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Giftwrapping: Sustainability
The Green Scene With giftwrapping suppliers fully embracing the sustainability challenge, PG takes a look at how those in the sector are upping their eco credentials.
Onshoring benefits “We have significantly upped our commitment to sustainability within our giftwrappings collections over the last year,” assures David Byk, ceo of Swan Mill (which includes Penny Kennedy, GBCC and Ling). “This has included onshoring production of Penny Kennedy’s rollwrap back to the UK, giving retailers the option of having it packaged plastic-free as well as removing all plastic from its gift tags packs. “To further ease recycling we have also removed the laminate coating on many of our boxes and bags,” adds David. Left: The new outers proclaims that Penny Kennedy rollwrap is now made in the UK rather than in the Far East as previously.
Above: The Unique Paper Company’s stand at the recent Spring Fair clearly demonstrated its major commitment to sustainable production.
Flitter free “As well as making our entire range 100% flitter free, we have also introduced a new Eco 100% recyclable gift bag range for January 2022,” confirms UKG’s Harriet Ineson, brand product manager - 3D department. “Featuring paper tag strings, print-only patterns and DC handles, consumers can be kind to the planet while still making occasions feel extra-special.” Adds Harriet: “Additionally, we have removed all plastic packaging from our two sheet two tag packaged wraps and replaced it with a stylish, 100% recyclable paper alternative.” Below: UKG’s new recyclable Eco gift bag range.
Taxing issues “The imminent plastic tax, which comes into effect on April 1, gave us an extra push in the sustainable direction where we were already heading,” explains Becky Dobson, md of Glick. A whole suite of sustainable improvements from the wrappings specialist include a move to using unlaminated white and kraft board for its giftbags, meaning they can be easily recycled once the ribbons are removed/reused. Going a stage further, the company’s latest range of bags in its Paper Salad range includes some bags with paper handles, meaning means the bag can be recycled in its entirety. “In addition, all our accessories and tissue papers are migrating to brown kraft board packaging, and where cello is required, we’re ensuring it’s produced using recycled materials,” explains Becky. “Meanwhile, the shrinkwrap around our rollwraps will now be made from recycled materials. These are important steps and needed to be done, despite the inherent extra costs they incur,” adds Becky. Right: Glick’s packaged tissue now comes in plastic-free packaging.
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PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE
Upping the ante “Deva Designs has been an eco-friendly company from the very beginning,” states designer Reuben Duffy. “Every year we strive to improve on our environmental position as a business, constantly sourcing new techniques and processes, as well as suppliers. We have introduced ribbons made from PET bottles which are 100% recyclable. We also have new curling ribbon which is made from 100%
