifestyles. • Asia Pacific: Rapid urbanization, hectic work schedules, and increasing disposable income levels in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and India have fueled the demand for self-heating food packaging. • Rest of the World: Emerging markets in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are also witnessing a rise in demand for self-heating food packaging due to changing consumer behavior and rising disposable incomes.

Competitive Landscape:

The self-heating food packaging market is characterized by the presence of several key players who are actively engaged in product innovation, partnerships, and expansion strategies. Some of the prominent companies operating in this market include:

HeatGen™ Crown Holdings Inc. The 42 Degrees Company Hot-Can Lekispak Tempra Technology

These companies are investing in research and development to enhance the functionality, safety, and sustainability of self-heating food packaging solutions. Additionally, strategic collaborations with food manufacturers, retailers, and e-commerce platforms are helping them expand their market reach.

Conclusion:

The self-heating food packaging market is witnessing substantial growth driven by consumer demand for convenient and time-saving food solutions. The ability to enjoy hot and fresh meals on the go without the need for traditional heating methods is a key factor propelling market expansion. As technology advances and product innovation continues, the self-heating food packaging market is poised for further growth and presents significant opportunities for companies operating in this segment.

[linpackmachines]

Understanding Vacuum Packaging Machines and Modified Atmosphere Packaging Machines: Revolutionizing Food Preservation

In today’s fast-paced world, food preservation is more crucial than ever. Whether for long-term storage, transportation, or convenience, the food industry has embraced various technologies to ensure freshness, extend shelf life, and maintain food safety. Two such technologies that have made a significant impact are vacuum packaging machines and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) machines. These innovative solutions play a vital role in preserving the quality of food products by controlling the atmosphere surrounding them.

What Are Vacuum Packaging Machines?

Vacuum packaging is a method of preserving food by removing air from the package, creating a vacuum seal. The vacuum packaging machine uses suction to extract air, then seals the package, making it airtight. This process helps to reduce the growth of bacteria and mold, which thrive in oxygen-rich environments. By eliminating the air, the food remains fresh for a much longer period.

Benefits of Vacuum Packaging Machines:

Extended Shelf Life: Without air, food products are less susceptible to spoilage from microorganisms, preserving their taste, texture, and nutritional value for longer.

Space Efficiency: Vacuum-sealed packages are compact, making them easier to store and transport. This can lead to better use of storage space in warehouses and freezers.

Cost-Effective: Reducing food waste by extending shelf life can significantly save on costs, especially in industries like grocery stores, restaurants, and food suppliers.

Prevention of Freezer Burn: By removing air, vacuum packaging prevents freezer burn, which can ruin the quality of frozen foods.

Preservation of Freshness: The sealed environment keeps food items, such as meat, vegetables, and fruits, fresher for longer periods.

In addition to food, vacuum packaging machines are widely used in various industries for products such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and even textiles, where moisture control and preservation are essential.

What Are Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Machines?

Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) machines are a step beyond traditional packaging. MAP refers to the process of altering the atmosphere inside a packaging container to extend the shelf life of food products. While vacuum packaging removes air entirely, modified atmosphere packaging machines adjust the gas composition, typically replacing oxygen with a mixture of gases such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

MAP technology is particularly beneficial for perishable items like fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. By controlling the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen in the packaging, MAP machines can slow down the aging process, preventing spoilage and maintaining the appearance and nutritional value of food.

Benefits of Modified Atmosphere Packaging Machines:

Slows Down Spoilage: By adjusting the gas levels in the packaging, MAP machines reduce the respiration rate of fruits and vegetables, slowing down the ripening process and extending freshness.

Maintains Texture and Color: For meats, fish, and cheeses, MAP helps maintain the color and texture by preventing oxidation, which can cause undesirable changes.

Improved Food Safety: By reducing the growth of harmful microorganisms, MAP ensures that food stays safe for consumption without the need for preservatives.

Customized Solutions: MAP machines can be tailored to suit different products and packaging requirements, allowing businesses to optimize shelf life while maintaining the highest quality.

Versatility Across Products: MAP technology can be applied to a wide range of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to bakery goods, dairy products, and even ready-to-eat meals.

Vacuum Packaging vs. Modified Atmosphere Packaging: Key Differences

Both vacuum packaging and modified atmosphere packaging serve similar purposes: to preserve food and extend shelf life. However, the methods and results are slightly different.

Vacuum Packaging: Removes all air from the package to create a vacuum. It is ideal for products like dry foods, meats, and fish. However, vacuum packaging may not be the best for certain items that require a specific balance of gases to maintain their texture and freshness.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging: Alters the atmospheric gases inside the package to slow down the natural decay process. It is especially useful for fresh produce, meat, and dairy products that require a controlled atmosphere to maintain freshness.

While both packaging techniques have their advantages, they are often used in conjunction with each other in the food industry to maximize food preservation and maintain quality.

Choosing the Right Packaging Solution

When deciding between a vacuum packaging machine and a modified atmosphere packaging machine, it is essential to consider the type of product you are working with and its specific storage requirements. For instance:

If you are packaging products like dry snacks, nuts, or frozen meats, a vacuum packaging machine would be ideal.

If you are working with perishable items such as fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, or dairy, MAP machines would be the best choice for maintaining product quality.

