Smurfit Kappa has reported that its sustainable packaging has had a positive impact for one of its customers in particular, with a Poland-based client reporting a sales increase of 50 per cent for its strawberries since adopting Smurfit's solutions.
The paper packaging specialist has revealed that it was approached by the Polish fresh fruit supplier who wanted a more sustainable and hygienic alternative to the wooden crates and punnets it was using for strawberries.
According to Smurfit, a team of specialists analysed the packaging and all aspects of the supply chain and identified key factors that contributed to damage during transit.
The insights from the testing and analysis were used to create the SofruPak and SofruBox designs, providing the best logistic performance by reducing the storage space by 70 per cent, while a branded design in-store led to a 50 per cent increase in product sales.
The group said that a growing number of retailers and food producers in Europe are recognising the benefits of paper-based packaging.
'Smurfit Kappa’s packaging solutions are adaptable, recyclable and break down completely within months, a key requisite for the thriving organic food sector,' the group stated.
Edwin Goffard, chief operating officer - corrugated Europe at Smurfit, said: “Corrugated packaging lends itself well to high-spec branding which is an important differentiator. Printed, instantly recognisable packaging has a distinct in-store advantage when it comes to that first moment of truth for consumers.
“We are also seeing a growing number of retailers and growers seeking to use a more sustainable type of packaging that is 100 per cent biodegradable and does not harm the planet,' he added.
Smurfit Kappa will be exhibiting an array of packaging solutions for the fresh produce sector and using virtual reality technology to showcase its approach to driving sales at the 26th annual Fruit Logistica event next month.
