Smurfit Kappa launches additional TopClip packing system designed for smaller brands

Lately, Smurfit Kappa announced the launch of a new packing system for its sustainable TopClip product, a paper-based replacement for plastic shrink wrap that bundles beverage multi-packs. This packing system, which is designed for smaller businesses and brands, comes after the launch of their high speed machine with KHS last year. This now completes the portfolio of Smurfit Kappa's end to end solutions for TopClip, ensuring it is suitable for beverage companies of all sizes.

The launch of this new packing solution, and the implementation by Czech beer brewer Pivovar Clock, sees the packaging company selected to supply their innovative and sustainable paper-based TopClip for 500ml cans. A modern and creative brewery, Pivovar Clock are noted within the industry for their early adoption of sustainable technology. The brewer uses the latest steam technology and local ingredients to produce their beer.

Smurfit Kappa has now launched complete solutions, including automation for every shape and size of beverage company, which will be a key characteristic in facilitating the roll out of TopClip with many different brands. Now, with this implementation, Smurfit Kappa has proven their commitment to supplying TopClip, both to the large global brands requiring high-speed machines, and to smaller craft breweries.

With a 30% lower carbon footprint than a shrink wrap consumer pack, TopClip is plastic-free and 100% renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. As it is made from less material and does not require glue, TopClip is significantly more sustainable than other recently launched same-purpose packaging solutions on the market and offers a premium consumer experience with good branding opportunities.

Welcoming the announcement, Jiří Andrš, CEO at Pivovar Clock said: “As a company, we pride ourselves on only using the highest quality ingredients when making our beers. We want to provide this standard across our business and Smurfit Kappa’s TopClip solution offers us a new sustainable alternative while providing an excellent consumer and branding experience.''

“At Pivovar Clock, we are committed to significantly decreasing our carbon footprint, so by choosing TopClip we are also meeting our environmental obligations by reducing single-use plastics.”

Commenting on the news, Arco Berkenbosch, VP Innovation and Development, at Smurfit Kappa Europe said: “We are delighted to partner with Pivovar Clock by providing their consumers with the latest in innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. Whether you’re a small or large beverage company, there is a version of TopClip to suit your business.”

“With our portfolio of machine solutions, Smurfit Kappa can provide a holistic offering to reduce your carbon footprint and ultimately help grow sales,” concluded Mr. Berkenbosch.

The announcement means that TopClip, which has already been available in the UK and the Netherlands with other brands, will be now additionally be available to consumers in the Czech, Polish and Slovakian markets.

TopClip is part of Smurfit Kappa’s Better Planet Packaging, a portfolio of innovative packaging solutions designed to be more sustainable and always made from a renewable and recyclable raw material.