Mondi has collaborated with German machine supplier beck packautomaten to create a functional paper solution that has the potential to revolutionize eCommerce by replacing plastic packaging and creating right-sized packaging for a wide range of products.
The eCommerce market has grown significantly, accounting for approximately 20% of global retail sales in 2021. This means a wider variety of goods is being distributed, requiring packaging of different sizes, shapes and strengths. Mondi’s annual consumer trend research showed that online retailers actively seek practical packaging solutions that ensure optimal protection of goods shipped and are sustainable – 82% of customers prefer recyclable eCommerce packaging.
Mondi’s FunctionalBarrier Paper is 95% paper and features enhanced barrier properties to guarantee premium product protection against water vapour and moisture. This is essential for many products being shipped, including electronic goods. The paper is made with higher strength, enabling it to carry heavier items without breakage. It is responsibly sourced, made of renewable materials and recyclable in existing recycling streams throughout Europe.
Beck’s automated packing machine ensures that products of different sizes are packed according to their requirements. The machine measures the packed goods and calculates the paper needed, reducing excess material usage and minimizing waste and costs. Stable sealing of Mondi’s paper on all four sides of the packaging ensures that it meets logistics requirements. It protects goods in transit – as successfully proven during tests in Mondi’s ISTA certified lab in its Bupak plant.
Thomas Lunz, Industry Group manager Functional Paper, Mondi Functional Paper and Films, says, “All types of goods are being transported around the globe daily. The need to create bespoke packaging that reduces waste, protects the wide range of products, and delivers on sustainability targets is enormous. Our FunctionalBarrier Paper enables online retailers to continue reducing the use of unnecessary plastic following our approach of using paper where possible and plastic when useful.”
Alexander Deharde, Sales director, beck packautomaten adds, “Mondi’s FunctionalBarrier Paper has excellent runnability on our automated packing lines and is a sustainable solution that replaces plastic packaging for online shipments. In the first cooperation with a European fashion retailer, we reduced plastic use significantly. We will be able to save them more than 45 tonnes of plastic every year once the switch is completed.”
