OPTIMIZED PACKAGING

Since 2018, our group has chosen to reduce the size of our packaging. At Oxybul, this has resulted in the hiring of a specialized engineer with a threefold mission:

• track down wasted space and unnecessary parts: handles and plastic fasteners for example,
• use recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible,
• give the packaging a second life as a “play box” – so the puppet box becomes a theatre, for example – rather than considering it to be waste. Work to raise the awareness of suppliers was carried out with this in mind.

And this strategy is bearing fruit! In two years, 96% of the packaging for Oxybul ranges has been subject to an eco-design action… Result: 1 ton of plastic and 5 tons of cardboard saved.

In response to extensive plastic-related challenges, our brands have replaced their plastic checkout bags with more planet-friendly bags made of recycled paper. By charging for these bags, we have significantly reduced their number. In addition, 100% of the sales of Okaïdi bags are donated to Surfrider Foundation Europe, an NGO that raises awareness of eco-actions to protect the oceans, rivers and streams. And we also offer reusable bags for sale in order to develop new habits among consumers. For Okaïdi web orders we have also opted for recycled and recyclable plastic bags.

In terms of logistics, cardboard packaging is essential because it protects the product throughout its transport. In our progress approach, we have chosen to equip our IDLOG platform with the I-pack® system which makes it possible to optimize the size of the boxes. It is a machine that detects the contents and folds the box to the correct height, then seals a lid.

Optimizing the size of the packaging avoids wasting cardboard, secures the products and avoids unnecessary loss of volume during transport… and therefore reduces pollution. With no top flap to handle and tape, these boxes also reduce handling for the teams, therefore helping to prevent RSI.

OKAIDI

The installation bags are used for the installation of each new seasonal collection. These plastic packages contain one item reference, in all sizes. Each item was previously individually wrapped in a polybag. Since 2017, we have been phasing them out.

This represents both a saving of plastic (70 tons over a year) and handling time for our store teams, who can concentrate on welcoming our customers.  Proof that our sustainable commitments really make a difference to our business!