Flair Magazine - Edition 1 | 2025 by Bunzl ANZ

WRAP &SEND

Proper pallet wrapping ensures products are delivered safely and intact. Logistics leaders explain why getting the basics right makes all the difference.

HEALTHCARE AWARDS

MAINTAINING WORKWEAR HYGIENE

SUSTAINABLE SWAPS

HEALTHIER DRINKS ARE TRENDING

We’re kicking off 2025 by recognising those who have been outstanding in the field of Sustainability and Aged Care Nursing – announcing our Bunzl Healthcare Award winners (pg 4).

We then take a look at new product launches with Revive’s largest rPET tray yet (pg 5), as well as Pristine’s new line of simple and sleek washroom dispensers (pg 7).

Turn to page six to see why Bunzl was recently certified as a Great Place To Work, and page 22 to read about the recent rise of nutritious drinks for summer. We also break down how a shift away from plastic packaging can mean big results for your waste targets (pg 24), before exploring sustainability in pallet wrap – and how small changes can make a big difference when it comes to plastic reduction (pg 8).

Moving to the kitchen, we cover the three kitchen essentials a commercial operation can’t do without (pg 12) before exploring the world of sausages – and why Australians and New Zealanders gravitate towards certain flavours (pg 28). We also a look at workwear and the transfer of germs – and what you can do to minimise risk (pg 18), before chatting to Craig Myers, Sales Account Manager at Bunzl ANZ, about his role, industry trends and what he’s excited for in the future (pg 31).

Finally, we settle down into conversation with David O’Brien from Silk Logistics on how he got his start in the industry, what he deems as the importance of logistics in industrial packaging, and what he’s looking forward to in 2025 (pg 30). I hope you enjoy the read.

Mark Phelan Managing Director, Bunzl Australia & New Zealand

Bunzl Australia & New Zealand

Getting pallet wrapping right is a core element of smart and efficient product delivery logistics.

12 Commercial Kitchen Staples

Gloves, food wrap and foil: find out why these three commercial kitchen items are necessary.

16 Impact Swaps

Small changes in packaging for high-volume products can have a massively positive impact on the environment.

18 Beyond The Surface

Discover practical ways to manage the hygiene of work clothes in food manufacturing.

22 Drinks Refresher

Healthier drinks are having a resurgence and more and more customers are now expecting to see them on drinks menus.

24 Package And Protect

When it comes to packaging, there are ways to ensure product protection as well as waste reduction and sustainability.

28 Snag It

Sausages are popular in Australia and New Zealand, but some particular flavours reign supreme.

30 Life Logistics

Silk Contract Logistics’ David O’Brien talks to us about how careers can often mirror the winding ups and downs of life.

31 Expert Q&A

With Bunzl’s Craig Myers.

Awarding Healthcare

Bunzl’s Healthcare Awards celebrate exceptional contributions across the aged care sector, highlighting leadership, innovation, and impactful change in the industry.

BUNZL’S INAUGURAL industry

Healthcare Awards recognises outstanding contributions in aged care. These awards spotlight individual and organisational achievements from Bunzl customers, as well as highlight the values of credibility, employee morale, business growth, and talent retention in the industry.

The two main categories include Excellence in Registered Nursing within Aged Care and Excellence in Sustainability. The Excellence in Registered Nursing Award nominees

were judged on Consumer Care, Leadership and Management, Problem Solving, and Education and Research. The value of this award pertains to both the winning individuals and organisations, aiming to empower and inspire aged care workers and their teams and elevate industry standards. The Excellence in Sustainability Award

recognises the innovative efforts of aged care businesses to reduce landfill waste, increase recycling on-site, and champion more sustainable products where possible.

Congratulations to Infinite Aged Care, Edmonton Gardens QLD for winning the business Excellence in Registered Nursing award, and Ms Warangkana (Goff) Phanphim for the individual award. For the Excellence in Sustainability Award, Bunzl congratulates Regis Aged Care, Camberwell, VIC.

The Bunzl Healthcare Awards are more than accolades – they’re a platform to drive positive change and celebrate dedication within the aged care sector.

“These awards spotlight individual and organisational achievements from Bunzl customers.”

Pictured: Paul Baulche, Georgia Willis, Alex Mikrou, Vishal Mogo, and Linda Mellors.

Pictured: Warangkana (Goff) Phanphim (Winner) alongside Infinite Aged Care staff.

Close the Loop

Integrating recycled polyethylene (rPET) into operations helps businesses to participate in a circular economy.

FOR BUSINESSES TODAY, sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a competitive and value-providing necessity for organisations across Australia and New Zealand. With the shift away from single-use materials and more of a focus on start-of-life and end-of-life cycles for the materials that we use, one such material has risen to the challenge.

Recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) is made from post-consumer and post-industrial waste, such as used plastic bottles and packaging, that have been collected, cleaned and sorted before being made into new products. Unlike virgin plastics made from petroleum such as polypropylene (PP) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rPET is part of the circular economy and helps reduce

the amount of new plastic entering our waste streams, while also reducing our reliance on finite fossil fuels. rPET is food contact-safe, durable and 100% recyclable making it a smarter alternative for products such as cold cups, food-grade containers, reusable packaging, reusable shopping bags, and storage products.

Businesses play a critical role in closing the loop by designing products for reuse, re-consumption, and recyclability, investing in recovery systems, and supporting markets for recycled materials. For businesses in the food, catering, restaurant, and hospitality sectors in particular, industry bodies like the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) encourage businesses to integrate rPET into their

operations. By doing so, companies not only contribute to reducing the amount of single-use plastic waste heading to landfills, but also strengthen their brand reputation by investing in more sustainable practices, future-proofing their operations to changing legislation, and ensuring a sustainable supply chain that supports a better future.

The swap to rPET has been vital for reducing environmental impact, and offering safe, reusable, and recyclable solutions for packaging and storage while meeting growing consumer demand for sustainable practices.

Scan here to view Revive’s range of rPET and PET products.

Company Culture

Bunzl was recently certified as a Great Place to Work – further highlighting the company’s commitment to putting its people first.

BUNZL AUSTRALASIA is proud to announce that all of its sites across Australia and New Zealand have been officially certified as a Great Place to Work® by Great Place to Work® Australia & New Zealand. Highlighting Bunzl’s commitment to fostering a supportive and high-trust workplace, this prestigious recognition further reinforces Bunzl as a place where employees can thrive both professionally and personally.

The Great Place to Work® certification is based on rigorous analysis and employee feedback. Using the Emprising® culture management platform, organisations conduct detailed surveys to quantify their workplace culture. The platform provides real-time reporting and actionable insights, enabling leadership to make datadriven decisions that strengthen trust, engagement, and overall employee satisfaction. Certification is awarded to organisations that meet the high standards of creating a positive work environment that drives better business results. “As much as being officially certified is important, it’s also not just about meeting

“Certification is awarded to organisations that meet the high standards of creating a positive work environment that drives better business results.”

a benchmark,” explains Jennifer Tiffin, HR Director Bunzl Asia Pacific. “It’s about ensuring that every employee feels valued and supported in their tenure with us. The key to maintaining this culture is to listen, adapt, and invest in our people to sustain and enhance this great workplace.”

This milestone reflects Bunzl’s dedication to cultivating a culture of inclusion, innovation, and trust. The certification reaffirms the company’s ongoing mission to provide an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Seamless Solutions

Pristine’s new dispenser range is designed to refine your washroom and kitchen systems.

PRISTINE has recently launched its new dispenser range, including hand towel, jumbo toilet rolls, conventional toilet roll, hard roll towels, and centrefeed towel dispensers. In an industry where efficiency and seamless operations are assets and priorities, this range is designed as an all-in-one solution that provides businesses with a consistent and simplified system across their washrooms, kitchens, and workspaces.

The minimalistic and purposefully designed dispensers have been made to suit any washroom, kitchen or workspace and offer a comprehensive and all-in-one range for your facilities. They’re also convenient in that they fit most standard-sized hand towel, meaning businesses can choose whichever hand towel best suits their operation and budget.

The benefits of having a uniform dispenser system are numerous: it reduces complexity in procurement and maintenance, streamlines staff training, and ensures a cohesive aesthetic throughout the premise. More importantly, consistent dispensers simplify restocking processes and improve operational efficiency, saving time and resources while maintaining a professional appearance that leaves a positive impression on employees and customers.

Discover Pristine’s new dispenser range for your kitchen, washroom and office spaces.

SKU PS751W

SKU PS790W

SKU PS760W

SKU PS770W

The Logic of

Logistics

FROM THE WAREHOUSE TO THE WORK SITE, LOGISTICS PROFESSIONALS WORK HARD TO KEEP THINGS SAFE AND SECURE ACROSS THE JOURNEY.

Most of us see a tiny fraction of the supply chain – a few boxes or pallets at a time if we’re on the receiving end. Industry leaders know that most businesses only see the tip of the iceberg of what goes on behind the scenes.

A crucial, and yet often overlooked, element of logistics is that of pallet wrap. According to Glenn Harris, General Manager of Processor & Industry at Bunzl Australia and New Zealand, there’s something to be said about getting the basics right. “Businesses need to ensure each pallet is wrapped correctly, consistently and securely – which means the quality of the wrap is crucial,” explains Harris. “An inferior product or incorrect application of a product can have many downstream effects, which is timeconsuming, costly and dangerous.”

