DS Smith partners Carlsberg to launch trial of innovative round wrap for beer in poland

POLAND – DS Smith has joined forces with Carlsberg to introduce a trial of its Round Wrap packaging solution in Poland, targeting reduced plastic use in beer distribution. 

The fibre-based multi-pack wraps pallets securely while cutting down on traditional shrink film, a move set to lower carbon dioxide emissions in the supply chain.

Developed with Arcwise technology, the Round Wrap features curved edges for better handling and full recyclability.

It will wrap cases from Carlsberg’s, Garage, and Somersby brands during the initial tests. 

According to DS Smith estimates, the switch could save up to 224 metric tons of CO2 annually for Carlsberg Poland operations.

The design maintains product stability in transit and exposes branding across the entire pack surface. 

A survey conducted by DS Smith and Toluna revealed that shoppers favored the wrap-around style for its standout look on store shelves over conventional options.

Performance trials indicated the rounded form trims unused space inside packs by 4.2% and lightens the overall weight by about 17% versus square-cornered boxes. 

DS Smith’s team evaluated the solution through its circular design metrics tool, which measures factors like carbon impact, material use, and logistics efficiency across eight key areas.

“We are proud to partner with Carlsberg Poland for a trial launch of the DS Smith Round Wrap,” said Reinier Schlatmann, regional managing director for DS Smith East Europe packaging division. 

He noted that the innovation delivers strong protection, eases supply chain operations, and opens new branding avenues.

Schlatmann added in a statement that the project fits DS Smith’s broader efforts to cut waste and support circular practices for clients.

This trial follows DS Smith’s September 2025 collaboration with Slovenia’s BSH Nazarje, part of the BSH Home Appliances Group. 

There, the companies swapped out expanded polystyrene foam in Bosch hand mixer packaging for a recyclable corrugated cardboard version, enhancing end-of-life options without compromising protection.

Building on such initiatives, DS Smith recently created a fully recyclable corrugated display for Carlsberg’s Kronenbourg 1664 beer rollout in Germany. The eye-catching unit supports the brand’s market entry while prioritizing material recovery.

In another development, DS Smith picked up the ScanStar 2025 award for its corrugated cardboard design tailored to drone delivery of electronics. 

The packaging withstands aerial stresses and folds flat for efficient storage, marking a step forward in logistics adaptation.

These projects highlight DS Smith’s push into versatile, low-impact solutions across industries, from beverages to appliances and beyond. 

As trials progress in Poland, early feedback points to smoother palletizing and less film waste, paving the way for wider adoption.

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