The Dutch packaging company Akarton offers an innovative mono-material packaging system that eliminates the need for environmentally harmful filler materials such as air cushions or foam. It’s called Hexpand. It is a fully recyclable cardboard packaging that can adapt individually to suit a wide range of different product shapes and sizes thanks to its stretchable design. This means that Hexpand not only provides maximum protection for sensitive and fragile products. It also reduces the environmental footprint, lowers material costs and is easy to integrate into the packaging process.

With Packfix Green, Drei V GmbH has developed sustainable shipping packaging that meets the increasing environmental requirements and alleviates the rising pressure of costs. This new type of shipping packaging is made entirely from recycled material and has an automatic bottom with a safety lock. Two stability wings automatically lock into the side wall when the box is closed. This provides greater stability and resilience for the bottom of the box. In addition, the lid flaps only close in the area of the self-adhesive strip, which saves material. And a tear-open perforation eliminates the need for the plastic tearing aid that is otherwise commonplace.

The Tennis Starter Kit is an innovative packaging solution from the Polish company Gatner Packaging. Developed for tennis players, it is made from durable corrugated board and ensures maximum protection during transport. On the inside, the inlay design provides space for a racket, a vibration damper as well as several overgrips and tennis balls. The smooth tear-off perforations and an intuitive opening system allow the packaging to be opened quickly. In addition to its functionality, the design also plays an important role. The combination of a matt and glossy lacquer creates a distinctive three-dimensional effect that makes the product clearly stand out on the shelf. With this exceptional concept, Gatner Packaging won the 2025 “Art of Packaging” competition in the Freestyle category.

The Bottle Box Six (BB6) is a new type of packaging for transporting and presenting six bottles. The Italian packaging company Imbal Carton has consistently embraced the principles of eco-design and patented the solution. It is noted for its minimal consumption of raw materials, easy installation and providing effective protection for all types and sizes of bottles. Not only can the packaging solution be customised for different sizes and shapes of bottles, but it can also be printed with up to six colours on the inside and outside. The BB6 can be assembled intuitively and stacked both vertically and horizontally.

A robust outer box is combined with a precisely fitting insert made from a moulded fibre casting. This combination reliably protects sensitive contents such as electronics or glass from any impacts and does so without using additional padding materials. The system is light, stackable and available in different sizes. The fibre casting remains dimensionally stable and shock-absorbent, even after repeated use, which means it can be used multiple times. Developed for ­shipping processes that demand efficiency and ­conservation of resources in equal measure.