Between 2022 and 2023, logistics service Silk Contract Logistics (SLC) had a freight volume totalling a staggering 574.2 tonne-kilometres for the whole of Australia, which is why David

“As fewer rolls are required per pallet, this reduces the amount of plastic a business uses overall, resulting in reduced plastic waste, and minimising the amount of wrap that needs to be disposed of.”

O’Brien, General Manager Southern Region for SLC, emphasises the importance of safe, secure, effective logistics.

“Whether travelling via road, rail, sea or air, your pallets should be secure and tight to ensure the freight is not going to move in transit,” explains O’Brien. “It’s also important to make sure that the wrap is applied correctly. [This means that] you’re applying the wrapping well, but you’ve also got consistency in the wrapping you’re doing. You don’t want one person wrapping it one way and another one doing it differently. Uniformity is important.”

Harris advises that ensuring your wrapped product is securely held in place with the correct wrap will also prevent damage in

transit and OH&S issues – which can stem from unloading unsecured pallets – and when it comes to servicing big players such as the major supermarkets, correct application and consistency will also save rejections.

“A pallet being rejected results in entire shipments having to be returned and rewrapped, which costs time, money, and of course puts more plastic back into the environment,” explains Harris.

Whether it is secure pallet wrapping, correct pallet wrap applications or more complex operations, using the right pallet wrap can have a large impact – everything from the security of individual pallets, the volume and cost of the pallet wrap itself to meeting broader business

sustainability goals. “One of our key innovations is Advantage’s high stretch capability pallet wrap that allows for more pallets to be wrapped with a single roll,” says James Beleno, Bunzl ANZ National Business Development Manager –Industrial Packaging & Machinery.

“As fewer rolls are required per pallet, this reduces the amount of plastic a business uses overall, resulting in reduced plastic waste, and minimising the amount of wrap that needs to be disposed of.”

As the importance of sustainability in the industrial manufacturing and logistics sector continues to gain traction, businesses should look towards aligning with suppliers and partners that place importance on efficiency, while also emphasising innovation – resulting in better business outcomes for all involved. 

Commercial Kitchen Staples

FROM PREVENTING CROSS-CONTAMINATION TO SECURING LONG-TERM STORAGE, IT’S VITAL TO GET COMMERCIAL KITCHEN BASICS RIGHT – AND THAT STARTS WITH THE EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS.

Commercial kitchens are finely tuned operations, and that starts long before any meal hits the plate. With potentially thousands of meals to make each day, equipping busy kitchens with the essential tools is as important as sourcing quality ingredients or employing highly skilled chefs to ensure things run smoothly. Kitchen basics are the foundation of any smooth-running kitchen, ensuring health and safety regulations, and efficient workflow, and can also help organisations meet sustainability targets and worker preferences. For those looking to ensure their kitchen operations are up to standards, there are no shortcuts, but there are a few basic components worth focusing on – gloves, cling wrap and foil.

GLOVES

Cleanliness is paramount in commercial kitchens – a fact that makes choosing the right disposable gloves even more important. A good pair of food-handling gloves is a simple way to protect both kitchen staff and those being served, creating a barrier that prevents the spread of germs and cross-contamination.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing gloves for the commercial kitchen, though food handling styles should be sought in materials like vinyl and nitrile, both of which are designed to be comfortable, formfitting, general-purpose gloves with low allergy. For more specialised kitchen tasks – such as fish scaling or kitchen cleaning – it can be worth looking at heavy-duty nitrile gloves, which are abrasion and chemical-resistant.

Also worth noting is the rating of gloves. For food handling, look for gloves with HACCP International Certification or ISO assurance to be sure of food safety and quality.

FOOD WRAP

When it comes to kitchen safety and food freshness, food wrap (or ‘cling wrap’) is a commercial kitchen all-rounder that’s impossible to do without. Food wrap creates a barrier to germs, preventing crosscontamination, while a tight seal prevents food from spoiling.

While household-style food wrap is fine domestically, the stakes are higher in commercial kitchens, putting the focus on the strength, durability, materiality and ease of use of commercial food wrap. Most commercialgrade food wrap is produced from non-toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) which is used for its strength, flexibility and durability. You’ll find a range of sizes but thickness is particularly

“While household-style food wrap is fine domestically, the stakes are higher in commercial kitchens.”

important for the rigours of commercial cookery. As always, ensure that any food wrap complies with the proper certifications, such as CAC HACCP VER:2003 or Australian Standard AS2070.

FOIL

Like food wrap, foil is vital for ensuring safe food storage, covering food to prevent germ transfer and keeping dishes fresh in storage.

In a commercial kitchen, look for robust foil (‘heavy duty’ options are ideal for hightemperature baking and long-term storage) that complies with relevant standards, such as ISO, BRCGS or FDA.

