The Innovative Future of Industrial Packaging.
From automotive and electronics to household appliances manufacturers, businesses worldwide are reevaluating how packaging can drive cost savings, meet sustainability targets, increase supply chain efficiency, and comply with new packaging regulations.
In this brochure, we explore the latest trends, actionable insights, and case studies showing how the right packaging strategy can transform these challenges into measurable results
Keep up with the packaging evolutio
Addressing climate change is among the most pressing global challenges confronting policymakers and enterprises, regardless of their size or sector. Packaging is a key factor in mitigating this issue.
Discover real-life examples and insights that show how the right packaging can turn challenges into opportunities
65% of global consumer are concerned about climate change, accelerating the transition to a circular economy. With growing pressure from both regulators and customers, packaging must do more than protect products. It must help advance the transition by reducing CO₂ emissions, optimizing space, and minimizing waste across the supply chain
There’s clear room for improvement
92% of European businesses use oversized boxes, resulting i
160k ton of unnecessary cardboard used each year, which adds up t
€45 ml in completely avoidable annual costs
2030 marks a key mileston
for EU member states to meet packaging waste reduction targets under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which is designed to reduce the environmental impact of packaging across all industries by
Minimizing weight and use of virgin materials Ensuring all packaging on the EU market is recyclable
Limiting void space for grouped, transport, and e-commerce packaging to no more than 50%
Establishing mandatory reuse targets from 40 to 100% for transport packaging, excluding cardboard from these targets
Turn regulation into result
Innovative Industrial Packaging: Trends & Insight
As PPWR and void space optimization rules take effect, packaging minimization is no longer optional – it’s mandatory. However, with the right strategy, compliance can also become an opportunity to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs
Together with our partner, Schréder, we turned that opportunity into real results. By redesigning their packaging with our Trapezoid Box, we achieved pallet size reduction from 1200x1200 to 1200x1000 and eliminated empty space, allowing 60% more products per truckload. All while maintaining product protection and production efficiency
What powers the industry?
Key industrial trend
As sustainability goals become increasingly stringent and automation reshapes production lines, industrial packaging must do more than protect a product.Let's examine how it has become ta key driver of innovation and value creation for many electronics brands
2 out of 3 industrial producer
recognize the full impact of packaging on their supply chain, treating it as a strategic tool for driving sustainability, automation, and improving customer experience. Impressive business results from implementing a smart packaging strategy not only help explain, but also accelerate the transition toward designs that reduce waste, streamline logistics , and improve the unboxing experience
Here s what a well executed industrial packaging strategy can generate
Up to 60 more efficiency in pallet and transport utilization
Enhanced perceptio among consumers thanks to a premium, sustainable design
Reduced total cost through optimized logistics and waste minimization
Future ready complianc with PPWR and zero waste targets
The fine art of balancin
Designing industrial packaging involves balancing multiple priorities beyond just material quality. Precision engineering, extensive category knowledge, and a proactive approach are crucial to developing an effective packaging solution that
Provides complete product protection across every stage of transport and handling. Optimizes space and reduces logistics costs, improving supply chain efficiency. Remains fully recyclable and plastic-free, aligning with sustainability goals and PPWR standards. Supports smart manufacturing and fit-to-size automation, streamlining production processes. Delivers a clean, premium unboxing experiencethat reinforces brand value
What sets us apar
Meeting these challenges takes innovation at every stage of the packaging process. At DS Smith, we combine data, design, and technology to create solutions that are smarter, more efficient, and ready for the future of your business and the industry
3D & 4D Design Modelin
We simulate performance and optimize materials before production, testing efficiency virtually, and reducing waste
Circular Design Metric
Every concept is measured against our proprietary sustainability and performance indicators to ensure full circularity
Smart Manufacturing Integratio
Tailored packaging designs that minimize void space and material use, while maximizing logistics efficiency
Fiber-based innovations that replace single-use plastics and prepare your business for the PPWR targets
Solutions engineered to work seamlessly with robotic, automated, and digitally controlled production lines
Fit-to-Size Automatio
Next-Gen Material
Innovating our way toward a plastic-free futur
BSH Nazarje in Slovenia, part of the BSH Home Appliances Group, a leading global manufacturer of household appliances, produces around 170,000 blenders every year. Previously, each unit required two expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam inserts for safe shipping. Through a strong partnership with DS Smith, a fiber-based, sustainable packaging solution for Bosch hand mixers was developed eliminating up to 340,000 EPS components from its portfolio and taking a big step toward a greener future
Customer’s packaging expectations
Preserves pallet efficiency and stacking heigh
Allows for faster packing time on the production lin
Suitable for three product variants and size
100% recyclable
Withstands drop and vibration test
New packaging, new supply chain efficiency
The new DS Smith packaging solution not only replaces EPS inserts with fully corrugated, fibre-based components without compromising protection, but also introduces functionality that makes a real difference on the production line. The design integrates seamlessly with existing processes, offers a faster packing time to boost packing efficiency, and is flexible enough to be adapted to other BSH appliances, from toasters and coffee machines to bread makers and small power tools.
The solution’s smart design also gained industry recognition, earning a nomination for the 2024 Slovenian Award for Packaging Excellence
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS, CUSTOMER’S appreciatio
Nominated for 2024 Slovenian Award for Packaging Excellenc
“Sustainability is more than just a goal for us, it is our direction for the future. That is why we need partners who understand the complexity of our business and are able to think strategically and innovatively at the same time. With DS Smith, we have proven that it is possible to combine efficiency and sustainability for a faster process and equal protection.
Rok Štifter, Director of Shared Development Services for the Small Household Appliances Divisio
Visit www.dssmith.com to learn how our team can help you optimize your packaging for the future
Discover the future of responsible industrial packaging
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