Graphic Packaging International (Graphic Packaging), a global leader in sustainable consumer packaging, has partnered with UK supermarket giant Morrisons to revolutionise the packaging for its private label steak portfolio with a first-to-market, photographic print pressed board tray.

One of four recyclable paperboard tray solutions to be introduced by the retailer for its premium, core, and entry-level steak lines, the move will eliminate 250 metric tons of plastic per year from its supply chain. The premium trays are the first on the market to incorporate Graphic Packaging's advanced photo-quality print technology on the face of the tray, marking a significant evolution of its pressed board tray portfolio and creating unique branding opportunities for the retailer.

The core range is produced with unbleached paperboard, creating a kraft look, while the entry-level 'Savers' range is produced with bleached paperboard, providing clear aesthetic differentiation between the ranges.

The pressed trays are vacuum sealed, offering equivalent shelf life to plastic, and run on packer Morrisons Manufacturing's existing equipment with no investment required.

Lauren Hutchinson, new business sales director, trays & cups at Graphic Packaging, commented on the launch, saying, "We are delighted for the Morrisons team. Thanks to their passion, collaborative spirit, and commitment, the adoption of our latest tray innovation allows them to not only further their progress toward their plastic reduction goals but also take advantage of the unique branding opportunities presented by our new print technology.

"This commercialisation is the result of close collaboration between the Morrisons team and three of our sites--Winsford in the UK, and Lund and Tibro in Sweden. We combined the strength of our global network with a clear focus on local customer service to deliver tailored innovations that delivered packaging excellence to Morrisons and their consumers."

Dan Barnes, procurement manager at Morrisons, added, "We know British shoppers look for packaging that helps them reduce their plastic consumption while also providing quality and value in their purchases, and we're committed to delivering on these priorities. Our partnership with Graphic Packaging is a great one, as we worked towards our shared goal of delivering innovative, easily recyclable, paperboard packaging that meets the needs of our consumers."

The pressed board vacuum skin (VSP) trays are ideal for a wide range of fresh food applications, including deli meats, cheeses, fish, and more. The addition of photo-quality print that can cover the full face of the tray--plus four-color print capability on the back of the tray-- unlocks near-unlimited branding opportunities.