Brief C: Returnable/Reusable Collection Packaging

Packaging has always been a key component to protect the product being purchased, but now it also needs to protect the planet | Sponsored by Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the materials we use in packaging is important, how we use the packaging and then dispose of it can have a far greater impact.  Reusable packaging will minimise the depletion of earth’s resources, reduce the energy and CO2 emissions, without impacting the quality of the product.

The Brief

Reusable/returnable packaging has always been associated with transit packaging, but we want you to think wider and consider what a returnable/reusable collation pack for our retail customers could be. This would replace current multipack options in supermarkets that are used today for drinks bottles (glass & plastic) and metal cans. Today’s methods are typically single use LPDE shrink films or cardboard that are not suitable for multiple uses, and once purchased these materials are disposed. How could we change this?

Please consider alternative solutions for delivering multiple items in packaging that can be reused multiple times before eventually being recycled.

Points to consider

  • How will the packs be handled in store and how will they get re-filled?
  • How will the empty returned pack be returned to store (collected, returned, stored).
  • The packaging needs to be robust to survive multiple trips through the supply chain.
  • The pack must contain and protect the vessels inside.
  • The packaging must be made from a sustainable material.
 

Materials to be used

All materials must be suitable for repeated cleaning and be robust to survive multiple trips of the supply chain

Entry Guidelines 

Submission details

Entries must include uploads of the developments boards and photographic evidence of the final model

The 4 A3 development boards uploaded as a single PDF document should include the following:

  • Research board
  • Design exploration board
  • Net of recommended design solution.

The photographic evidence should be uploaded as a single PDF document and should:

  • Showcase the front, back and sides of the model
  • Be shot against a white background and in focus. These images will be used in the Starpack Competition book and potentially for additional promotion
  • A maximum of 4 images should be uploaded
  • For students who are unable to supply a final model, 3D renderings and drawings are accepted.

Development boards must not show the entrant’s name or University or College. 

Dates & Conditions

  • The project names submitted at the time of entry will be printed as typed, if there are any errors and certificates/trophies need replacing, then the entrant will be liable for these costs.
  • If you are not able to attend the ceremony in person or the ceremony becomes virtual, certificates and trophies will be sent by post to the entrants to the mailing address listed in the entry in late June 2025.
  • Please make sure you have access to the mailing address past term times. If you are unsure, please enter your home address. 
  • IOM3 is unable to issue replacements for certificates/trophies sent to wrong addresses.

About the Entry 

Judging Criteria

Entries will be judged against the following criteria:

  • They can demonstrate that they have considered all elements of the brief, through the design and evidence of research.
  • The proposition meets the needs of the target users (retailers and consumers).
  • There is a clear sustainability benefit to the concept.

Brief C Judges

Shameem Kazmi FIMMM

Group Research & Development Director, Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Shameem Kazmi FIMMM

Leo Emery FIMMM

Head of R&D Sustainable Packaging, Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Leo Emery FIMMM

Jamie Field

R&D Sustainable Packaging Technologist, Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Jamie Field

 

Prize

A selection of Britvic products plus a visit to the UK’s state of the art manufacturing site in Rugby to see a range of products and formats being produced.

IOM3 presents trophies to Gold, Silver and Bronze and certificates to Highly Commended entries. 

About Britvic Soft Drinks Ltd

Britvic is an international business rich in history and heritage. Founded in England in 1930s, we have grown into a global organisation with over 39 iconic brands.  Manufactured in GB, Brazil, France and Ireland, we export to more than 100 countries. In each of our markets, we own leading brands, including Robinsons, MiWadi, Teisseire and Maguary. In GB and Ireland, we have an exclusive licence with PepsiCo to make and sell Pepsi MAX, 7UP, Rockstar Energy and Lipton Ice Tea.

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