Public demand for plastic-free advent calendars boosts production by 200%, says DS Smith

14 Dec 2023 --- Public demand for plastic-free advent calendars is rising, according to DS Smith. Data from the company shows that between 2019 and 2022, production of alternative material versions jumped by over 200%. 

The company is predicting that spending on plastic-free calendars is currently on track to outstrip 2022 levels. With advent calendars becoming increasingly elaborate, DS Smith says it has been working with brands to help ensure that their designs are as functional and sustainable as possible. 

Advent calendars featuring alcoholic drinks, chocolate, pet food and domestic products have also surged in popularity.

Speaking to Packaging Insights, Nicola McNey, DS Smith’s head of sector sales, says: “We see the opportunity for packaging to play a powerful role in a changing world. Our purpose is to help our customers respond to changing shopping habits with the sustainable packaging solutions that our society needs.” 

“This is an example of how we are helping our customers solve the challenges of a rapidly evolving environment by innovating corrugated fiber-based product solutions that can be easily recycled.”

Alternative advent calendars are on the rise.Minimizing materials 
DS Smith’s recent innovations for advent calendars include incorporating pulp or recycled paper and removing the number of individual parts needed in the overall designs to minimize materials and reduce the potential for waste.

By designing 100% recyclable packaging and helping customers design hard-to-recycle plastics, the company says it is extending material life and reducing emissions. 

Andy Brereton, design for creative lead, DS Smith, says: “As more consumers demand a festive countdown that goes beyond the traditional picture-behind-the-door offering, brands of all kinds are responding with new and innovative advent offerings. 

“Although a fun festive tradition, some advent calendars can pose a problem for recycling, as they might be made from a combination of materials, not all of which will be easily recyclable. Once the last door is opened, it is important that advent calendars can be recycled so that the materials are used again.”

DS Smith uses unique Circular Design Principles to help customers meet sustainability goals. Since their creation in 2019, the DS Smith Circular Design Metrics have supported thousands of design projects and around 3,000 circular-ready projects are presented to customers every month. 

“At DS Smith, we collaborate with our customers to design unique advent calendars that not only stand out on shelves but are made from fiber-based materials — using our Circular Design Metrics,” says the company. 

“We remove plastic, take away any unnecessary materials and ensure recyclability. The goal is to achieve a reduction in the carbon emissions required to make and transport the advent calendars and support the transition to a circular economy.” 

By Louis Gore-Langton