Tag: packaging

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A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions

A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions
A 360º packaging perspective – How boots on the ground insights prevent up in the air decisions

We have developed and refined our Smart360 process to where we can now quickly assess and action improvements for clients. However, this process works best if we can get up close to the coalface. Only with this careful on-site analysis can companies know with certainty their packaging is 100% fit for purpose.

Packaging peace of mind is a beautiful thing. That’s when companies know every product is contained in as efficient, sustainable, and effective way as possible given the unique circumstances and environment they operate in.

But how often is this peace of mind possible, given that most companies work within a ‘business as usual’ approach?

Confidence can only come through the type of in-depth knowledge possible from a thorough on-site assessment. Our Smart360 system provides precise data around a wide range of measurables, clarity that ensures businesses can make well-considered decisions for enduring results.

“Reports that say that something hasn’t happened are always interesting to me, because as we know, there are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns—the ones we don’t know we don’t know.”

Donald Rumsfeld, Former US Secretary of Defence.

So, how does it work? We follow a three-step, results-orientated approach to ensure packaging aligns with a business’s strategic and economic development plans.

Step 1: Analyse

Packaging fills many roles, from safe containment, through to marketing, and on to providing a robust vessel for the end user to access the product. With every movement, there is an opportunity to make changes, which can result in cumulative savings.

“The initial in-house assessment focused on the bags being the issue. However, closer analysis from our team found the root cause was in new bagging technology…”

Our analysts look closely at entire life cycle of the bag or sack. From manufacturing through to filling orders we’ll check each point to see where packaging processes and products can be improved.

This means looking at waste numbers for any issues, as well as checking sales cycles and operational processes. We’ll assess how your inventory is managed and how each product is placed in the market. Often, small additions or alterations have been made to meet the needs of the moment. However, without regular analysis, it can be hard to see whether these changes are still serving the right purpose.

One such example occurred with a company that was struggling with valve bags blowing up. The initial in-house assessment focused on the bags being the issue. However, closer analysis from our team found the root cause was in new bagging technology that had been recently implemented.

Our on-site diagnosis quickly established the best way forward – establishing the correct pressure and filling speed settings of the equipment. This didn’t just save ongoing costs associated with replacement bags. It also prevented a costly change in packaging.

Step 2: Optimise

A detailed analysis of the status quo will generally unearth opportunities for further optimisation.

A recent on-site assessment for one customer uncovered that bags were overhanging on pallets, which was causing several issues during storage and shipping. The packaging was over-specified for what was needed, and our subsequent recommendation reduced the size and, in doing so, reduced plastic use while increasing stability during transit.

By adding something like a gusset to a packaging product, more products may be able to be fitted onto a pallet, for example, reducing shipping costs. Of course, for some companies, a complete overhaul of product or packaging design may be suggested. This could be in line with new technologies in packaging, which might better serve the needs of your business and help you meet sustainability goals. Or a new Environmental Management System might be recommended.

Step 3: Implement

Once you have the data on hand, we can help you to embed pragmatic, effective changes that will optimise systems and increase savings. Sometimes it’s just a small tweak here and there that is needed for a positive result.

This might look like new product packaging created by our design team to better suit your needs, or a simple adjustment to existing packaging, through to a more efficient layout of your distribution centre. As we provide full in-house service for packaging design and supply, it can be simple and quick to implement changes.

This follow-through means your Smart360 analysis is always far more than a box ticking exercise. It allows companies throughout Australasia to remove the unknowns and pack, store, send, and sell with confidence.

To book a Smart360 site audit, click here.

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How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters

How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters
How to stay sustainably accountable – why EcoVadis accreditation matters
As the pace and the pressure increase to both lessen our impact and protect the environment it has never been more important to be sustainably accountable. Yet, it can be difficult to see both the small details and big picture of this impact. 

The business community has become increasingly cynical of empty promises. Many have grown wise to (and tired of) ‘greenwashing’, and expect brands to step up and be sustainably accountable for their actions. But how does a company prove that its dedication to positive change is more than just beguiling words?

Setting goals and measuring success against Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors is an effective framework for ensuring sustainability practices are meaningful and effective. At Smart Pack, being transparent about our ESG practices, targets, and performance is essential to being accountable. It’s how we can show that we’re doing far more than pushing an empty slogan.

Many of our customers, particularly larger companies, need this information too. Ensuring they meet their own ESG reporting needs and fully understand their supply chains is vital.

Our clients don’t just want sustainable packaging options, they need to be able to prove that the packaging supplier they’ve chosen is a truly better option.

We knew we needed to increase our reporting capabilities so clients could be confident every part of our supply chain was covered and accountable – and that this information was backed-up with solid data.