Commercial foil comes in both rolls and individual sheets, and both have a role to play. Sheets are pre-cut to size, which is convenient for lining trays and covering food in fast-paced kitchen environments. On the other hand, rolls can be cut to size, giving you more flexibility. 

Scan here to see Katermaster’s range of cling wrap, foil and gloves.

NOT ALL MICROFIBRE IS CREATED EQUALLY.

SUPERIOR CLEANING

New Mop pads have up to 2x more cleaning coverage.

REDUCE CROSS-CONTAMINATION

Use colour-coded microfibre for each area or task.

PATENTED ZIG-ZAG WEAVE

Designed for additional scrubbing power.

HANDLE DESIGN

Ergonomic trigger handle evenly dispenses three sprays of cleaner.

ADAPTABLE

With the use of our quick connect system the mops frame can be changed to a different size depending on your cleaning needs.

DID YOU KNOW?

LIGHTWEIGHT

When fully loaded with cleaning solution the PULSETM mop only weighs 2.8KG

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

Patented onboard reservoir holds up to 0.6L of liquidsolution and the fluid level can easily be seen.

The HYGEN™ PULSE Mop is compatible with HYGEN™ Launderable Microfibre Mop Pads and cleans up to 79M².

ENGINEERED TO INCREASE CLEANING EFFICIENCY WITH WORKER SAFETY IN MIND.

RC1835528

SCAN ME!

Impact Swaps

WHEN IT COMES TO HIGH-VOLUME PRODUCTS, SMALL CHANGES IN PACKAGING CAN HAVE A HUGE ENVIRONMENTAL PAYOFF.

Every decision your business makes has the power to create ripples – from your operations to your customers and ultimately the environment. In today’s world, where the impact of packaging waste and high-volume products like disposable napkins and cutlery are under the spotlight, those choices matter more than ever. It can feel like an insurmountable challenge, and yet making small but sustainably smart swaps can scale to some large environmental benefits.

It’s a movement that Bunzl has embraced wholeheartedly. “One of our main focuses in our sustainability strategy is to work with our customers and suppliers to phase out of problematic and unnecessary single-use plastics packaging and transitioning to circularity as a business,” says Felicity Kelly, Bunzl’s Head of Sustainability. “Being in the business of selling and moving consumer goods, we’re always actively seeking ways to reduce the negative impacts of our packaging – as well as transitioning towards the use of renewable materials where possible.”

choices demonstrate that your business is actively tackling global sustainability challenges – and research shows that matters. Studies have found that purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by environmental considerations, so your packaging choices aren’t just about compliance; they’re about building trust and loyalty.

This shift is not just an ethical imperative but also aligns with recent government policies in Australia and New Zealand to reduce plastic use. In 2022, the New Zealand government banned a range of hard-torecycle plastic items, with a roadmap to further reduce single-use plastics by 2025.

Similarly, Australia’s National Plastics Plan seeks to phase out unnecessary single-use plastics, with states like New South Wales implementing bans on products such as plastic straws and cutlery. These regulatory shifts drive innovation in packaging materials, creating

“Making small but sustainably smart swaps can scale to some large environmental benefits.”

opportunities for businesses to align their practices with sustainable solutions.

One such example are Sustain’s napkins, a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®-C117930) certified product made from renewable wood pulp. Earlier this year, the napkins transitioned its inner packaging from plastic to paper, leading to an estimated reduction of 6.2 tonnes of plastic waste annually. This small but impactful adjustment highlights how incremental changes in packaging can lead to significant,

Of course, sustainability isn’t just about swapping plastic for paper. It’s about making thoughtful, informed decisions that consider the entire lifecycle of materials. Paper production, for instance, has its own environmental footprint, from water use to energy consumption. That’s why it’s vital to work with suppliers who prioritise responsibly sourced materials and transparent practices.

The decision to reduce plastic use in packaging represents an opportunity for your business to align with consumer preferences and regulatory policies while making tangible contributions to a healthier planet. As seen with Sustain, these changes are scalable, impactful and achievable within current

To look at Sustain’s full range of paper and plant-based products, scan here.

On the Surface

WORK CLOTHES IN FOOD MANUFACTURING ARE VITAL FOR SAFETY AND PROFESSIONALISM –BUT THEY CAN ALSO CARRY GERMS, PUTTING WORKERS AND CUSTOMERS AT RISK. DISCOVER PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS YOU CAN USE TO MANAGE HYGIENE EFFECTIVELY.

In food manufacturing, every detail matters. From processing raw ingredients to packaging the final product, maintaining hygiene is essential to protect public health and ensure compliance with strict food safety standards. Workwear plays a critical role in this process – not just in identifying roles and fostering professionalism, but in serving as a barrier between potential contaminants and the food delivered to customers.

