Smurfit Kappa innovates cardboard-based fire extinguisher packaging for Jewel Fire Group

UK – Smurfit Kappa has collaborated with UK-based fire trade product supplier, Jewel Fire Group, to develop innovative cardboard-based packaging for fire extinguishers, addressing critical issues with the existing packaging’s durability within the postal system.

The collaboration was initiated after Jewel Fire Group’s buyer, Kelvin Staniforth, reached out to Smurfit Kappa with urgent concerns related to their fire extinguisher packaging.

The existing packaging was causing significant damages during transit, leading to a high postal damage rate and substantial losses for the company.

Smurfit Kappa’s Chesterfield team’s design department played a pivotal role in this project, leveraging their expertise in hazardous cardboard packaging and UN-certified packaging for dangerous goods.

They embarked on a creative journey to redesign the fire extinguisher packaging, opting for ISTA-certified boxes that could withstand the rigors of the postal system.

After thorough testing against Jewel Fire’s current packaging, Smurfit Kappa developed a solution incorporating air buffers at the top and bottom of the packages, enhancing product protection and minimizing damage during transit.

By transitioning from a two-piece to a single-piece solution made from EB flute material, Smurfit Kappa not only improved the product’s appearance but also reduced labor and assembly costs for Jewel Fire Group.

In response to Jewel Fire’s spatial limitations, Smurfit Kappa Chesterfield took proactive steps to maintain stock on behalf of the customer, ensuring timely weekly deliveries.

This approach optimized inventory management, upheld product quality, and minimized the risk of obsolescence for Jewel Fire Group.

Smurfit Kappa’s commitment to innovative and sustainable packaging solutions extends beyond fire extinguishers.

They have previously introduced paper-based honeycomb buffers for lightweight product protection and insulated weather-resistant boxes for transporting bees.

The company’s expertise also includes developing customized, sustainable packaging solutions for the automotive sector, such as the Hexacomb packaging designed to provide compression resilience and shock absorption.

In the context of increasing environmental sustainability concerns in the automotive industry, Smurfit Kappa’s focus on eco-friendly packaging positions them as a valuable partner for automotive firms seeking reliable and environmentally conscious solutions.

Furthermore, Smurfit Kappa’s dedication to sustainable practices is exemplified by their provision of water-resistant cardboard produce trays to McCormack Family Farms, replacing imported and unrecyclable alternatives, thereby supporting the shift towards more sustainable packaging choices across industries.

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