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Category: Packaging & Labelling

Excellence in e-commerce Fulfilment Automation

Posted on by David Priestman

Coesia, a global supplier of industrial and packaging solutions, will present its latest automation technologies for logistics and e-commerce at LogiMAT 2025, taking place from March 11 to 13 in Stuttgart, Germany (Hall 8, Booth 8C31). As a go-to partner for any e-commerce fulfilment need, Coesia provides highly innovative and user-friendly technological solutions focused on agility, flexibility, and efficiency. The company’s booth will host experts from its companies ACMA, Emmeci, FlexLink, Atlantic Zeiser, and System Ceramics, presenting their range of e-commerce solutions. The exhibit will focus on advanced automation technologies that enhance operational efficiency, adaptability, and sustainability in warehouse and order fulfilment processes.

“Coesia is the go-to partner for e-commerce fulfilment needs,” says Alessandro Parimbelli, CEO of Coesia. “With deep expertise in automation, we help customers optimize their operations with solutions that simplify order fulfilment, reduce operational complexity, and enhance scalability. Our advanced technologies, from intelligent packaging to smart palletizing and warehouse automation, empower businesses to meet evolving consumer expectations while maintaining operational excellence and enhancing adaptability in their supply chain operations.”

Smart Palletizing by FlexLink – streamlined pallet handling

As the technology on display, Coesia will showcase the RC12 Re-Palletizing Line from FlexLink, an advanced system designed to streamline pallet handling operations in warehousing and co-packing. By integrating two RC12 collaborative robots to transfer products to another pallet, the system enables seamless automation of pallet size and pattern changes. This is particularly beneficial in e-commerce and distribution centers where orders must be repacked or adapted to different pallet configurations.

The RC12 Re-Palletizing Line features RobotConfig, an intuitive interface that simplifies palletization programming. It allows users to configure pallet patterns quickly without specialized robotics expertise. Additionally, its movable design, free from fixed floor attachments, offers great flexibility in dynamic warehouse environments. The solution enhances operational agility by supporting free-flow palletization and optimizing workflows without requiring major infrastructure modifications.

AI-driven mixed palletizing

In response to evolving e-commerce needs, the Mixed Palletizer is an innovative technology, optimizing stacking patterns for heterogeneous shipments. While not physically showcased at LogiMAT 2025, Coesia experts will be available to provide insights and discuss its benefits with interested customers looking to enhance their logistics operations.

E-BF by Emmeci – automated, customized packaging

Another highlight of Coesia’s presence at LogiMAT 2025 is the E-BF by Emmeci, a fully automated packaging solution that customizes box sizes on demand. Designed to accommodate both unstable multi-item orders and single-item shipments, it seamlessly integrates Box First and Box Last concepts to ensure precise fit-to-size packaging. The system automatically seals, tapes, and labels each package, optimizing material usage by up to 40%. By enhancing efficiency and sustainability, the E-BF improves productivity while ensuring high-quality packaging and optimized customer experience.

Visitors will also have the chance to learn more about:
• System Ceramic’s E-BFS machine, equipped with smart fulfillment technology and designed to wrap the product directly with a custom-fit package, creating a clamshell box in real time with the exact dimensions. This system enhances the customer experience with aesthetically refined and customizable packaging while supporting reverse logistics, simplifying returns, and reducing waste.
• ACMA’s E-SWL sleeve wrapping solution, designed for creating custom-sized shipping bags from paper-based or other materials on demand.
• Atlantic Zeiser’s Late-stage differentiation, which integrates with traditional printing for on-demand boxes personalization, reducing SKUs, waste, and storage costs.

With a continued presence at LogiMAT 2025, Coesia demonstrates its commitment to advancing automation in e-commerce logistics. By offering integrated solutions for packaging, palletizing and warehouse automation, the company helps companies achieve greater efficiency and adaptability in their supply chains.