However, workwear can also inadvertently become a vehicle for pathogens if not managed correctly. Germs and contaminants can hitch a ride on clothing, gloves, and other protective gear, moving between zones in a facility or even beyond the workplace. With a proactive, zone-specific approach to workwear, managers and staff can safeguard food manufacturing environments.

HOW GERMS CAN HITCH A RIDE ON WORKWEAR

• Moving between designated zones – such as raw material handling areas, processing zones, and packaging areas – without changing protective clothing (like aprons, gloves, hairnets, or boot covers) can spread contaminants.

“Germs and contaminants can hitch a ride on clothing, gloves, and other protective gear, moving between zones in a facility or even beyond the workplace.”

• If uniforms, gloves, or aprons are not cleaned or sanitised properly, pathogens can linger. An improperly laundered or reused uniform could carry contaminants into critical areas.

• Wearing work clothes outside of work can increase the risk of spreading germs to other environments such as public transport or home.

• Disposable gloves, booties, or aprons reused or improperly disposed of can be breeding grounds for germs. A single oversight in these high-touch items can jeopardise an entire production batch.

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR MINIMISING CONTAMINATION RISK

• Assign specific workwear, such as colourcoded aprons, gloves, and hairnets, for different zones to prevent crosscontamination. Ensure workers change or remove protective gear when transitioning between raw, processing, and packaging areas.

• Ensure all reusable workwear is professionally laundered at high temperatures using

appropriate detergents in compliance with the AS/NZS 4146:2000 Standard.

• Make it a requirement for staff to change into work attire upon arrival and don’t wear uniforms outside the facility. Installing designated locker rooms to separate workwear from personal clothing makes this easier for workers.

• Rotate and replace items like gloves and aprons at set intervals to prevent wear-and-tearrelated risks.

By implementing these strategies, businesses can ensure that their workwear serves its primary function – protecting staff and customers – while maintaining the highest hygiene standards to reduce contamination risk and improve workplace safety. 

To explore Allcare’s range of personal protective equipment, safety gear and workwear, scan here.

Drinks Refresher

AN INCREASED INTEREST IN HEALTHIER DRINKS OPTIONS IS FUELLING THE RISE OF MORE NATURAL BEVERAGES, AND MANAGERS ARE EMBRACING THE TREND.

Scan here for Sustain’s paper cold cup made from renewable paper.

As consumers adopt healthier lifestyles, their choices are increasingly reflected in their drink orders. In Australia and New Zealand – as around the world – the demand for low-sugar, nutrient-dense and wellness-focused beverages is reshaping menus. Staying ahead of this trend is essential for hospitality operators who want to meet customer expectations and foster brand loyalty.

A recent report by the University of South Australia, Flinders University and the University of Otago showed that 27% of consumers would pay nearly double the price for ‘healthy’ drinks that contain low/no sugar, natural/ no additives, or vitamins and minerals. In a study of more than 1000 consumers from Australia and New Zealand, researchers also found that younger consumers (aged 18-24 years) were more likely than older diners to be interested in healthier drinks.

With the growing prominence of societal health trends and the increasing availability of quality and better-tasting healthier drink options, a broader range of consumers is embracing these beverages – beyond patrons who only prioritise health, natural ingredients, or sustainability. These healthier beverages have, over time, evolved from a niche category to becoming part of the mainstream.

Ingredients:

1 cup spinach

½ avocado

1 green apple, chopped

“Ingredients like turmeric, ginger and kombucha are no longer niche but are expected by many healthconscious patrons.”

The demand for healthier options speaks to a broader shift towards improved energy levels and long-term wellness, and with the summer season in full swing, refreshing, low-sugar drinks with natural ingredients have been in higher demand. The rise of wellness culture, bolstered by social media, has made superfoods, adaptogens and functional beverages mainstream. Ingredients like turmeric, ginger and kombucha are no longer niche but are expected by many health-conscious patrons. Offering these options signals a commitment to modern, thoughtful menus and a desire to move with the times –increasingly important principles for cafes and restaurants aiming to stand out in a competitive market.

For hospitality businesses, adapting to this demand means more than simply adding a few “green” options to the menu. It’s about understanding customers’ desire for drinks that meet their personal health goals. A focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients aligns with this trend and resonates with the sustainability values that many in Australia and New Zealand prioritise. Introducing healthier beverages doesn’t have to be complex. Signature smoothies, kombucha blends and herbal infusions are cost-effective options that can elevate a menu while appealing to diverse tastes. Training staff to explain the health benefits of these offerings adds another layer of value to the customer experience.

As the new year unfolds, creating innovative, healthforward drink menus isn’t just an opportunity to boost sales – it’s a way to reflect evolving consumer priorities and solidify a brand’s relevance in the dynamic hospitality landscape. 

