Smurfit Kappa unveils innovative new packaging portfolio to replace single use plastics in beverage

Packaging Solutions

Smurfit Kappa has launched a portfolio of sustainable packaging solutions for bundling canned and bottled beverages. The innovative new corrugated range eliminates the need for single use plastic and is 100% recyclable, renewable and biodegradable.

The Smurfit Kappa GreenClip product is an alternative for the plastic rings which are commonly used to group six packs of cans. With harrowing images of marine life entangled in plastic rings surfacing in the media all the time, many drinks providers are keen to switch to an environmentally friendly alternative. The GreenClip uses a corrugated alternative to bundle the cans but can easily facilitate the sale of single units.

Smurfit Kappa invented the TopClip to replace the stretch film that is used to bundle and sell cans in one pack. The TopClip fully covers the top of the cans, protecting them from contamination and providing excellent branding opportunities.

With a 30% lower carbon footprint than the plastic version, the TopClip is completely plastic free and 100% renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. Furthermore, as it is made from less material and does not require glue, it is significantly more sustainable than other recently launched packaging solutions on the market.

It has two die cut holes so it can be handled easily in-store and received excellent feedback in consumer tests. Smurfit Kappa is currently working with several large automation suppliers to develop a full turnkey solution for interested customers.

The final product in the trio is the Nor-Grip which Smurfit Kappa launched earlier this year. The Nor-Grip is an innovative corrugated solution that securely bundles bottles together into consumer units eliminating the need for shrink film.

Arco Berkenbosch, vice president of Innovation and Development at Smurfit Kappa, said: ‘I am very excited about these unique solutions. All our tests have shown that in terms of convenience and sustainability they are at the top of the market.

‘Single use plastics can have a devastating impact on the environment and designing even more sustainable packaging alternatives is a cornerstone of our Better Planet Packaging initiative. We know from our research that 75% of consumers have a preference for sustainable packaging.’