Polystyrene has widely been used in food packaging, but change is occurring. An increasing interest in sustainable solutions has resulted in a shift towards cardboard alternatives. Unlike polystyrene, cardboard packaging can be made from recycled material and recycled again after use. Even if it reaches landfill,...
A young child discovers a sweet in their pocket; it’s a bit sticky and they’re not sure how long it’s been there, but they will almost certainly pop it into their mouth. In contrast, the same child spots the smallest mark, or bruise, on a...
Ever seen pink bubble wrap and wondered why it was that colour? This variation is designed with anti-static properties, specifically for electronic manufacturers. Developments in electronics design are expanding the possibilities of industrial automation, e-health, smart metering, remote monitoring and the Internet of Things. As individuals,...
When it comes to marketing, we are regularly told that we need to promote the benefits of our products and services. Consumers don’t want what we sell; they want the advantages that those items bring. As an example, we might not want to buy healthy meals...
At the end of 2016, a feature on the BBC’s Watchdog highlighted a cleanliness issue with home delivery crates. It seems that the plastic crates used by supermarkets are in such constant use that they aren’t always cleaned. Mould, unidentified sticky substances and even maggots...
Looking for a new challenge in 2017? How about designing a board game? In a world of digital technology and computer games, it might seem that there is little market for the traditional board game, but they still prove popular. Each year people from around the world submit...
Have you ever been confused when receiving a delivery? You thought you ordered a relatively small product but a large cardboard box is handed over; surely this bulky package can’t be what you are expecting. On opening it, you discover the item you ordered surrounded by...
There’s been positive news regarding growth in the UK Manufacturing Sector, with rises in the demand for exports and consumer goods. As the majority of goods need packaging for safe and secure transport and storage, the packaging industry is anticipating an increase in orders during the final...
Autumn: kicking up leaves, crackling bonfires and a bounty of fruit; what a delightful season! If any of you have an apple, pear or plum tree in the garden, this is the season to gather in your harvest. Fresh, juicy and delicious, there’s little more satisfying...
The rolling hills of sunflowers, lavender and Rhone Valley vineyards have a natural appeal. Scattered with medieval towns and the delights of Provencal cuisine, it is no surprise that this region of Southern France has attracted visitors for centuries. Impressionist artists were inspired by the...