It’s been 30 years since Dakri Cartons has been banking on cardboard paper and corrugated cardboard as sustainable materials. Indeed, these trusty, versatile materials made from FSC-certified paper offer a vast creative playground for man’s innovative spirit. Let’s look back at the origins of cardboard and forward to its future.

While some would justifiably attribute the earliest form of cardboard to the Egyptians and their Papyrus, cardboard’s iconic corrugated shape was born in the middle of the 19th century, as a solution to solve… Fashion problems! Albert L. Jones used this novel object to create sturdier collars. Soon thereafter, the practical aspect of this material brought it to the workshop of hatters Heally and Allen, and it was, subsequently, used in the making of fixed-wall cardboard boxes which were used throughout the century.

It was not until 1870 that the packing cardboard box, as we know it, was born. Like most notorious inventions, it was the fruit of a mistake from printer Robert Gair. While making paper bags, he inadvertently slit through a line that should have been folded. That was when he noticed that cutting cardboard boxes in specific places would allow them to be flattened and re-shaped at will! Four years later, Oliver Long, an American, had the idea to reinforce corrugated cardboard sheets with a flat sheet of cardboard… Lo, and behold, our modern cardboard box was born!

Did you know?

Since 1871, cardboard has been used to move fragile objects such as glass and dishes!

Ever since its invention, it is still growingly used. Its shock-absorbing, recycling and reusable properties make it a staple for organisation, moving and trade… And that’s not it! With the awakening of collective environmental awareness, cardboard and paper inspire innovators throughout the world to shape the future of this material. Allow us to share with you its four most original uses:

1. Fabrication process: ultrasonic welding

While this innovation is still in its early testing stages, it would, if conclusive, eliminate the need for glue which would, in turn, make recycling even more simple and efficient

2. Navilens: for better consumer awareness

Thanks to this technology (being tested in the UK), visually impaired consumers can scan products in an aisle. The scanner will then read out loud the ingredients and recycling information (among others) from the packaging

3. Chocolate bars in origami paper

KitKat Japan’s innovative and eco-friendly idea applied since 2019

4. A drink in paper bottles

Danish brand Carlsberg has been testing this novel idea this year, with an initial launch of 8000 bottles on the European market.

Such brilliant ideas for smart, sustainable packaging is Dakri Cartons’ greatest motivation and inspiration!

Go for cardboard now, and contact us:

Call us now on 233 5880 for more information.