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The winners of the 2024 European Carton Excellence Award (ECEA) were unveiled in Berlin, Germany, on 19 September, recognising the innovation of the sustainable carton packaging industry over the last year. Hosted by Pro Carton – the European Association of Carton and Cartonboard Manufacturers – and the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA), the coveted awards celebrate the best of sustainable packaging.
Spain’s Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica’s extraordinary solution for perfume brand Laboratorios Flor Natural Parfums was crowned Carton of the Year, whilst Graphic Packaging International’s practical yet beautiful packaging for Pladis won consumers over in the Public Award, as well as taking home the Gold Award.
All ECEA entries were judged according to various criteria, spanning graphic and structural design, production techniques, cost-efficiency, ecology, sustainability, innovation, safety and convenience. The jury panel consisted of:
- Satkar Gidda, Chair of the judges and consultant for branding and design
- Lotte Krekels, Head of the Packaging at Carrefour Belgium.
- Unilever’s Sanjeev Das, Global Packaging Director in the Foods and Ice Cream business.
Presenting the awards in Berlin were:
- Michele Bianchi, President of Pro Carton.
- Jean-François Roche, President of ECMA.
- Horst Bittermann, Director General of Pro Carton.
Carton of the Year: Origen Flor Natural
by Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica
Carton of the Year 2024
For Carton of the Year, the chosen winner is Origen Flor Natural by Hinojosa Packaging Galería Gráfica.
This innovative cardboard case showcases exceptionally elegant die-cutting, blending sophistication with functionality in an unparalleled manner. Each detail has been meticulously crafted to offer a unique consumer experience, reflecting the impeccable quality of the packaging.
Created with Stora Enso cartonboard, the design features inner printing combined with precise side die-cutting and embossing, creating a harmonious 3D effect that enhances the perception of volume. This exquisite craftsmanship exemplifies structural excellence, elevating the art of packaging to new heights.
Sustainability Award: Calma Products by PAWI Packaging Deutschland
Innovation Award: OCB – Cover kit – paper & filter by Alzamora Group
General Packaging Virgin Fibre: Samarité Magic Key by PAWI Packaging Poland
Calm feeding
A sustainable packaging solution has been developed by PAWI Packaging Deutschland for Medela, using Sappi Deutschland cartonboard, to replace the previous plastic round cans and inserts, specifically designed for baby feeding products.
This new design features an innovative click-and-open mechanism, a foldable retail shelf hanger, and a secure safety closure. It also includes a clear window for easy product visibility and a tactile finish for a premium feel. This eco-friendly packaging exemplifies a commitment to innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility, offering not only product protection but also a safe and convenient option for new parents.
Rolling performance
A compact and reusable cartonboard pack has been developed by Alzamora Group using Metsä Board cartonboard, designed to cleverly house both tobacco filters and papers in one unit—eliminating the need for excess packaging. Its mono-material construction ensures both durability and sustainability, while the secure design protects the delicate ceramic filters.
This pack’s compact size makes it easy to store and transport, offering a convenient way to dispose of used filters and papers. It can also be effortlessly replenished, making it a practical and eco-friendly solution for tobacco consumers. The sleek design adds a touch of sophistication to its functionality.
Unlock luxury
Crafted from premium Billrud cartonboard, this luxurious and innovative packaging design for Zeme Pharm exudes sophistication. It features a soft-touch varnish, gold hot stamping, with double-sided printing in both CMYK and Pantone colors, creating an eye-catching and elegant presentation.
The packaging includes a distinctive candy-style opening and a front window, offering a convenient and captivating unboxing experience. Perfect for luxury products, this design enhances perceived value and prestige, seamlessly blending style, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
General Packaging Recycled Fibre award: Easy-Life Fish Food by Snel
Food & Drink Virgin Fibre: Mackmyra 001 by Nordic Carton
Food & Drink Packaging Recycled Fibre: Kirkland Branded Marinara Sauce by WestRock
Easy-feed
This innovative fish food packaging solution, created by PAWI Packaging Deutschland using Smurfit Kappa Hoya cartonboard, marks a significant advancement in sustainable packaging.
By integrating cartonboard and paper in a unique construction, the need for plastic is entirely eliminated, offering a fully circular and eco-friendly option. This design tackles the challenge of fish food odors, ensuring a fresh and odor-free experience for consumers. Its fully resealable design and specialized production techniques provide a practical and secure solution. Crafted from recycled and FSC-certified materials, this packaging represents a truly environmentally responsible choice.
Smooth transition
As a forerunner in Swedish malt whisky, Mackmyra is known for its sophistication and elegance.
For its new small batch series, the distillery partnered with Nordic Carton to develop an exclusive packaging material using Holmen Board and Paper cartonboard. This design emphasizes the brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship, mirroring the unique character of each small batch whisky. The packaging is sleek, elegant, and minimalist, embodying a refined and sophisticated design aesthetic. The container glides smoothly upward, inspired by Nordic design principles that focus on simplicity, functionality, and essential elements
Saucy Packaging
WestRock and Costco have partnered together to develop a creative and sustainable packaging solution for Kirkland’s marinara pasta sauce.
The Cluster-Clip® design, a fibre-based alternative to plastic clips and shrink wrap, offers a fantastic recyclable option for consumers. Pre-glued for easy application, Cluster-Clip® allows for a fully printable packaging design to enhance consumer convenience and augment brand communication. This ingenious solution has significantly reduced plastic waste, demonstrating Costco’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, Cluster-Clip® provides a stronger, yet sustainable packaging solution that protects the product throughout the supply chain.
Public Award: Pladis Victoria Creations by Graphic Packaging International
Shareable delight
The packaging for McVitie’s Victoria Chocolate Creations by Pladis combines a visually enticing design with practical functionality, making it both attractive and efficient.
Developed by Graphic Packaging International, using Metsä Board cartonboard, the gift-wrapped appearance and easy-open fastening tab to enhance the unboxing experience. The curved edges, folded opening feature, and refined printing and embossing add a layer of sophistication, helping the striking look of the packaging to stand out on shelves. Moreover, its compatibility with existing machinery ensures a smooth and efficient production line, making it an ideal choice for the brand.
Platinum award winners:
| Product | Carton Converter | Cartonboard Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|
| Rafeira – Cerveja Artesanal | Alzamora Group | Stora Enso |
| Promis Care Bundle Holder Brush | Promis Care Bundle Holder Brush | Stora Enso |
| Arti Grafiche Reggiane & LAI | Rattpack & Co | Holmen Board and Paper |
Gold award winners:
| Product | Carton Converter | Cartonboard Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Blue Gin Northern Lights | Grano | Metsä Board |
| gigasept® powerSET3 | Edelmann Group | Holmen Board and Paper |
| Duvel x Magritte – Limited Edition | Van Genechten Packaging | Stora Enso and Billerud |
| Míša multipack | Cardbox – Packaging | RDM Group |
| Pladis Victoria Creations | Graphic Packaging International | Metsä Board |
| The Easter Celebration from Anthon Berg | Van Genechten Packaging | Metsä Board |
| Taitau Meškėnas UAB | Van Genechten Packaging | Billerud |
| Union Mels – Butter Cookies | Alzamora Group | RDM Group (Barcelona Cartonboard) |
