Waitrose trials linerless packaging

UK supermarket Waitrose is trialling a linerless solution for its Fresh Gold Kiwis. The Pro-Produce pack is the result of a collaboration between ProPrint Group and Primafruit. If successful, the Pro-Produce pack could be rolled out across Waitrose’s range of fresh produce. For Gold Kiwis alone, the linerless packaging format can save 1.2 tons of plastic.

The Pro-Produce Pack uses Ravenwood’s Linerless Labelling technology to apply a paper lid to a carton-board nested tray. Packing speeds are higher than other potential carton-board solutions, with the Waitrose Gold Kiwis packed at speeds of 45ppm. The packing process also offers inline date coding, making the pack an efficient and practical solution for packhouses.

The linerless packaging format is available using a range of tray sizes. Customers can tailor lids using shapes and apertures to suit the product. The Ravenwood applicator can connect to weigh price labeler for catch weight, fixed weight or average weight labeling.

Lisa Meade, spokesperson for Waitrose, said: 

“We are delighted to be testing this new technology on our Gold Kiwi product range. The trial is designed to help us understand the packaging function within our supply chain as well as the customer appetite for 100% kerbside recyclable card packaging where the fruit is not fully visible at the time of purchase. The data will give us a clear understanding of the supply chain adaptations required if rolling out more widely, as well as insight on how receptive our customers are to this type of packaging solution.”