DS Smith teams up with Versuni on sustainable packaging for Philips Baristina

USA – Sustainable packaging company DS Smith has partnered with home appliance brand Versuni to create an eco-friendly packaging solution for the new Philips Baristina coffee machine.

This fibre-based packaging eliminates plastic bags and is designed to be both recycled and recyclable.

The packaging features corrugated buffers with an anti-scratch coating to protect the coffee machine. The design also enhances the unboxing experience, with the machine centrally displayed and surrounded by bold visuals and artwork.

To assess the packaging’s sustainability, DS Smith used its Circular Design Metrics (CDM) tool, which evaluates the impact of packaging designs on various sustainability indicators, including renewable content, recyclability, and supply chain optimization.

This tool helps DS Smith identify the product’s sustainability performance and areas for improvement.

Thoran Ottens, Divisional Key Account Manager at DS Smith Electronics, highlighted the importance of meeting consumer expectations for sustainable packaging, stating, “Consumer trends and expectations are fast-moving, and in keeping with desires for sustainable packaging, we designed this product solution to create a high-end visual impact for both the shelf and online.”

Operating in over 30 countries, DS Smith provides sustainable packaging solutions, paper products, and recycling services.

Over the past three years, the company has invested more than €50 million ($54.2 million) in its Portuguese facilities, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

This investment includes technology upgrades and incorporating renewable energy solutions across its facilities.

Key enhancements include the acquisition of two top-of-the-range fluting machines for the packaging facilities in Oporto and Leiria and the installation of a 2,800mm (approximately 9.19 ft) wide Dry End at the Lisbon facility.

Additionally, DS Smith has invested in a large processing machine designed for the heavy-duty market, catering to the transportation of heavy, large, or bulky products in the industrial and agricultural sectors.

E-commerce customers will also benefit from upgraded machinery that produces padded paper envelopes, and the company’s designers have developed a sustainable fiber-based alternative to plastic bubble wrap.

Investments in renewable energy include installing solar panels at the Esmoriz, Leiria, and Lisbon facilities, which are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 34% annually.

DS Smith’s Packaging Division in Portugal operates six factories in Guilhabreu, Esmoriz, Águeda, Carregal do Sal, Leiria, and Lisbon, along with a logistics centre in Madeira.

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