A Fully Recyclable E-Commerce System Built From Custom-Developed Materials
Filippa K needed e-commerce packaging that protected the product, met strict recyclability standards, and stayed commercially practical. Standard materials and constructions could not meet the brief. Kargo developed custom substrates and managed production through to finished goods.
EU PACKAGING AND PACKAGING WASTE REGULATION (PPWR) COMPLIANCE SOLUTIONS
The Challenge
Traditional luxury packaging relies on virgin materials, heavy finishes, and constructions that are difficult to recycle. Filippa K needed the opposite: solid protection, post-consumer and FSC-certified content, custom sizes, and controlled unit cost. Several requirements did not exist as standard stock — including a duo-tone kraft paper, auto-bottom boxes that assemble without tape, and glassine bags in non-standard sizes.
The Solution
Kargo managed the project from material development through production. Rather than starting with expensive stock, we applied material knowledge to develop recycled and standard substrates into a considered, high-end system.
Key elements:
Duo-tone kraft paper — kraft exterior and white interior — sourced and produced as a custom material
Auto-bottom boxes that ship flat and assemble in one motion, speeding up fulfillment
Glassine bags in custom sizes matched to the product range
Recycled and FSC-certified e-commerce envelopes with resealable construction for easy returns
Premium stationery in ultra-soft recycled art paper with blind emboss detailing
Functional shipping materials handle protection and transit. Premium art papers carry the brand experience through texture. The system aligns with PPWR requirements for recyclable packaging on the EU market by 2030.
Materials & Structure
We built the system from recycled and FSC-certified content rather than virgin stock. Custom development produced the duo-tone kraft and softer art papers, giving the range a premium feel without heavy finishes. Constructions were chosen for recyclability and fulfillment speed, including tape-free auto-bottom boxes and resealable envelopes.
Results
Fully recyclable system with post-consumer and FSC-certified content
Better product protection and simpler returns
Faster box assembly and more efficient sizing for fulfillment
Recycled substrates developed into a premium result
Compliance-ready for PPWR, with cost held under control
Services Used:
Design & Engineering
Product Development
Production
Logistics
Supply Chain Management
