Free Packaging Webinars from ThePackHub This Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET All new innovations. Join us for our latest free one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now.

#1 Perfume bottle designed for dual usage occasions

Aptar Beauty + Home has partnered with Japanese multinational personal care company Shiseido to create a new solution for the dispensing of perfumes. Issey Miyake’s L’Eau d’Issey now features a unique and versatile bottle offering two formats in one. A standard at-home ‘prestigious’ format has been combined with a travel format in a single set. The 2-in-1 bottle technology is a first for the already innovative perfume industry.  The novel double pack concept is called IGO / ISTAY. The ISTAY bottle is in keeping with the existing L’Eau d’Issey fragrance bottle design. The light and unbreakable IGO cap can be used out of the home and contains 20ml of fragrance and an integrated vaporizer. It clips to the ISTAY base to offer a travel format and can be used completely independently.

#2 World’s first unlimited returnable container subscription

There are almost two million people living in the UK with sight loss and around 360,000 of those are registered as blind or partially sighted. An Italian start-up has developed a new initiative for food labels to help the visually-impaired understand vital pack information as well as be able to engage with a brand. An inclusive packaging solution sees the development of a QR code prototype. When the code is scanned on a pack it narrates olive oil packaging labels on a user’s smartphone. The “Narrative Label” uses a 30-second audio recording alongside a range of large-sized images, text and videos to detail the product contents. Sistemi e Servizi di Precisione (SISSPre) start-up has developed the QR code prototype, which is compatible with both Android and iOS systems. It is being trialed with 20 local businesses to test usability and user acceptance. The Narrative Label needs to be merely scanned for it to generate its contents. The content can be constantly updated by the brand owner without needing to change the QR code on the pack. Braille labeling on-pack can be cost-prohibitive.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Glue-free wooden cap features removable plastic inner for recycling

Wood packaging specialists Pujolasos delivers innovations to enhance sustainable perfume and cosmetic packaging. The Barcelona-based business has announced the introduction of a glue-free wooden cap, which has a removable and recyclable plastic inner, a first of its kind. The removable plastic inner means that it can be easily recycled post-use. Also made available is a mono-material threaded wooden cap. The recently developed patented wooden cap – the Woodle tackles the ongoing challenge of multi-material component recycling. The plastic inner is designed to be easily removed and then recycled after its useful life. Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastic can also be incorporated to further enhance environmental credentials. The innovation is compatible with the majority of existing and potential perfumery and cosmetics packaging developments.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Packaging question of the week

By 2025, how big will refillable and reusable packaging be? Vote and comment now.

Last week: 43% strongly agree that the growth of the refillable and reusable packaging market is a big opportunity for packaging suppliers.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Free Packaging Webinars from ThePackHub This Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Catch up on the latest pharmaceutical packaging innovations with ThePackHub’s one-hour assessment of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and in-development innovations to inspire you and keep you up to speed. We will be joined from Australia by Tim MacDonald, Vice President – Medical of Snapsil who will be discussing their innovative ease of use solutions. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: This Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now. Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET All new innovations. Join us for our latest free one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now.

#1 Recycled food grade soft plastic packaging is a cheese market first

According to the 2019 UK Household Plastic Collection Survey, just over 5% of soft plastic is collected to be recycled into new material and that is non-food grade only. UK supermarket leaders Tesco plan to change that with the introduction of the first recycled food-grade soft plastic packaging from materials returned by their customers. A trial will see the retailer’s own label cheese brand use the recycled packaging via their supplier Bradburys. It will contain a minimum of 30% recycled material. Recycling collection points specifically for soft plastics were introduced in 10 south-west Tesco stores with a view to identifying ways to create a closed-loop recycling system. The material is sent to London-based leading chemical recycling company Plastic Energy. They used packaging is converted into oil through pyrolysis. This recycled oil is then used by SABIC in their production process to make new plastic pellets. Sealed Air produced the new packaging for seven different cheese variants. Work is ongoing to access scalability.