Stepping up our sustainable accountability

In 2022, we began to consider our options for improved and more transparent sustainability reporting. There are plenty of options, but one stood out from the rest.

EcoVadis is considered the gold standard for measuring the sustainability performance of a company. This internationally recognized standard also matched the global scale of our network. EcoVadis was the right fit for our ambition.

To become EcoVadis rated we’ve had to complete a rigorous assessment process. This included measuring and sharing data on 21 different ESG indicators, including:

  • Environment – Evaluating our environmental impact, from energy consumption and emissions, to waste management
  • Labour and human rights –  We’ve looked closely at our health and safety practices, working conditions, and diversity across Smart Pack’s operations and supply chain
  • Ethics – Ensuring we stay true to strong ethical business practices and do not participate in corruption or anti-competitive practices
  • Sustainable procurement –  Looking at the sustainability of how Smart Pack sources our goods and services.

EcoVadis’ experts then spent months assessing the information and data and reviewed our performance and practices based on the Global Reporting Index (GRI), ISO 26000, the United Nations Global Compact and other international standards.

We’re proud to say that we achieved a Platinum rating, scoring particularly highly on environmental and ethical factors. This rating is in the top 1% of EcoVadis rated companies

The importance of accreditation

Good accreditation is all about delivering credible accountability. It’s easy enough to look at your own ESG factors and environmental initiatives and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. What is harder is to put your framework and processes under someone else’s microscope.

Engaging an internationally recognised auditing firm to conduct an assessment has enabled us to look deeper at our practices and our targets. By measuring our progress against international standards it has revealed areas for improvement and helped us to define our targets more clearly.

Our clients and contacts operate on a global scale, and we understand how important it is to reassure them that we’re doing everything we can so that our supply chain is absolutely transparent and entirely accountable. Everything is that much easier when we’re using frameworks and data to demonstrate the results.

Accreditation is reassessed annually and we’ll need to continue to perform at a high level to keep our rating. Of course, we can’t afford to take our foot off the accelerator. Consistently striving to do better, to keep measuring and assessing all that we do, helps us to grow and improve.

Accountability is a powerful tool to help companies do better by their customers, their communities and the environment. At Smart Pack we’ve found EcoVadis is perfect for first setting the standard and then inspiring our team to surpass it.

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5 ways to be Packaging Prepared for Spring

5 ways to be packaging prepared
5 ways to be packaging prepared

With a lot of the primary sector forecasting and planning for the Spring rush, having your packaging prepared will reduce the risk of unwanted surprises.

Here are 5 important points to consider this season:

  1. No bags – No business – we get this.

With 100’s of customers having to manage seasonal requirements, it’s safe to say we understand the impact it has on your business if you run out of bags. Even if accurate forecasting is a challenge for you, Smart Pack have the systems, capabilities and infrastructure to navigate variances, remove the risk and ensure you’re in safe hands.

Here’s a few things we’re doing to ensure we never run our customers out of bags:

  • Forecasting – Robust analysis of previous seasons actual numbers and collaboration on upcoming trends.
  • Reporting – Detailed real-time reporting.
  • Inventory Management – We’ll customize a plan just for your business to ensure it fits with your cashflow requirements and physical capacity to store and handle the stock.
  • NZ Printing – In-house printing/overprinting service with low MOQ’s and fast turnaround – perfect for those times when you need to launch a new product at the 11th
  • Warehousing/Logistics – We have warehousing right across NZ and Australia to ensure you bags are there when and where you need them.

 

  1. Compliance & Recyclability

With the priority products identified for regulated product stewardship, the recyclability of your on farm-plastics has become more of a priority. Being ahead of the game and knowing the types of bags that are best for these recycling/collection schemes is a sure-fire way to not get caught out. We have been working with Agrecovery to identify the packaging materials and specifications that are most ideal to align with the schemes in place.

Talk to our team today about how your bags may be affected and what you can do to be working towards the future.

 

  1. Packaging Design and Marketing

Design is a crucial part of your packaging, so try to make sure you have covered the following:

  • Labelling – ensure you have the correct labelling of products so that you are compliant with any warnings/regularity requirements.
  • Visual Impact – ensure you’ve maximized on marketing potential – making sure your bags stand out next to competitors in retail situations.
  • Product Differentiation – maximize design elements such as color as product differentiation, so your staff and customers can work quickly and efficiently with your bags.

Our in-house Design team can offer expert recommendations based on your branding and operation to boost your brand through packaging design.

 

  1. Integration with your packing equipment

When was the last time you reviewed your packing/filling processes? We’ve found that even the smallest of tweaks can make a world of difference in creating efficiencies to your operations.

Whether it’s switching a measurement or reducing the specifications, there’s usually a way to improve efficiency. Our SMART360 framework is used by our team to identify opportunities within your packaging processes where we can boost productivity and in turn profitability.