Conclusion

Both vacuum packaging machines and modified atmosphere packaging machines have revolutionized the food industry by offering advanced solutions for preserving freshness, extending shelf life, and reducing waste. These technologies not only benefit food producers and retailers but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient food supply chain. As consumers demand fresher, longer-lasting products, the importance of these packaging solutions continues to grow, ensuring that food stays safe, nutritious, and high-quality for longer periods.

[research-fusion]

Global Retort Packaging Market Segments and Emerging Trends (2024-2032)

The global retort packaging market size was valued at USD 4.62 billion in 2023 and is projected to be worth USD 4.85 billion in 2024 and reach USD 7.51 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.61% during the forecast period. A retort pouch is food packaging type produced by using a laminate of metal foils and flexible plastic. The increasing use of retort pouches, cups, and trays in the food industry to propel the adoption of retort pouches.

Segments

The global retort packaging market is segmented based on product type, material, application, and region.

a) By Product Type:

Pouches: The most dominant segment, pouches account for the largest market share due to their flexibility, light weight, and cost-effectiveness.

Trays: Used mainly for packaging meals that require reheating.

Cartons: Gaining popularity due to their eco-friendliness.

b) By Material:

Polypropylene (PP): One of the most widely used materials in retort packaging due to its high heat resistance.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Used for its durability and resistance to heat.

Aluminum Foil: Known for its excellent barrier properties to oxygen and moisture.

c) By Application:

Food & Beverages: This is the largest application segment, driven by demand for ready meals, baby food, and pet food. The ready-to-eat meal segment is seeing robust growth due to busy lifestyles.

Pharmaceuticals: Retort packaging is increasingly used to extend the shelf life of medical supplies.

Personal Care: A smaller but growing segment, used for packaging temperature-sensitive cosmetic products.

Report Coverage

The report offers:

Major growth drivers, restraining factors, opportunities, and potential challenges for the market.

Comprehensive insights into regional developments.

List of major industry players.

Key strategies adopted by the market players.

The latest industry developments include product launches, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions.

Request For Sample Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/retort-packaging-market-109989

Drivers & Restraints

Increasing Consumption of Packaged Food by Consumers to Drive Market Growth

The surging intake of packaged food by consumers along with the increasing demand for ready-to-eat food items drive the retort packaging market growth. The market growth is also propelled by the growing interest of consumers toward packaged food and rising food industry globally.

However, the high cost of primary machine and the complexity of the process may impede the market expansion.

List of Key Players Present in the Report:

Amcor (Switzerland)

Sealed Air (U.S.)

Coveris (Austria)

Mondi (U.K.)

Huhtamaki Oyj (Finland)

Sonoco Products Company (U.S.)

Constantia Flexibles (Austria)

ProAmpac (U.S.)

Flair Flexible Packaging Corporation (Canada)

Winpak Ltd. (Canada)

Logos Packaging (China)

DNP America (U.S.)

HPM Global Inc. (South Korea)

Printpack (U.S.)

Tetra Pak (Switzerland)

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific Dominates the Market Due to Increase in Cost-Effective Packaging Solutions Demand

Asia Pacific is the leading region in the retort packaging market share. The region’s growth is attributed to the increasing demand for cost-effective packaging solutions integrated with the growing packaged foods demand, such as ready to eat meals, and changing consumer lifestyles.

North America is the second leading region in the market due to the surging use of retort trays, pouches, and containers owing to their features, including lightweight and portability.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players are Offering Innovative Packaging Solutions Driving Market Expansion

In terms of the competitive landscape, the market consists of key players, including Amcor, Coveris, and others. These major players in the market are offering innovative packaging solutions in the packaging industry to maintain competitive edge in the market.

Get More Information: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/retort-packaging-market-109989

Key Industry Development

April 2022 – ProAmpac launched high-performance retort pouches containing post-consumer recycled materials. The company had developed these unique ProActive PCR retort pouches to fulfill the increasing demand for post-consumer recycled (PCR) packaging solutions.

Challenges

High Production Costs: The cost of manufacturing retort packaging can be high, especially when using advanced materials like aluminum or recyclable plastics.

Regulatory Barriers: Strict regulations around food safety, particularly in Europe and North America, can pose challenges for manufacturers in developing new packaging materials and methods.

[ujwala-hole11]

On-the-go Food Packaging Market Strategies: Trends and Innovations

The on-the-go food packaging market has witnessed substantial growth in recent years, driven by busy consumer lifestyles and a growing demand for convenient, portable food options. To stay competitive in this rapidly evolving market, companies are adopting innovative strategies to meet the evolving demands of consumers, manufacturers, and retailers. These strategies range from product innovation to eco-friendly packaging solutions and technological advancements. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key strategies that are shaping the on-the-go food packaging market.

1. Focus on Sustainability

As environmental concerns continue to rise, sustainability has become a central theme in the on-the-go food packaging market. Consumers are increasingly demanding packaging that is environmentally friendly, recyclable, or made from renewable materials. Companies are focusing on reducing the carbon footprint by shifting towards biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable packaging. For instance, packaging made from plant-based materials, such as polylactic acid is gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.