1 tbs lemon juice

1 tsp ginger, grated

1 cup coconut water

Method: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve chilled.

SUMMER BERRY KOMBUCHA SPRITZ

Ingredients:

1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)

1 tbs honey (optional)

½ cup kombucha (berry flavour works best)

½ cup sparkling water Ice

Method: Muddle the berries and honey in a glass. Add kombucha and sparkling water, stir gently, and serve over ice.

GREEN ENERGY SMOOTHIE

Package and Protect

PACKAGING IS ESSENTIAL FOR SAFEGUARDING PRODUCTS, BUT AS THE FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY SHARPENS, SO TOO DOES THE IMPERATIVE FOR SMART DESIGN THAT REDUCES PACKAGING WASTE WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON QUALITY, SAFETY AND HYGIENE.

Packaging plays a critical role in protecting products, ensuring they reach consumers and customers in optimal condition. It shields items from damage, contamination, and environmental factors, preserving their quality and value. For fragile or perishable goods, effective packaging prevents waste caused by spoilage or breakage during transport and storage. Well-designed packaging can also enhance consumer confidence by providing tamper evidence and showcasing product reliability. Poor packaging can lead not only to product damage but to reputational harm. Contamination or spoilage can result in product recalls, undermining consumer confidence and imposing significant costs on the provider.

BALANCING PROTECTION

WITH ENVIRONMENTAL

RESPONSIBILITY

However, waste reduction is an urgent

issue. Packaging can take a lot of energy, water and other natural resources to create and, improperly discarded, can pollute our environment. It’s critical then that the necessity for effective packaging be balanced with efforts to reduce waste and associated environmental harm.

Smart packaging solutions do exactly this by providing the essential protection needed for the product, without using unnecessary materials. “Thoughtful packaging is about finding the sweet spot: robust enough to protect the product yet designed with sustainability in mind. It’s about reducing waste without compromising quality or safety,” says Bunzl Category Manager Voan Biclar.

Pristine hand towels are an excellent example. The product itself is FSC-certified (FSC®-C117930) and is designed for extra absorbency and high wet strength, reducing consumption. Protected by a strong cardboard

Paper Cold Cups

For A Refreshing Summer

CODES: SUSCCA08W, SUSCCA12, SUSCCA16, SUSCCA22

SIZES: 8oz Wide, 12oz, 16oz, 22oz www.bunzl.com.au/sustain

Toilet Tissue

Individually Wrapped For Your Hygiene

CODE: PS1001

“These solutions are helping to prioritise waste reduction while still fulfilling the demand for protection and quality.”

carton with no unnecessary inner packaging, the towels are bundled into a paper product sleeve to allow hygienic handling. Toilet rolls are thoughtfully packaged to balance hygiene and sustainability, using plastic wrapping only where necessary to shield from dampness. Each roll is individually wrapped in recyclable paper, maintaining hygiene while reducing the need for excess plastic.

SMART PACKAGING SOLUTIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

“We’re seeing further innovations in packaging that reduce plastic use through clever design and by leveraging sustainable materials,” says Felicity Kelly, Head of Sustainability at Bunzl. “These solutions are helping to prioritise waste reduction while still fulfilling the demand for protection and quality.” Facial tissues, for example, are packaged

in a strong cardboard inner box to protect in transport and storage, but instead of the plastic collar, Pristine uses a paper lip to seal the box to keep the tissues clean from contamination.

“It might seem like a small change,” says Biclar, “but it will eliminate around 1200kg of plastic waste from tissue boxes across Australia and New Zealand every year.” Also making a difference in packaging is a design that considers how robust the product itself is. “Products like jumbo toilet rolls and centrefeed towels are pretty sturdy,” explains Biclar. “They’re still packed in cartons for delivery, but with efficient configuration, it’s possible to reduce movement in transport and thus reduce the need for more protective layers. It’s this kind of holistic approach to the lifecycle of the product that makes it possible to further refine packaging needs.” 

Scan here to view Pristine’s paper product solutions.

SmartDose Dispensing Sustainable dosing

SmartDose Dispensing Sustainable dosing unit

unit

Cleaning is a laborious task at the best of times and for the many public sectors it is the one task that must be completed on a regular basis to a set industry standard. This is further compounded by the fact that customers demand the highest levels of cleanliness which they need to be able to see with their own eyes. Enter Diversey’s SmartDose system, an easy and straight forward range of concentrates which makes cleaning simpler and smarter.