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Uruguay Launches Deposit Return System

Posted on by Keith McKinley

In a step towards a more sustainable Latin America, Uruguay’s national packaging recovery initiative, Plan Vale, agreed to the terms with the consortium of CIEMSA, CSI, and Reverse Logistics Group (RLG) to implement the country’s first Deposit Return and Refund System (DRS) for single-use beverage containers. This pioneering project positions Uruguay as the first Latin American nation to adopt such a system, setting a precedent for efficient recycling and waste management in the region.

The consortium has been entrusted with the system’s design, implementation, and operation under Plan Vale’s stewardship. The program, which is designed to incentivize the return of recyclable materials, will cover a wide array of packaging types, including PET plastics, aluminum cans, glass bottles, and carton beverages. Including these materials is expected to amplify the program’s environmental impact significantly.

To facilitate this ambitious effort, RLG has partnered with CIEMSA and CSI, two long-established and highly experienced local firms, to support operations in Uruguay, which include material collection and transportation, as well as the construction and operation of counting and sorting centres. This collaboration will allow the transfer of RLG’s extensive global experience to DRS, which will ensure the system’s efficiency and reliability.

RLG will act as the project’s primary technology provider. The company will deploy an End-to-End DRS IT solution that integrates all system stakeholders and ensures the secure management of data and financial flows. Additionally, RLG’s operations and logistics management solution will support the Consortium in optimizing collection routes and tracking materials from collection to their final processing destinations.

The establishment of a local entity by RLG to manage the project underscores the company’s commitment to the success of the DRS in Uruguay. The local team, already in place, is expected to grow as the project progresses, further embedding RLG’s expertise within the country. RLG’s involvement in Uruguay’s DRS is a testament to the company’s leadership in environmental logistics solutions. With a strong track record of DRS implementations globally, RLG brings best practices and cutting-edge technology to support Uruguay in achieving its environmental goals.

This partnership marks a milestone for Uruguay and serves as a model for other Latin American countries considering similar initiatives. This initiative advances Uruguay’s sustainability efforts and serves as a scalable model for Latin America.

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Inotec UK Acquires Applied Label Solutions

Posted on by David Priestman

The UK subsidiary of inotec GmbH, inotec UK, has acquired the Beverley, Yorkshire-based self-adhesive label specialist, Applied Label Solutions (ALS), for an undisclosed sum. The deal, signed on the 31st January 2024, provides inotec UK with an ideal opportunity to develop its production capacity.

Founder and major ALS shareholder, Darren Sharp, said: “The merger of the two companies dovetails perfectly with my desire to retire from the business following a planned phase out. I am delighted to be handing over the reigns to one of Europe’s leading label companies who I am confident will take ALS to the next level.”

David Stocker, General Manager at inotec UK, explains the rationale behind the acquistion from inotec’s perspective: “ALS has almost 30 years’ experience in the production of high quality, cost effective self-adhesive label solutions. Darren’s retirement plans presented an ideal opportunity for us to build greater security and capacity to the supply of our UK labelling products.”

Same high quality products and service

“Initially, other than coming under the inotec brand name, there will be no obvious changes; the success of ALS is grounded in combining a responsive and reliable service with great value. This won’t change. Customer service and internal sales contacts will remain the same, with ALS staff benefitting from working in a larger team as part of the inotec family,” added Stocker.

“Our first priority to build the business will focus on further investment in staff and resources. This will enable us to provide the increased capacity many of our customers have requested. The investment will also allow us to offer a wider range of labelling products, including consumable blank labels, to our existing customer base.

“The recruitment of additional staff both in production and sales is already underway. Further down the line new premises will need to be found to bring the two companies together under one roof. The right building will provide manufacturing, storage and office space for continued growth over the coming years.

“This merger represents a new phase in development for inotec UK. It will provide many interesting avenues to explore that will help build on the success of ALS within a larger multi-national group. These are as they say, exciting times, and we are looking forward to the opportunities that will emerge in the months and years ahead,” concludes Stocker.

The merger itself was planned with the help of the inotec Group Project Management team and supported by its UK accountants, Forrester Boyd, and solicitors, Bridge McFarland.