2. Smart Packaging Solutions

Technological advancements have paved the way for the adoption of smart packaging solutions. Features such as freshness indicators, temperature sensors, and QR codes are being integrated into on-the-go food packaging. These innovations not only ensure food safety and quality but also provide enhanced consumer engagement. By providing real-time data on the food's condition, smart packaging helps to reduce food waste and improves consumer confidence.

3. Consumer-Centric Design

Another key strategy for market growth is designing packaging that meets the specific needs of consumers. The on-the-go food packaging market caters to a wide range of food products, from beverages and snacks to ready-to-eat meals. Packaging must be convenient, easy to carry, and functional. Customization of packaging to meet consumer preferences for portion control, ease of use, and resealability is crucial. Brands are also focusing on creating aesthetically appealing designs to attract the attention of consumers in a crowded marketplace.

4. Investment in Research and Development

Innovation is key to staying ahead in the competitive food packaging market. Companies are heavily investing in R&D to develop packaging solutions that improve food preservation, enhance convenience, and offer better shelf life. The trend towards lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly packaging options has led to the development of advanced materials and packaging technologies. Through R&D, companies can meet the changing consumer demands and comply with regulatory standards.

5. Embracing Digital Transformation

Digital transformation plays a significant role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of packaging processes. With the rise of e-commerce and online food delivery services, packaging must be optimized for both transportation and storage. Digital tools and software solutions help streamline packaging design, production, and distribution processes. For instance, packaging companies are leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize designs and reduce costs while improving the overall quality and functionality of packaging.

6. Partnership and Collaboration

Collaborations and partnerships between food manufacturers and packaging companies are vital in addressing specific challenges and capitalizing on growth opportunities. By working together, businesses can share insights, access new markets, and develop innovative packaging solutions that meet consumer demands. Collaboration with environmental organizations and packaging suppliers who specialize in eco-friendly materials also helps companies align with sustainability goals.

7. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards

As the food packaging industry continues to grow, adherence to local and international safety regulations becomes even more critical. Companies in the on-the-go food packaging market must comply with food safety standards and packaging regulations set by governments and regulatory bodies. This includes using materials that are non-toxic, ensuring product labeling is clear and accurate, and implementing safe manufacturing processes.

Conclusion

The on-the-go food packaging market is evolving rapidly as companies respond to the growing consumer demand for convenience, sustainability, and safety. By focusing on key strategies such as sustainability, smart packaging, consumer-centric design, and innovation, companies can capture market share and meet the diverse needs of today’s fast-paced consumers. As the market continues to expand, businesses will need to stay agile and adapt to the changing landscape to remain competitive and profitable.

[b2bbusiness]

Exploring the Global Food and Grocery Market: Trends, Growth, and Opportunities

The food and grocery market is a cornerstone of global commerce, encompassing a vast range of products and services that cater to the essential needs of consumers. From fresh produce to packaged goods, beverages, and household essentials, this market is not only vital for daily sustenance but also serves as a key driver of economic activity. In this article, we delve into the dynamics of the food and grocery market, highlighting its growth trends, emerging opportunities, and future outlook.

Market Overview

The global food and grocery market is one of the largest segments of the retail industry, valued at trillions of dollars. It includes traditional grocery stores, supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online grocery platforms. The industry has witnessed significant transformations in recent years due to changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Trends Shaping the Market

E-Commerce and Online Grocery Shopping The rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the food and grocery market. Online platforms provide convenience, variety, and competitive pricing, making them increasingly popular among consumers. Services like same-day delivery and subscription-based models further enhance the appeal of online grocery shopping.

Sustainability and Ethical Consumption Consumers are becoming more conscious of sustainability and ethical practices. There is a growing demand for organic products, locally sourced items, and eco-friendly packaging. Retailers and brands that prioritize these aspects are gaining a competitive edge.

Health and Wellness Focus The health-conscious consumer segment continues to expand. This trend drives the demand for fresh produce, plant-based alternatives, and products with clean labels. Functional foods and beverages, fortified with nutrients or probiotics, are also gaining popularity.

Technological Integration Technology plays a pivotal role in streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and data analytics are used to optimize inventory management, personalize recommendations, and improve supply chain efficiency.

Private Labels and Customization Private-label products are gaining traction due to their affordability and perceived quality. Additionally, personalized offerings, such as tailored meal kits and customizable grocery options, are attracting niche markets.

Growth Drivers

Urbanization and Rising Incomes: Urbanization and growing disposable incomes in developing economies are boosting the demand for packaged and convenience foods.

Digital Penetration: Increased internet penetration and smartphone usage are expanding the reach of online grocery platforms.

Changing Lifestyles: Busy lifestyles and dual-income households drive the need for convenient and ready-to-eat food options.

Challenges

Despite its robust growth, the food and grocery market faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions, food safety concerns, and intense competition. Retailers must also navigate fluctuating raw material costs and evolving regulatory landscapes.

Regional Insights

North America: The region benefits from a mature retail infrastructure and a high adoption rate of online grocery services.

Europe: Sustainability and organic products are major focus areas, aligning with consumer preferences.

Asia-Pacific: Rapid urbanization and a growing middle class drive significant market growth, particularly in countries like China and India.

Latin America and MEA: These regions offer untapped potential, with increasing investments in retail infrastructure and e-commerce.

