DS Smith and Coca-Cola HBC Launch Recyclable Cardboard Handle for Beverage Multipacks

The beverage and food packaging industry is actively innovating to reduce environmental impact by replacing single-use plastics with recyclable alternatives and improving packaging designs. DS Smith, in partnership with Coca-Cola HBC and Krones, introduced the Lift Up, a corrugated cardboard handle for 1.5-litre soft drink bottles that replaces plastic shrink-wrap, offering a fully recyclable packaging solution that also enhances branding visibility and consumer convenience. This innovation, tested in Austria, aims to cut plastic use by about 200 tonnes annually and reduce production energy consumption by up to 58%, contributing to lower carbon footprints across supply chains. Beyond packaging materials, companies like B&G Foods are prioritizing packaging as a strategic tool to influence consumer buying decisions and increase sales by investing in real-world testing and disciplined design approaches. Meanwhile, the Australian beverage sector is advancing digital direct-to-can printing technology, enabling faster production, lower minimum orders, and more sustainable packaging by eliminating plastic embellishments and reducing waste. These developments reflect a broader industry trend towards sustainability, efficiency, and enhanced consumer engagement through packaging innovation.