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Insight into Strapping and Wrapping

Posted on by David Priestman

Proof of load securing, strapping and wrapping will be on show at LogiMAT 2025. With its new Digital Load Pass, Mosca lives up to its reputation as a pioneer in digital sustainability solutions. The company also provides insights into the range of its product portfolio in Hall 6, booth 6D21. It ranges from the new hand-held strapping tool to fully automatic strapping machines and the Saturn S6 stretch wrapper.

The Digital Load Pass from Mosca celebrates its premiere at LogiMAT. It encompasses all safety and sustainability-related information for transport security of fully secured loading units in a QR code. Product data including dimensions and packaging solutions such as strapping or wrapping are stored in the cloud and made available on the loading unit via the QR code. “The Digital Load Pass is already being implemented in industries like the textile or battery industry. We expect that sooner or later it will also apply to the packaging industry and we are already getting our customers ready,” emphasises Alex Jesser, Product Manager Marketing at Mosca.

In addition to information about the straps used, the Digital Load Pass also shows the energy consumed during packaging and the resulting CO2 footprint. Products that have been tested for load securing at the Mosca TechCenter are issued with a report that is part of the pass and serves as proof of transport security. Additional information can be added as needed, as Alex Jesser explains: “The Digital Load Pass shown at LogiMAT is a prototype. At the trade fair, we want to find out what other data is particularly relevant for the industry and thus tailor the product even better to the needs of our customers.”

A cross-section of the broad portfolio

With the machines and strap solutions on display at the LogiMAT booth, Mosca offers visitors a cross-section of its entire product portfolio. The portfolio stretches from cost-efficient, semi-automatic solutions to high-performance strapping machines for individual packages or pallets, and ring wrappers from Mosca’s subsidiary Movitec. “As a system provider, we take a holistic approach that covers all needs at the end of the packaging line, complemented by digital solutions, first-class service and comprehensive advice,” says Jesser. “Our booth at LogiMAT reflects this approach and ensures that there is something of interest for all visitors.”

Beginners in strapping technology and companies with low end-of-line packaging requirements will find what they are looking for in the RO-M Fusion and the new hand-held strapping tool (HUG). A semi-automatic handheld device, the HUG offers high flexibility and very easy handling for small packaging quantities and increased strap tensions of up to 2,700 N. The automatic RO-M Fusion with closed strap guide frame ensures greater ease of use for strap tensions up to 450 N.

Solutions for high demand

The SoniXs TR-Connect and the KZV-111 are both fully automatic and equipped with Mosca’s SoniXs ultrasonic sealing unit. The TR-Connect with built-in digital package is a prime example of digital applications. Thanks to the integrated WebHMI, it can be operated by an optional tablet on the machine and via mobile devices to allow access to important parameters such as power or strapping settings. The machine meets the needs of tightly timed production lines with up to 45 strapped packages per minute. The TR-Connect works with both plastic and paper straps. The machine is being exhibited at LogiMAT with a double unwinder equipped with a roll of PP and a roll of paper strap. With recyled content of 30 per cent, Mosca’s PP strap also contributes to greater sustainability.

The KZV-111, which will be shown in action at LogiMAT, is suitable for pallets. At the trade fair, it will strap palletised load carriers in just 12 seconds. Various models are available with a strap guide or closed strap frame to meet different needs. At the trade fair, the machine is equipped with Mosca’s fully recyclable PET strap that is made from 100 per cent recycled bottle flakes. The strap is characterised by high strength, elasticity and durability and can withstand loads of up to 580 kilograms, depending on its width.

Advice on the right solution for your needs

The Saturn S6 from Movitec can be seen in action as well and gives insights into the stretch-wrapping portfolio of Mosca. The ring stretch wrapping machine can wrap up to 120 pallets per hour with stretch-wrapping film, which protects the products from the weather and dirt. The film can be pre-stretched by up to 300 percent to minimise material consumption.

“It is important to us to not only to show visitors the different choices we offer for end-of-line packaging, but also to provide them with comprehensive advice,” emphasises Alex Jesser. For example, demand for paper tape has increased significantly but it does not provide the necessary stability for all applications. “In a joint discussion with our experts at the exhibition booth, we will find the right solution for everyone.”