Buy the Full Report for More Insights into the Food and Grocery Market Forecast, Download a Free Report Sample

[nichromepackaging]

Taste the Difference: Elevating Ready-to-Eat Foods Packaging with Nichrome

In this fast-paced world, people require everything on the go. That's why convenience is so important, especially when it comes to food. Ready-to-eat foods have become a staple for individuals and families, providing delicious and easy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. At Nichrome, we understand the importance of not only providing convenient food options but also ensuring that the packaging reflects the quality and freshness of the products inside.

Introducing Nichrome’s Pick-Fill-Seal machine – the ultimate packaging innovation for elevating ready-to-eat food packaging to the next level.  Equipped with innovative rotary technology, this machine combines the benefits of versatility, productivity, and special packaging to revolutionize the way ready-to-eat food is served and enjoyed.

Variety at Your Fingertips:

With the constant innovation in the packaging segment, gone are the days of monotonous packaging designs and limited options. Nichrome's Pick Fill Seal machine, powered by versatile rotary technology, opens doors to a world of culinary creativity. With the ability to pack a diverse range of ready-to-eat foods in eye-catching innovative shapes, Nichrome empowers brands to stand out on the shelves and captivate consumers with visual appeal. From savory snacks to delectable desserts, our ready-to-eat food packaging machine ensures that your product maintains its freshness and flavor from the production line to the consumer's plate.

Productivity Redefined:

In today's competitive market, efficiency is paramount. Nichrome understands the importance of productivity, which is why the Pick-Fill-Seal machine is engineered for optimal performance. Sturdy and compact, this machine seamlessly integrates into production lines, maximizing output without compromising quality. The intuitive design of this RTE packaging machine ensures easy cleaning and maintenance, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to operate, allowing manufacturers to meet the market's growing demands without sacrificing quality or consistency. Plus, the easy-to-clean design of these horizontal form fill seal machines ensures minimal downtime, keeping production running smoothly day in and day out.

Specialty Packaging with Precision:

Nichrome's commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the packaging process. An advanced variant of instant food packaging technology innovated by Nichrome enables the dispensing of 2 or 3 different fillers simultaneously, allowing for the creation of multi-layered flavor experiences within the same pouch. This precision packaging of ready-to-eat foods ensures that each bite is a culinary delight, enhancing the overall consumer experience along with giving the food an extended shelf life. With Nichrome, ready-to-eat foods become more than just sustenance – they become a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Freshness Locked In:

Freshness preservation is non-negotiable when it comes to ready-to-cook food packaging. Nichrome's Pick-Fill-Seal machine employs state-of-the-art sealing technology to lock in freshness and flavor, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first. With advanced sealing technology and precise temperature control, Nichrome seals in freshness, preserving the flavor and quality of each bite. From the first bite to the last, your consumers can enjoy the full-bodied taste of freshly prepared foods even in packaged foods.

Conclusion:

Ready to take your ready-to-eat foods to the next level? Look no further than Nichrome. With our state-of-the-art RTE packaging machine, you'll unlock a world of possibilities in packaging innovation. From horizontal form-fill packaging to ready-to-cook solutions, we have smart packaging solutions that expertise in bringing your culinary creations to life.

That’s because Nichrome's Pick-Fill-Seal machine is not just a regular ready-to-eat food packaging machine – it's a testament to innovation, quality, and culinary excellence. Whether it's instant foods or ready-to-cook delights, Nichrome's innovative packaging solutions transform ordinary into extraordinary, one pouch at a time. Taste the difference with Nichrome – where taste meets technology, and every bite tells a story of innovation and indulgence.

[smith4883]

Cartoner Machines: A Comprehensive Guide

Cartoner machines are a cornerstone of modern packaging solutions, widely used in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmetics. These machines are designed to automate the process of folding cartons, inserting products, and sealing them efficiently. In this blog post, we will explore the features, types, applications, and benefits of cartoner machines, shedding light on why they are an indispensable part of industrial packaging lines.

What is a Cartoner Machine?

A cartoner machine is a type of packaging equipment used to form cartons, fill them with products, and seal them. Cartons can be made from various materials like cardboard or paperboard and are ideal for packaging a wide range of items. Cartoner machines enhance productivity, ensure uniformity in packaging, and improve product safety.

Key Features of Cartoner Machines

Modern cartoner machines are equipped with a variety of features that make them efficient and reliable:

Automated Operation: Most cartoner machines are fully automated, reducing manual labor and increasing operational speed.

Flexibility: These machines can handle different carton sizes and types, allowing manufacturers to package diverse products.

Precision: Advanced systems ensure accurate folding, filling, and sealing of cartons, minimizing errors and waste.

Integration with Other Equipment: Cartoner machines can be integrated with equipment like case sealers, labelers, and conveyors, creating a seamless packaging line.

Types of Cartoner Machines

There are two primary types of cartoner machines, each serving distinct purposes:

1. Horizontal Cartoner Machines

Horizontal cartoners are ideal for products that need to be inserted horizontally into cartons. These are commonly used for items like blister packs, tubes, or trays.

Features:

Suitable for high-speed operations.

Ideal for flat or cylindrical products.

Compact design for space-saving.