#2 Market leader makes snack tube switch to improve recycling

Forest Glenn, Queensland-based Snapsil Corporation is an Australian leader in easy to use packaging technology. They have developed a distinctive and innovative new way to open medical devices with ease. Their patented technology for the Centre Snap Powder pack is most suitable for medical and pharmaceutical applications for easy opening, controlled dispense and accurate dosing. Suitable for powdered products, the pack design makes it easy for consumers to check for any residual powder that might be left to help reduce product wastage and ensure all is used.  It offers a one-stop continuous dispense and delivers excellent and efficient evacuation of product. The pack is small and easy to carry making it perfect for on-the-go usage. The easy to open pack is available in a range of customizable shapes and sizes.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Paper beverage packaging testing switches to vodka bottles

Absolut Company is examining alternative to glass bottle formats with the announcement that it is testing a small quantity of paper-based bottles. The activity is part of its collaboration with Paboco, a joint venture between Swedish pulp and paper manufacturer BillerudKorsnäs and bottle manufacturer Alpla Group. Paboco’s other partners include Coca-Cola, Carlsberg and L’Oréal. The first production of 2,000 prototypes will be submitted for controlled testing in Sweden and then the UK. The latest model is made from a combination of 57% paper and 43% plastic. The whole bottle is recyclable and is made of 100% recycled content.  Following initial feedback from consumers, a second pilot production run is planned. Absolut Vodka and Absolut Mixt will be the first two products tested in the paper bottles. The recycled plastic makes up the single barrier layer for the bottle, which can successfully be recycled with processing systems for this material are already in place. The next stage of development is striving towards the ultimate goal of a fully bio-based bottle.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Packaging question of the week

The growth of the refillable and reusable packaging market is a big opportunity for packaging suppliers? Vote and comment now.

Last week: 43% say paper-based bottles is the format for the future for the beverage industry.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Free Packaging Webinars from ThePackHub Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Catch up on the latest pharmaceutical packaging innovations with ThePackHub’s one-hour assessment of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and in-development innovations to inspire you and keep you up to speed. We will be joined from Australia by Tim MacDonald, Vice President – Medical of Snapsil who will be discussing their innovative ease of use solutions. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now. Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET All new innovations. Join us for our latest free one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now.

#1 Wide spray pattern for new closure covers more surface area with less product

A new innovation from St. Louis, Missouri-based designer and distributor of rigid packaging TricorBraun aims to improve user convenience with a closure that transforms how liquids are dispensed. Their new Halo Multi-Stream closure has created a point of difference and a unique selling point via a wide spray pattern that can cover more surface area with less product. This not only helps to save the consumer time but also reduces product waste. The closure can quickly cover large surface areas. The solution is most effective for low viscosity formulas. It has applications for home cleaning products as well as lawn and garden care and automotive products.

#2 Omni-phobic coating allows the printing multiple layers of circuits onto paper

Munich, Germany-based Manyfolds offers a solution that reduces the amount of packaging required for the e-commerce market. The business has developed an automatic system making boxes with specialized folding that reduces the amount of packaging required and its subsequent environmental impact. The solution also eliminates filling material and reduces excessive and unnecessary volume. Manyfolds research has indicated that typically up to half of the volume in conventional packaging is unused. Manyfolds’ machine cuts and marks the corrugated board for folding so that items can be placed in the box for shipping. They claim that Manyfolds typically cuts excessive volume by 40%. The size-optimized packaging is created via a free app and cloud platform. Customers simply upload two pictures of the item to be sent and an algorithm comes up with a made-to-measure solution to send out the fit-for-purpose packaging within a few days. The boxes can made up as fast as a standard pack. See also Cut to size corrugated solution reduces packaging overuse.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Each seasonal beer bottle has millions of different and unique festive patterns

For this year’s festive season, Heineken USA has created a new range of unlimited bottle designs. Each one has a unique number assigned in conjunction with a one-of-a-kind design. High-speed digital print uses the HP Indigo Mosaic algorithm to generate the exciting prospect of millions of different, festive-influenced pattern designs to ensure that no two bottles are alike. The different patterns incorporate the familiar Heineken colour palette and have been created for personal consumption or for the gifting market. Festive point-of-sale will help to drive consumers to enter the sweepstakes by redeeming the unique number on their bottle label by text or QR code.  As part of the activity, Heineken will also offer consumers the opportunity to win $1 million in a combined off- and on-premise promotion called ‘You’re one in a billion, now win a million’. See also Danone supports flavoured water brand with 100,000 unique designs. 

