The True Blue brand highlights new packages which deliver clear advantages over existing versions - either through the use of more sustainable materials or source reduction. Packages may also qualify for the brand if their production uses less energy, water or raw material, or results in fewer carbon emissions.
Such benefits will be verified by a life-cycle assessment, third-party certification or through recognition from an independent industry organization.
Sustainable packaging solutions
Charles Sullivan, Sonoco’s executive vice president, Consumer, said: “Customers now have a one-stop shop when looking for sustainable packaging solutions that reduce environmental impact. Because Sonoco is not committed to only one sustainable packaging platform, technology or format, we can offer a breadth of solutions that incorporate the latest research to fit a customer’s specific needs.
“The True Blue brand focuses our environmentally responsible offerings to meet the unique needs of our customers whether they need composite cans, flexible packaging, rigid plastic containers, ends and closures, protective packaging or a customized solution.”
The new brand is said to focus the efforts of designers, engineers and material scientists in developing new packaging products that meet customers’ performance, cost and sustainability requirements.
Derek Trader, global consumer marketing manager, said, “Sonoco’s strength is in its total solutions capabilities. These include its material recycling programs, its diversified product offerings, and its technical acumen for sustainable packaging design.”
Protective packaging
At present, the True Blue brand includes: Shaped and round composite cans, blow-molded plastic containers, thermoformed packages, molded and extruded plastics products, ends and closures, printed flexible packaging, point-of-purchase displays and protective packaging.
Sonoco was recently listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index in recognition of its economic, environmental and social performance.