The new EMKON automation GmbH has been strengthening the Optima Group from Schwaebisch Hall (Germany) since August 1, 2020 and will focus on the market segment of roll-your-own tobacco. Assets of emkon. Systemtechnik, Projektmanagement GmbH in Kirchlinteln (Verden district, Lower Saxony) will also flow into the new company.

At the beginning of July, Optima gave a "Digital Welcome" to the new apprentices and students at the Digital Innovation Center. The COVID-19 pandemic meant that it was not possible for the customary afternoon of getting to known each other to take place in person. There were over 45 spectators – trainees and students starting at Optima in September and October respectively, and their parents – following the virtual event. The concept was very well received by the professionals of the future.

The Optima Group based in Schwaebisch Hall, Germany, has made sustainability one of its central tenets. To this end, a Sustainability Department has been set up to concentrate on developing ideas and solutions.

Working together with the companies Wipf and säntis packaging, Optima has developed a completely recyclable capsule system. It features a single-material capsule with recyclable lid film and a compatible packaging system. This development means that the partner companies are promoting a sustainable recycling economy from production and use, through to recycling of the packaging.

Taking part in the Packaging Valley Remote Makeathon on June 25 and 26, students and young professionals at Optima developed three potential solutions for more sustainable recycling economy. Because of the Corona pandemic, the development competition was decentralized and held at a variety of locations.