Contact one of the team today for a no obligation SMART360 appraisal.

 

  1. Supply Chain Sustainability

A packaging partner that understands the bigger picture of your business, industry and operation is a huge advantage. Even though you can’t see what’s around the corner, you can have confidence that there will be no risks or surprises with your supply.

Smart Pack has created a well-oiled supply chain network to ensure delivery lead times, quality and reliability never let you down. All our suppliers are taken through a rigorous validation process to ensure we are delivering you the best.

For support on all of the above, contact our team today – hello@smartpackgroup.com | +64 6 356 9835

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Product Innovations

Considering a switch to Polyethylene (PE) Bags?

The current theme surrounding packaging in NZ is change.

With more of a focus on sustainable products and processes a lot of NZ businesses are looking at further packaging options to match their environmental objectives.
As a packaging partner we are always expanding our offering to accommodate these changes. To add to our recyclable packaging options, we are now introducing Polyethylene (PE) Open Mouth and Valve Bags.

If considering a change to Open Mouth PE Bags, there are a few important areas to be aware of. This is where a packaging partner can help you find a solution for your specific needs, but for now here are some of the main points to preface:

Filling of bags

Filling LDPE (Low density Polyethylene) Bags is very similar to common industrial agriculture bags and can often be completed on existing machinery designed for Woven Polypropylene or Multi-wall Paper bags. However, you may find some LDPE (Low density Polyethylene) bags are not as rigid which means automated machinery may need to be adjusted slightly to accommodate the change in bag material.

Closing of bags

LDPE bags are heat-sealed closed which results in a strong and air-tight seal. Your production targets, and your current equipment will need to be considered to reach your specific output goals. Contact us for a list if automation machinery suppliers.

Stacking

PE bags have lower anti slip properties compared to other packaging therefore may be more likely to move when stacked compared to Woven PP and MWP bags. However, with current technologies there are small changes that can be made to the specification and construction to ensure minimal movement when stacking. It is also recommended, dependant on the product going in the bag, that you add perforations or punch holes so the air can be released as fast as possible to keep a consistent stack pattern.

Bag Construction Types:

Valve PE Bags are also an excellent option for all interested and have a range of options to meet your needs.

Printing

Full-graphic printing can be utilised for optimal branding exposure as well as simple and time-efficient methods such as our in-house flexographic printing (up to 5 colours).

Recyclability

100% recyclable in New Zealand if the bag is thoroughly cleaned out and returned to a facility with recycling capacity.

Cost

The price will typically depend on the construction, material, printing, and quantity of your bags. You can usually see the cost of PE bags sitting between that of WPP and MWP.

Smart Pack are the experts when it comes to PE bags and can cover all the above and more so you  can have confidence when making the switch.

Talk to us today – hello@smartpackgroup.com | 06 356 9835 | www.smartpackgroup.com

 

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How optimising your Bulk Bags can save you time and money when exporting

Optimising your Bulk Bags for Export
Optimising your Bulk Bags for Export

Feeling the strain of current freight delays and rising costs? Here’s how you can maximise container space and reduce loading times through optimizing your Bulk Bags.

1. Make sure your Bulk Bags are the right size to maximize on space in the container.

As we all know, the cost of international freight prices are rising therefore it’s important that we utilise any and every space within containers – no one likes paying for air to be transported across the ocean!

For exporting, we recommend a baffle constructed bulk bag as they hold their square shape for maximum utilisation of space and stability when transporting.

When selecting your Bulk Bag size, consider the following points:
  • What is the internal width, length & height of the container being used? A common 20ft container is 5.89m long x 2.35m wide x 2.39m high.
  • Baffle bulk bags will bulge a little bit between the baffles so ensure you run trials or add an additional 20mm on each side for each bag in your calculations.
  • Within the container, make sure the bags are not rubbing against each other as this can result in difficulty loading into the container and material damage caused by friction between the bags.
Circular vs Baffle Bulk Bags
Circular vs Baffle Bulk Bags

Baffle Bulk Bags have a more square look and hold their form well which is why they stack better than Circular Bulk Bags.

2. Ensure your Bulk Bags are manufactured to a high quality to optimize loading and space efficiency.

Not all Bulk Bags are made the same! The quality can make a significant difference to the loading speed and the amount of space it needs within the container.

It’s important to partner with a supplier who you know can supply high quality Bulk Bags that hold their form, to ensure you are receiving bags that meet your specific requirements, every time.

