Blue Ocean Closures (BOC), a Swedish bio-based packaging startup, has collaborated with Stora Enso, a leading provider of renewable products, and AISA, a manufacturer of packaging production machines for various industries, to create the first paperboard tube with a fiber-based closure for use in cosmetics, personal care, and home care industries. The product is being debuted at the Interpack 2023 fair.

The paperboard tube has a screw cap made of wood fiber developed by BOC and is applied to Stora Enso's “Natura Shape” barrier-coated board material. The final pack is assembled by AISA. The partnership aims to find sustainable alternatives to plastic tubes and increase fiber content to achieve a higher degree of recyclability, reduce carbon footprint, and meet consumer expectations. 

The tube is designed for recycling and aims to reduce the use of plastic by increasing renewable content. The reported 85% fiber content is the highest proportion available for a tube design and it is set to be commercially available in 2024. 

Analyst QuickTake: In December 2021, BOC partnered with engineered materials supplier Glatfelter Corporation and its joint venture partner, ALPLA Group, to create a natural, fiber-based packaging solution, including screw caps that are bio-based and ocean biodegradable. BOC is now working on successfully launching this solution across various sectors. Last year, BOC also collaborated with the Absolut Company to use its fiber-based closure for Absolut Vodka's iconic bottle.