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DS Smith’s new recyclable TailorTemp packaging provides a temperature-controlled solution to the medical and pharmaceutical industries
DS Smith, an international fibre-based packaging company from the UK, has launched a new temperature-controlled packaging solution for the pharmaceutical industry.
The new TailorTemp packaging solution is designed to transport delicate medicinal products across multiple territories within temperature-controlled environments. Made from recyclable corrugated cardboard-based material, it has been manufactured to support the sustainability targets of pharmaceutical and biotech businesses.
TailorTemp packaging solutions are comprised of three components, namely an outer box and two thermal liners. The elements are designed to allow for easy assembly into the finished pack at the end of the production line or onsite by the customer.
TailorTemp can be tailored to meet the requirements of the customer, with the corrugated cardboard adaptable to the dimensions of the product.
In tests, DS Smith was able to demonstrate that the packaging can stay cool for up to 36 hours.
The dimensions, insulating thickness, and coolant quantity of TailorTemp were reportedly determined using a computer-based parametric algorithm co-developed by DS Smith in partnership with an independent laboratory specialising in thermal transfers.
During the design process, DS Smith used predictive modelling to predict temperature rises during storage or transit. This data informed the creation of prototypes which were then thoroughly tested in laboratory conditions.
TailorTemp can be transported to customers in a flatpack format with both inbound and outbound space optimisation benefits. According to the company, expanded polystyrene (EPS) boxes are typically less versatile by comparison and usually need to be transported in a constructed form.
In addition, the DS Smith research and development team is also already working on a new surface treatment, insulating materials, and process innovations for TailorTemp, aiming to extend its ability to maintain cool temperatures to 96 hours or more.
The new release comes in the wake of changes to the EU Packaging and Waste Regulation (PPWR) which is set to target EPS packaging as well as the wider use of plastic.
Speaking of TailorTemp, Marlena Hardy, innovation product manager, DS Smith, says: “TailorTemp demonstrates just how versatile and reliable fibre-based material can be, not only to maintain temperatures in cold chain logistics, but also to deliver a recyclable outcome for customers seeking to meet sustainability targets.
“We are delighted to have hit the crucial 36-hour milestone for cold chain storage and transportation, but the team is already hard at work on extending this to an even longer time period. We think we will soon be able to extend TailorTemp’s ability to maintain cool temperatures to 96 hours and above.”
Speaking of the increasing desire for sustainable packaging solutions, Hardy continues: “Customers are increasingly demanding sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions, so the benefit of replacing EPS with a fibre-based solution can’t be overlooked and bespoke EPS solutions can be cost prohibitive.
“We are excited for what we can achieve with pharmaceutical and biotech businesses.”
DS Smith presented the product for the first time at PharmaPack Europe 2025 in Paris, which took place between January 22nd and 23rd.
In October of 2024 US-based company, International Paper, announced that it had obtained the approval of its shareholders to merge with DS Smith.
The deal was expected to close late in Q4 of 2024. As of today (January 27th), International Paper has now received Phase 1 clearance to merge with DS Smith from the European Commission, on the condition that it commits to divest five of its European box plants.
