Anticipating the future: plastic-free Advent calendars

STI Group develops sustainable Christmas packaging for Unilever

STI Group’s vision is to lead the way to a more sustainable packaging landscape. Multi-brand group Unilever has a clear focus on increasing the sustainability of its products. To help both partners meet their objectives, STI Group has developed a sustainable advent calendar concept that works across Unilever’s Dove and Axe brands.

Seven standardised calendars, based on four intelligent designs, suit multiple applications and their flexibility and adaptability enables them to be used over a long period of time. Great for year-round use for any occasion or as a targeted Christmas promotion, all designs are made using fibre-based FSC®-certified material, are totally plastic-free and 100% recyclable. Offering a fun unboxing experience, these Advent calendars are perfect for online and physical retail across Europe.

Christmas Classic

This premium calendar is filled with a curated selection of pampering products, building excitement over the 24 days of Advent. 

Instead of using the traditional plastic tray, a PAPACKS® inlay made from environmentally friendly paper fibre holds each product securely behind its window.

Advent Candle 

This smaller scale calendar allows the recipient to reveal a new gift each Sunday in Advent; and a ‘lit’ advent flame appears as each window is opened. 

The flexible design works with any brand and holds four larger products, offering another way to make Christmas more exciting for a special someone.

Event Calendar 

Why should Christmas have all the fun? With its elegant printed slipcase and internal doors, this natural-finish gift pack can be dressed to suit any occasion. 

A 7-product selection is held in place with a flexible insert, ready to make someone feel truly appreciated in the days leading up to Mother’s Day or Easter.  

Make your own Advent

If you like to get really creative, shoppers have the option of a do-it-yourself calendar. 

With 24 mini gift bags, simple closures and matching products for her or him, this set contains everything to make a truly personalised Advent calendar for someone you love.

More sustainable packaging and displays

For STI Group, replacing plastic with fibre-based materials and expanding the range of applications for fibre-based solutions are key approaches for achieving a more sustainable packaging landscape. Unilever, with its ambitious sustainability philosophy, wishes to make sustainable living more commonplace with its products.