BerryWorld, a leading name in fresh berry distribution, has made significant strides in sustainability by testing a new berry punnet crafted entirely from 100% recycled PET (rPET). This initiative, in collaboration with Sharpak, marks a pivotal moment for both companies as they work together to diminish environmental impact and innovate food and drink sustainable packaging solutions.
Eco-Friendly Design Meets Consumer Needs
BerryWorld aimed to develop packaging that harmonizes sustainability with essential features like lightweight durability and optimal visibility of fresh produce. Acknowledging the advantages of partnership, BerryWorld partnered with Sharpak, whose expertise in sustainable packaging and efficient waste management positioned them as an ideal collaborator. Together, they successfully created a fully recyclable rPET punnet that aligns with BerryWorld’s functionality and sustainability requirements.
Meeting Circular Economy Goals Amid Industry Challenges
The new 100% rPET trays focus on utilizing recycled materials while ensuring recyclability. This approach sustains PET within the supply chain and promotes a circular economy. Nonetheless, the 2022 UK Plastics Pact report reveals that only 55% of plastic is currently recycled in the UK, resulting in a limited supply of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. Expanding access to PCR materials is crucial to meet the growing demand for rPET in packaging. Without this commitment, the industry risks a shortage of sustainable, recycled-content packaging options as the demand escalates. Through their collaboration, BerryWorld and Sharpak have demonstrated that 100% rPET is viable, but it is essential for the entire supply chain to join forces to enhance PCR supply.
Sharpak Leads the Way in Recyclable Solutions
Sharpak addresses this supply challenge by providing packaging that is fully recyclable and designed to keep PET circulating. Collaborating with like-minded partners like BerryWorld, Sharpak fosters an ecosystem that simplifies recycling for consumers and strengthens the flow of recycled PET back into the supply chain. This collaboration aims to close the recycling loop, ensuring that PCR content is continually reintegrated into new products, provided the waste infrastructure can support these initiatives.
A Fresh, Award-Winning Approach to Packaging Functionality
In creating this new packaging, Sharpak and BerryWorld prioritized both functionality and sustainability. The rPET punnet embodies BerryWorld’s commitment to delivering fresh, perfectly packaged fruit from the field to consumers. Designed with a secure seal and a recyclable paper lid, this packaging preserves berry freshness and quality, significantly reducing food waste and effectively protecting the fruit during transportation and storage.
Recently trialed over the summer with Ocado Retail, the new pack received prestigious recognition at The Grocer New Product & Packaging Awards 2024, winning the Ultimate Champion award in the Composite Pack of the Year category. The jury praised the innovation as “the future of packaging,” highlighting the supplier’s careful selection of materials beneficial to both consumers and retailers.
Industry Leaders on the Power of Partnership
“At BerryWorld, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do,” stated Paul Avery, UK commercial director at BerryWorld. “Through our partnership with Sharpak, who shares our commitment to sustainable innovation, we’ve been able to create a packaging solution that combines functionality, high quality, and environmental responsibility.”
This new packaging also reassures consumers, featuring trays made from 100% recycled materials that can be fully recycled after use. The recyclable paper lid further minimizes waste and supports the transition toward a circular economy.
“Sharpak has always been driven by a mission to push the boundaries of sustainable packaging,” remarked Andy Nudds-Hunter, Retail Director at Sharpak. “Our collaboration with BerryWorld to create a 100% rPET tray compatible with a recyclable paper lid highlights the power of partnership in driving innovation and environmental progress. Together, we have proven this is possible; now the rest of the supply chain must follow.”
An Eco-Friendly Choice Now on Shelves
This fully recyclable packaging solution is now available on store shelves, providing consumers with a convenient, sustainable way to enjoy fresh berries. It exemplifies the commitment of both BerryWorld and Sharpak to make environmental responsibility an integral part of everyday products.
www.berryworld.com https://www.groupeguillin.fr/en/sharpak-aylesham/