Delhaize collaborated with DS Smith’s team of circular design experts to reimagine its e-commerce packaging and cut delivery volumes
Delhaize Belgium and DS Smith developed Direct Box for home deliveries. (Credit: DS Smith.)
Belgian supermarket chain Delhaize Belgium, in collaboration with sustainable packaging firm DS Smith, has developed new Direct Box to meet the growing demand for home deliveries
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for home deliveries has increased significantly in the recent months.
To meet its sustainability targets, Delhaize partnered with DS Smith’s team of circular design experts to reimagine its e-commerce packaging and cut delivery volumes.
To meet the increasing demand, an automated box erecting machine was introduced for ensure efficient delivery to homes and shops across Belgium.
Delhaize Ecommerce Operations project manager Nico Buelens said: “The new Direct Box is an innovative reusable corrugated tray. It incorporates built-in reinforcement on the handles, thisensures an extra strong Direct Box.”
The new Direct Box is made from 100% recycled cardboard that is also fully recyclable after use.
Direct Box estimated to save 160 tonnes of packaging material annually
Due to the redesign, a total of 160 tonnes of packaging material will be saved annually.
It also implies there will be 32 fewer trucks needed in the supply chain and the requirement for storage space will be cut down by more than 1,000 pallets.
DS Smith packaging machine expert Filip van Impe said: “In order to achieve the best possible results in terms of sustainability and efficiency, the packaging and machines at customers’ sites must be aligned from the design phase onwards.
“Through the application of our Circular Design Principles, we were able to support Delhaize to create a new system that had sustainability and recyclability at its heart.
“It is a rewarding challenge to provide solutions that contribute to our customers’ sustainability goals.”
The new project is part of the two company’s individual strategies to reduce the packaging materials impact on climate change and to decrease CO2 emissions throughout their supply chain.
In August this year, DS Smith has introduced a 100% recyclable foam cooler, using its proprietary Greencoat corrugated material, which is moisture-resistant and food-contact safe.