Unilever and Saica Group Announce Collaboration to Reduce Plastic in Promotional Packaging

Unilever and Saica Group announced a collaboration to develop a sustainable packaging solution for Axe deodorant duopacks, a leading male deodorant brand in France. The solution launched in the French market during the last quarter of 2025. Unilever replaced plastic shrink film with a paper grouping band developed by Saica Group, aligning with shared innovation and sustainability goals.​

The project supports Unilever's target to cut virgin plastic footprint by 40% by 2028 from 2019 levels. It advances Saica Group's strategy to lower plastic weight in customer packaging by up to 20%. The recyclable paper band promotes the circular economy, a core focus for Saica Group.​

Ahead of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation banning single-use plastic for promotional bundling, the companies adopted a proactive stance. The paper banding reduces virgin plastic, enhances recyclability, and bolsters circularity.​

Saica Group provided comprehensive support, including design and validation of a self-adhesive paper band for strength, transport durability, easy unpacking, and high-resolution printing. Implementation covered equipment specification, procurement, installation, and commissioning of machinery for Unilever's lines. The process offers energy savings over shrink-wrapping without impacting speed or quality.​

The partnership highlights alignment in material innovation, process engineering, and circularity commitment. Ibon Aznar, Saica Flex Sustainability Innovation Manager for Flexible Packaging, stated: “Partnering with Unilever on this project shows how innovation and sustainability can come together to deliver real progress. With this paper-based solution, we’re helping anticipate regulatory changes while maintaining the technical performance and quality design the customer requires. At Saica Flex, we remain committed to supporting our customers in their transition toward truly circular packaging solutions.”​

Saica Group produces sustainable paper for corrugated cardboard and packaging, with operations in Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, the UK, Ireland, Turkey, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, and the US. It employs over 12,000 people across Saica Paper, Saica Natur, Saica Pack, and Saica Flex divisions. Turnover reached 3,662 million euros on December 31, 2024.​