2. Vertical Cartoner Machines

Vertical cartoners are designed for products that are dropped vertically into cartons, such as bottles, jars, or sachets.

Features:

Best for heavy or irregularly shaped items.

Simple loading process.

High adaptability for diverse industries.

Applications of Cartoner Machines

Cartoner machines are utilized across various sectors due to their versatility and efficiency. Some common applications include:

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, cartoner machines are used to package medicines, tablets, vials, and syringes. These machines ensure precise packaging, which is crucial for maintaining product integrity and meeting regulatory standards.

2. Food and Beverage Industry

From cereals to ready-to-eat meals, cartoner machines play a pivotal role in food packaging. They ensure that food products are packed hygienically and securely, extending their shelf life.

3. Cosmetics Industry

The cosmetics industry uses cartoner machines to package items like creams, lipsticks, and perfumes. Cartoner machines not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the packaging but also ensure product protection during transportation.

4. Household Products

Products such as detergents, cleaning supplies, and light bulbs are packaged efficiently with cartoner machines, ensuring their durability and safe handling.

Benefits of Using Cartoner Machines

The use of cartoner machines in packaging processes offers numerous advantages:

1. Improved Efficiency

Cartoner machines significantly speed up the packaging process, enabling manufacturers to meet high production demands without compromising on quality.

2. Cost-Effective

Automation reduces the need for manual labor, lowering operational costs in the long term. Additionally, these machines minimize material wastage by ensuring precise packaging.

3. Consistency and Quality

Cartoner machines provide uniform packaging, which enhances brand image and ensures a professional presentation of products.

4. Enhanced Safety

By automating the packaging process, cartoner machines reduce the risk of workplace accidents and contamination, especially in industries like food and pharmaceuticals.

5. Integration Capabilities

Cartoner machines can seamlessly integrate with other equipment such as case sealers, conveyors, and labeling machines, streamlining the entire packaging process.

How to Choose the Right Cartoner Machine

Selecting the right cartoner machine depends on several factors:

1. Product Type

Consider the type, size, and shape of the product you need to package. Horizontal cartoners are suitable for flat items, while vertical cartoners work best for bulkier products.

2. Production Speed

Evaluate your production needs and choose a machine that can handle your desired output efficiently.

3. Carton Specifications

Ensure that the machine can accommodate the size and material of the cartons you plan to use.

4. Integration Needs

If your packaging line includes other equipment like case sealers, confirm that the cartoner machine can integrate smoothly with these systems.

5. Budget

Invest in a machine that balances quality and cost, keeping in mind the long-term savings and productivity gains it offers.

Maintenance and Care for Cartoner Machines

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your cartoner machine, regular maintenance is essential:

Routine Inspections: Check for wear and tear on components like belts, gears, and sensors.

Lubrication: Keep moving parts well-lubricated to prevent friction and damage.

Cleaning: Regularly clean the machine to avoid contamination and maintain hygiene standards.

Software Updates: Update the software periodically if your machine operates on digital controls.

Innovations in Cartoner Machines

Advancements in technology have led to the development of highly sophisticated cartoner machines with features like:

Smart Sensors: For real-time monitoring and error detection.

Robotic Arms: Enhancing precision and speed.

Energy Efficiency: Reducing power consumption while maintaining high output.

These innovations continue to drive the demand for cartoner machines, making them an essential investment for businesses aiming to stay competitive in the packaging industry.

Conclusion

Cartoner machines are a vital asset for businesses looking to optimize their packaging processes. Their ability to handle various products, ensure high-quality packaging, and integrate with other equipment like case sealers makes them indispensable in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics. Investing in a cartoner machine can boost efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product presentation, paving the way for business growth.

If you are considering implementing a cartoner machine into your packaging line, assess your specific needs, consult with experts, and choose a machine that aligns with your operational goals.

[seppasolution11]

"Lightweight, Durable, Recyclable: The Magic of PET Bottles in Modern Packaging"

Understanding PET Blowing Machines and Their Importance

In the contemporary packaging sector, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) blowing machines are essential, especially for producing eco-friendly, long-lasting, and lightweight containers. These devices use a complex process that includes heating, stretching, and blowing to turn preforms into bottles or containers of different sizes and shapes. PET-blowing machines find employment in a wide range of industries, including beverages, medicines, cosmetics, and household items. Because of their accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability, they are essential in large-scale manufacturing.

Applications of PET Blowing Machines

1. Beverage Industry

These equipment are essential to the beverage industry, which consumes the most PET bottles. PET blowing machines allow producers to produce containers that are not only lightweight but also incredibly durable and impact-resistant, from water and soft drink bottles to specialty packaging for juices and dairy items. Their adaptable designs make branding and labeling possible, which is crucial in areas with fierce competition.

2. Pharmaceutical Sector

Hygiene and accuracy are critical in the pharmaceutical sector. These machines produce PET bottles and are frequently used to store tablets, syrups, and disinfectants. PET's non-reactive nature ensures that the contents remain uncontaminated while adhering to strict safety regulations.

3. Personal Care and Cosmetics

PET blowing machines serve the cosmetics and personal care sectors by producing aesthetically pleasing bottles for shampoos, lotions, oils, and scents. These containers usually have intricate graphics that bolster the brand's upscale image.

