Smurfit Kappa launches new corrugated range for beverage packs

Smurfit Kappa TopClip features two die-cut holes so it can be handled easily in-store. Credit: Smurfit Kappa.

European corrugated and paper-based packaging company Smurfit Kappa has unveiled a new range of sustainable solutions for beverage packs.

The new packaging portfolio will replace single-use plastics for bundling canned and bottled beverages. It is plastic-free and 100% renewable, recyclable and biodegradable.

Designed to replace the plastic rings that are used in group six-packs of cans, Smurfit Kappa’s GreenClip uses corrugated alternative to bundle the cans.

The company’s second packaging product, TopClip, has 30% less carbon content than the existing plastic film.

It replaces the stretch film that bundles the cans in a single pack and completely covers the top of the cans.

TopClip does not require glue, has two die-cut holes and protects the cans from contamination.

Smurfit Kappa has partnered with various automation suppliers to provide interested customers with ‘a full turnkey solution’.

Smurfit Kappa Innovation and Development vice-president Arco Berkenbosch said: “I am very excited about these unique solutions. All our tests have shown that in terms of convenience and sustainability they are at the top of the market.

“Single-use plastics can have a devastating impact on the environment and designing even more sustainable packaging alternatives is a cornerstone of our Better Planet Packaging initiative. We know from our research that 75% of consumers have a preference for sustainable packaging.”

The final packaging of the new range, Nor-Grip, was launched earlier this year and is designed to firmly bundles bottles together into consumer units.

Smurfit Kappa’s new range of packaging was displayed at its Better Planet Packaging Day.