UK – Ecommerce platform providing a unique end-to-end solution for online grocery around the world, Ocado has redesigned sandwich platter packaging for online orders.
Ocado.com, operated by Ocado Retail, is the world’s largest dedicated online supermarket and is a joint venture between Marks & Spencer Group and Ocado Group.
The new packaging moves away from table presentable platters to a more compact design, with the aim to fit in the online retailer’s delivery tote.
The retailer has over 830,000 active customers, with a range of over 50,000 products.
Laura Fernandez, Senior Packaging and Sustainability Manager at Ocado Retail said: “We’re delighted to have launched the first sandwich platter packaging designed especially for online retail.
“Our new, fully recyclable design improves efficiency, enhances product protection and in turn, helps to maintain our market-leading level of food waste at just 0.6%.”
Ocado says that the focus was also on improving shelf life. The cut sandwiches are positioned to maintain their freshness as fewer cut edges are exposed. This reduces the chances of the product drying out.
The packaging format consists of a tray and lid in 100% post-consumer recycled PET and FSC cardboard sleeve. Ocado said that all components are recyclable.
After performing trials, the retailer says that the number of lids and trays has been rationalized to minimize cost and maximize flexibility and efficiency.
The range uses two bases and two lids to accommodate all seven products in the range from classic to finger sandwiches and wraps.
The lid and tray have been designed for easy open ability as well as tight closure to eliminate the need for tamper evident labels whilst preserving the freshness of the product.
The sleeve also offers serving suggestions to inspire Ocado’s customers and for their ease and convenience.
The firm notes that packaging for online retail has different requirements than in-store packs, as it is unable to influence shelf presence as is the case in traditional retail environments.
The retailer added: “Online, the purchasing decision shifts to a click of a button and although the distribution channel is more demanding, the packaging must deliver an equally positive experience with a seamless transition from online to offline; the packaging must look as attractive in the kitchen as it did on the screen to the delight of our customers.”
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