Smurfit Kappa has clinched the coveted 'Supplier of the Year' award from PepsiCo, a recognition of excellence spanning sustainability, speed to market and overall business performance.

This accolade marks a significant milestone in the enduring fifteen-year partnership between the two global entities.

Sustainable packaging triumph: Walkers cuts 250t of plastic annually

Among the standout collaborations that contributed to this accolade was Smurfit Kappa's pivotal role in assisting the PepsiCo-owned Walkers crisps brand in the UK to transition to sustainable packaging.

Faced with the challenge of reducing the 660 million plastic pack bags produced annually, the Better Planet Packaging design team at Smurfit Kappa, in tandem with PepsiCo and their machine manufacturers, engineered a 100% paper-based concept.

The switch from plastic to cardboard outer packaging on Walkers' 22 and 24 multipacks resulted in a remarkable 250-tonne reduction in plastic usage annually.

This not only aligns with Walkers' commitment to sustainability but also enhances logistical efficiency through increased pallet load and a streamlined supply chain process.

PepsiCo commends Smurfit Kappa’s commitment to positive change

Sherif Eskandar, Chief Procurement Officer of PepsiCo Europe, commended Smurfit Kappa for its outstanding performance and unwavering dedication to advancing PepsiCo's Positive agenda.

The award acknowledges Smurfit Kappa's exceptional delivery of value, commitment to objectives, innovation, cost transformation and sustainability.

Smurfit Kappa CEO of Europe Saverio Mayer expressed the company's thrill at receiving the award, highlighting the shared determination with PepsiCo to contribute to environmental protection.

Mayer emphasised the recognition as a testament to the excellence of Smurfit Kappa's teams, from world-class designers to talented plant employees, who consistently deliver innovative packaging solutions with tangible and measurable sustainability benefits.