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Packaging question of the week

Absolut is the latest beverage brand to test paper-based bottles. Is this format the future for the beverage industry? Vote and comment now.

Last week: 90% say that consumer understanding of sustainable packaging needs to improve.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Free Packaging Webinars from ThePackHub Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Catch up on the latest pharmaceutical packaging innovations with ThePackHub’s one-hour assessment of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and in-development innovations to inspire you and keep you up to speed. We will be joined from Australia by Tim MacDonald, Vice President – Medical of Snapsil who will be discussing their innovative ease of use solutions. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 17th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now. Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET All new innovations. Join us for our latest free one hour webinar. Catch up on the latest sustainable packaging innovation trends with this whistle-stop tour of the latest initiatives. We will cover many recent in-market and developmental examples to inspire you and keep you up to speed. Hosted by Paul Jenkins, Managing Director and Barrington Pamplin, Technical Director of ThePackHub. Feel free to share with your colleagues. Register for free: Thursday 24th September at 4 pm BST / 11:00 am ET Book your free place now.

#1 Retailer rewards shoppers for packs collected for recycling with free product

Natura is a Brazilian global personal care cosmetics group headquartered in São Paulo. The business is boosting its sustainability credentials with the launch of a reverse logistics programme to encourage consumers to recycle often difficult packaging. For every five full-size packs that shoppers bring back to participating cosmetics stores, they will receive a free new pack as a generous recycling incentive. The activity applies across Natura’s four Brazilian retail brands: Avon, Natura, The Body Shop and Aesop. The operation is taking place in conjunction with global recycling experts TerraCycle who are responsible for managing the collection and subsequent recycling of the packaging. The collected material will create new plastic items such as garden furniture, plant pots, traffic cones, vegetable boxes and other utensils. The activity is taking place in 60 Brazilian Natura shopping stores and 35 The Body Shop outlets. The purpose is to promote the accurate disposal of packaging, recycling with an over-arching circular economy. The initiative is part of Natura’s recently launched “Commitment to Life” plan.

#2 Spout attachment reduces plastic use by approximately 50%

Asda has a mission to make all of its own brand packaging across all materials 100% recyclable by 2025. The Wallmart-owned retailer and the third biggest in the UK is working on many packaging initiatives to make this a reality. One of these is the announcement of the introduction of the first 100% recyclable blueberry punnet, including the film lid. The supermarket chain’s initiative will mean that 5.5 million previously unrecyclable film lids can now be recycled alongside the punnet every year. The first 100% recyclable blueberry punnet means shoppers can now recycle the punnets and film as a whole, without removing the lid. The punnets have been designed so that the film lid cannot be removed making the whole tray recycling process intuitive and straight forward. Customers can now purchase the 100% recyclable blueberry punnets in-store and online. The retailer has announced the plans for a trial on several other fruit punnets including grapes and tomatoes that could ultimately save around 110 million lids per year. The packaging has been created by second-largest privately owned food processing business in the UK, IPL International Procurement and Logistics

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Washable Snack’n’Go food bag reduces single-use sandwich packaging

The drive to reduce single-use packaging and decrease household plastic waste has led to some inventive reusable pack alternatives from around the world. European retailer Spar is on the case and has introduced a new reusable packaging solution for food items for their Interspar hypermarket chain across Hungary. The washable Snack’n’Go food bag is a BPA-free solution, suitable for the packaging of a variety of different items such as fruit and vegetables, sandwiches and even seeds. The inside of the distinctive-looking bag is made of a stain repellent material. It does not allow moisture to pass through but still offers excellent breathability to help keep produce in optimum condition. It is not clear how much this will cost shoppers to purchase. See also Reusable sandwich bag pushes for funding.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Packaging question of the week

Does consumer understanding of sustainable packaging need to improve?  Vote and comment now.

Last week: 60% say that the packaging industry starting to get back to pre-Covid 19 normality.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Coming soon…

Packaging question of the week

Is the packaging industry starting to get back to pre-Covid 19 normality?  Vote and comment now. 

#1 Easy to open medical device solution helps protect contents

An innovative new way to open medical devices with ease has been created by Snapsil Corporation. The Australia-based business leads in the development of innovative, easy to use packaging technology and has developed a series of patented applications for easier to use pharmaceutical and medical packaging. This time sees the development of an enhanced tamper evidence solution that also delivers robust protection of packaging. The packaging has been designed to ensure easy access of the contents. The pack is available in a range of customizable shapes and designs and the thermoformed packaging is seen as a cost-efficient solution. Reclosable options can also be adopted if required. Snapsil’s patented and customizable technology delivers innovative packaging experiences that can help differentiate brands.

#2 Discarded palm fibres converted into compostable food packaging material

Kellogg’s is aiming to make going back to school special for children with a new digital print inspired promotion. The activity sees the introduction of a free personalised cereal box cover in exchange for three unique codes found inside Kellogg’s promotional packs. The back to school season is an important trading period for Kellogg’s and is claimed to the third biggest retail period in the year. The cereal brand is keen to be active at this time with this new promotion.  Parents just need to choose their box and upload their child’s name, age and favourite colour and photo, which will all appear on the child’s very own one-of-a-kind cereal box cover. This is the first time that Kellogg’s has introduced personalised sleeves in the UK. Digital print for packaging has helped to make this a reality. This is a box that might just get to be reused time and time again.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Beverage can ‘seconds’ reuse helps reduce production waste

Multinational brewery and pub chain based in Ellon, Scotland, BrewDog like to do things differently.  The maverick brand is often in the news with several headline-grabbing initiatives of late. The brand is another unusual initiative in its sustainability efforts to become a zero-waste business. They have publically acknowledged that the beverage can printing process is quite inefficient. They estimate that almost a billion otherwise perfectly good cans are wasted every year in the UK alone. Several factors contribute to this high number. Print-ready processes, minimum run sizes, various errors in production and inaccuracies in forecasting lead to significant waste. BrewDog has started an initiative to save the cans that would otherwise go to waste. Their Punk IPA brand is now available in Trash Cans variant that sees cans saved and reused. The cans lack uniformity but the brand is keen to assure drinkers that it is what is inside that is important.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

#1 Antibacterial hand soap launched in biodegradable paper bottles

Choose Packaging is an Edinburgh packaging development company that has introduced a new hand soap concept incorporating innovative paper-based packaging.  The company has announced the launch of antibacterial hand soap in their new biodegradable paper bottles. The Innovation Zone has tracked several paper-based initiatives of this nature. See for example World’s first paper beer bottle a step closer to reality.  The bottles are reported to be completely plastic-free as well as biodegradable and are made from recycled newspapers and other ‘naturally sustainable’ materials. It is not clear how the moisture barrier is achieved although claims of being plastic-free would indicate that it will be organic in nature.  Choose are working on other plastic-free alternatives to everyday products to increase their portfolio.

#2 Oval tube delivers distinctive point of difference

New technology developed by US-based AptarGroup subsidiary Aptar Food + Beverage has been created to aid the protection of food against several infectious pathogens. Their InvisiShield technology will protect food such as fruit, vegetables and fish from transmissible pathogens like bacteria, fungi and viruses. The solution prevents pathogen growth without adversely affecting the contents or come into contact with the product itself. It is activated in sealed packs to release a specific amount of an antipathogenic substance that reduces the significant growth of pathogens that may have been introduced along the supply chain. The substance is not detectable by consumers and disappears up to 48 hours after activation. The technology also means that the risk of cross-contamination in the sealed pack is significantly reduced. Third-party research has shown that the technology is up to 99.9% effective against the most common foodborne pathogens that includes E. coli, salmonella, listeria and norovirus. A pilot programme with tomatoes alongside Atlanta, Georgia based Royal Fresh Cuts is underway wit plans to commercialise a roll out on successful completion of the trials. See also PE composite foodwrap has antibacterial properties.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Lenticular animation brings shoebox packaging to life

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

This Friday
Webinar and report download package
Packaging Innovation Briefing Report – March

ThePackHub’s Packaging Innovation Briefing Report for March 2020 is a comprehensive and unique review of the month’s global packaging innovations that ensures you and your team are kept up to speed and fully informed of all the latest packaging innovations. The comprehensive review covers innovations from around the world with 60 new packaging innovations for the month.

We are bringing the 100-page report to life via 1-hour webinars at a very special price.

