As concerns over the environment grow, how can you ensure your business is ethical and profitable?
One powerful step to take is to transition to sustainable packaging supplies. By choosing locally-made, sustainable packaging from a New Zealand supplier, you keep your customers happy and help protect the environment without breaking the bank.
What is sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging strikes a balance between meeting industry needs and protecting our planet. Unlike traditional single-use packaging that ends up in landfills, sustainable packaging is crafted to meet business requirements while also minimising environmental damage. At Primepac, we’ll support your transition with sustainable packaging products that deliver performance and peace of mind.
How can packaging be sustainable?
To be truly sustainable, packaging supplies need to meet a combination of Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria (ESG principles). In a nutshell, packaging must be good for the planet, beneficial for people, and cost-effective enough to be used long-term without causing harm.
Whether it’s food packaging, shipping supplies, or warehouse materials, there are plenty of opportunities to make the switch to eco-friendly alternatives. A great starting point is with recyclable or biodegradable options, while also ensuring that all raw materials are sustainably sourced. The best solution will depend on the product so we recommend working with industry experts like the friendly team at Primepac.
Following a circular business model, materials are continually reused, recycled, or composted. This enhances sustainability by minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency. This approach also promotes a more responsible and resilient business practice.
Recyclable packaging supplies
Recycling plays a crucial role in making packaging more sustainable, especially when it comes to plastics. While plastic packaging is essential for shipping, it can become an environmental issue when it’s not recyclable.
For example, pallet wrap must be durable enough to protect goods and affordable enough to keep costs down. Unfortunately, it could also sit in landfills for decades before breaking down. By transitioning to a sustainable alternative, like Purewrap, you can balance the environmental impact without losing its social and economic benefits.
Product highlight — PureWrap
As a recyclable plastic wrap made from sustainably grown sugar cane, PureWrap is improving the carbon footprint of many New Zealand businesses. The process of producing Purewrap removes more carbon from the atmosphere than it creates. This way, you gain the same performance as traditional plastic without the environmental impact.
Product highlight — Grip Film Eco
Our Grip Film Eco is another excellent solution, made from 30% post-industrial recycled content. This wrap is not only 100% recyclable but also reduces the amount of material needed to secure pallets, thanks to its self-gripping properties and durability.
Biodegradable packaging supplies
One of the most impactful ways to make packaging sustainable is by choosing biodegradable options. These products break down naturally into elements like carbon dioxide, water, and plant-based biomass, helping to reduce landfill waste and avoid the release of harmful microplastics.
At Primepac, we offer a range of biodegradable shipping supplies, including cardboard cartons, courier bags, and kraft paper. Kraft paper is a fantastic choice for eco-conscious businesses. Made from wood pulp, it’s incredibly durable with excellent tear resistance. What’s more, it’s fully recyclable and can be easily disposed of in any home recycling bin.
Many customers even find it reusable, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastics. With Primepac’s biodegradable packaging, you can meet your sustainability goals without compromising on quality or affordability.
Managing costs
In today's climate of global inflation, rising costs are putting pressure on both consumers and producers. Packaging costs are a crucial factor in determining product pricing. If these costs become too high, they can either push prices beyond what consumers are willing to pay or squeeze profit margins too tightly for businesses to remain viable.
While many customers are open to paying more for sustainable and ethical products, it’s essential to strike a balance to ensure economic sustainability. Here are some strategies to help keep costs down when transitioning to sustainable packaging supplies.
Ordering in bulk
Ordering in bulk is a smart way to reduce the per-unit cost of packaging supplies. Although it may require a larger upfront investment, bulk orders can improve your profit margins by lowering overall costs in the long run.
Additionally, shipping costs for large orders are typically lower compared to multiple smaller shipments, especially if you’re working with a supplier that offers a comprehensive range of packaging supplies. Not only does this improve efficiency but also reduces the carbon impact of transportation. Bulk purchasing can also stabilise pricing for your customers, protecting them from fluctuations that occur as packaging costs ebb and flow with the economy.
Selling your story
Sustainable packaging isn’t just good for the planet — it can also help your business stand out from the competition. Sharing the story of your commitment to reducing environmental impact can resonate with your customers, offering a compelling reason to choose your brand. By highlighting the positive steps your business is taking toward sustainability, you can attract and retain customers who value environmentally responsible practices.
Work with suppliers
A multi-year research study by Forbes, ASQ, the Institute for Supply Management, and Deloitte found that close collaboration with suppliers can enhance a business's effectiveness in transitioning to sustainable practices. Establishing strong relationships with your suppliers can strengthen your supply chain logistics, ensuring that products move smoothly from supplier to consumer.
Working with a local supplier like Primepac offers additional opportunities to keep recyclable materials in use and out of landfills. By maintaining open communication and mutual support, businesses and suppliers can work together to achieve shared sustainability goals.
Build a strong relationship with Primepac
Partnering with Primepac means you're choosing the right NZ-based packaging supplier to support your business. Local suppliers understand the unique needs of New Zealand businesses and can offer tailored solutions that help you reduce costs and source ethical, sustainable packaging.
Primepac is here to help your business thrive by providing reliable service and a wide range of eco-friendly options that meet your sustainability goals.
