LINPAC Packaging has developed a new range of rigid plastic retail-ready packaging to meet growing demands from retailers for more presentable and efficient methods of replenishing stock.
Retail-ready packaging (RRP) is used to improve the appearance of merchandise on the retail shelf through the use of self-contained display boxes or trays, and it is a fast-growing niche sector within the industry. Figures from PIRA International (Future of RRP to 2016) show that demand for RRP will reach 27 million tonnes by 2016 – up from a 19 million-tonne base in 2010.
Benefits to retailers from using RRP include improved efficiency in terms of shelf space and the time taken to re-stock shelves, plus brand enhancement and shelf-appeal. RRP increases sales, and creates less damage to food while it is in the warehouse and on the retail shelf.
Joanna Stephenson, Vice President of Innovation at LINPAC Packaging, said: “The growing trend towards shelf-ready or retail-ready packaging has emerged due to cost-down initiatives at the retailer level. RRP enables retailers to achieve significant cost savings by reducing labour costs, improving productivity and reducing ‘out-of-stock’ situations. It is already quite well established in Northern Europe, and the idea is starting to take off elsewhere.
“Our range of RRP has been developed to help retailers run their stores with greater ease and efficiency – combining minimal handling and quick stock replenishment with attractive display. Our Fresh Thinking philosophy has really been at the heart of this product development – we have listened to and responded to our customers who were looking for a more robust, high quality alternative to corrugated or folding cartons – which do not work well in moist or chilled environments.”
The RRP sector is dominated by corrugated board but plastic is a growing trend, representing approximately 24% of market share compared to 75% corrugated carton board (according to PIRA), because of its structural integrity.
Joanna added: “LINPAC’s plastic RRP takes on the more common board cartons that are more susceptible to damage during transportation – putting at risk the goods contained within. Rigid plastic RRP solutions have a greater level of flexibility, giving better impact absorption and an overall more structurally sound package. RRP is the future of retail storage, display and transport, and at LINPAC Packaging we are committed to being able to deliver a quality range of products to our customers.”
LINPAC Packaging is Europe’s leading multi-material packaging manufacturer, supplying tray and film solutions to the protein, bakery, food service and fresh produce markets.