Partnership combines Footprint’s global manufacturing and customer platform with Qwarzo’s unique mineral-based coating technology to support scalable alternatives to plastic-lined paper cups
GILBERT, Ariz. / PALAZZOLO SULL’OGLIO, Italy – 28th July 2026 Footprint International, LLC (“Footprint”), a materials science company focused on reducing reliance on single-use plastics, and Qwarzo S.p.A. (“Qwarzo”), an innovative ingredient brand company specialized in next-generation materials for the packaging and food sectors, today announced a strategic agreement to support the continued development and scale-up of PE-free paper cup solutions using Qwarzo® technology.
The agreement brings together Footprint’s manufacturing platform, customer reach and experience in fiber-based packaging solutions with Qwarzo’s proprietary mineral-based coating technology, designed to provide functional barrier performance while supporting recyclability and compostability. Qwarzo® technology is plastic-free and without intentionally added microplastics or PFAS and is engineered to enhance paper and other substrates without compromising their circularity.
The collaboration will support the deployment of PE-free hot and cold cup solutions, together with related lid and straw applications, addressing growing demand from brands, foodservice operators and consumers for practical alternatives to traditional plastic-lined paper cups. These solutions are intended to help customers meet evolving regulatory requirements and sustainability goals while maintaining the performance expected in everyday use.
“Footprint is committed to bringing scalable, practical and high-performance alternatives to single-use plastics into the market,” said Corey Berends, Chief Executive Officer of Footprint. “Qwarzo’s mineral-based coating technology strengthens our ability to offer customers PE-free solutions that support recycling and composting pathways without compromising functionality.”
“We are proud to partner with Footprint, a company that shares our commitment to innovation, sustainability and industrial scale,” said Alessio Facondo, Chief Executive Officer of Qwarzo. “This agreement represents an important step in accelerating the adoption of Qwarzo® technology globally and in demonstrating how our proprietary mineralbased coatings can contribute to the next generation of circular paper packaging.”
“I am very excited about this agreement with an innovative global leader like Footprint which shares my life goal of building a more sustainable plastic-free world.” added Luca Panzeri, Qwarzo® Inventor.
Footprint and Qwarzo will work together to support the commercialization and industrial scale-up of mineral-coated applications across key markets, beginning in Europe and with the potential to expand further internationally. The partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to advancing packaging solutions that reduce plastic dependency, preserve product performance and support a more circular economy.
***
About Footprint
Footprint is a materials science and technology company focused on reducing reliance on single-use plastics through fiber-based packaging and paper product solutions.
Guided by its Healthy Planet, Healthy People® mission, Footprint helps brands bring high-performance alternatives to market through innovation, material science, and global manufacturing capabilities.
Website: www.footprintus.com
About Qwarzo
Qwarzo is an innovative Italian SME, based in Brescia (Italy) and focused on sustainable, high-performance alternatives to plastic coatings.
Its flagship technology, a mineral-based silica coating, can be applied to paper, textiles, metals, and more – making them water, grease, and heat resistant without compromising recyclability or compostability.
Qwarzo enhances FSC® and PEFC®-certified paper with barrier properties while preventing chemical migration—an issue often seen in traditional plastic or PFAS-based coatings.
Website: www.qwarzo.com