The Bottle

20%

SmartDose bottles have been designed to make the mixing of concentrates simple and time efficient. The bright yellow head has two dosage levels available which are clearly marked allowing for concise mixing of solutions with information as to what each dose should be mixed with available on the bottle. The process of using the pump action on the bottle is simple: select the dosage required by twisting the top to the relevant symbol, pull the top up, push it down and then add water. Please note that the action of pushing down the top once it has been pulled up will dispense a shot of the concentrate so ensure the nozzle is positioned over the container you wish to make the solution up in.

Sustainability

SmartDose users can benefit from its sustainability credentials as one 1.4L SmartDose bottle typically equates to 280 ready to use (RTU) products. If you use an average of 100 cases of 6 x 750ml RTU product per year, the typical annual sustainability improvements are:

product per year, the typical annual sustainability improvements are:

• 441 litres less chemical that has to be manufactured, transported, stored and used (98.0% reduction)

• 41.2 kg less plastic packaging that has to be manufactured, transported, stored and disposed (97.8% reduction)

• 26.3 kg less cardboard packaging that has to be manufactured, transported, stored and disposed (97.8% reduction)

• 124.2kg less greenhouse gas emissions as CO2 equivalence due to packaging alone (98.5% reduction)

The SmartDose range is ultimately one which aims at making commercial cleaning simpler, safer, smarter and more sustainable and its design and operation delivers on these key areas.

The Range

The range includes a variety of cleaning solutions which have different purposes and operate with separate additional Diversey ranges. If you use the Taski cleaning system then SmartDose has a range which fits with it, likewise the Suma range also has SmartDose options available. For eco-options there are the Pur-Eco range, both of which can help your business reach its sustainability goals.

The various options all provide commercial cleaning solutions for the following areas and more:

• Glass Cleaner

• Multi Surface Cleaner

• Floor Cleaner

• Disinfectant Cleaner

• Multi Surface Cleaner • Disinfectant Cleaner

• No rinse sanitiser

Its design is easy to use and transport around large sites as cleaners will not need to carry large 5L bottles of cleaning fluid but rather a smaller 1.4L concentrated chemical. Equally, the reduction in bottle size means a reduction in plastic waste for your company.

Snag It

EXPLORE HOW AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND’S RICH CULINARY HERITAGE AND INNOVATIVE USE OF FRESH, LOCAL INGREDIENTS CREATE A VIBRANT ARRAY OF SAUSAGE FLAVOURS – HELPING BUTCHERS AND MEAT STOCKISTS CATER TO EVOLVING CONSUMER TASTES.

Reflecting a rich multicultural heritage, local culinary creativity and fresh produce, Australia and New Zealand are renowned for their diverse range of sausage flavours and types. From traditional beef and pork varieties to unique combinations like lamb with mint and rosemary or pork with sundried tomato, butchers and meat stockists are evolving their offerings to cater to the diversity of consumer tastes. For businesses, embracing this variety is crucial to retaining customers and staying competitive, as consumers are increasingly seeking out exciting, unique flavours that reflect contemporary food trends and enhance the mealtime experience of the home cook.

Discover Lesnie’s range of coats, crumbs and glazes to enhance butchers’ products.

Give second and third life to rPET with HexCell. Recycled &

SMOKEY BBQ

It’s no secret that Australians and New Zealanders love to fire up the grill, so offering smoky BBQ sausages means consumers can enjoy robust flavours balanced with smoky and sweet notes that are enhanced through barbecue grilling. Whether pork or beef, these sausages pair perfectly with flavours like tangy barbecue sauce, caramelised onions, or fresh coleslaw.

GARLIC AND FENNEL

Garlic and fennel sausages have always been popular with customers looking for that blend of sweet aniseed notes of fennel with the savoury depth of garlic. Traditionally rooted in Italian cuisine, these sausages are often linked to the rustic flavours of Tuscany. Pork is the preferred choice, often cooked by pan-frying or grilling to preserve their delicate flavour balance.

CURRY

The popularity of curryflavoured sausages is attributed to their vibrant blend of spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and a hint of chilli. Rooted in the fusion of British and South Asian culinary traditions, curry sausages are often a staple in Australian and New Zealand mid-week family meals because of their heartiness and familiar flavours.

MINT AND ROSEMARY

One of the nostalgic flavours, mint and rosemary sausages offer a fresh and herbaceous profile. Stemming from Mediterranean and British cuisine, these sausages have found popularity in Australia and New Zealand due to their affinity with lamb, a meat deeply embedded in the regions’ farming heritage and barbecue culture.

Embracing diversity of flavour offerings not only satisfies consumer demand but also strengthens connections to local produce and heritage. The result is a vibrant food culture that inspires culinary creativity and maintains traditions. 

