Spanish Outages Likely Cost Top Power User Repsol €170 Million
A nationwide blackout in April led to an estimated loss of roughly €100 million at five refineries, and €40 million at three chemical plants, according to the people, who asked not to be named because the information isn't public. Smaller power failures probably cost about €30 million, they added.
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How Western sanctions reshaped Russia's dairy packaging
The Russian dairy industry has faced profound challenges in recent years, particularly in the packaging sector. The imposition of western sanctions since 2022 disrupted supply chains and restricted access to essential materials and machinery. However, the country's response has been swift and adaptive, with the packaging sector undergoing a remarkable transformation. From initial shortages to near-complete localisation, Russia's experience offers insight into how industries can navigate geopolitical pressures while maintaining production. This article explores the journey of dairy packaging in Russia, focusing on the impact of sanctions, the strategies employed to overcome shortages, and the current state of the industry as it balances resilience with ongoing challenges. The impact of western sanctions on Russian dairy packaging Western sanctions, implemented in response to geopolitical tensions, have had a significant effect on Russia's supply chains, especially in industries reliant on imported raw materials and equipment. The dairy packaging sector was particularly vulnerable due to its dependence on specialised components such as laminated cartonboard, polymer films, inks, adhesives, and aseptic packaging technology—much of which was sourced from Europe and other western countries. Before the sanctions, approximately half of Russia's dairy packaging materials, including aseptic cartons commonly used for milk and juice, were imported. These materials are critical for preserving shelf life, maintaining product safety, and meeting consumer expectations. The sudden restriction on imports led to acute shortages, forcing dairy producers to confront the risk of interrupted production and distribution. Moreover, the packaging machinery itself, such as filling lines and sealing equipment, often required maintenance parts and technical support from western manufacturers. The sanctions complicated access to spare parts and technical expertise, increasing downtime and reducing efficiency. Consequently, many smaller converters and packaging suppliers faced financial strain, while larger companies were compelled to seek alternatives quickly. Strategies for overcoming packaging shortages and localisation efforts Faced with these constraints, the Russian dairy packaging sector embarked on a rapid import substitution and localisation drive. Government agencies, industry associations, and private enterprises collaborated to stabilise supply and support domestic production. This multi-pronged approach included several key strategies: Development of domestic materials: Russian manufacturers accelerated the production of laminated cartonboard and polymer films that could meet food safety and durability standards. Investments were made to enhance coating technologies, printing inks, and adhesives compatible with dairy products. Sourcing from alternative markets: Companies expanded procurement beyond traditional western suppliers to include countries less affected by sanctions, such as China, Turkey, India, and the United Arab Emirates. This diversification helped alleviate immediate shortages while domestic production capacity was scaled up. Stockpiling and inventory management: Dairy producers and packaging suppliers increased inventory levels of critical materials to buffer against supply disruptions. This shift improved operational continuity despite unpredictable import timelines. Upgrading local machinery and equipment: Efforts were made to modernise packaging machinery domestically, with some companies developing repair and manufacturing capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign spare parts. By early 2024, these strategies had yielded significant results. According to industry reports, mass-market dairy packaging types had become largely localised, mitigating the worst effects of the sanctions. Many major dairy companies reported a return to stable packaging supplies, although certain specialised formats—such as high-tech aseptic cartons—remained challenging to produce domestically at scale. The current landscape and ongoing challenges in Russian dairy packaging As of mid-2025, the Russian dairy packaging industry stands on a much more secure footing than it did three years prior. The widespread localisation of packaging materials has helped restore supply chains, ensuring that milk, yoghurts, and other dairy products continue to reach consumers reliably. The government continues to prioritise the dairy sector as a vital part of food security, encouraging innovation and investment in packaging technologies. Industry bodies have also promoted standardisation efforts and quality improvements to meet both domestic and export market requirements. Nevertheless, some challenges persist. The production of niche, high-tech packaging remains limited, particularly for aseptic cartons with advanced barrier properties and specialised designs. These formats are critical for extending shelf life and maintaining premium product quality. Importing such materials is still subject to regulatory hurdles and elevated costs. In addition, the price of packaging materials has increased due to inflationary pressures and higher production costs associated with localisation and alternative sourcing. This rise has, in turn, affected the overall cost structure of dairy products. The sector is also adapting to growing consumer