Solid board plant tray replaces plastic: OVATA sets a new standard for a sustainable future

“Switching from plastic to solid board trays has helped us strengthen our position as an innovative grower with strong sustainability ambitions.

The distinctive orange print and premium appearance of the tray clearly set our products apart from the competition and ensure instant recognition throughout the supply chain.”

Marco van der Willik, Account Manager & Digital Marketing, OVATA

Situation:
Sustainable cardboard packaging to replace standard plastic plant trays

The collaboration between succulent grower OVATA and Solidus began in 2013, when OVATA decided to switch from plastic to solid board plant trays for its succulents.
“This decision was driven by our sustainability ambitions and our desire to differentiate ourselves in the market with premium products,” says Marco van der Willik, Account Manager & Digital Marketing at OVATA. “Since then, we’ve used over 300,000 cardboard trays, an important step forward compared to the standard plastic trays that are still widely used in our industry.”

Task:
Fulfilling sustainability ambitions and enhancing premium product presentation

“We wanted a packaging solution that was not only sustainable, but also showcased our high-quality products and ensured instant brand recognition throughout the supply chain,” explains Marco. “The primary challenge was to fully implement our sustainability ambitions across the entire chain. It felt inconsistent to keep using plastic trays. We’re aiming for CO2 neutrality by 2030, which means critically assessing every aspect of our operations, including packaging. This was reinforced by increasing customer demand for more sustainable packaging solutions. Moreover, switching to a cardboard plant tray with ample printing options gave us an excellent opportunity to strengthen our brand positioning in the market.”

Action:
Development of the innovative tray for succulents

OVATA met Solidus at a fresh produce trade fair, where discussions began around the need for a sustainable packaging solution.
“Together with the Techno Centre and the R&D department at Solidus, we tested and developed several packaging samples after that first meeting,” says Marco. “Over the years, we’ve also explored various designs and prints, eventually standardising on one consistent print for our tray. The tray is a solid board solution that perfectly aligns with our sustainability vision, brand identity, and logistics processes. Its consistent look ensures optimal recognition at every stage of transport and retail. Solidus also supported us in automating the folding process and efficient stacking, significantly reducing manual labour.”

Result:
Stronger brand perception and higher customer satisfaction

“The transition from plastic to cardboard packaging has helped reinforce our image as a forward-thinking grower,” Marco continues. “Our partnership with Solidus has supported us in achieving our sustainability goals and improving operational efficiency.

Solid board can be recycled up to 25 times, is made from 84.5% recycled fibres, and is both PEFC and FSC® certified. The tray’s distinctive orange colour and premium print quality clearly set our products apart in the market, ensuring instant recognition of OVATA products throughout the supply chain, from grower to end customer. This has not only improved our brand perception but also boosted customer satisfaction.”

Conclusion

“Our collaboration with Solidus has positively impacted our company on multiple levels. Their expertise in sustainable packaging, technical know-how, and ability to think along with both practical and commercial challenges makes them a valuable partner.

Over the years, they’ve proven to be reliable and forward-thinking, essential qualities for a company like OVATA that focuses on long-term relationships and quality. We would definitely recommend Solidus to other companies in our industry looking for reliable and sustainable packaging solutions,” concludes Marco.

Get in touch

Our solid board packaging for potted plants is water-resistant and provides full protection for succulents and other plants. With high-quality printing options, our plant tray increases brand awareness and ensures customer satisfaction.

Our processes and packaging help improve sustainability and circularity, while optimizing your production. Contact us to discover how switching from plastic to Solidus solid board can make a difference.

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Benefits of the pot plant tray