DS Smith has introduced its fiber-based Closed-Type Tray to support the transatlantic freight of kiwis and other fresh produce destined for the Greek market. The solution is engineered to preserve product quality and freshness for more than 45 days while using lightweight materials to improve overall loading capacity during long-haul international shipments.
The fiber-based tray is positioned as a direct alternative to plastic packaging for the transportation of fresh fruit. It is constructed from high-quality virgin paper, with a specific weight chosen to ensure durability throughout the journey. The Closed-Type Tray weighs 10 kg in total encompassing a body, base, and top lid and DS Smith confirms it can be adapted to accommodate a range of different requirements.
Ventilation is handled through a die-cut technique that creates holes along the sides of the packaging, while the lid functions as an integrated element of the overall design. Internally, reinforced corners enhance structural durability without requiring any additional material reinforcement.
Giorgos Filippoglou, Managing Director of the Greek Cluster Packaging Division at DS Smith Hellas, stated: “Sustainability and innovation are at the core of every packaging solution we design and especially for critical sectors such as agri-food, where product safety, freshness, and quality are paramount.”
Before export, fresh fruit producers have the option to place intelligent atmosphere and temperature-controlled bags inside the sealed trays. This allows growers to actively manage and optimize travel conditions for their products during transit.
Filippoglou further noted: “We used our Circular Design Metrics (CDM) tools to ensure that this packaging solution is fully recyclable and created for easy collection, processing, and reintegration into the supply chain as raw material. Its focus is on performance optimization, durability, and functionality, and it is lightweight to meet the demands of these international supply chains.”
DS Smith states that the fiber-based tray was developed using the minimal amount of material necessary, in keeping with its Circular Design Principles analysis. The company’s CDM tools were used to rate and compare the circularity of the packaging design across eight distinct indicators including supply chain optimization, recyclability, materials utilization, carbon footprint, and renewable source.
The tray’s straightforward construction is designed to simplify the packing process. DS Smith describes it as easy to assemble on automatic forming machines, with a reduced packing time compared to more complex packaging formats. The exterior of the packaging supports a range of printing techniques and branding options, offering flexibility for producers across different markets.
This development follows DS Smith’s recent launch of a fiber-based box for Absolut Vodka. The company has also previously designed cardboard packaging for home fragrance products and chassis packaging for the automotive sector, underscoring its ongoing work across diverse industries.
