Flexible packaging is emerging as a potential substitute for rigid plastic containers, enabling businesses to reduce material consumption, optimise logistics and support easier dispensing for suitable hazardous products.
Fenton Packaging Solutions has partnered with Quadpak to broaden access to UN-approved Bag-in-Box (BiB) packaging for detergents, commercial cleaning products, hygiene formulations and compatible chemical applications throughout the UK, Ireland and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Announced on 6 October 2026, the agreement brings together Quadpak’s flexible liquid packaging capabilities and Fenton’s market expertise and customer network. Together, the companies will support businesses considering alternatives to traditional rigid plastic packaging.
The packaging is designed for compatible products assigned to Packing Groups II and III, provided that product suitability, packaging requirements and relevant transport regulations are satisfied.
UN-Approved Bag-in-Box for Rigid Packaging Replacement
Bag-in-Box systems consist of a flexible inner bag enclosed within an outer protective carton or container. This lightweight packaging format can be used to store and transport liquid products and, where appropriate, replace rigid plastic jerry cans and similar containers used across professional cleaning and chemical supply chains.
Quadpak produces several flexible liquid packaging formats, including standard Bag-in-Box systems, its Cheertainer™ solution, stand-up pouches, pillow bags and application-specific designs.
Through the partnership, the companies aim to help more organisations access packaging options that improve material and supply-chain efficiency while continuing to meet the performance and compliance needs of the products being packed.
Chris Warren, Managing Partner at Fenton Packaging Solutions, emphasised the joint effort to develop UN-approved packaging alternatives for suitable products within Packing Groups II and III.
Lower Material Consumption and More Efficient Logistics
A major potential benefit of Bag-in-Box packaging is the reduction in plastic required compared with conventional rigid containers. The companies state that suitable configurations may use around 80–90% less plastic, although the result will vary according to the product, pack design and intended application.
Its flexible construction may also improve warehouse and transport efficiency. Empty packaging occupies less space, while the compact format can support more effective use of vehicle capacity.
Potential advantages include:
- Lower packaging material consumption: Flexible bags may require considerably less plastic than equivalent rigid containers.
- More efficient transport and storage: Compact packs can assist with vehicle loading and reduce warehouse space requirements.
- Reduced packaging waste: Using less material can lower the volume of packaging sent for collection and disposal.
- More precise dispensing: Suitable systems may be fitted with dosing equipment to improve delivery accuracy and limit product spillage.
- Possible supply-chain savings: Reduced packaging use and improved logistics performance could lower total operating costs.
The extent of any benefit will depend on factors including product characteristics, pack size, transport conditions, dispensing equipment and end-of-life arrangements.
Proquimia Highlights Bag-in-Box Applications
Proquimia, a Spanish producer of professional cleaning and disinfection products, provides an example of the format’s commercial application.
Since 2011, the company has used Quadpak packaging as part of its Ecoconpack hygiene system. The solution combines concentrated cleaning and disinfection formulations with dosing equipment for kitchen hygiene, housekeeping, general cleaning and laundry operations.
Information provided by the companies indicates that Proquimia has achieved a 95% reduction in plastic waste and a 75% reduction in transport and storage costs through the system.
The example shows how concentrated chemical formulations, flexible packaging and controlled dispensing can work together to improve professional cleaning processes. However, the reported figures apply to Proquimia’s particular system and should not be treated as representative of every Bag-in-Box application.
Responding to Packaging Costs and Sustainability Pressures
Companies that rely on rigid plastic containers are facing growing pressure to control packaging expenditure, meet recycling responsibilities and manage waste disposal. In the UK, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), where relevant, are also influencing packaging procurement and material choices.
By using less packaging material and improving distribution efficiency, Bag-in-Box systems could help businesses respond to some of these financial and environmental pressures.
Any move to flexible packaging must nevertheless be supported by a detailed review of product compatibility, barrier performance, dispensing requirements, recyclability and regulatory obligations. Where hazardous chemicals are involved, the selected design must meet the applicable UN performance standards and transport legislation.
Expanding Access to Flexible Packaging
The agreement combines Quadpak’s manufacturing expertise and experience in flexible liquid packaging with Fenton’s distribution reach and established customer relationships.
Quadpak Managing Director Stellan Flensmo said the arrangement would enable the company’s packaging products to reach a broader customer base across the UK, Ireland and the UAE.
The partnership reflects a wider industry interest in assessing flexible packaging as an alternative to conventional rigid formats for industrial and professional applications, especially where reduced material use, efficient logistics and controlled product dispensing are priorities.