DS Smith designs fiber-based transport packaging for water filters
Key takeaways
- DS Smith has developed a corrugated transport box for two types of BWT Mach water filters.
- A triangular insert separates the filters from the outer casing and floor level to improve shock protection during transport.
- The packaging integrates into BWT’s existing production lines, reduces plastic components, and supports cost and production efficiencies.
(Image credit: DS Smith).DS Smith has equipped Best Water Technologies (BWT), an Austria-based water treatment company, with a transport box for water filters.
The fiber-based packaging solution is designed for two types of Mach water filters, which are used for the protection of domestic water pipes.
“Through close collaboration and use of our Circular Design Metrics tools, from materials utilization to recyclability, a bespoke corrugated packaging solution was developed for the delivery of optimal protection, sustainability, and efficiency,” says Andreas Koch, cluster design and innovation manager at DS Smith Austria.
One feature of the solution is an integrated and triangular-shaped corrugated cardboard insert, which creates an accessory compartment. According to DS Smith, the inserts are intended to protect Mach’s filters from shock during transport by separating them from the packaging casing and elevating them away from floor level.
“Streamlining” production setup
As companies continue to adopt fiber-based or plastic-free solutions, production on pre-existing production lines is vital for brands to maintain product efficiency. DS Smith outlines that the packaging box can be integrated into existing BWT packaging lines.
Andreas Weißenbacher, CEO at BWT, says: “The streamlined production setup — requiring only a single converting machine after corrugated production — creates cost efficiencies and improves overall production efficiency.”
DS Smith also outlines that the natural brown of the corrugated board with white flexographic printing creates an aesthetic design.
Weißenbacher adds: “By lowering the number of plastic components used in product packaging, we are conserving valuable resources and supporting more sustainable manufacturing practices.”
DS Smith advances fiber
At Packaging Innovations 2025, DS Smith showcased the breadth of its fiber-based packaging. In conversation with Packaging Insights, Liz Manuvelpillai, sales, marketing, and innovation director at the British multinational, explained how DS Smith is responding to evolving regulatory demands and consumer trends.
Meanwhile, DS Smith developed corrugated cardboard packaging for a Dutch company offering trees as gifts for special occasions such as births.
It also supplied its fiber-based Closed-Type Tray for the transatlantic freight of kiwis and other fresh produce to the Greek market and equipped Somfy, a home and building equipment manufacturer, with a recyclable corrugated cardboard insert to protect roller shutter motors during transportation.
