Excessive packaging deters consumers, Mondi study finds

12 Mar 2020 --- Mondi-commissioned research has found that the majority of British consumers say they would choose one brand over another based on how much packaging is used. The online survey of over 2,000 people aged 16-75 across the UK found that slightly more women are concerned by excessive packaging than men, while Xennials are more likely to switch brands for less packaging than Baby Boomers and Gen X. In light of the findings, Mondi is promoting its EcoSolutions portfolio, which is based on the concept: “Paper where possible, plastic when useful.”

The survey found that just under six out of ten (58%) British consumers say that when shopping for food and everyday household items, they would switch to a different brand because it uses less packaging.

Those living in the South West and South East of England outside of London were most likely (62%) to make the switch, in comparison to five out of ten consumers in London (54%), Scotland (53%) and Wales (47%).

Women are leading the drive to switch with six out of ten (61%) British women saying they would switch brands for one with less packaging. Just over five out of ten (54%) men said the same.

Xennials are more likely to switch brand for less packaging than Baby Boomers and Gen X. Just under two thirds (65%) of 35-44-year-olds, the generation known as Xennials, say they would switch to a different brand because it uses less packaging. This is in comparison to around five out of ten Generation Xers (54%), aged between 45 and 54, and Baby Boomers (52%), aged between 55 and 75.

“It is encouraging to see that consumers are willing to make different choices to accommodate more sustainable packaging. For brands, the survey results highlight the importance of incorporating sustainability in their packaging development and production,” notes Sara Sizer, Group Communication and Marketing Director at Mondi.

“At Mondi we make packaging which is sustainable by design, by focusing on the purpose of packaging, reducing the volume of raw material used and developing fit-for-purpose paper and plastic packaging which is designed for recycling or reuse.”

Mondi works with its customers to create EcoSolutions – an approach that develops bespoke packaging solutions that will ensure businesses can protect the product, promote the brand and deliver on their sustainable packaging commitments.

This collaborative approach recently saw Mondi join forces with Cartro Mexican corrugated packaging company to deliver sustainable packaging solutions for fresh produce. The new packaging is a strong and humidity-resistant box design that will allow for long-distance transport of food, notably avocados, and reduce food waste. The box weighs 18 percent less than the existing solution and is completely paraffin-free and recyclable.

Mondi also recently announced science-based targets to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The supplier will target a 34 percent reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions per metric ton of saleable production by 2025 and 72 percent by 2050, from a 2014 base year. Mondi has also set a 39 percent reduction per megawatt (MWh) goal in scope 2 GHG emissions by 2025, rising to 86 percent by 2050, also from a 2014 base year.

Edited by Joshua Poole