Together with Emmi, we at SPIES have developed a new packaging concept for the popular ready-to-drink brand Emmi Caffè Latte, which takes the drinking experience, product protection and recyclability to a new level.
The new solution is based on recyclable, single-material packaging and demonstrates how sustainability and user-friendliness can be successfully combined. The packaging concept has been available in Switzerland since May 2026 and will be rolled out across Europe from June 2026.
A reimagined drinking experience
The development process centred on the question of how to make consumption on the go even more convenient. The result is an innovative packaging design that allows for intuitive opening with one movement.
The tab deliberately extends beyond the seal, making it particularly easy to grip. Once opened, it remains firmly attached to the lid and can be hooked in place to secure it. At the same time, it hygienically protects the drinking opening from external influences until use.
The drinking function itself has also been specifically optimised: a carefully coordinated interplay between the drinking opening and air holes ensures a smooth flow of liquid and reduces the risk of spillage. This represents a significant upgrade in terms of user-friendliness for on-the-go consumption, which has already been well received by many consumers.
Less material, greater recyclability
Another key component of the new packaging concept is the permanent bonding between the cup and lid using ultrasonic heat-sealing. This eliminates the need for the aluminium sealing plate previously required and the associated combination of different materials.
The permanent bond between the cup and lid prevents loose packaging parts, which, in addition to improved handling, also helps to reduce the risk of packaging components being discarded in public spaces.
Furthermore, a crease-free in-mould label (IML) replaces the PET sleeve previously used.
Despite the curved shape of the cup, this results in a recyclable, mono-material solution that meets the requirements of a modern circular economy.
Furthermore, for the product in the UK, we already use around 37% recycled material (post-consumer recycled), thereby setting an example in terms of sustainability and in line with the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation).
Innovation along the entire value chain
The new packaging concept demonstrates how technological innovations and sustainable material concepts can work together to create added value. By combining optimised user guidance, high product safety and improved recyclability, a packaging solution has been created that meets both consumers’ requirements and the objectives of a sustainable circular economy.
We are delighted with the successful collaboration with Emmi and to have made a further joint contribution to the development of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions.
