UK Packaging Awards 2009: Sustainable Pack of the Year

SHORTLIST
Artenius PET Packaging UK
Asda Stores
DS Smith Packaging Rawcliffe
DS Smith Speciality Packaging Launceston
Marks & Spencer
Nicepond
Smurfit Kappa Lokfast

WINNER

Artenius PET Packaging UK: 35cl PET Flask Co-op Vodka
In the keenly contested sustainable pack category, Artenius PET Packaging UK scooped the prize for its “brave” decision to make a 35cl flask for Co-op Vodka.

The judges praised the design of the pack, which is made to the exact dimensions of the 35cl glass bottles spirits are often sold in. Plastic bottles are usually smaller, so keeping the larger size was key to both maintaining the product’s presence on shelf and ensuring the same labels could be used on the new packs.

The bottle uses the same screw caps as its glass counterpart, thanks to its 30mm extra-deep ROPP neck. “It’s an amazing solution for replacing a glass bottle,” said one judge.

The virgin PET also provides excellent clarity, has a high resistance to shattering, is fully recyclable and weighs just 40g compared to the equivalent glass bottle’s 265g. As one judge said: “It’s excellent. A great piece of packaging engineering.”

HIGHLY COMMENDED

DS Smith Packaging Rawcliffe: JCB bag-in-box oil pack
The bag-in-box oil pack for JCB caught the eye of the judges as a great alternative to the plastic oil drum. The outer pack is 98% recyclable, can be disposed of through normal recycling routes and the weight of the non-recyclable plastic container is 84% less than an equivalent-sized drum, meaning less lorries are needed to transport empty drums. “It’s easy to use with an impressive reduction in material use and logistics,” said one judge.

Asda Stores: Asda Fresh Tastes Meal Solutions
Asda was commended for a “fantastic visual pack with clear instructions and recycling information”. The lightweight flexible pouch was used so the product could be clearly seen by shoppers, cooked in the packaging and easily placed on the plate with minimal effort for convenience. “The pack ticks so many boxes. It’s lightweight, appealing and has a small footprint that benefits transportation,” said a judge.

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