Woolcool

Woolcool is a pioneering packaging company that specializes in sustainable insulated packaging solutions. The company was founded in 2009 and has since become a leader in the development and production of eco-friendly packaging using 100% sheep's wool. Woolcool's insulated packaging is designed to maintain temperature control for perishable goods, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The company's products are manufactured in the UK and distributed both domestically and internationally.

The core technology of Woolcool involves using a special 100% wool blend that is sourced and processed specifically for their packaging. This wool is washed and scoured in accordance with PPC regulations, ISO14001, and ISO9001 standards, without the use of extreme temperatures or toxic chemical treatments. The processed wool is then sealed within recyclable polyethylene film with microperforations, allowing for hygroscopic function. This innovative approach harnesses wool's natural properties, including its ability to absorb moisture from ice packs, protect against impacts during transit, and provide antimicrobial benefits.

Woolcool's packaging solutions offer a combination of sustainability and high performance. The company claims that its products have helped save more than 2,000 tonnes of polystyrene from landfills or oceans in a single year. The packaging is designed to be up to 95% plastic-free, utilizing natural materials such as wool and paper. At the end of its lifecycle, Woolcool packaging is compostable or recyclable, aligning with the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.

In addition to its focus on sustainability, Woolcool has invested heavily in research and development. The company has collaborated with top UK universities, including Cambridge, to further investigate and improve the use of wool as an insulating material. This commitment to innovation has led to the development of patented technologies and a range of products catering to various industries.

Key customers and partnerships

Woolcool serves a diverse range of industries, with a particular focus on food and pharmaceutical sectors. The company's first customer in the fresh meat delivery sector was the National Trust, for whom Woolcool developed a wool-insulated box in 2005. In the pharmaceutical industry, Henry Schein became Woolcool's first customer, launching the company's products at the World Veterinary Congress in 2012.

Woolcool has expanded its reach beyond the UK, with its first shipment to Europe occurring in 2012 and its initial shipment to the US taking place in 2017. The company has also partnered with several academic institutions to advance its research and development efforts. Notably, Woolcool has collaborated with Cambridge University to investigate wool as a phase change material, and has worked with Bangor and Leeds Universities to study wool's insulating properties.