Smurfit-Stone announced cost-saving opportunities

Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation today announced cost-saving opportunities and sustainability benefits for produce growers and grocers at the 2009 Produce Marketing Association`s (PMA) Fresh Summit International Convention and Exposition in Anaheim, CA.

Dwight Morris, western region vice president for Smurfit-Stone`s Corrugated Container division, told PMA attendees that, "Our Meta Tray-8(TM) cases, RecyclaCorr® corrugated containers, and recycling and waste services reduce operating costs and enhance the sustainability of both the produce growers` and grocers` operations."

Smurfit-Stone is the only North American packaging company that produces the Meta Tray-8(TM) cases featured at PMA. Packaging equipment manufactured by the company`s Automated Packaging Systems group, including the Meta Tray-8(TM) machine, makes containers that are designed to use less fiber or use the same amount of fiber but achieve greater stacking strength.

Compared to a regular slotted case, the Meta Tray-8(TM) case can be made with up to 21 percent less fiber and equal stacking strength, or up to 127 percent more stacking strength. The Tray-8 also outperforms a BTB. The Meta Tray-8(TM) can be made with up to 18 percent less fiber than a typical BTB, but with equal stacking strength, or up to 46 percent more stacking strength.

Greater box strength increases stackability for produce growers and grocers, while less fiber translates into lower supply chain costs and a more sustainable package. The Meta Tray-8(TM)`s additional mitered sides allow for enhanced graphics and greater visual appeal, making the box a more effective marketing tool.

Smurfit-Stone also produces a sustainable, fully recyclable alternative to wax- impregnated packaging called RecyclaCorr®.