DS Smith, a global frontrunner in sustainable and fiber-based packaging solutions, is transitioning from plastic pallets to corrugated cardboard for canned products. This initiative is a collaboration with Vilsund Blue A/S, Denmark’s largest industrial shellfish and seafood producer.
Working closely with Vilsund Blue A/S, the team of expert designers at DS Smith implemented their pioneering Circular Design Metrics (CDM) tool. This innovative approach assesses and compares the circularity of potential new packaging designs based on eight critical indicators. These include factors such as carbon footprint, design for reuse, supply chain optimization, and material utilization. The CDM sustainability measurement tools provide an insightful evaluation of a design’s circularity, enabling the discovery of diverse packaging options tailored to customer needs.
The new fiber-based packaging solution developed for Vilsund Blue A/S aims to enhance pallet efficiency by increasing the number of canned units per pallet. Consequently, the company has boosted its capacity from 1,800 cans to an impressive 2,700 cans per pallet for product transportation and freight. Additionally, Vilsund Blue A/S can now stack and store its products more effectively, optimizing space on retail shelves.
According to Martin Nielsen, Technical Support Manager at DS Smith:
“Vilsund Blue set us a challenge to eliminate plastic materials from their pallets and to protect the products while optimizing sustainability performance throughout the supply chain. They produce mussels at scale, and we collaborated with Vilsund Blue’s machine suppliers to ensure that the packaging was fully integrated with their production processes. We have also significantly reduced CO2 emissions, and the product looks great on the shelf.”
Bent Svenningsen, Production Manager at Vilsund Blue A/S, commented:
“DS Smith came up with some fantastic solutions to help to make our packaging more sustainable and circular. We wanted to replace the plastic in our pallets, and DS Smith has assisted us in developing a pure corrugated cardboard alternative. We take immense pride in our commitment to quality, and the team of experts at DS Smith is helping us achieve our sustainability objectives.”
Vilsund Blue A/S operates three industrial sites in Nykøbing Mors, Denmark, employing around seventy individuals tasked with cooking, packing, and distributing up to 250 tons of fresh shellfish daily. The company also offers preserves, powder, and various products alongside fresh shellfish.
Aligned with its mission of ‘Redefining Packaging for a Changing World’, DS Smith is dedicated to steering a shift towards a circular economy. Through its Now and Next sustainability strategy, launched in 2020, the company strives to deliver innovative sustainable packaging solutions that benefit customers and society alike. This approach empowers clients globally to meet their sustainability goals, particularly in the realm of food and drink packaging.