4. Household Products

PET bottles are widely used to package cleaning products, detergents, and culinary oils. Their sturdy and impermeable characteristics, attained by means of accurate blowing procedures, guarantee security during storage and transit.

5. Food Packaging

Due to their non-toxic, lightweight, and recyclable qualities, PET containers are being utilized more and more for food storage as the demand for ready-to-eat meals and sauces rises.

What Makes Seppa Solutions’ PET Blowing Machines Stand Out?

Seppa Solutions has emerged as a leader in PET blowing machine technology, offering innovative solutions tailored to diverse industrial needs. Here’s why our machines excel:

1. Advanced Technology

Seppa Solutions builds cutting-edge technology into every PET blowing machine to ensure precision and efficiency. Our equipment uses modern heating systems and blow molds, allowing us to produce bottles with constant wall thickness and quality.

2. Energy Efficiency

We recognize the significance of sustainability in the current industrial environment. The energy-efficient parts used in the design of Seppa Solutions' PET blowing machines drastically lower operating expenses and lessen their environmental impact.

3. High-Speed Production

Depending on the model, our equipment may produce up to 2,000 bottles per hour. Because of their fast production speed, they are perfect for large-scale businesses that want to meet market demand without sacrificing quality.

4. Flexibility and Customization

Machines from Seppa Solutions are capable of handling a variety of preform sizes and bottle styles. This versatility enables manufacturers to design containers that are specific to their brand identity and practical requirements.

5. Robust Construction and Durability

Premium-grade materials are used in the construction of our PET blowing machines to ensure their long-term durability and reliable operation. This dependability raises overall production and lowers maintenance expenses.

6. User-Friendly Interface

Seppa Solutions' equipment is known for being easy to use. With automated procedures and user-friendly control panels, workers can oversee production with little training, which lowers downtime and boosts productivity.

7. After-Sales Support

Our top objective at Seppa Solutions is customer happiness. To ensure the smooth operation of our machines, we offer extensive after-sales service, which includes installation, training, maintenance, and technical assistance.

How Seppa Solutions Contributes to Industry Sustainability

1. Recycling and Reusability

The circular economy is supported by Seppa Solutions' PET blowing machines, which make it easier to employ recycled PET (rPET). The bottles are 100% recyclable, which helps to decrease plastic waste.

2. Energy-Saving Designs

Our machines are an environmentally friendly option since they drastically reduce energy consumption through the use of low-energy heating systems and efficient blowing operations.

3. Lightweight Packaging

Our equipment makes it possible to produce lightweight bottles, which lowers transportation expenses and material consumption. This improves cost-efficiency in addition to reducing the carbon footprint.

Industries Benefiting from Seppa Solutions’ PET Blowing Machines

Seppa Solutions caters to a wide array of industries, including:

 Drinks: juices, carbonated drinks, energy drinks, and water.

Pharmaceuticals: Syrups, antiseptics, and medical-grade liquids.

Food Products: Sauces, cooking oils, and dairy products.

Cosmetics: Perfume, lotion, and shampoo packaging.

Household Goods: Cleaning products and detergents.

Why Choose Seppa Solutions?

Seppa Solutions' PET blowing machines raise the bar for efficiency, dependability, and environmental responsibility. Our machines provide unmatched performance whether your goal is to increase production, enhance packing quality, or implement greener manufacturing techniques. A commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability is what drives the decision to invest in Seppa Solutions' technology.

[natashahyleeyear2]

15 Minute City Evaluation

We started off the 15 Minute City project with a workshop, that consolidated our knowledge on what the 15 minute city actually is. We also came up with services with unique selling points and possible services we could think about creating a brand identity with. I had three original ideas for the project, one being an InPost for medication that is accessible 24/7. It sparked from the fact I’d had an allergic reaction away from home and had no medication. However after research, I found out that medication is not allowed to be given without a prescription and this may be hard to do without being face to face with a professional. I then thought of the idea of a vending machine that dispenses warm, healthy food 24/7, specifically targeting younger people coming home from a night out when there aren’t any food places open. I was inspired by 7- 11, a convenience shop in Asia. I researched into how vending machines work, how to make them energy efficient and green to support the UN sustainability goals. I also researched Tony Fresh, which inspired me heavily to create simple but effective imagery for my branding. The brand used a lot of bright abstract shapes and simple faces, to make them stand out and to evoke smiles and emotions. This inspired me to use bright colours within my work too and to specifically focus on colours that evoke positive, encouraging and fun emotions. International Year Of Millets was another brand I looked at, I particularly focused on their logo as it had so many subtle meanings behind it- I wanted my logo to do the same within my brand.

