In doing so, the firm will be the first company to trial this latest development in carton packaging design. Elopak claims that the new package combines the technical and ergonomic design features of the award winning Mini Diamond and Pure-Pak Curve carton to create a totally original shaped carton.
The pouring spout diameter has been increased by 38 per cent to give improved pouring properties. Milko says that it chose this product in order to give the dairy a new edge and stronger premium profile for its yoghurt products.
Indeed, Elopak claims that consumer tests have demonstrated that the Diamond Pure-Pak Curve carton retains the traditional and familiar premium image of the Pure-Pak carton, with the added value of a unique curve feature, and the functional benefits of the cap with better grip and bigger pouring opening.
"We were impressed by the striking and elegant style of the carton which with the fifth panel provides new graphic possibilities and a prominent space for branding or slogans," said Milko marketing manager Jonas Welander.
"We have used it for one of our key messages for these products - Lattsockrad (meaning low sugar). For Milko, Elopak's innovative design generates outstanding visibility and the distinct differentiation demanded for the highest quality products in an ever increasing competitive market."
Food manufacturers are increasingly aware that in a visually noisy world, their product must be carefully packaged to appeal to the target audience. It is said that over 80 per cent of consumer decisions are made at the store shelf.
Elopak believes that its curved packaging concept is both eye catching and functional, and what's more, is beginning to take off.
"The combination of the key features and convenience benefits of two successful carton developments has produced our best liquid food packaging option," said Elopak senior project manager Oyvind Stampe. "This first market test will conclusively demonstrate the new premium possibilities for both juice and dairy from Elopak Pure-Pak carton innovation."
A range of six fruit yoghurts will be launched in a one-litre standard Diamond Pure-Pak Curve carton, in the pilot scheme for Elopak's most recent innovation. Elopak has also installed a Pure-Pak P-S50 filling machine into Milko's central Grådö dairy, and the newly packaged product will be on the shelves in early March 2005.