Unilever and Saica Group have collaborated to replace the former plastic shrink film used for promotional packs of Axe deodorant with a paper grouping band, said to be designed for recycling.

Saica Group said that it delivered an end-to-end technical solution to Unilever for the paper bundling, which included the design and industrial validation of a self-adhesive paper band, optimized for ease of unpacking and consumer handling. The band was developed using high-performance paper engineered for mechanical strength, durability under transport conditions and compatibility with high-resolution printing process to ensure premium shelf appeal.

The companies say they are aiming to meet the upcoming PPWR which includes a ban on single use plastic packaging for promotional bundling. By introducing the paper banding solution, they also aim to align with the PPWR's broader objectives of reducing virgin plastic packaging use, improving recyclability and supporting the circular economy.

Saica adds that it provided specialized implementation support throughout the full deployment lifecycle, from equipment specification and procurement to the installation and commissioning of banding machinery tailored to Unilever's promotional products lines. The new system is also said to deliver 'notable energy efficiency gains', replacing high-temperature shrink-wrapping with a low-energy banding process without affecting packaging speed or quality.