Amazon Redesigns Packaging, Krones Swaps out Plastic Film, and Sainsbury Introduces Plastic-free Avocado Packaging

Krones introduces sustainable cardboard solution changes to beverage packaging 

Krones, a leader in packaging automation, has shaken up the beverage industry’s multipack packaging by introducing a 100% cardboard solution to replace traditional plastic films. In partnership with Coca-Cola HBC and DS-Smith, Krones developed the LitePac Top system, which uses a recyclable cardboard clip system to group PET bottles up to 1.5 litres. This new system not only reduces plastic waste but also features a tear-resistant cardboard clip with a handle for easy handling and transport, and a notch system that allows each bottle to be detached individually. For heavier packs, a kraft paper banner is added for stability. The solution, deployed for the first time by Coca-Cola HBC, is expected to save up to 200 tons of plastic annually. The new packaging also facilitates scanning at checkout by covering barcodes, reducing the risk of errors. Krones’ innovative system is powered by its Variopac Pro machine series, which combines multiple functions into one compact machine, allowing for minimal footprint and adaptability to various packaging types. This “open-source” approach allows brands to select their own packaging partners. 

This change applies to Sainsbury’s own-brand avocados and is expected to reduce plastic use by 20.2 tons annually.Image courtesy of Sainsbury's

Sainsbury's plastic-free packaging for avocados 

Leading UK supermarket chain Sainsbury’s is piloting plastic-free packaging for its own-brand Ripe & Ready Avocados twin pack across 77 stores. The new packaging solution replaces traditional plastic trays and wraps with a recyclable cardboard sleeve and label, which are both widely recyclable within the UK. This change applies to Sainsbury’s own-brand avocados and is expected to reduce plastic use by 20.2 tons annually. The design features perforated holes in the cardboard sleeve to ensure adequate ventilation, helping to maintain the freshness and quality of the avocados during transport and on the shelf. This development aligns with the company’s commitment to halve its use of own-brand plastic packaging by 2025 compared to 2019 levels. Sainsbury’s has already made strides in this area, having removed single-use plastic bags from its produce section and introduced compostable alternatives for some items. The shift to plastic-free avocado packaging is part of a larger industry trend towards reducing plastic waste. This initiative is likely to appeal to consumers while meeting the increasing regulatory and public demand for reduced plastic usage in packaging. 

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