UK & Europe – Friday 27th March 2020 – 10:00 GMT
North & South America – Friday 27th March 2020 – 13:00 EDT

The cost is just £79 + VAT including receipt of the full 100-page report in PDF format. The report on its own is usually £99 + VAT so this offer is not to be missed.

Book your webinar and report combo here.

#1No-spill coffee cup concept edges towards market launch

An inventive and convenient way to prevent coffee cups from spilling has been created that also taps into the growing reusable packaging trend. The ‘Magic Coffee Cup’ concept has been invented by a UK start-up and has received additional funding to help make a reality. The coffee mug has been designed to make it difficult to knock over and uses a suction pad to keep the cup in place on a variety of different surfaces when not being used. The thermal qualities of the mug will also help keep the contents warm. Limited quantities of prototypes have been developed, which have subsequently sold out and the ‘Magic Suction Mug’ has been trademarked with a view to an eventual market introduction.

#2 Reusable netting replaces single-use plastic stretch wrap

Californian officials have recently put measures in place to outlaw the use of plastic bottles for hotel amenities from 2023. This is generating a creative challenge for suppliers. Premier guest care products supplier Hotel Emporium is on the case with a new solution. Eco Pod is a personal care packaging solution range for the hospitality and leisure sector that could have applications outside of California and across the rest of the world. Eco Pod is single-use, compostable and compact and is an ideal replacement to the miniature plastic bottles. It is made from a combination of sugar cane, bamboo and wood fibres. The product range, includes shampoo, conditioner and body wash and contains up to four uses in powder-based formulation. The empty containers will naturally break down into organic matter over time. It is not clear under what conditions biodegradability is optimised.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Fibre-based spoon developed to replace plastic

International packaging business Schur employs around 850 people across facilities in Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Australia and the US. The business is set to tap into the plastic-reduction and the EU directive to ban the use of plastic spoons with the introduction of a new fibre-based spoon as a sustainable alternative to similar plastic offerings in the market. The new patent-pending Schur Spoon is made of natural cardboard fibre and is intended to replace plastic spoons used for yoghurt pots.  The Schur Technology arm of the business is currently developing the machine to fold the spoons. Schur Pack is working with stakeholders to further improve the concept. See Biodegradable utensils promise to compost in just 10 days and Foldable spoon with teabag reduces plastic use.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Two printed volumes delivered free of charge plus a searchable PDF to download. The in-depth review includes a unique and comprehensive summary of over 500 of the latest sustainable packaging innovations

Sustainable Packaging Compendium 2020 comprises more than 600 pages across two volumes and is available now.

Find out more and order here.

Our Packaging Innovation Briefing Report for March 2020 is out now. This comprehensive and unique review of the month’s global packaging innovations ensures you and your team are kept up to speed on all the latest packaging innovations.

#1 100,000 unique designs transform vodka brand

Vilnius, Lithuania-based packaging agency Étiquette has designed the first variable packaging design project Lithuania. Lithuanian Vodka issues limited editions every year and this year they have used digital print technology to create something quite different. A 1 m² illustration has been transformed into 100,000 unique packages via HP’s SmartStream Mosaic algorithm. The technology has been used to automatically generate unique graphics from a selection of different images to produce one-of-a-kind prints.  The graphical elements used in the design are associated with Lithuanian fairy tales and is part of the celebration of spring. The impactful variable data digital print sleeves have a unique number on each one to further emphasis the one-of-a-kind nature of the execution.

#2 V-shaped water bottle concept meets sustainability goals

It has been estimated that Canadians use about a billion drinking straws every year. The format has become the ‘poster child’ for anti-plastic sentiment with more and more markets with plans to ban plastic drinking straws including the Canadian federal government. Montreal based McGill University have developed a new plastic-free straw alternative that nonetheless looks and feels like plastic. The organic and compostable material is made from cellulose, which is a renewable material and doesn’t taste like wet paper or feel like paper. The Cellophax material feels like plastic and won’t become soaked and lose form when wet. Cellulose is transformed into a malleable liquid and regenerated. The process could also make the straw transparent. Once it’s used, a cellulose-based straw can be recycled and made into other straws or other products or can be composted. The material could also have other applications for a variety of other single-use products, such as grocery bags.  A company called TreeMaTech has been formed to further develop the solution.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Dissolvable tablets enable refillable mouthwash system

