2011 February | Sunrise Packaging Blog

Archive for February, 2011

The Eco-Division of Staples

Monday, February 28th, 2011

We all know Staples in the world’s largest office products company, but did you know they also have a business to business division called Staples Advantage? Staples Advantage works with companies to develop customized programs in areas such as specialized pricing and account management. Within Staples Advantage is something called Sustainable Earth. This is a division that offers eco-friendly products that provide safer alternatives for companies and the planet.

Recently, Sustainable Earth has expanded their line with eco-friendly kitchen, break room, paper, and janitorial products. The kitchen line offers compostable products like cutlery, bowls, plates, cups and lids. These products are certified by the Biodegradable Product Institute because the cups and lids, for example are made from corn-based materials and the cutlery is made from sugarcane. The new paper product line features items such as facial tissues and toilet paper that are made from 100% recovered paper fiber and contain a minimum of 40% post consumer content.

Staples Advantage hopes to provide eco-friendly solutions for businesses to help then achieve their sustainability goals. Apart from the eco-friendly products, they also provide recycling services and energy efficient technologies to help companies make a difference and become more eco-friendly.

Tags:business to business, compostable, Eco-Friendly, recyclable, Staples, Staples Advantage, sustainable, Sustainable Earth
Posted in Eco-Friendly | No Comments »

Presenting……The DigiPak

Friday, February 25th, 2011

I’m sure we have all heard of the famous jewel case, but have you ever heard of a digipak? A digipak is an innovative and patented style of CD or DVD packaging that is similar to the standard jewel case, but typically consists of a gatefold paperboard or card stock outer binding instead of plastic. It also features one or more plastic trays that are attached to the inside. The main benefit of a digipak is that it is shatter proof and allows for greater graphic display. Digipak CD packaging can also be configured to fit specific needs. It can be designed to hold anything from discs to literature and artwork. The way the digipak folds can also be specifically designed as well. From a simple book-like fold to multiple folds, the possibilities using digipak packaging are endless.

Digipaks also allow creative flexibility. Traditional jewel cases only allow artwork to be inserted in the back and front covers, with a place to insert a small booklet on the inside. Digipaks have the benefit of being able to emboss letters and images, which is a technique that creates an impression on materials, giving packaging a unique look and texture. Bright colors and elaborate graphics are able to be used as well as incorporating literature and booklets if needed. The trays that are used in digipaks are versatile in that they can be configured in multiple ways. They can come in different colors and are impact resistant and eliminate the risk of breakage.

Digipak packaging also enhances promotions and marketing. They are an inventive and creative way to promote a product, service, or company. Digipaks can be easily distributed and are an attractive way to get a message out to attract customers and clients. They also provide a more eco-friendly option than traditional jewel cases because less plastic is used. Digipaks offer many benefits for disc packaging and are used by many companies.

Tags:CD, design, digipak, disc packaging, DVD, Eco-Friendly, embossing, flexibility, graphics, packaging, trays
Posted in Custom Packaging Products, Media Packaging, Packaging Design, Product Information | No Comments »

Types of CD Packaging

Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011

The compact disc, or CD as we call it, was introduced in 1982. This new technology allowed us to go from analog to digital recording capabilities. CD’s offer a much higher sound quality and storage capacity. They are also more durable and less susceptible to damage compared to cassette tapes and vinyl records. Although CD’s are becoming a less popular means of listening to music since places like iTunes exist, CDs are used for a variety of other things which means they still need secure packaging.

We are most familiar with the standard jewel case, but there are actually many different types of CD packaging. Below is an overview of the types of CD packaging:

Jewel case: This is the most popular and commonly used form of CD packaging. These cases are fitted with a molded, semi-rigid plastic insert that features a center hub to secure the CD and hold it in place. The case closes with a hinged door that is snapped into place. The cover of jewel cases have a slot for holding a booklet or artwork. The back is designed to hold a lining of artwork.

Slimline case: This type of CD case is half as thick as a standard jewel case. The front is similar, allowing for a booklet or artwork to be inserted. The back is a one-piece plastic tray. These cases are smaller and easier to ship.

Slim Double Case: This cases is basically like a standard jewel case, with the exception of the CD tray design. The CD tray is a slim double case and hinged near the spine. The way it is molded can hold a CD on each side.

Chubby CD Jewel Case: This case, also called the fatty case, is a way to hold multiple discs in one case. It has two clear sides to hold CD trays and each side is connected to a center section that may be molded to hold one or two additional CDs.

Digipak: This type is made of cardboard with a plastic molded tray attached to it. The cardboard case allows for screen printing and the interior sleeve has a place for a booklet to be inserted. Some digipaks have gatefold flaps that fold over to cover the CD from both sides.

FLPpak: This is a type of digipak but with added protection. A molded tray is attached to the cardboard backing. The bottom, top, and opening is protected with hard plastic. The opening edge has a hard plastic tab that is hinged to the back and snaps in place when closed.

Clamshell Cases: These cases are shaped just as their name, like a clamshell. They are a great way to protect CDs. They hold CDs snugly and keep them safe against scratches and damage.

Paper Sleeve: These sleeves have a clear plastic window and are the easiest as well as cheapest CD packaging. This type of CD packaging is commonly used for promotional and demo discs.

So there won’t be a test on these different types of CD packaging. But it is interesting to know there are more options than the standard jewel case.

Tags:CD cases, CD packaging, compact disc, digipak, Jewel Case, packaging, slimline case
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Odwalla is Planting Eco-Friendliness

Monday, February 21st, 2011

Odwalla, maker of natural juices, smoothies, protein drinks, and food bars will be hitting shelves this March, but in a greener fashion. Odwalla will be transitioning from their traditional packaging to the PlantBottle. This new bottle is made of 100% plant-based materials and is 100% recyclable. It also consists of materials derived from molasses and sugarcane juice. The goal with this new Odwalla packaging is to reduce dependence on nonrenewable resources. Coca-Cola, along with many others have replaced their traditional packaging with the PlantBottle, in an effort to make their packaging more eco-friendly.

The PlantBottle is just another step Odwalla has taken to become a more sustainable company. They have created an organization called Plant a Tree Program, which has planted more than 300,000 trees in the last 3 years. They also developed Bloom Energy Fuel Cell technology which reduces Odwalla’s carbon footprint of its plant by 35%. The PlantBottle, along with their other green innovations are helping to reduce their dependence on nonrenewable resources.

Tags:carbon footprint, Eco-Friendly, green innovations, green packaging, Odwalla, packaging, plant based materials, PlantBottle, recyclable, sustainable
Posted in Eco-Friendly, Packaging Design | No Comments »

Identification for Your Luggage

Friday, February 18th, 2011

When you are traveling, how do you tell your luggage apart from everyone else’s? If you lose your luggage, how can your luggage be identified? The answer is simple, use luggage tags. A luggage tag is a small card that has a place to write your name, address, phone number, and other useful information that will identify your luggage. And it can be easily attached to any type of bag. Nothing will put a damper on your vacation or business trip than losing your luggage or not being able to find yours as it goes around the carousel. So why not ease this worry by using luggage tags.

The process of providing identification for your luggage doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be fun through customization. Luggage tags can be customized to fit likes and tastes. Luggage tags are a great way to personalize business travel as well. If you are a company going on a business trip for example, all of the attendees can have matching luggage tags with company logo. There are so many uses for luggage tags and they can be as plain and simple or as customized and creative as you want them. A way to identify luggage is a simple way to ease the problem of losing luggage, whether its personal or business use.

Tags:business, customization, identification, information, luggage tags, personalization, traveling
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Past, Present, and Future of 3-Ring Binders

Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

Binders have always been an integral component to any office, home, or educational facility. They allow for papers and other materials to be organized and kept in one place. Binders create a tidy look and presentation, also allowing possessions to be protected. Binders have been around for many years. What was once an organizational tool in the 1850′s is still an organizational tool today. Let’s take a look at the past, present, and future of binders.

Past:
In 1854, patents were filed for both the 2-ring and 3-ring binders by a man from Rhode Island named Henry T. Sisson. He realized a specific problem people were experiencing. The problem was that people had loose leaf paper but no idea how to organize or store it. So Henry began designing to come up with a solution for this problem. That is where the ring binder started. The first binder had 2 rings and then evolved to 3-rings. The first 3-ring binders were covered with heavy cardboard like binding and the metal parts were made of cold rolled steel. It was not until 1899 that binders were actually for sale. Chicago Binder and File Company was one of the first companies to do so.

Present:
Today, binders can be found everywhere. They come in many different shapes, sizes, materials, and designs to fit any need. Ring metals can be shaped in a round ring, D-ring, and angle D-ring. Binder sizes can range from as little at 1/2″ to over 3″ capacity. There are also a lot of materials that binders can be made out of. Poly, vinyl, and recycled materials are the most popular choices. Binders can also come in many different colors and patterns, and can also be customized with foil stamping and screen printing to meet specific needs and tastes.

Future:
Binders will continue to be a useful component for organization and storage. We will also see an increase in eco-friendly binders which are binders made out of recycled materials and soy based inks. This new type of binder allows for a more sustainable option for organizational needs. The trend towards customization will also be prevalent with binders as well.

What started almost 160 years ago as a way to store loose leaf paper has grown into an organizational phenomenon and continues to be a popular choice for storing papers and other materials.

Tags:Binders, customization, design, history, organization, organizational tool, ring binders, Storage
Posted in Binders, Product Information | No Comments »

Green: The New Color of Valentine’s Day

Monday, February 14th, 2011

It is that time of year where the flowers, heart shaped chocolate boxes, and cards flow to the ones we love. Valentine’s day used to be known for its red and pink colors, but this year we can incorporate green into the lovely holiday. What does green have to do with Valentine’s Day you ask? Well there are ways to not only show our love to our significant others but to the planet as well.

Here are 10 ways to go green this Valentine’s Day:

1. Cards can be hand made from recycled or tree free paper
2. E-cards can be sent
3. Buy chocolates and/or flowers that are organic
4. Make a donation to an environmental organization on behalf of the person
5. Jewelry can be purchased from jewelers who are certified in sourcing precious metals and gemstones in an ecologically and socially responsible manner
6. Gift certificates for holistic therapies (massage, health spa, ect.) make great gifts
7. Have dinner at a restaurant specializing in organic or locally grown food
8. If dining in, prepare a meal using organic or locally grown ingredients
9. If purchasing perfumes or fragrances, buy the ones that are natural instead of synthetic
10. Going green involves imagination. Use your imagination and come up with some do it yourself gifts for your loved ones and have fun with it

Happy Valentine’s Day!!

Tags:Eco-Friendly, environment, go green, green, imagination, natural, organic, recycled paper, sustainable, Valentine's Day
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“Future Proof” Your Packaging

Friday, February 11th, 2011

The future of packaging is greatly expanding and changing, simultaneously with the world. New trends and innovations are springing up everywhere we look. The packaging industry needs to keep updated to ensure that they are following the right paths and ensuring what is right for the immediate and long term future.

Here are 8 ways to “future proof” packaging:

1. Serve: When we think of packaging we think of a product. But it must be recognized and acknowledged that packaging actually performs a service to a customer. It is a technology that delivers value.

2. Be humble: As eco-friendliness and sustainability has grown into a new way of life, packaging should be as environmentally friendly as possible. Avoid making claims about being green if it is not genuinely true.

3. Tell a story: Questions such as “what is it?”, “who made it?”, and “what can this package do for me?” should be asked or thought of when looking at packaging. Graphic and label design are essential ingredients to the equation. This helps in telling a story and giving life to your packaging.

4. Be ready for change: Every day, hour, minute, and even second we experience change. It is all around us and there is no escaping it. Change can be good if you are prepared for it. The ability to be adaptable and accepting to changes such as economic turbulence or changing regulations, allows the process to go smoother.

5. Anticipate where the customers are going: The consumer market is a complex place. Packaging should fit the changing structure and values of the consumer marketplace. By anticipating where consumers are headed, there will be a window open to fit those new needs and produce packaging that fits consumer tastes.

6. Know the whole system: Packaging goes through a value chain. This chain includes how packaging will be used and misused, proper and improper disposal methods, and recyclability. The idea is to understand the whole value chain and not just parts of it.

7. Design for disposal and recycling: We have emerged into a eco-friendly society and we should take our part in helping the planet. Time should be spent to make sure that packaging is taking its part as well. This can be done by incorporating environmentally safe materials and integrating sustainability into production and operations.

8. Avoid “wrap rage”: Wrap rage is what consumers experience when they are dealing with hard to open packaging. It can cause frustration which turns into rage. Keep a focus on what is being produced for the consumer. The idea is to put the consumer first and help to eliminate the struggle.

Tags:consumer, design, Eco-Friendly, future proof, packaging, Packaging Design, serve, sustainability, value chain
Posted in Eco-Friendly | No Comments »

From Airplanes to Superheroes, New USB Flash Drives

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

USB flash drives come in a variety of sizes, shapes, capacities, and designs. What used to be a simple and small data storage device, is now a something that not only stores information but also reflects an individual’s personality. There is no reason that flash drives have to be boring. Innovative and creative designs for flash drives help to bring a little touch of fun and spirit to these small device. Check out these new USB flash drives that have morphed from a device into an accessory.

One of the newest flash drive designs is airliner tail fins that come painted with your favorite airline logos. These tail fins can give your computer wings!

Another new flash drive design has powers all its own. The newest character from USB flash drive designer Mimoco, was designed in honor of Batman’s 75th anniversary. The design was inspired by Batman’s original appearance from the 1939 comics.

If I told you there was a rechargeable battery that recharges via USB that is also a flash drive would you believe me? Well its true! The new AA USB is here and is literally an AA battery form factor flash drive which is also a rechargeable AA battery. They have a removable adapter cap which allows it to be used in place of standard AA batteries and when the cap is removed, it can be plugged into an USB port to recharge.

Who new a USB flash drive could be functional and luxurious. A new luxurious pebble shaped, silver plated USB flash drive has been designed and hand-crafted in France to add a designer feel to technology. The pebble shape allows for easy portability, while the design introduces elegance.

Tags:creativity, data, device, flash drives, information, Mimoco, Storage, USB
Posted in Media Packaging, New Products | No Comments »

An Eco-Friendly Twist for Boxed Wine

Monday, February 7th, 2011

Bota Box is a family owned winery located in California. They have 87 years of experience in wine making and wine growing and are taking their knowledge to produce environmentally friendly packaging for their wines. Bota Box has recently launched Bota 500ml Tetra Paks that are not only eco-friendly, but are tailored to fit active lifestyles.

The new Tetra Paks are 100% recyclable, unbleached, and are post consumer fiber printed, using soy based ink. This new packaging is lightweight, which helps minimize its carbon footprint, reduces greenhouse gases by 75%, and cuts waste by 50%. Gas emissions are also decreased since its lighter weight enables the overall shipping weight to be smaller. The Tetra Paks also cater to active lifestyles because of their multifaceted design. They are shatterproof, portable, and re-sealable with its twist off cap.

The new Bota Box Tetra Paks will roll out nationwide and will come in four of their most popular flavors: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay.

Tags:Boto Box, carbon footprint, eco packaging, Eco-Friendly, environment, packaging, recyclable, wine packaging
Posted in Eco-Friendly, Packaging Design | No Comments »