Plastic-Free Dishwasher Tablet Packaging

Delivering supply chain efficiencies with a new sustainable pack for Henkel brand, Somat.

As Henkel set out to eliminate plastic from its dishwasher tablet packaging and slash supply-chain carbon emissions, it turned to Smurfit Westrock's innovative SupplySmart process. Through digital modelling of over 100,000 supply chains and a virtual “digital twin” tool, they collaboratively engineered a compact, paper-based pack that is 66% smaller in volume. This redesign achieved an impressive 44% reduction in transport CO₂ emissions while enhancing recyclability and consumer convenience, showcasing a powerful fusion of sustainability, efficiency, and user-friendliness .

The Challenge

Henkel partnered with Smurfit Westrock to replace their plastic dishwasher tablet pack with a sustainable paper-based alternative. This project was also part of Henkel’s overall goal to reduce C0₂ emissions by improving supply chain efficiency. The new pack also needed to be a more user-friendly compact solution to improve the customer experience.

The Approach

Using a digital model of Henkel’s supply chain, we worked through every aspect of their supply chain to understand their design requirements and to find new ways to reduce their CO₂ emissions. Advanced analytics and the insight of over 100,000 supply chains helped us to tweak pack designs, test scenarios and ultimately, optimise the packaging and supply chain process.

The Result

The redesigned pack resulted in a 66% reduction in package volume and has helped to reduce CO₂ emissions during transport by as much as 44%. Finally, the compact sustainable solution enables enhanced ease of handling, is easy to store, and is recyclable which all combine to deliver on an improved customer experience.

Products used by this client

Detergent Packaging

A fresh spin on traditional bottle and tub detergent packaging, our versatile and innovative paper-based options safeguard liquids, powders, and pods.

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