A new way to eliminate plastic has been introduced for the oral care market. The solution comes from sustainable personal care brand By Humankind as a way to help reduce single-use plastic waste in consumers’ daily routines. The new mouthwash pack comprises a refillable and reusable glass cup combined with dissolvable tablets.  There is also a useful refillable silicone tablet holder that nests inside the cup. Users fill the cup up to the designated line with warm water and drop in one tablet. Once dissolved, the optimal amount and consistency of mouthwash is created.  The $10 mouthwash set includes 60 tablets, with refills available online. It has been estimated that each refill eliminates 2.91-ounces (82.5g) of single-use plastic. Subscriber content: See also New deodorant range relies on refills to reduce plastic usage.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Welcome to this week’s Innovation Zone snapshot from ThePackHub. ThePackHub collates up to 20 new packaging innovations every week for our Innovation Zone database (book a one-to-one online demo here). We have selected four new initiatives for you today. ThePackHub will be exhibiting at Packaging Innovations Birmingham this 26th and 27th February. Register to attend here. Come and see ThePackHub team at stand M48 and also take a look our The Trend Zone featuring examples of the latest packaging innovations. Coming to see us? Let us know. Available Now Sustainable Packaging Compendium 2020

Two printed volumes delivered free of charge plus a searchable PDF to download. The in-depth review includes a unique and comprehensive summary of over 500 of the latest sustainable packaging innovations

Sustainable Packaging Compendium 2020 comprises more than 600 pages across two volumes and is available now.

Find out more and order here.

Book a director of ThePackHub (Paul Jenkins or Barrington Pamplin) to present a comprehensive overview of the key outputs and trends of the Compendium to you and your team at a venue of your choice. Ideal for team meetings and innovation sessions. Get those questions answered and get inspired in an interactive and engaging format.

Available in the UK and Europe for £1,250 + VAT, which includes receipt of two volumes of the Sustainable Packaging Compendium in both hard copies and PDF. Rest of the world pricing available on request.

Find out more and order here.

Our Packaging Innovation Briefing Report for February 2020 is out now. This comprehensive and unique review of the month’s global packaging innovations ensures you and your team are kept up to speed on all the latest packaging innovations.

#1 Paper-based bag for frozen soup brand has CO2 reduction advantages

Italian frozen food brand Frosta is shaking up the soup market with the introduction of a packaging first. They have recently delivered the first soup in a paper-based bag for the frozen food market in Italy. Their Ecobag format has been launched for the Valle degli Orti Minestrone soup variant and uses a mix of materials to reduce environmental impact. The recyclable pack sees the creation of a paper-based bag that is estimated to reduce the use of plastic by more than 70% of plastic as well as a reduction CO2 produced by about 40% compared to previous packs made from PET / PE plastic. The new bag is made of cellulose with a minimum amount of PE that acts as a thin inner layer to protect the contents. The technology makes it possible for the bag to be resistant to moisture and grease. Even if the products thaw slightly, the bag will not fall apart. The pack is within the parameters for disposal in the paper recycling stream although special processes are required to separate the materials, which are not available everywhere. The new Frosta bag is made using kraft paper and has not been bleached or coated.

#2 Reusable straw can be clicked open for easy cleaning

Regular visitors to the pages of the Innovation Zone will observe that significant effort is being paid to sustainability. It is a driver for packaging innovation change as brands and retailers focus their endeavours on delivering stretching environmental targets. Packaging that delivers other added functionality benefits like portion control still remains important and thankfully still come to our attention. This concept from designer Alesia Lurtcevich sees a new spaghetti pack format introduced as a concept. It can often be difficult to estimate how much spaghetti is required during preparation resulting in lots of leftovers or the quantity sometimes not being enough. The new concept attempts to solve this with six separate compartments to deliver spaghetti with built-in portion control. Each trapezoidal segment contains the right amount of spaghetti for one portion.  The packaging is a conventional cardboard box with three tear marks on each side to serve spaghetti for six servings.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 Tracking chips for vaping products could keep young users in check

The vaping market has grown significantly in recent years and offers a seemingly healthier alternative to tobacco products for millions of smokers. The industry is in high growth, which has lead to a challenge with underage consumption. A former vape manufacturer has developed a new solution that could see vaping products fitted with an RFID chip to help track the usage of younger consumers. The Trace/Verify technology has a chip embedded directly into the vapes themselves. Each chip has a unique number that applies to each specific vape. When a vape is purchased, the user’s ID is scanned and linked to it. Data about the place of issue and the customer’s age is saved. If adopted across the US, a police officer could scan any minor’s vape using a smartphone to track the source.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.