demand for sustainability. While efforts are underway to develop recyclable and biodegradable packaging options within Russia, progress is gradual given the current economic and technological constraints. Looking ahead Russia's dairy packaging sector illustrates a compelling case of resilience and adaptation under duress. The sanctions imposed since 2022 exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains, yet the industry's rapid localisation, diversified sourcing, and strategic stockpiling have largely stabilised packaging availability by 2025. While some gaps remain in specialised packaging formats and cost pressures persist, the sector is moving toward greater self-sufficiency and sustainability. This journey underscores the importance of flexible supply chains and domestic capability in a globalised market marked by geopolitical uncertainty. As Russia continues to invest in its packaging technologies and materials, its dairy industry may serve as a valuable example for other sectors facing similar challenges worldwide. "How Western sanctions reshaped Russia's dairy packaging" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
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42 minutes ago
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M&S ad banned over ‘unhealthily thin' model
The UK's advertising regulator has banned a Marks & Spencer advert that appeared on the retailer's app and website, after ruling it 'irresponsible' for portraying a model in a way that suggested unhealthy thinness. This decision offers insight into how retail advertising standards address body image concerns in marketing campaigns. Why the ASA acted: breach of social responsibility in retail advertising According to the ASA, one specific image violated CAP Code rule 1.3 by presenting a model whose pose, outfit and camera angle emphasised slenderness. The model's prominent collarbones, the downward tilt of her head, and pointed shoes were all cited as contributing factors that made her appear unhealthily thin. M&S confirmed it had removed the image and pledged to prepare future adverts responsibly. Retailer's response and wider industry context M&S told the ASA that all its models are in good health, and that the pose and styling choices were intended to convey confidence, not to exaggerate slimness. The retailer also emphasised its inclusive sizing range, from UK size 8 to 24, and stated that other flagged images had been reviewed but not banned. This ruling follows similar ASA actions earlier in 2025, including bans on adverts by Next and Warehouse for comparable issues, signalling renewed scrutiny on body image in fashion retail adverts. Implications for retail advertising standards and future campaigns The ASA's decision underlines the growing enforcement of retail advertising standards relating to social responsibility and body image. Marketing teams across the UK's fashion industry are now under closer observation, especially regarding visual composition—including camera angles, styling and model selection. Industry experts say this is part of a broader pushback against unrealistic body ideals, which have been fuelled by social media trends and weight-loss drug culture. Retailers will need to ensure their advertisements comply with ASA guidance to avoid social irresponsibility rulings. This includes careful review of imagery for any indicators of unhealthy thinness, and may require stricter internal checks before launching campaigns. "M&S ad banned over 'unhealthily thin' model" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
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43 minutes ago
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'In principle…' – Joan Laporta confirms updated Barcelona transfer plans
Barcelona have had a compelling summer so far, with numerous deals having been completed by sporting director Deco. In terms of incomings, Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford have arrived, while a number of fringe first team players have departed. Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who recently expressed his delight at Rashford's arrival from Manchester United, discussed the club's transfer situation during an interview with MD. He revealed that the main aim was to avoid losing any key players. 'Our main interest and obsession was to keep the team from last season, because it was historic. We wanted to maintain that team spirit with the players we had, which is why many offers that have been received have not even been considered. The coach asked us for more firepower up front. With Marcus Rashford, we have it. And Deco's vision of what could happen with Marc-André has been fundamental to strengthen the goal very well. Joan Garcia is doing some spectacular training sessions and will please Barça.' Image via Alberto Estevez/EFE Laporta also confirmed that the current plan is for no more signings to be made, while reaffirming his desire for no big players to depart before the end of the summer transfer window. 'In principle, there will be no more signings. We have a squad and the coach wants to make additions to the first team dynamic with players from Barça Atlètic, but additions are not expected at the moment. We will try to avoid any painful exit. I'm not going to specify players because they are all Barça players and we are all delighted with them, but there will be certain adjustments, because there are too many players in some positions, replicated, and something will have to be done. This is already at the discretion of the coach and Deco.' Laporta remarks won't go down well with Hansi Flick The fact that no more signings are planned is not good news for Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick, who wants another defender to be added to his squad. But as things stand, he won't get his wish.