REVHXC75 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 7 x 5”

REVHXC85 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 8 x 5”

REVHXC87 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 8 x 7”

REVHXC115 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 11 x 5”

REVHXC119 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 11 x 9”

REVHXC1310 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 13 x 10”

REVHXC1411 Revive HexCell rPET Tray, 14 x 11”

www.bunzl.com.au/revive

Code: LES0500105

From a rich herb and red wine blend to the more traditional tomato and onion, Lesnie’s wide range of gourmet sausage meals will add delicious variety to your offerings.

Life Logistics

From humble beginnings in Ballarat, David O’Brien finds himself a long way down the road. The logistics expert takes a moment to reflect on how his life and career have unfolded along the way.

Like the transport and logistics industry, flux, flow and change are the facts of life. Now General Manager Southern Region for Silk Contract Logistics, David O’Brien’s career started in his hometown of Ballarat, spurred on by his own constantly changing life. “I had my family young, so I had to take responsibility at an early age,” he says. “I’ve got three daughters and a wife I’ve been with since 1985.”

With responsibility – and before his logistics career blossomed – O’Brien faced the same existential search familiar enough to many of us, studying, working and looking for something that fit. “I did my HSC,” O’Brien says. “I worked in the bank. I worked in real estate for

“So I think you become a little bit more circumspect as you get older and learn to appreciate and understand various points of views from other areas.”

a while. I went back to night school and got a tertiary qualification in accountancy as well – I just wanted to better myself. So I just wanted to say, well, how can I take the next step in life?”

For a man who grew up in Ballarat, accountancy wouldn’t end up the right personality fit – O’Brien needed movement, direction and a greater sense of accomplishment. “I found that [accounting] wasn’t as interesting as I thought it’d be,” he says. “I like to be in operations, managing teams and making things happen.”That desire would see O’Brien move into and out of logistics roles, including stints as National Manager with Toll Chemical, Supply Chain Director at OfficeMax and implementations manager at Linfox. Though he has no plans to give the game away just yet (“I’ve still got another 10 years, I reckon, so I’m not planning to retire anytime soon,”), O’Brien has reached the stage where he can look back on a long and varied career with plenty of highlights.

“I’ve covered most areas of logistics, even overseas logistics, ocean freight, local transport, PuD, rail, intermodal, warehousing – I’ve been pretty lucky,” he says. “I think what I’ve enjoyed is implementing some very big projects, designing distribution centres, fitting them out, automating them, and I’ve done a lot of travel during my time.”

As for challenges, someone in O’Brien’s position has seen a few – even excluding the difficult COVID years. For O’Brien, success and moving up the ladder has meant taking the rough with the smooth. “It’s always a challenge in the corporate world,” he says. “I’m very much a straight shooter, so I think that’s always been a big challenge for me. I think you become a little bit more circumspect as you get older and learn to appreciate and understand various points of views from other areas.”

Though he’s got no plans to move on anytime soon, it’s fair to say that there are still stops for David O’Brien on the supply chain of life. “I really enjoyed my time managing large supply chains, building supply chains and building capability,” he says “I’ve still got that in the ticker, I’ve still got that energy and that desire to do that. Whether I go back down that path or not, remains to be seen.” 

QUICK-FIRE Q&A

THE JOB AT HAND

Craig tells us about his role as a Sales Manager and how focusing on providing range to customers is key to doing his job well.

Tell us about your role at Bunzl ANZ. I work with a team of seven Account Managers across Victoria and Tasmania. I’m responsible for meeting sales volume and profit while developing growth. Delivering our strategy in a clear message is an important part of my role. What do you appreciate the most about your position? Team connection and culture; these can be taken for granted when things are good. Bunzl is now Great Place to Work® certified and it shows. There’s never a dull moment with teamconnecting activities, fundraisers and celebrations. Our message to employees is that we will listen and respond, which is satisfying to be a part of. Has there been anything particularly surprising about your role? I keep finding myself saying “we’re in a good place” with so many areas of our business. This enables us to focus on the job at hand. There continues to be immense opportunity to continue to grow with our customers. When visiting our customers, they continue to comment “I didn’t know you offered A, B, C” and “can you help me consolidate?”. It’s rewarding for our team to continue to strengthen with our partners. What are you excited to see more of in the future when it comes to your industry?

I’m excited to see Bunzl continue to lead the way with sustainability and innovation. It’s always a pleasure to partner with new and existing customers and suppliers. Bunzl boast numerous case studies and satisfied customers that have been able to reduce waste and save on costs. We look forward to assisting many more customers achieve their sustainability goals. What have been some major highlights in your career? The Implementation of CRM and winning the Motivation Award. Internally the CRM has been successful with several key drivers for our sales team. Equally it assists Bunzl to ensure our customers needs are met. All customer requests and issues are categorised and measured to guarantee our customers are heard and responded to in a timely manner.

CRAIG MYERS Sales Manager – Processor and Industry, Facilities Management and Hospitality