Hooder Film Downgauging Cuts Costs & Waste
Situation
A multi-national corporation specializing in consumer and professional products sought to optimize its packaging materials to reduce costs and improve sustainability. One key area of focus was hooder film, which was being used in large volumes across multiple locations. The company needed a solution that would maintain load containment performance while reducing material consumption and lowering costs.
Action
To address this challenge, the company implemented a downgauging initiative for Hooder Film, transitioning to a thinner, high-performance film with similar load containment capabilities. The project involved:
- Conducting film performance testing to ensure the downgauged film met the required strength and stretch characteristics.
- Implementing pilot programs across multiple locations to assess performance in real-world conditions.
- Optimizing application techniques to maximize stretch efficiency and minimize material usage.
- Training facility teams on best practices for wrapping and handling loads with the new film.
Results
The Hooder Film Downgauging Project led to significant material savings and sustainability benefits, including:
An annual savings of $366,508.96 and a reduction of 125,516.76 lbs of material
Reduction in film thickness while maintaining the required load containment strength.
Lower overall film consumption, resulting in cost savings and waste reduction across multiple locations.
Improved environmental footprint by decreasing plastic usage and supporting corporate sustainability goals.
Through this initiative, the company successfully balanced cost savings with sustainability objectives, demonstrating its commitment to responsible packaging practices.
