DS Smith introduces loop ready packaging

DS Smith Plastics’ injection moulding business has introduced a new line of packaging options known as loop ready packaging (LRP). 
 
Launched earlier in May, LRPs are robust, re-usable, returnable and fully recyclable packaging options, said DS Smith in a statement.
 
“Consumers will pay a small deposit on the LRP when making their purchase. Once they have finished with the items, they simply return the packaging and jars to the store for a refund of the deposit,” the company explained. 
 
The process, according to DS Smith, is already automated in many places with a machine that scans the packaging and contents and provides a coupon with a store credit for future purchases. 
 
For the UK packaging firm, LRPs are “the next logical evolution” from retail ready packaging (RRPs) and shelf-ready packaging (SRPs). 
 
“They deliver a zero-waste option for many of retailers’ most popular products while maintaining affordability, improving convenience and closing the loop to ensure a circular life cycle,” the company added. 
 
The initial products will focus on jars of non-perishables, but the technology could be rolled out across many more product lines in the future. 
 
“This system has worked successfully with returnable crates for beverages for more than 50 years. It reminds us of the milkman delivering returnable milk bottles. It could work just as well for peas,” said Paul Baeyens, managing director, DS Smith Plastics.