Carlsberg overhauls secondary packaging

Carlsberg Group has introduced Snap Pack, a new way of collating multipacks of cans using adhesive dots to replace traditional secondary packaging.

An adhesive has been developed that works in combination with the printing ink and can lacquer without damaging it

This combines beverage cans with adhesive dots instead of shrink wrapping, hi-cone and other secondary packaging options. The development is part of Carlsberg Group’s sustainability goals as part of its wider sustainability program, ‘Together Towards Zero’.

The packaging option, Nature Multipack, is an invention of NMP Systems, a subsidiary of KHS. This is being launched as a world premiere for cans under the name Snap Pack, developed in collaboration wih Carlsberg Group.  Intensive R&D included a focus on the challenge of the composition of the adhesive that bonds the filled cans, with only a few adhesive dots used to create a stable pack. The individual cans are separated with a single movement.

‘We have succeeded in developing an adhesive that works in combination with the printing ink and can lacquer without damaging it,’ commented Christoph Georg von Aichinger, senior sales director at NMP Systems.

In the run-up to the launch, Carlsberg Group invested heavily in market research in order to better understand the wishes and needs of its customers. The results show that sustainability is one of the most important purchasing criteria for consumers. Carlsberg then developed its sustainability program, ‘Together Towards Zero’. Its objectives include reducing carbon emissions and avoiding waste. The Nature MultiPack fits with this objective. ‘Snap Pack offers our customers the opportunity to enjoy a high-quality beer that is also better for the environment,’ stated Simon Boas Hoffmeyer, head of sustainability at Carlsberg, added: ‘Today, good brewing also means protecting the climate, nature and the environment.’

The brewery group expects that by dispensing with shrink wrapping in its can packs, up to 76 percent of plastic can be saved – in absolute figures this amounts to around 1,000 tons per year, when fully rolled out. A further benefit is identified as the ability to orientate the cans to create a billboard effect. ‘This effect brings a larger visual communication area for the brand displayed on the shelf,' added von Aichinger.

Carlsberg has initially implemented Nature MultiPack for four and six packs. The pack format also includes a carry handle. Snap Pack is initially available in the UK and Norway, with availability in Denmark, Carlsberg’s home market, in early 2019.

Carlsberg Group CEO Cees't Hart said: ‘One of our company goals is to strive for improvements, and with the launch we clearly show that we continue to live according to our founders’ mentality. Carlsberg's Snap Pack will significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste and we look forward to offering consumers a better beer experience with less environmental impact.’

 

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