Coveris develops hybrid pack format for food-to-go sector

An evolution of the traditional grab bag format, Grab Box is a hybrid product targeting premiumized and top-tier product ranges. Made from sustainably sourced lined board to produce a more rigid structure, Grab Box delivers improved food protection with a luxurious shelf presence. Grab Box is lined using high clarity, low gauge polypropylene film incorporating superior quality anti-fog properties and features three windows for enhanced product visibility. 

The Grab Box format features an extensive printable area on kraft or plain board, and can be printed on one or both sides with a combined total of nine colors, allowing additional communication or branding to appear on the inside of the box. Grab Box is supplied as a flat, pop-up box which is quick to erect and simple to fill by hand before being heat sealed, resulting in faster processing speeds. The heat sealed top flange provides greater pack integrity, and is perforated to enable easy-opening for consumers. 

Adam Lunn, packaging development manager at Coveris, explained: ‘The development of Grab Box marks an evolution in the packaging of premiumized ranges in the food-to-go sector. Retailers and manufacturers have asked Coveris to use lined board technology to create innovative packaging for top-tier lines. Grab Box delivers this with fantastic on-shelf presentation and opportunities for brands and retailers to differentiate their products, combined with efficient processing.’

Coveris said the authentic, artisan look of the packaging associated with freshness and quality, as well as the opportunity to produce a tactile finish for further premiumization, lends Grab Box to top-tier food-to-go products. The Grab Box concept was launched by retailer Tesco during December on its ‘Finest’ range of festive sandwiches. Additional ‘Finest’ food-to-go lines switched to Grab Box in January, with the roll out of new packaging for the range due to be complete by the end of the month in collaboration with food manufacturers Bakkavor, Bradgate Bakery and Solway Foods. 

Dr Mark Caul, packaging technical manager at Tesco, commented: ‘Creating something new in this competitive market is always a challenge and, as well as being an efficient pack for our suppliers to use on fast moving lines, we have ensured the board comes from sustainable forests and we protect the delicate sandwich with a minimum amount of packaging – so reducing food waste in the supply chain.’