The international packaging firm DS Smith has officially transitioned to a brown box format for the flavoured vodka portfolio and various other spirits produced by Absolut Vodka. This new sustainable packaging solution is manufactured using fibre-based corrugated cardboard, ensuring the material remains fully recyclable. Developed to enhance durability during transit, the boxes are engineered to protect glass bottles while being shipped to retail shops, commercial outlets, and direct customers across global markets. By shifting away from previous white glossy finishes, the company has integrated this structural upgrade to provide robust resistance against crushing and pressure during distribution.
The collaboration between the two companies has resulted in the creation of several unique box structures tailored for specific offerings, including watermelon, pear, citron, and lime flavours. To maintain brand consistency, flavour variants are clearly identified through colour coding and the application of established typography on the exterior of the packs. Since 2025, Absolut Vodka, a member of the Pernod Ricard group, has been utilizing these brown corrugated cardboard boxes to transport its flavoured range to customers throughout Europe. Anton Bengtsson, a key account manager at DS Smith, noted: “We changed the ink and branding on the exterior of the Absolut Vodka packaging to complement the aesthetic of the new brown boxes. The solution allows the packaging to withstand pressure and resist crushing while simultaneously providing effective cushioning for the glass bottles during transit, shipping and handling.”
This project marks a significant shift in how the brand manages its logistics and supply chain protection. By utilizing this sustainable packaging design, the organization effectively combines physical protection with a modern aesthetic that aligns with current material standards. DS Smith has expressed satisfaction in supporting the requirements of Absolut Vodka, a brand recognized for its innovation in the international spirits sector. This transition to fibre-based solutions reflects a broader effort to optimize how products are prepared for shipping and handling, ensuring that the integrity of the spirits remains uncompromised as they move from the production facility to the end consumer.