DS Smith, a global leader in sustainable fibre-based packaging, has announced the launch of its new Customer Innovation Hub in Madrid, Spain.

This customer-centric centre aims to foster collaboration with brands and manufacturers to develop innovative and sustainable packaging solutions that meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products.

DS Smith said the hub boasts state-of-the-art technology and collaborative spaces designed to inspire creativity and knowledge sharing.

Visitors can explore and discuss sustainable packaging solutions through interactive experiences.

Digital tools such as 360-degree cameras, LED screens, and virtual and augmented reality are available to showcase market-ready options and the development process behind customised prototypes.

The focus lies on creating 'circular-ready' packaging for various sectors, including for e-commerce, fast-moving consumer goods, automotive, and industrial applications.

DS Smith's packaging solutions are built with sustainability in mind, utilising corrugated cardboard and minimising carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions throughout the supply chain - from production to transportation and disposal.

Furthermore, the company's Circular Principles and Metrics approach ensures each of its designs prioritises circularity.

This framework allows designers to evaluate packaging solutions across eight key sustainability indicators, pinpointing areas for improvement and maximising eco-efficiency.

"The purpose of the DS Smith Customer Innovation Hubs is to foster and support collaboration with our existing and to inspire our potential new customers with regards to what is possible for their products and supply chains,” said João Gordilho, Customer Engagement manager for Iberia at DS Smith.

“We seek to develop innovative solutions that are bespoke and to work closely together towards a more circular-ready future. These tailor-made solutions are also designed to significantly reduce CO₂ footprint.”

This latest hub in Madrid marks DS Smith's continued commitment to sustainable packaging innovation, offering its expertise and collaborative environment to empower brands and manufacturers to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions.