Gillette shaves material from razor packs
29 January 2009 | By Popsop Team
P&G company changes from Gillette’s traditional clamshells to a tear-resistant combination structure.
Since 2000, Gillette’s razors have been packaged in RF-sealed clamshells as a solution to address a high theft rate. The clamshell offers great security against pilferage, since it is sealed around the edges during the packaging process.
However, this process also makes it very difficult and dangerous for purchasers to open, due to the sharp edges that are formed when opening the package with a knife or scissors.
Moreover, the clamshell’s exterior is made entirely of plastic, which creates issues around sustainability as manufacturers and many retailers are focusing on the reduction in the volume of plastic used in their products and stores.
Gillette set out to find a packaging solution for their razor lines that would meet their sustainability needs without requiring new packaging equipment or additional labor costs. They also didn’t want to sacrifice the pilfer-resistance they had with their clamshell packaging.
Gillette, under the project management of senior engineer Michael Marcinkowski, evaluated several packaging options, and ultimately selected BlisterGuard from Colbert Packaging.
BlisterGuard is an environmentally friendly package that delivers high visual appeal and state-of-the-art security for Gillette’s razor lines. BlisterGuard’s heat-sealable, tear-resistant design is recyclable, meeting both the manufacturer’s and retailers’ needs for more sustainable packaging.
BlisterGuard uses Everest® Safe-Pak™ solid bleached sulfate paperboard from International Paper with multilayer Valeron® Strength Film and a clear plastic blister to replace Gillette’s clamshells. Gillette worked closely with Colbert Packaging to develop a fully customized solution specific to their needs.
