New computer package breakthrough: Get rid of the package!

Edited by David Bellm -- Packaging Digest, 9/4/2008 12:47:00 PM

In response to a challenge by Walmart, HP has radically redesigned the packaging of its Pavilion dv6929 notebook computer. Instead of conventional protective shipping materials and multiple boxes, the computer will be shipped in HP’s Protect Messenger Bag, a stylish and protective carrying bag with fabric made from 100 percent recycled materials.

According to HP, this approach allows for a dramatic reduction in overall packaging content and size while still delivering equal, if not better, product protection than conventional packaging. HP says the new packaging design also allows the company to fit 31 percent more products on each pallet. This conserves fuel and reduces CO2 emissions as it eliminates the equivalent of one out of every four trucks previously required to fulfill inventory needs.

For this design, Walmart has named HP the winner of its Home Entertainment Design Challenge, singling out the technology company for further reducing the environmental impact of personal computers.

"Caring for the environment is a personal choice that is becoming increasingly important for our customers,” said Steven DeWitt, senior vice president of HP Personal Systems Group. “We are honored that Walmart has not only recognized HP's efforts to ensure that technology and environment enthusiasts have more sustainable choices available to them, but to also join them to help reduce our combined environmental impact across the supply chain …”

The winning HP notebook will be displayed on shelves wearing only the HP Protect Messenger Bag. Customers who purchase the HP notebook will leave the store with the computer and its accessories cushioned safely in the notebook bag, as well as an offer for free recycling for any PC they wish to retire.

Additionally, like most HP products, the HP Pavilion dv6929 is also transported exclusively by U.S. EPA Certified SmartWay surface transport carriers to Walmart stores. The SmartWay program aims to reduce the fuel consumption, greenhouse gases, and other air emissions of surface transportation carriers.

Walmart's Home Entertainment Design Challenge was open to all suppliers of consumer electronics products and three criteria were used to evaluate the submissions:

• Great design that attracts consumers
• Product innovation that reduces the environmental impact for that category of product
• Packaging design that facilitates reuse and recycling, reduces waste and reduction or elimination of toxics.

“This effort is an extension of our ongoing commitment to provide our shoppers with the best eco-friendly product offerings, said Alex Cook, Merchandise Manager for Walmart Home Entertainment. “We received many strong ideas from different suppliers, but the innovative packaging with HP laptop really stood out, and we are thrilled to make this great product available to shoppers in Walmart stores and Sam's Club locations.” 

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