Press Releases
Potts Meeting Challenges of Eco-Pack Demands
For print and packaging firm Potts, based in Cramlington, UK, the new challenges that are being put before their packaging development team are readily accepted and charged with a passion to change the common perceptions - that most carton board packaging is too excessive, that it creates too much waste and is not environmentally friendly.
The Potts approach could not be more different. The company aim is to develop and build on excellent, long term relationships with existing and future clients through research and development and innovative carton design, using eco-friendly practices and materials. They also want to hit back at the negative reports in various areas of the national press, by showcasing what they are doing in designing and producing more eco-friendly packaging.
Above: Examples of bespoke packaging created by Potts.
"The trend now is "less is more" and to offer an innovative design, i.e. clients are looking to have a pack that does it all - from appealing on shelf graphics, eco-friendly materials and making the carton work harder, all for a good unit price. We are embracing this culture and are developing some great ideas with our existing and new clients."
"We are also embarking on student design projects involving schools and colleges, and working with IOM3 and Starpack, as the future of packaging will be guided by the next generation."
"The industry still needs to further promote the innovation and eco-positive initiatives to a wider audience to change the negative perceptions people may have" says John Conway, Marketing Director of Potts.
Equipped with a formidable firepower of packaging designers, CAD and sample making equipment, and the latest in B2 and B1 presses, die cutting and gluing lines, Potts are turning the heads of critics and adding a lot more value to new packaging development and its production.
Added to this, their credentials make impressive reading too: ISO9001, ISO14001, OHSAS18001, FSC and PEFC - making them one of only a handful of UK print companies to hold all 5 certificates.
The company is also working towards achieving the BRC Global Standard by the end of 2007, enabling more retail and associated companies to benefit from Potts innovative approach to eco-friendly packaging.
Tony Mullarkey, Potts’ Project Manager says "We take an existing or new product and firstly see how best we can make the product work by minimising the use of packaging material. The next stage is to see how feasible this will be from a production process - both for our own production facilities and for the end user or packing operation. We then research many environmentally friendly boards and we are also testing biodegradable materials and print finishes. We are conscious that the designer of the product wants to enhance their product as much as possible without compromising on the appeal of the product - getting that balance right is so important."
In an industry heavily criticised, Potts are showing the way forward as a positive, innovative and forward thinking packaging design and print company. Dan Tobin, Potts’ Sales Director concurs "We are very proud and passionate about what we are achieving here. The industry is fighting back, and there are some excellent ideas being put forward. We are aiming to be one of the UK’s leading packaging print companies within the next 12months, specialising in eco-friendly, short to medium run, limited edition and bespoke packaging."