At ExpoSE 2018, Solidus Solutions presented their then brand new packaging concept for asparagus. Through the so-called Asparagus Box, the internationally operating packaging company wanted to set new standards in terms of sustainability and convenience. Since then, the response has been enormous, says Oliver Wendt - Sales Manager Germany - just over a year after the initial product presentation. This year he moves to Karlsruhe again, this time with two new packaging concepts.
The main aim of the Asparagus Box was to provide the market with environmentally friendly asparagus packaging for small households in order to be able to market the asparagus successfully in the coming years in line with the changing market. In addition, carton packaging protects the product and makes it easier for the customer to transport and store, Wendt recounted the multiple benefits of the concept in the interview at the time.
Small portions of potatoes, onions and carrots
"We are currently still in the acceptance phase, but the marketing is running and the concept has been well received so far," says Wendt. In addition, new solutions have emerged from the asparagus packaging in a modified form. It is a similar package for potatoes, onions and carrots. "This packaging is currently in the design and we will be able to introduce the prospective at the ExpoSE for the first time," said Wendt. For carrots and onions, the novel solution is first marketed as a 1kg version, for potatoes it is a 1.5kg unit.
Oliver Wendt at this year's InterAspa: The name of the original Asparagus box has since been changed to asparagus portion pack.
Cardboard trays for berry fruits
In addition, the internationally operating company also offers a novel cardboard bowl for strawberries. Similar to the previous solutions, this shell is 100% environmentally friendly and recyclable. But the sustainable packaging concept should not only replace plastic, but also better position the strawberry as a product: this concept could also be used as gift packaging. Wendt: "This product packaging is currently in sample production and we will also be able to introduce it in Karlsruhe for the first time."
Added price & added value
All in all, the market is clearly ripe for new, environmentally friendly packaging alternatives, even if they bring a corresponding additional price. "Consumers are willing to pay more for product packaging, as long as it also adds value to it - in terms of handling, storage, transportation security." Another social trend Solidus wants to address is the growing need for smaller portions of single - or two-person households. "That's why we're not just developing smaller units, but our new solutions, with the exception of strawberry packaging, are resealable."
In addition, it is important for the company that the new solutions find their way to every sector of the fresh trade, Wendt says: "Our target group extends from direct marketers through food retailers to wholesalers and major cooperative suppliers. The solid board we use offers every customer - whether direct marketers, retailers or wholesalers - a clear added value. The potential of the solution is therefore almost inexhaustible."
For more information:
Solidus Solutions
Oliver Wendt - Vertriebsleiter D-A-CH
Hanzeweg 5,
7202 CG, Zutphen, Niederlande
M : +49 1707 85 04 94
oliver.wendt@solidus-solutions.com
www.solidus-solutions.com