Radoslaw Kazmierczak
The highly anticipated 2024 winners of the annual European Carton Excellence Award (ECEA), hosted by Pro Carton and the European Carton Makers Association, were announced last night (19 September 2024) during the Awards Gala, held at the Jewish Museum in Berlin, Germany. The ECEA – the premier award for sustainable packaging - annually highlights the latest innovative cartonboard and folding carton designs.
Ahead of the Awards Gala, all winners and a top 27 shortlist for the Public Vote were determined by a panel of industry experts and professionals, representative of the entire cartonboard value chain, including Satkar Giddar (Marketing and Branding Consultant), Sanjeev Das (Unilever), and Lotte Krekels (Carrefour).
Taking home the coveted Carton of the Year award was Spanish packaging cartonboard converter, Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica, and cartonboard manufacturer, Stora Enso, for its creation of Origen Flor Natural for Laboratorios Flor Natural Parfums SL. The award-winning design features intricate die-cut patterns that elevate the product’s shelf appeal, whilst maintaining the secure protection of the glass perfume bottle inside.
Over 300 voters recognised the exceptional design and functionality of the Pladis Victoria Creations packaging, securing its place as the 2024 Public Award winner. The packaging for McVitie’s Victoria Chocolate Creations using Metsä Board cartonboard combines a visually appealing design with practical functionality. Its festive appearance and easy-to-open features enhance the unboxing experience, while its sophisticated details and compatibility with existing production processes made it a standout choice for consumers and the brand
Winning the Innovation Award, the OCB Cover Kit – Paper & Filter by Alzamora Group is a standout example of problem-solving and sustainable packaging design. Its compact and reusable cartonboard pack, with materials produced by Metsä Board, offers a practical solution that eliminates excessive packaging waste and combines items that would traditionally be packaged and sold separately. The pack's mono-material construction and secure design ensures durability and product protection, while its convenient size and easy replenishment make it a user-friendly choice for tobacco users.
Calma Products was awarded the Sustainability Award for its innovative packaging solution. Developed in partnership with PAWI Packaging Deutschland GmbH, the cartonboard converter, and Sappi Deutschland GmbH, the cartonboard manufacturer, the new packaging incorporates circular materials, a user-friendly design, and enhanced product protection. Features like a click-and-open mechanism, a foldable retail shelf hanger, and a clear window contribute to the elevated eco-friendly alternative packaging. The packaging not only protects the product but also provides a safe and sustainable option for new parents.
Category Awards
Four winners were decided by the esteemed jury panel for the best entries within virgin and recycled fibre creations. These awards support a circular economy of cartonboard and highlight the uses and principles of the distinct materials.
SAMARITÉ / MAGIC KEY / Candy Set Divine Cream & Mini Supreme Cleanser 2023 won the General Packaging – Virgin Fibre award at the Awards Gala. This luxury cosmetic gift box, produced by PAWI Packaging Poland Sp. z o.o. using cartonboard materials from Billerud for Zeme Pharm, features a sophisticated design with soft-touch varnish, gold hot stamping, and double-sided CMYK/Pantone printing.
Easy-Life Fish Food took home the General Packaging – Recycled Fibre award trophy. This innovative, plastic-free packaging, converted by Snel BV and manufactured using Smurfit Kappa Hoya cartonboard, combines cartonboard and paper for a fully circular solution. Its unique design effectively eliminates fish food odours, providing a fresh and pleasant experience for consumers.
The sleek and minimalist packaging for Mackmyra 001, a Swedish malt whisky, exemplifies understated elegance earning it the Food and Drink Packaging – Virgin Fibre award. Converted by Nordic Carton AB using Holmen Board and Paper cartonboard, the container’s refined, Nordic-inspired style emphasises simplicity and functionality. The upward-sliding mechanism offers a smooth and sophisticated user experience, reflecting the brand’s commitment to essential elements and a classy aesthetic.
Cluster-Clip® Kirkland Branded Marinara Sauce won the Food & Drink – Recycled Fibre award in Berlin. This innovative packaging solution, converted and manufactured by WestRock, uses fibre-based cartonboard design instead of shrink plastic which was traditionally used. This design is fully recyclable and customisable for enhanced branding opportunities for the brand-owner. It offers a stronger, more durable solution to protect the product during supply chain transportation.
Winfried Muehling, Pro Carton’s Marketing and Communications Director, commented: “The ECEA 2024 winners have once again showcased the exceptional creativity, innovation, and sustainability of the cartonboard packaging industry. This year they have raised the bar, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and environmental responsibility. All members of our industry behind these award-winning designs can be immensely proud of their work to raise the standard of cartonboard design. We are thrilled to celebrate these outstanding achievements and inspire future generations of sustainable packaging professionals.”
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