DS Smith launches “Customer Innovation Hub” in Madrid to facilitate collaboration with customers and develop sustainable fibre-based packaging solutions

The customer focused innovation centre will help brands and manufacturers to meet increasing consumer demand for sustainable products and contribute towards a circular economy.

The state-of-the-art technology and the synergies established in the centre will provide the opportunity for customers and visitors to explore and share sustainable packaging solutions in an interactive environment. The learning experience will allow for flexible exploration around sustainable and circular ready packaging for brands and manufacturers in the Iberian region and with a focus on a variety of sectors from e-commerce and FMCG, to automotive and industrials.

Customers and visitors have access to state-of-the-art digital tools such as 360º cameras and LED screens, and virtual and augmented reality experiences. 3D technology is installed to reveal market-ready solutions in real time and demonstrate the developmental processes behind innovative new customized prototypes.

DS Smith packaging solutions are made from corrugated cardboard and designed to reduce CO2 emissions at all stages of a supply chain from production through to transportation, storage, and implementation. In addition, each DS Smith sustainable packaging solution is designed with the company’s unique Circular Principles and Metrics (CDM) approach. This allows our designers to rate and compare the circularity of a packaging design across eight different indicators. These efficiently identify the effectiveness of sustainability performance and where to focus attention.

"The purpose of the DS Smith Customer Innovation Hubs is to foster and support collaboration with our existing and to inspire our potential new customers with regards to what is possible for their products and supply chains. We seek to develop innovative solutions that are bespoke and to work closely together towards a more circular ready future. These tailor-made solutions are also designed to significantly reduce CO2 footprint, commented João Gordilho, Customer Engagement Manager Iberia, DS Smith.