Two printed volumes delivered free of charge plus a searchable PDF to download. The in-depth review includes a unique and comprehensive summary of over 500 of the latest sustainable packaging innovations

Sustainable Packaging Compendium 2020 comprises more than 600 pages across two volumes and is available now.

Find out more and order here.

Book a director of ThePackHub (Paul Jenkins or Barrington Pamplin) to present a comprehensive overview of the key outputs and trends of the Compendium to you and your team at a venue of your choice. Ideal for team meetings and innovation sessions. Get those questions answered and get inspired in an interactive and engaging format.

Available in the UK and Europe for £1,250 + VAT, which includes receipt of two volumes of the Sustainable Packaging Compendium in both hard copies and PDF. Rest of the world pricing available on request.

Find out more and order here.

Our Packaging Innovation Briefing Report for February 2020 is out now. This comprehensive and unique review of the month’s global packaging innovations ensures you and your team are kept up to speed on all the latest packaging innovations.

#1 Rollable packaging ensures crease-free clothing

The quantity of clothes delivered through the e-commerce channel has grown significantly in recent times. The transportation process is often not ideal with products that can crease easily and they are not always packed optimally for their size with items given too much space or crammed inside. However, a creative new way to deliver clothes has been designed by Den Haag, The Netherlands based Rollor Packaging.  Their offering sees items rolled up together with the packaging, which rolls over elevated ridges instead of the actual clothing to create a pressure-free space. The clothes stay in perfect shape during the shipment process and can then be worn straight away by the recipient with no need for ironing. The customer also gets an unusual and engaging unpacking experience. The packaging is delivered stacked on 1800 x 1200 mm pallets, the same depth as standard Euro pallets. Rollor Packaging is fully customisable with the option to add branding and advertising messaging printed in full colour. An additional handle can be provided if required. Rollor have collaborared with Smurfit-Kappa to bring this solution to market.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#2 PLA-based biodegradable tub created for organic beauty market

Italian compostable bioplastics manufacturer Novamont has developed a new improved cling film solution made from its leading Mater-Bi bioplastic. We reported on this initial development back in 2014. See Bio-plastic biodegradable food wrapping launched. The bioplastic cling film is compatible with most packaging machines and is designed to be used for the packaging of fresh produce as well as for large-scale retail trade and packaging centres. Novamont maintains that the new product has excellent technical properties including strong breathability, high transparency, anti-fog capabilities and good mechanical strength. Novamont’s Mater-Bi bioplastics are compliant with the 13432 standards for biodegradability and compostability and can be recycled along with the organic waste. The solution is obtained via established Novamont technologies using starches, cellulose and vegetable oils. The product has been tested adopting the same process used for conventional cling films materials (PE and PVC) and delivered similar performance results. Mater-Bi bioplastic is currently used for a range of compostable products, including flexible packaging as well as carrier bags, plates and cups.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

#4 One-piece paper pack reduces carbon footprint

More than two years of research and development has led to champagne brand Maison Ruinart presenting a new packaging format for their brand. Pressed wood-cut bowls will replace the existing champagne cardboard packaging with a new outer packaging that is completely recyclable and nine times lighter than what it replaces. It also reportedly reduces carbon footprint by around 60%. The new plastic-free packaging is completely recyclable and will be introduced in the brand’s major Western European markets. The new packaging format has been designed to hug the bottle like a second skin and consists of natural wood fibres that come from sustainably managed forests. The packaging neatly follows the lines and contours of the bottle and is distinguishable by the lack of any sharp edges. The new packaging was developed in collaboration with the luxury brand agency Chic, French folding box manufacturer Pusterla 1880 and fibre packaging experts James Cropper.

More info in The Innovation Zone.

Please visit ThePackHub or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about the range of packaging innovation services we offer. We’ve delivered projects for a number of brand owner, retailer and packaging suppliers.

Until next time. Happy innovating.