DS Smith transforms the French funeral industry

DS Smith collaborates with abCrémation to launch ecologically and economically responsible cardboard coffins

DS Smith first started producing cardboard coffins for its customers more than 20 years ago. Over the last eight years, it has been working closely with abCrémation, a supplier of ecological cardboard coffins, to launch a model which meets stringent new requirements for coffins.

The new standards were imposed by the Ministry of Health and ANSES (France’s National Agency for food security, the environment and work). It decreed that all coffins used in cremations must meet rigorous standards validated through mechanical testing and climactic, atmospheric and specific emissions.

As a result, DS Smith worked in partnership with abCrémation to create a unique and patented, ecologically and economically responsible product. Customers can have peace of mind that all the stipulated regulations and standards are safely met and abCrémation has already seen a growth in sales. As well as meeting the requirements, the coffins have better environmental credentials as they are made of 100% corrugated cardboard composition (natural fibre) and printed with aqueous inks.

Futhermore, there is potential for increased export sales and a growth in the French market as abCrémation is now also able to offer customisation and other sizes.

Mutual trust established from the beginning of the partnership has enabled us to grow a little known product and move from a niche, local market to an international market.

— Brigitte Sabatier, abCrémation company's founder

Jean-Michel Audivert, Directeur Commercial DS Smith Packaging Kunheim, concludes: “We have worked in close collaboration with abCrémation  for many years and really understand the industry and the strict regulatory requirements that their products must meet. Through this long-term partnership, we have created a product which not only meets the required standards but also has great export and personalisation potential.”