After my tutorial, I decided to change my idea as it was suggested that my idea didn’t have a big enough problem and was mainly aimed at drunk people. I came up with a new problem of uni students not eating healthily or properly. I felt like this was a relatable problem for a lot of people. I am a terrible chef and my mum is always worried about the amount of processed and ready meals I eat, hence she always cooks me food at home to freeze during uni time. I figured that this never actually solves the problem of me becoming a better chef and the food eventually does run out! I came up with the idea of a space or pod that allows students to pick their own fruit and veg, then a space where they can be taught how to cook a meal with them and a place where they can sit down and enjoy it. I wanted the service to be as fun and enjoyable as possible and not like a chore. I researched into polytunnel pods, propagating and cutting and Garson’s Farm. However, later on I received feedback to change my idea to something simpler and faster. Therefore I changed my idea to a box of prepared ingredients to make a meal, which you then take to the kitchen to cook and then you can sit down and enjoy it. I researched pre- existing cooking services, I liked how Cooking On A Budget provided support and advice, and wanted my brand to come across as a supportive and welcoming community, similarly. Clarion Housing aimed on bringing people together, I hoped to do similarly for my brand by creating circular tables for the seating area and meal boxes for singular people as well as groups of people. School Of Flavours Cookery is specifically aimed at younger people, so it was inspiring to look at how their brand identity targets their audience and how they’ve made their lessons fun and enjoyable. I researched into pre-existing box meal deliveries and the positives and negatives of them. There were some aspects I wanted my brand to have that they didn’t. I wanted my service to include meal boxes for singular people, small groups of people and big groups of people, unlike Hello Fresh. Every part of the packaging in my box would also be recyclable and sustainable, unlike Green Chef’s packaging. After feedback from the logo of my branding, I was advised to look at Millbank Farm and Die Line packaging to get ideas on how I could link my illustrations to my logo and how the typography and illustrations interact with each other.

I thought about my logo name by listing out words related to each section of my service and doing the same for imagery I could do. I came up with Pick n’ Plate that represents the process of the service from the beginning to the end, picking the ingredients box, cooking it and plating it up to eat. I drew illustrations for each part of my service to get ideas on how I could combine each one to create a logo. My original logo was overcomplicated a lot so I simplified it further based on research. I was advised to include something to make it look like it was an eating place as it looked a lot like a farm branding previously. I was advised to change the typography, so I changed it to something more contemporary, fun and friendly, a font someone is willing to learn from. I chose the colours red as it is an appetite stimulant and exciting colour, yellow for optimism, positivity and happiness, green to show it is a healthy and environmentally friendly brand. I created posters to show the benefits of certain fruit and veg and the best meals to make with them to educate customers. I created recipe cards which will be given out to encourage customers to cook at home too. I included signage and packaging for the boxes, including a random recipe if the customer is up for a challenge and can’t decide what to cook. As I am targeting younger people, I wanted to advertise my brand mostly through social media, so I created social media assets too. After my final presentation, I was advised to change the logo again to match my illustrations better. I changed it to my illustration of a tomato with cutlery. The tomato represents the healthy aspect of my brand, it’s in a similar shape to a plate to represent eating and cooking. The spherical shape also represents the circular tables in the seating area that are more inclusive and together than rectangular tables. I changed the white writing on the yellow backgrounds to dark green as well as introducing columns in my recipes. Overall, I am happy with my outcome as it solves many aspects of the reasons why students may not be eating properly, it’s quick to pick up a box, with classes varying in time, difficulty and size. The service is fun, enjoyable, less like a chore, and hopefully will get support financially from uni to lower the expenses of coming here! It also helps to support the UN development goal 2, zero hunger, goal 3, good health and well being and goal 4, good education.

[marketanalysisdata]

Flexible Packaging Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis And Forecast Report 2030

The global flexible packaging market size is expected to reach USD 373.34 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030. This market growth is owing to the growing importance of increasing food shelf life and growing adoption of sustainable and cost-effective packaging by end-users.

The shelf life of food products depends on factors such as storage conditions, packaging material, and exposure to microorganisms, oxygen, light, and moisture. The flexible packaging consists of plastic films with high barrier properties. The high-barrier properties efficiently block the transmission of moisture, light, and oxygen from contacting sensitive foods. Furthermore, the reseal closure products featured flexible packaging that allow users to securely close the bags or pouches, ensuring the freshness of the packaged food products over several uses.

The industry players are adopting several strategies including partnerships, expansions, mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, new product launches, and partnership agreements to increase the customer base and individual market share. For instance, in May 2023, Amcor plc inked an agreement to acquire New Zealand-based automated protein packaging machines manufacturer, Moda Systems. This acquisition is expected to provide Amcor plc with a new option related to equipment in automated protein products packaging, making it the only flexible packaging manufacturer to own high-speed rotary equipment for packaging fresh meat.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Global Flexible Packaging Market

Flexible Packaging Market Report Highlights

The rapid growth of e-commerce sector globally creates opportunities for flexible packaging manufacturers to cater to the specific needs of online retail businesses. Companies that develop packaging solutions to protect products during transit, reduce damage, and improve unboxing experiences can gain a competitive advantage in the e-commerce market

The growing number of medical device manufacturers and ongoing research on new packaging materials is driving the market for medical flexible packaging. The strong healthcare infrastructure coupled with growing healthcare spending in the public sector is expected to have a positive impact on market demand

The pouches segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% over the forecast period 2024-2030. This is owing to the pouches being resealable and a cost-effective alternative to metal, cardboard, and glass containers for packaging solutions

Food & beverage was the largest application segment, accounting for 55.9% of global volume share in 2023. Growing demand for packaged foods, including ready-to-eat meals, frozen meals, snack foods, and cake mixes, is expected to force flexible packaging manufacturers to increase production capacity, thus augmenting market for flexible packaging demand over the forecast period

Asia Pacific recorded a higher market share in 2023 owing to factors such as rising population, rising income levels, and changing lifestyles are expected to drive consumption of the packaged food cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products resulting in increased demand for flexible packaging solutions

Several key companies are collaborating to strengthen their market positions in the flexible packaging industry. For instance, in June 2023, Coveris acquired Poland-based D.K. LAMIN, a manufacturer of flexible packaging laminated films and converted products. With an emphasis on value-added medical packaging, home and personal care food, and pet food, D.K. LAMIN's experience and product offerings integrate with Coveris' existing product portfolio, particularly complementing its pet food growth goal

Browse through Grand View Research's Plastics, Polymers & Resins Industry Research Reports.

