Common Footprint Quality (CFQ) Standard

Common Footprint Quality (CFQ) Standard

When it comes to fresh produce, retailers and consumers want fresh goods as soon as possible after they are picked. We want to select flowers, fruits and vegetables that are crisp and bright with a reasonable shelf life.

In order to get good from field to consumers as quickly as possible, efficient processes are vital and packaging plays an important role. Suppliers need packaging solutions that make it easier to stack, store and transport fresh produce.

In response, the Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI) has prepared the Common Footprint Quality (CFQ) Standard, for corrugated cardboard packaging for the UK’s fresh produce industry. To meet the requirements of the CFQ Standard, cardboard packaging suppliers will need to create trays to standardised dimensions.

Cardboard Trays

The CFQ Standard focuses on corrugated cardboard trays as they are the packaging material of choice for the majority of fresh produce. Corrugated cardboard offers cushioning, ventilation, strength and durability. It protects the goods during transit to ensure that they reach the consumer in the best possible condition, whilst also being cost effective and sustainable.

A common footprint for all trays will make it quicker and easier to stack, store and transport goods from multiple suppliers. In preventing trays falling into each other and speeding up the process, the risk of good being damaged and wasted is reduced.

Standard tray dimensions will also make it easier for retailers to plan and prepare shelf space, to ensure that shelf ready packaging can easily be slotted into place.

If you are looking for a local box manufacturer to produce cardboard trays that comply with the CFQ standard, give us a call!