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Green, Intelligent, Returnable Packaging

Posted on by David Priestman

ALSCO are a leading integrated returnable-package service provider in China, primarily focusing on serving automotive parts manufacturers and OEMs within the automotive industry.

The company’s comprehensive services consist of two main segments:

(i) Total Container Management, which includes pooling services where we manage the entire container operation process from design to recovery through our digitalization capabilities and extensive operational network, along with rental services and other value-added services;

(ii) container sales, providing a focused selection of containers to meet diverse customer needs.

According to Frost & Sullivan, in terms of revenue for 2023, ALSCO were the largest provider in both the whole pooling services industry and the automotive pooling services industry in China.
The company’s pooling services, which are at the heart of its ‘Total Container Management’, form the core of the business. Through this pooling service model, supported by an advanced digital
systems and platforms, ALSCO are committed to helping clients enhance their logistics efficiency, significantly reduce their packaging costs and achieve their green economic objectives as well
as ESG goals.

As of June 30, 2024, ALSCO managed an asset pool comprising over 1.2 million returnable containers and operated 944 circulation routes covering 97 cities, supported by 70 CMCs. Together, the asset pool and an extensive logistical network enabled the company to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

In addition, as of June 30, 2024, ALSCO has expanded its business overseas with two international circulation routes including Indonesia and South Korea, and international partners span across East Asia, Europe and North America. The company has also established subsidiaries in Hong Kong and Thailand to support this international expansion.

Value Propositions:

ALSCO distinguishes itself from competitors by offering a unique set of benefits that cater to the dynamic needs of returnable-package services, ensuring cost-effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability. These benefits include:
• Cost Reduction
• Efficiency Improvement
•Timely Service with Extensive Network
• Circular Economy Practices Aligned with ESG Goals

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Spanish Packaging Group Established

Posted on by David Priestman

With a strategic merger, Mosca and Reisopack strengthen their position in the Spanish packaging market. On January 30th, 2025, the two companies began their collaboration in the newly founded MoRe Packaging Group S.L. in Barcelona. The MoRe Packaging Group S.L. functions as a holding company for the legally independent units Reisopack S.L. and the Spanish division Mosca Direct S.L. Both companies will continue to work with their respective product ranges in their traditional market segments. Mosca offers a broad portfolio of end-of-line solutions for industrial applications while Reisopack specializes in applications for agricultural products.

Companies anticipate synergies for the future

Timo Mosca, shareholder of the Mosca Group, and Oscar Saldaña, Managing Director at Reisopack, expressed their enthusiasm at the signing of the contract. “We are combining our strengths to offer our customers even better solutions and services for their applications”, said Timo Mosca. “With this holding structure, Reisopack will formally become part of the Mosca Group, further strengthening our market position and enhancing our ability to deliver innovative packaging solutions to specific market segments.” Oscar Saldaña adds: “The merger will enable both companies to leverage synergies in the future, thereby offering customers in their respective market segments added value.”

In line with the company’s ‘Nonstop Performance’ claim, Mosca offers a comprehensive portfolio of holistic, end-of-line transport packaging solutions that includes strapping machines, stretch wrappers and consumables. From basic standard models to customised special machines and fully automated high-performance systems with digital features, Mosca stands by its customers as a global partner providing extensive services and support ranging from product development to production and maintenance. In Germany, Malaysia and America, Mosca manufactures strapping made from PP, PET or other materials with an ever-higher proportion of recycled content.

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Pack Smarter, No More Cheap Labour

Posted on by David Priestman

The rise in Employer National Insurance in the UK is but one factor set to impact ecommerce packaging. What can be done to alleviate the pain? Jo Bradley (pictured below), Business Development Manager at Sparck Technologies suggests a hi-tech panacea.

If distribution and fulfilment operations ever did benefit from ‘cheap’ labour, a series of recent Government announcements has ensured that era is well and truly over. Controlling labour costs through automation is no longer optional – it’s a question of business survival.

In short order, the UK Government has first raised the minimum wage by significantly more than inflation to £12.21 an hour for workers over the age of 21, Employer National Insurance contributions are rising from 13.8% to 15%, and in a further twist, this will now apply to workers on annualised pay of as little as £5,000 rather than the previous £9,100.

