The fresh produce packaging industry is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in decades. As both retailers and consumers push for more sustainable alternatives, the shift away from plastic and towards fibre-based, recyclable solutions has moved from a trend to an expectation — and card punnets are at the centre of that change.
At ESP Packaging, we have been closely tracking this shift for a number of years and have worked proactively with our customers to develop practical solutions that meet both the environmental expectations of today and the operational demands of a busy supply chain.
In response to growing demand, we have significantly expanded our card punnet range — offering a variety of formats, sizes, and configurations designed to give growers and packers the flexibility they need without sacrificing performance. These are not compromise solutions; they are purpose-built alternatives developed with fresh produce in mind.
The transition from plastic to card is not as straightforward as simply substituting one material for another. Packaging must still protect delicate produce during transit, perform reliably on high-speed packing lines, and present well at the point of sale. These are non-negotiable requirements, and any sustainable alternative must meet them.
That is why our approach has been collaborative from the outset. By working closely with both manufacturers and end customers, we have continuously refined our card solutions to ensure they stand up to real-world conditions — from cold-store environments to the retail shelf — without compromising on shelf life or product presentation.
Sustainability is no longer a differentiator in this industry — it is an expectation. The businesses that will thrive are those that treat environmental responsibility not as a constraint, but as an opportunity to innovate and build stronger relationships with their customers.
At ESP, we remain fully committed to that opportunity. We will continue investing in our product range, deepening our expertise, and partnering with our customers to navigate the future of fresh produce packaging — whatever it brings.