Cross-linked Polyethylene Market: The global cross-linked polyethylene market size was valued at USD 8.0 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030.

Poly Alpha Olefin Market: The global poly alpha olefin market size was valued at USD 1.48 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2024 to 2030.

Flexible Packaging Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global flexible packaging market report based on material, product, application, and region

Flexible Packaging Material Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Plastics

Polyethylene (PE)

Polypropylene (PP)

Polyamide (PA)

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polystyrene (PS)

Others

Paper

Metal

Bioplastics

Flexible Packaging Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Bags

Pouches

Retort Pouches

Refill Pouches

Rollstock

Films & Wraps

Others

Flexible Packaging Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Food

Beverages

Pharmaceutical & Healthcare

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Others

Flexible Packaging Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Central & South America

Middle East & Africa

Order a free sample PDF of the Flexible Packaging Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[marketstudyreport]

Flexible Packaging Market Size, Share, Growth, Analysis Forecast to 2030

The global flexible packaging market size is expected to reach USD 373.34 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030. This market growth is owing to the growing importance of increasing food shelf life and growing adoption of sustainable and cost-effective packaging by end-users.

The shelf life of food products depends on factors such as storage conditions, packaging material, and exposure to microorganisms, oxygen, light, and moisture. The flexible packaging consists of plastic films with high barrier properties. The high-barrier properties efficiently block the transmission of moisture, light, and oxygen from contacting sensitive foods. Furthermore, the reseal closure products featured flexible packaging that allow users to securely close the bags or pouches, ensuring the freshness of the packaged food products over several uses.

The industry players are adopting several strategies including partnerships, expansions, mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, new product launches, and partnership agreements to increase the customer base and individual market share. For instance, in May 2023, Amcor plc inked an agreement to acquire New Zealand-based automated protein packaging machines manufacturer, Moda Systems. This acquisition is expected to provide Amcor plc with a new option related to equipment in automated protein products packaging, making it the only flexible packaging manufacturer to own high-speed rotary equipment for packaging fresh meat.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Global Flexible Packaging Market

Flexible Packaging Market Report Highlights

The rapid growth of e-commerce sector globally creates opportunities for flexible packaging manufacturers to cater to the specific needs of online retail businesses. Companies that develop packaging solutions to protect products during transit, reduce damage, and improve unboxing experiences can gain a competitive advantage in the e-commerce market

The growing number of medical device manufacturers and ongoing research on new packaging materials is driving the market for medical flexible packaging. The strong healthcare infrastructure coupled with growing healthcare spending in the public sector is expected to have a positive impact on market demand

The pouches segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% over the forecast period 2024-2030. This is owing to the pouches being resealable and a cost-effective alternative to metal, cardboard, and glass containers for packaging solutions

Food & beverage was the largest application segment, accounting for 55.9% of global volume share in 2023. Growing demand for packaged foods, including ready-to-eat meals, frozen meals, snack foods, and cake mixes, is expected to force flexible packaging manufacturers to increase production capacity, thus augmenting market for flexible packaging demand over the forecast period

Asia Pacific recorded a higher market share in 2023 owing to factors such as rising population, rising income levels, and changing lifestyles are expected to drive consumption of the packaged food cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products resulting in increased demand for flexible packaging solutions

Several key companies are collaborating to strengthen their market positions in the flexible packaging industry. For instance, in June 2023, Coveris acquired Poland-based D.K. LAMIN, a manufacturer of flexible packaging laminated films and converted products. With an emphasis on value-added medical packaging, home and personal care food, and pet food, D.K. LAMIN's experience and product offerings integrate with Coveris' existing product portfolio, particularly complementing its pet food growth goal

Browse through Grand View Research's Plastics, Polymers & Resins Industry Research Reports.

Cross-linked Polyethylene Market: The global cross-linked polyethylene market size was valued at USD 8.0 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030.

Poly Alpha Olefin Market: The global poly alpha olefin market size was valued at USD 1.48 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2024 to 2030.

Flexible Packaging Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global flexible packaging market report based on material, product, application, and region

Flexible Packaging Material Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Plastics

Polyethylene (PE)

Polypropylene (PP)

Polyamide (PA)

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Polystyrene (PS)

Others

Paper

Metal

Bioplastics

Flexible Packaging Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Bags

Pouches

Retort Pouches

Refill Pouches

Rollstock

Films & Wraps

Others

Flexible Packaging Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Food

Beverages

Pharmaceutical & Healthcare

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Others

Flexible Packaging Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Central & South America

Middle East & Africa

Order a free sample PDF of the Flexible Packaging Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.