That last provision in particular hits the many fulfilment operations that are heavily dependent on seasonal or casual employees to cope with peak in activity. This patten of employment is about to be even further challenged by the extension of a range of workers’ rights to ‘day one’ of employment. Details are as yet obscure, but they certainly aren’t going to reduce employment costs.

The response must lie with automation, but particularly in the current uncertain economic climate, few businesses can afford the investment or business disruption required to go ‘full Amazon’ across activities such as retrieval, order picking and internal transport. These tend to be heavily interdependent, and ‘step by step’ approaches can be problematic.

One area that for many fulfilment operations can be treated as a standalone project, with the prospect of significant reductions in labour requirement, and thus an attractively quick Return on Investment, is that of packing and labelling goods into cartons for transport. Ecommerce operations, in particular, can stand to reap big rewards in terms of savings in labour and material costs, as well as boosting productivity and performance at peak, if the right approach is taken. Our repeated customer experience is that using ‘fit to size’ automation to fold and build boxes around consignments – even of mixed and varied goods – followed by auto sealing, weighing and labelling, can see one or two operators replacing as many as twenty manual packing benches.

But in selecting automated packaging technology businesses shouldn’t focus on labour costs alone. There are other cost pressures looming, and other benefits to be reaped. On costs, the revised Extended Producer Responsibility regulations are about to come into effect. These are complex, involving fees and credit notes and a significant administrative burden, but at heart they involve a levy on the use of packaging materials. Precise rates are yet to be fixed but the Government’s current mid-point estimates are around £190 per tonne for paper and card, and a deliberatively punitive £425 per tonne on plastic packaging materials.

Jo Bradley

This is intended to encourage firms to reduce the use of packaging materials. Fortunately for ecommerce businesses the right form of packaging automation can also provide a highly effective solution to this issue too. Sparck’s ‘fit-to-size’ automated packaging systems not only minimise the use of card used, by tailor-making a box for each individual order, but can also eliminate the need for void fillers which are often plastic based.

Those savings can go straight to the bottom line. But there are other less easily quantifiable but nonetheless real benefits. Well-fitting boxes reduce the incidence of shock or crush damage in transit. They economise on the use of transport space, which can also yield cost savings, on fuel obviously, but also in warehouse labour as there may be fewer roll cages to push around. And right-sizing removes what research consistently shows to be one of consumers’ biggest gripes about e-commerce and home delivery – oversized boxes!

These factors together make a robust case for automation. But as employment costs bite, the labour-saving arithmetic of fit-to-size automation alone will undoubtedly present a fast and sure Return on Investment for many businesses.

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Environmental Savings with Sustainable Packaging

Posted on by David Priestman

IFCO, a supplier of reusable packaging solutions for fresh food, achieved record environmental savings with customers in 2024, a year marked by targeted expansion and a series of customer-centric packaging innovations. 2.4 billion shipments of fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, fish and seafood, dairy and eggs, baked goods, bananas and other fresh grocery products were delivered in IFCO reusable packaging containers (RPCs) during 2024 globally.

In total, by using the IFCO SmartCycle circular pooling system instead of single-use packaging, customers generated the following environmental savings during 2024:

• 674,333 metric tons of CO2e emissions, equivalent to circling the planet 140,344 times by car
• 54,308 megaliters of water, equivalent to 21,723 Olympic size pools
• 14,854 terajoules of energy, equivalent to the annual energy consumption of 746,668 households
• 1,363,131 metric tons of solid waste, equivalent to the solid waste produced by 2.73 million people in a year
• 66,015 tons of product waste, equivalent to 105 million meals

IFCO uses third-party peer-reviewed life cycle assessment (LCA) studies based on ISO 14040/14044 to scientifically quantify the environmental benefits of the IFCO SmartCycle in reducing CO2e emissions, water consumption, energy use and solid waste, as well as other third-party studies to quantify reductions in food loss and food waste. For the eighth year in a row, IFCO is to award customers with an individual IFCO Sustainability Certificate. These science-backed certificates accurately quantify and recognize each customer’s unique contribution to the significant environmental savings achieved through the efficient and food-safe SmartCycle circular pooling system.

