Graphic Packaging Supports Coca-Cola HBC Ireland & Northern Ireland’s ‘World Without Waste’

Graphic Packaging International has partnered with Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company (HBC) Ireland and Northern Ireland on their journey to achieve a “World Without Waste.” The partnership will result in new paperboard solutions across all multipack can configurations, and it supports Coca-Cola HBC’s strategy of using more sustainable packaging.

Coca-Cola HBC’s larger multipacks (10, 12, 20 and 24 cans) are now available in a new fully enclosed carton. This follows the introduction of Graphic Packaging’s new KeelClip late last year, which saw smaller multipacks (four, six and eight cans) transition to a paperboard solution. Both packaging types were designed and developed by Graphic Packaging; in total, transitioning to these new secondary packaging solutions will eliminate 500 tons annually of hard-to-recycle shrink wrap plastic.

Coca-Cola HBC have also introduced prominent on-pack messaging to communicate their sustainability message directly to consumers, highlighting that the packs are recyclable.

The product development team at Graphic Packaging worked closely with Coca-Cola HBC to ensure the plastic replacement solution was in harmony with the company’s sustainability plans, while upholding high quality standards. The design is made from paperboard – a substrate made from renewable resources.

To support the production requirements of the venture, Graphic Packaging has installed the highly flexible QuikFlex machine in Coca-Cola HBC’s plant in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, producing a variety of configurations from four- to 24-packs.

Reflecting the company’s continuous pursuit of sustainable operations, the Coca-Cola HBC Group was recently ranked the global No.1 sustainable beverage company by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index.