Smurfit Kappa develops paper-based child-lock box for laundry pods

Dublin-based paper-based packaging producer Smurfit Kappa has developed the Click-to-Lock Pods Box in partnership with McBride, a European manufacturer of private-label products for the cleaning and hygiene market. The packaging solution for detergent is a paper-based solution that provides a sustainable and safe alternative to the traditional plastic box for laundry pods, according to the company.

The Click-to-Lock Pods Box reduces CO2 emissions by 32 percent during production and is full recyclable and biodegradable. The company says it is the latest example of how Smurfit Kappa uses its circular business model to identify the best packaging solution for each situation alongside reducing the environmental impact.

The Click-to-Lock Pods Box is tamper-proof thanks to an effective, certified child-lock system that is in line with the International Association of Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products, following successful protocol testing. It is also moisture resistant because of a varnish inside the packaging that provides a barrier against moisture from accessing the contents.

The pack has 25 percent more capacity than the previous plastic version and brings efficiencies to the supply chain by facilitating an increased pallet load, the company adds.

CEO of Smurfit Kappa Europe Saverio Mayer says, “We are delighted to partner with such a prestigious company as McBride for this project. By combining our collective expertise, we have created this first-to-market innovative packaging solution that provides our customers with a child-safe, cost-effective and sustainable packaging option for laundry pods.”

“This project is an excellent example of the success that comes from pooling expertise between suppliers and customers to deliver the innovation to support the essential move to more environmentally friendly products,” says Chris Smith, CEO of McBride plc.

The Click-to-Lock Pods Box is on shelves in France and will be rolled out across Europe in the coming months, according to Smurfit Kappa.