Importantly, these certificates allow producers, growers, distributors and retailers to demonstrate their commitment to improving the environmental performance of their supply chains. Customers increasingly use the certificates to showcase their tangible progress toward their own sustainability goals.

Further reductions to the carbon footprint of sustainable packaging

In 2024, a new critically reviewed LCA study commissioned by IFCO, conducted by Fraunhofer IBP and reviewed by a panel under the direction of DEKRA, updated the environmental impacts of reusable packaging containers and cardboard boxes over their full life cycle. Since 2018, IFCO has cut the average carbon footprint of its RPCs by an additional 10%. In addition, the company’s RPCs now generate up to 62% less CO2e emissions compared to single-use packaging, up from 60% in 2018. Comparative LCAs are essential for IFCO’s ESG Strategy, Thriving in the circular economy and help define the decarbonization levers, activities and milestones that support the goals of becoming a net-zero, zero-waste business by 2040.

Greater impact with innovative packaging, digital services and new regions

2024 also saw the launch of new customer-led innovations, including Dora and Nestor, two lightweight, durable plastic pallets, and the Marina Fish Crate, which also expanded the use of IFCO’s integrated tracking systems and proven digital technologies. In addition, IFCO continued to strengthen its market presence in 2024 through strategic acquisitions. For instance, the company acquired BEPCO in the Baltics, allowing more customers to access sustainable packaging solutions through the SmartCycle. Furthermore, the company opened two new state-of-the-art service centres with advanced automation in the UK as well as a new digital hub in the city of Barcelona to enhance supply chain transparency and efficiency.

“Every reusable packaging innovation, every digital solution and every acquisition expands our reach and allows more customers to benefit from our sustainable circular business model, reducing waste and carbon emissions in the process. Working closely together with our customers – producers, growers, distributors and retailers – we are driving impactful change in the global fresh grocery supply chain,” says Iñigo Canalejo, Vice President ESG & Strategic Marketing, IFCO.

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Recyclable Thermal Pallet for Temperature-sensitive Shipping

Posted on by David Priestman

2nd Level Global Solutions is proud to announce the launch of Solaris, an innovative 100% paper, recyclable and water-resistant thermal pallet cover designed to provide robust temperature protection for palletised goods during transit.

Solaris offers a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic thermal covers, addressing the growing concern over the environmental impact of plastic waste in the global logistics industry.

Mark Hammond, Commercial Director of 2nd Level Global Solutions, explains: “Plastic thermal covers, commonly used in global shipping, generate significant waste, with a large proportion ending up in landfills. These covers often fail to be recycled due to the complexity of their composite silver foil and plastic material composition. Solaris, on the other hand, is constructed entirely from paper and is 100% recyclable, providing a greener solution without compromising the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo.

“With Solaris, we offer companies a sustainable way to protect their products while reducing their carbon footprint. Solaris pallet covers come with an independently calculated Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) figure based on ‘cradle-to-customer plus end of life’. The logistics industry desperately needs solutions that help reduce plastic waste, so Solaris is a game-changer.”

Solaris is engineered from an advanced fusion of paper, featuring a white reflective coating for superior thermal performance and an innovative micro-convective air pocket for additional insulation. Rigorous testing has proven Solaris to match the performance of conventional plastic thermal covers, ensuring the cargo remains safe from temperature fluctuations.

As well as safeguarding against temperature excursions, Solaris is tear and water-resistant and protects against damage and other hazards.

The Solaris range includes four products tailored to different needs:
• Solaris 5: Offers reliable thermal protection with six layers of tear-resistant, water-resistant speciality paper, providing up to 7.5 hours of protection at 40°C.
• Solaris 10: A more robust version with 12 insulation layers, extending temperature protection to 9 hours.
• Solaris 25: Our thickest free-standing cover with 20 insulation layers, extending temperature protection to 10 hours.
• Solaris S20: Made from structural corrugated cardboard and designed to enable loads of up to 500kg stacked on top – doubling freight capacity while reducing transportation costs and carbon emissions.
Solaris S20 is therefore also highly efficient, allowing more goods to be transported in one trip, saving fuel and reducing carbon emissions. This product builds on 2nd Level’s innovative Pallet Porter range, which also maximises cube while lowering environmental impact.

