Tchibo markets its capsule-based coffee machine concept under the “Cafissimo” brand. In line with consumers’ growing expectations of packaging that is convenient on the one hand, but also ecologically sustainable on the other, we have made the packaging system for the Cafissimo capsules fit for the future.
In the context of considering ecological sustainability, the coffee capsule itself was the focus of our work. On the basis of our well-founded eco analyses and taking into account all eco criteria, the materials and technologies available on the market and direct competitors, we paved the way for an ecologically sustainable capsule. This is now a mono-plastic solution that greatly increases compatibility with the existing recycling infrastructure.
With a view to increasing the degree of convenience, the focus was on bundling the outer packaging of the capsules: Previously, the capsules were packed in long folding boxes of 10 pieces. The capsules were removed by pouring them out over the narrow side. Compared to many competitor products and their secondary packaging, which have now also entered the market, this type of packaging application proved to be uncomfortable.
Together with B+P Creality, a modified form of the folding box was therefore developed in the process of sustainable packaging development + Eco Pack Design, which enables the user to access the capsules via the wide side. The pack can be opened smoothly via a counter-scoring. The wide opening allows the capsules stacked offset next to each other to be easily removed. The graphic design is appropriately oriented transversely on the side with the opening function, while on the opposite side it is still oriented upright, thus enabling the usual upright presentation on the sales shelf.
