Frustration-Free Packaging Headed for the Retail Shelf

In 2006, Wal-Mart introduced its Sustainable Packaging Scorecard to push manufacturers and suppliers to use more eco-friendly packaging. In 2008, Amazon launched its Frustration-Free Packaging initiative to help reduce packaging waste as well as customer "wrap rage." Now, Wal-Mart is expanding its sustainable packaging efforts by joining Amazon in the promotion of frustration-free packaging - working to make packaging not only greener, but also easier and safer to open.

Say Goodbye to the Clamshell

Wrap rage is most often associated with the traditional all-plastic clamshell design, which is made to increase tamper resistance and reduce theft, yet is actually the cause of much frustration and many injuries in the United States. Clamshells are difficult to open, and many customers must often use sharp tools in order to finally reach the packaged product. In addition, clamshells are usually made with harmful (and, with the rising cost of oil, expensive) plastic materials such as PVC. By replacing the clamshell with more sustainable, easy-to-open packaging solutions, Wal-Mart and Amazon are helping reduce waste, reduce costs and reduce rage.

Clamshell Packaging Alternatives

For Amazon, finding an alternative to the clamshell is as simple as shipping products in the right-sized recycled corrugated boxes. Packaging for the retail shelf, however, is a little more complicated, since these packages are facing the consumer and must be visually appealing in order to market the product successfully. In addition to corrugated cardboard, clamshell packaging alternatives include blister packaging, which can use recycled PET and recycled paperboard to contain the product. The recycled materials are better for the environment, and the paperboard is easier to open than plastic.

At Heritage Sustainable, we provide a wide range of sustainable packaging solutions. For more information, contact us today!