Solaris presents an eco-friendly, high-performance solution for pharmaceuticals and any industry requiring temperature-sensitive goods to be transported. With this cutting-edge product, 2nd Level Global Solutions continues to drive sustainability within global logistics.

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Packaging For Ecommerce vs. Retail

Posted on by David Priestman

Packaging is a critical element in the delivery process, serving not only as a protective layer for products but also as a key touchpoint for branding and customer satisfaction. However, the requirements for e-commerce and retail packaging differ significantly due to the distinct challenges each channel presents. From safeguarding products to creating memorable customer experiences, businesses must navigate these differences to stay competitive. Here’s how. 

Balancing Protection and Practicality 

One of the most significant distinctions between e-commerce and retail packaging lies in product protection. E-commerce packages must endure extensive handling, long-distance transportation and exposure to various environmental conditions. To address these challenges, businesses often rely on sturdy corrugated boxes, impact-resistant inserts and void fillers like air cushions or paper stuffing to shield items from damage during transit. The focus is on durability and functionality so that products arrive intact regardless of the journey. 

In contrast, retail packaging prioritizes visual appeal and ease of handling within a store environment. While it still provides basic protection, it’s designed to stand out on shelves and capture consumer attention. Lightweight materials and sleek designs are common, allowing packaging to emphasize branding while maintaining practicality for in-store displays. For example, an elegant cardboard box with bold visuals works well for retail shelves but would not withstand the physical demands of e-commerce shipping. 

The Role of Branding and Presentation 

Branding plays a crucial role in both channels but manifests differently based on customer interactions. In e-commerce, packaging is often the first physical connection a customer has with the brand, making the unboxing experience an essential marketing tool. Custom mailer boxes, personalized thank-you notes and branded tissue paper can be used to elevate this interaction, turning it into a memorable moment that can lead to social media shares and increased brand loyalty. 

For retail, packaging must catch the eye amidst a sea of competitors. Bold colors, unique structural designs and clear product information are prioritized to help customers make quick purchasing decisions. Retail packaging often conveys the product’s benefits at a glance, standing out on crowded shelves. 

Efficiency in Fulfillment and Delivery 

Efficiency is vital in both e-commerce and retail packaging as well, but the focus varies depending on the channel. E-commerce packaging must prioritize space optimization to reduce shipping costs and maximize the number of packages transported per shipment. Lightweight, right-sized boxes or padded mailers are commonly used to streamline logistics while maintaining protection. Automating processes with tools like automatic conveyors can further enhance efficiency, allowing fulfillment centers to handle high volumes of orders quickly and accurately. 

Retail packaging, on the other hand, focuses on storage and display optimization. Products need to be shelf-ready and easy to handle for store staff. Packaging must balance durability for bulk shipping with the ability to be displayed attractively upon arrival. Tamper-evident features and stackable designs often play a key role in retail packaging strategies. 

Addressing Customer Expectations 

Consumer expectations are a driving force in packaging decisions. E-commerce customers demand their products arrive in perfect condition with minimal waste. Sustainable packaging options, such as recyclable materials and biodegradable mailers, have become increasingly important.  

Conversely, retail customers are drawn to packaging that reflects quality and innovation. Reusable or multifunctional packaging designs can add value, enhancing the perceived worth of the product. 

Why Understanding Packaging Differences Matters 

For logistics and supply chain professionals, understanding the distinct demands of e-commerce and retail packaging is essential for reducing costs, safeguarding products and enhancing customer satisfaction. By tailoring strategies to the unique needs of each channel, businesses can streamline fulfillment processes and maintain operational efficiency. 

When done right, thoughtful packaging design can transform a functional necessity into a powerful tool for success, enabling businesses to thrive in today’s fast-paced and competitive marketplace. 

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Sustainabile e-commerce Packaging at LogiMAT 2025

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