Below are some key points to ensure your bulk bag is fit for purpose:
  • Weave type – Bulk Bags stack, load and transport the best when you have a quality, tight weave pattern.
  • Baffle Specification – The baffles need to be constructed in a way that ensures efficient loading, holds square with a flat bottom and doesn’t grin or open at the seams.
  • Cross Corner Loops that hold their shape – The better quality cross corner loops you have,  the easier it is to pick up and load your Bulk Bags. This reduces people power you need for the job and in turn, reduces the Health and Safety risks of having multiple people involved in the process.
  • Certification – If you are transporting food products, your bags are required to meet the NZ food grade standards. Having supplier that offers Quality Control and Certified Packaging Processes minimizes any risk of thread & material contamination and supply chain mishaps.

Whatever industry you may be in, if you’re exporting product in Bulk Bags, having a packaging partner that understands every part of the process from manufacturing to export, can save you time, money, and stress now and down the line.

Want to explore how you can export your product more efficiently? Get in touch with the team today!

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Product Innovations

Billboards are out, BOPP Bulk Bags are in!

BOPP Bulk Bags
BOPP Bulk Bags

Your business may use Bulk Bags as a part of your operation, but what you didn’t know, until now, is that they can be a seriously powerful marketing tool.

Our new BOPP Full-Graphic Print Bulk bags are made with a BOPP laminate film which allows them to be full-graphic printed, giving you the opportunity to use your bags as a B2B or even B2C marketing medium.

Construction, Landscaping, Grain & Seed, Horticulture and Stockfeed are just a few of the industries that can benefit from utilizing their Bulk packaging for communications. Imagine, a busy job site on a main street and there it is, a Bulk Bag with your brand, in front of 100s if not 1000s of people who drive past. No need to pay for costly Signage or Billboards when you can use what’s already available on-site, your Bulk Bags!

Here are 3 ways to utilize BOPP printed Bulk Bags for Marketing:

  1. During an advertising campaign:

Running a campaign? One of the more commonly used outdoor marketing tools are billboards. Although Billboards get great visibility, they are a costly and can take up a lot of your advertising budget. The average cost of a billboard in NZ is between $1,900 to $3,600 per month which is budget that could be used elsewhere within your business or even saved!

  1. To create brand awareness:

The more people that see your brand the more they will remember it and the more they will bring it up in conversation (referrals). Your Bulk Bags have a multitude of potential touch points on it’s journey from supplier to logistics, to reseller, to customer, to job site and beyond. Most of these touch points involve people, people who will see and remember your brand. So when you have packaging that is eye-catching, carries a message and illustrates what you do all in one place you can see how they are an extremely under-utilized branding tool.

  1. Brand/Product differentiation and identification:

Packaging design is holding more importance in industries such as Stockfeed and especially for brands that have multiple products and ranges. Larger product result in difficulty identifying different products. Choosing your colours, imagery and design layout will be the difference between saving time, avoiding mistakes with logistics and making identification easier for customers when selling through retail stores.

Having the contents in full-graphic print on the side of your bulk bags could solve potential identification issues within your operation and can be used to market those products to your chosen target market.

Not sure how your brand will transfer to a Bulk Bag? Our in-house design team understand how best to display your brand on BOPP Bulk Bags and can supply artwork, help with layout and walk you through the design process.

Your Bulk Bags connect with multiple parts of your business every day, which means you could be missing out on opportunities to utilize your bags for more than transporting or storing your products. BOPP Bulk bags can deliver important messages, build brand awareness, and create custom solutions for your business.

Wanting to know more about our BOPP Bulk Bags? Contact the team today – 06 356 9835 | hello@smartpackgroup.com

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Charities We Support

Supporting St John

Supporting St John
Supporting St John

It was our Managing Director, Leon’s turn to choose a charity to support for our #SmartPackGivingBack initiative and he chose to donate to the worthy volunteers at St John.

St John have a multitude of different initiatives that help those in need out in our communities. These include intiatives such as: Health Shuttles, Caring Caller, Friends of the emergency department/hospital friends, ASB St Johns in schools, Youth programmes and Partnered programmes.

They encourage people to volunteer if they have a passion for helping others and have the time to give to the community. St John heavily relies on donations for these community services and encourages anyone who can to support the cause.

For more information on St John visit their website.

If you would like to donate you can do so here or at your local St John Op Shop.

To keep updated on all things Smart Pack follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Customer Stories

A more sustainable packaging option for Sharpes Farm Feeds

Sharpes Farm Feeds
Sharpes Farm Feeds

We’re all about Bags and Sacks that deliver the goods and when Sharpes needed a more sustainable way to deliver their feeds we jumped on board as their packaging partner.

With recycling under pressure, WPP bags have great functionalities but aren’t so friendly on the environment. Sharpes took a leap with us and you’ll now see their lifestyle range in Multi-wall Paper Bags.

Sharpes saw their packaging as an opportunity to do things differently, watch for more on how we helped them do exactly that:

For more information on Sharpes Stock Feed visit their website.

If you would like to learn more about our paper bag options feel free to email us or give us a call on +64 6 356 9835

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