As the festive season draws near, the rush to find the perfect gifts and decorations is in full swing. Amidst the festivities, a growing concern is also taking center stage: sustainability.
With the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions, brands are seeking innovative ways to package their products for the season, ensuring that consumers can enjoy their holiday purchases without harming the planet. In 2024, sustainability in festive packaging is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity.
At PG Paper, we are proud to contribute to the growing movement for eco-friendly packaging materials providing businesses with solutions that meet consumer expectations while minimising environmental impact.
Let’s explore some of the exciting innovations in festive packaging this year.
Consumer Expectations and Sustainable Packaging
A recent survey highlighted by Packaging News revealed a significant shift in consumer expectations regarding sustainable packaging. As environmental concerns grow, 68% of consumers express a preference for purchasing products with eco-friendly packaging. However, barriers such as price, availability and confusion about what constitutes sustainable packaging remain prominent challenges.
This presents a unique opportunity for brands to lead with clarity and offer packaging that not only meets customer demand but also fosters a more sustainable future.
Businesses are stepping up their efforts to align with these expectations by offering greener packaging options. Beyond tissue paper and gift bags, it’s clear that sustainability is at the forefront of consumer minds when shopping this holiday season.
Nestlé’s Paper-Based Packaging Innovation
Nestlé is one of the leading brands embracing sustainable packaging for the holiday season. The company is trialing 200,000 Quality Street paper tubs across Tesco stores, as well as 150 tonnes of sweets in eco-friendly packaging.
This trial aims to reduce the use of virgin plastic across Nestlé’s product portfolio, marking a significant shift towards paper-based solutions. With the festive season being synonymous with sweets and chocolates, the move toward more sustainable packaging aligns perfectly with growing consumer demand for greener options.
This paper-based packaging innovation is set to reduce environmental impact, making it easier for consumers to enjoy their favorite festive treats whilst reducing plastic waste.
Diageo’s Paper-Based Baileys Bottle
The beverage industry is also seeing a shift towards more sustainable packaging. Diageo, the company behind the iconic Baileys Irish Cream, have been trailing a paper-based bottle for their popular liqueur. As the demand for sustainable products continues to rise, Diageo is leading the way by introducing an innovative packaging solution that reduces the use of plastic.
However, a significant challenge remains—68% of consumers express a desire to purchase more sustainably, yet only 12% actually do, citing issues such as cost and availability. By pioneering solutions like paper-based bottles, Diageo is making it easier for consumers to act on their green intentions. Especially during the holidays when gift-giving often includes premium beverages.
Lush’s Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping
It’s not just one element of the product’s packaging that is being focused on. Instead, companies are aiming for the entirety of the product to be recyclable or reusable. A great example is Lush, who have transformed their types of packaging into fully recyclable entities.
Lush, known for its luxurious bath products, has long been committed to sustainable practices. For the 2024 festive season, the brand has taken its commitment further by wrapping their gift sets in 100% recycled paper. But the eco-friendly packaging doesn’t stop there. The ribbons are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and the boxes are crafted from 100% recycled board.
Lush has also switched to Eco-Pops for padding, a biodegradable alternative to polystyrene made from non-GMO cornstarch. This material is entirely compostable and safe to use in food or garden waste bins. Lush’s focus on minimising waste and maximising recyclability is a shining example for cpmany’s shifting to a greener future.
At PG Paper, we understand that transportation of gifts is a factor to consider for consumers. Products such as fluting paper (or medium) acts as a protective layer on the outside of packaging. Filling gaps in the outer case and offering cushioning support for the contents inside. Fluting paper is an essential material in the manufacturing of corrugated board. Fluting offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional packaging materials like bubble wrap and plastic-based options. This is due to it being fully recyclable and made from renewable resources.
Moo Free’s Fully Recyclable Packaging
Moo Free, a brand dedicated to providing vegan and dairy-free chocolate, has also embraced sustainable packaging solutions. The company’s advent calendars, made with 100% recycled materials, are fully recyclable. Ultimately, ensuring that the festive cheer doesn’t come at the cost of the planet.
Their shipping packaging, which is made from corn starch that dissolves in water, offers an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic. Additionally, Moo Free’s chocolate bars are wrapped in recyclable plastic sleeves, ensuring minimal waste.
With zero waste sent to landfills from their headquarters and factories, Moo Free is setting a major example for food brands looking to reduce their environmental footprint during the holiday season.
The push for food packaging suppliers to comply with demand this festive season is on the rise. With advent calendars being a staple for lots of consumers, the need for more eco-friendly solutions such as kraft paper and cartonboard are more prominent.
Your Partner in Sustainable Packaging
As these innovative brands demonstrate, sustainable packaging is not only a trend but a crucial step in reducing environmental harm. At PG Paper, we are dedicated to helping businesses implement eco- friendly solutions that not only meet consumer expectations but also support the planet.
We offer a wide range of packaging products that are designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability without compromising on quality.
Contact our expert team today to discuss our portfolio and product offerings.