Packaging qualification helps Kinisla drive professional development

Date published: 14 August 2026

Niamh McVeigh, New Product Introduction Lead at Kinisla, Portadown, was among the students recognised at the recent College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), Further Education Food Awards Ceremony.

Working at the forefront of new product introduction, Niamh plays a key role in bringing innovative products to market. Recognising the growing importance of packaging in delivering quality, functionality, sustainability and consumer appeal, she enrolled on the PIABC Level 2 Award in Packaging to further strengthen her knowledge and understanding of the packaging industry.

Reflecting on her experience, Niamh said: "Completing the PIABC Level 2 Award in Packaging has been extremely valuable for my continuing professional development. The course provided a comprehensive understanding of packaging materials, design, sustainability considerations and the important role packaging plays throughout the food supply chain.

"The knowledge I've gained will help me in my role as NPI Lead, enabling me to make more informed packaging decisions and contribute to packaging developments that meet both business and consumer needs. It was also a fantastic opportunity to learn alongside professionals from across the food and packaging sectors."

Peter Simpson, Head of Food Technology at CAFRE Loughry Campus, congratulated Niamh on her achievement and highlighted the importance of packaging skills within the modern agri-food industry.

“We are delighted to support learners such as Niamh in developing their knowledge and careers. The PIABC Level 2 Award provides an excellent foundation in packaging, while our forthcoming PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging offers an opportunity for those wishing to further enhance their skills and understanding of packaging technology and innovation. We would encourage anyone involved in packaging, new product development, technical, quality or manufacturing roles to consider enrolling on the next programme.”

Delivered at CAFRE's specialist Food Technology Centre at Loughry Campus, the PIABC Level 2 Award in Packaging is widely recognised throughout the food, drink and packaging industries. The qualification provides participants with a practical understanding of packaging functions, materials, manufacturing processes, sustainability and legislative requirements.

For industry professionals looking to expand their expertise further, CAFRE Loughry Campus is now recruiting for its forthcoming PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging. The qualification is designed for those wishing to build on existing packaging knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of packaging technology, materials, sustainability, specification development and industry best practice.

With demand increasing for packaging professionals who can balance product protection, regulatory compliance and sustainability objectives, the qualification offers an excellent opportunity to gain industry-recognised credentials while developing practical skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace.

Applications for the next PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging are now open. Anyone interested in enhancing their packaging knowledge and supporting their professional development can visit the CAFRE website for further information or to secure their place.

For more information on packaging training opportunities at CAFRE Loughry Campus, visit the CAFRE website or contact Adele Dallas via adele.dallas@daera-ni.gov.uk