PackSure Launches Drink Industry's First Packaging Resilience and Sustainability Testing Lab
Stirling, UK – The drinks industry now has its first dedicated laboratory for testing packaging materials, thanks to the launch of PackSure, a new facility aimed at improving packaging resilience and sustainability. Established with the support of a £200,000 Scottish Government grant, PackSure offers specialized testing services to help drinks brands create packaging that is more durable and environmentally friendly.
PackSure Lab Manager, Brian McCready, highlighted the lab's unique role in the industry. “PackSure is the first facility of its kind in Scotland. We offer tailored testing services specifically for the drinks sector, providing a full range of environmental, physical, and specification conformance tests,” McCready said. “Our testing capabilities give brands the confidence that their packaging is fit for purpose, reduces breakage, and helps incorporate sustainable materials.”
By simulating a wide range of environmental conditions—from extreme cold to tropical heat—PackSure allows companies to assess how their packaging will perform throughout global supply chains. Scotch whisky, which is exported to over 200 markets worldwide, stands to benefit particularly from PackSure’s testing services, as its packaging endures a variety of challenging climates during transit.
The lab’s ability to perform climatic testing is proving to be a popular service. “No matter where your product is shipped, we can track the changes that may impact its packaging and provide fully confidential reports to help brands mitigate risks,” added McCready.
PackSure’s contributions extend beyond testing; the facility plays a vital role in the research and development of new packaging designs and materials. As the drinks industry continues its shift toward more sustainable solutions, PackSure assists brands in optimizing packaging to meet both functional and environmental demands.
In addition, PackSure’s recent ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) certification ensures that the facility meets global standards for packaging testing, particularly for companies selling products through online retailers. “Whether you’re developing a new product or testing existing packaging, we offer peace of mind that it can withstand the demands of the entire supply chain,” noted Jan Grochowski, Laboratory Technician at PackSure.
The launch of PackSure underscores Scotland’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the drinks sector. Funded in part by Scottish Enterprise’s Green Jobs Funding Scheme, the facility is also contributing to job creation and environmental improvements in line with Scotland’s net zero goals.
PackSure is open to customers across the drinks sector, offering an invaluable resource for testing and refining packaging to meet the demands of both the market and the planet.