Budding new collaboration for tree gifts

Geefeenboompje.nl collaborated with DS Smith to demonstrate the power of design and innovation in packaging for trees as gifts. 

Sustainable and robust fibre based corrugated cardboard packaging enhances Geefeenboompje.nl’s range of e-commerce tree gift products, and the optimised packaging is focused on both the internal packing process and functional performance of the design. The result is a clever concept where technical improvement, logistical optimisation, and visual appeal are combined in a simple and effective solution. 

The design was improved using a die cut technique, incorporating air holes that are optimally positioned to improve aeration for the product inside. Using 100% recyclable materials, this approach also has additional benefits for performance around the folding of the packaging during the packing process. The overall aesthetic of the design has been enhanced for visual impact, and the solution can be branded with a logo and/or personalised message on the exterior surface. In addition, Geefeenboompje.nl provides customers with options around a paper based sleeve. 

In the new fibre based packaging, the tree based gift packages align in both appearance and the overall unboxing experience, which is enhanced. The design is helping to reinforce the company’s key messaging and sustainable ethos and Geefeenboompje.nl plan to use the packaging for the longer term future and without any requirement for updates. 

Remko Slokkers, co-founder of Geefeenboompje.nl, said: ‘The strength of DS Smith lies in its ability to think and conceptualise along with you, and they fully understand what is needed now and equally importantly, the challenges that an expanding business will face in a few years’ time.’

The new packaging solution is also effective in optimising supply chain efficiency and reducing costs. 

‘The improved packaging and material usage enhance the efficiency of the packing process and support a more streamlined supply chain approach. It turned out to be financially uninteresting to look only at the price of a box. By placing our focus on process optimization, we achieve much greater savings in storage, handling, and labour. The original box was cheaper, but far less efficient.’ concluded Remko.

The concept of Geefeenboompje.nl originated from the simple idea of giving a tree as a gift for a special occasion, such as a birth. The ethos to ‘give a tree as a symbol of growth and development’ and the planting of a tree on a special occasion is considered to be an age-old tradition with meaning for cultures and religions around the world. 

The company has evolved into a business and brand with sustainable gifts for corporate and consumer customers. These range from three product lines, trees in gift packaging, gift sets, and letterbox friendly tree growing kits. 

It has facilitated the planting of more than 300,000 trees, and developed a fast growing following in the Netherlands, with expansion into Belgium, France, and Denmark.