Making packaging more sustainable with Detpak

A partnership built on shared purpose

The partnership between Woolworths and Detpak began with a clear objective: deliver a functional and sustainable paper bag that could support Woolworths store teams and customers alike. But both businesses quickly recognised that getting the product to market was just the beginning. Unlocking lasting value would require a deeper, more integrated approach.

Smarter machines, smaller footprint

Detpak’s investment in packing machinery at its local and offshore plants has delivered a significant leap forward in transport efficiency. The upgrade allows for a reduced carton height for Woolworths’ paper bags, which may seem small on the surface, the impact is anything but.

This improvement has lifted container utilisation by 12% per 40-foot container. This translates to 11% fewer containers shipped, directly reducing emissions from global freight and helping Woolworths meet its emissions reduction goals. The benefits don’t stop at the port. The optimised cartons will allow for an additional layer per pallet at Woolworths’ Moorebank Regional Distribution Centre. Once fully implemented, this will result in approximately 5,100 fewer pallets used annually saving on space, handling, and road transport.

For locally produced bags in South Australia, this means less emissions from road freight moving the bags to our stores. Perhaps most impressive? These supply chain changes were implemented seamlessly, without disrupting supply or impacting availability in stores.

Raising the bar on recycled content

Another breakthrough came through a joint effort to improve the sustainability credentials of the paper bag itself. After a rigorous raw material development and testing process, the recycled content of the bag was increased from a minimum of 70% to 85%, whilst keeping the strength required by our customers. It’s a significant leap that demonstrates how technical innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand when both parties are aligned.

More than just a bag

While the bag is a practical product, it’s also become a platform for positive messaging and creative thinking. Seasonal campaigns like the Christmas Paper Bag have added value by enhancing the customer experience and encouraging reuse—doubling as sustainable gift wrap and reinforcing the importance of repurposing everyday items.

Looking ahead

Detpak’s commitment to a better tomorrow is outlined in its 2025–2050 Sustainability Goals, which cover key areas including Climate, Nature, Circularity, and Governance. From solar energy in its plants to the removal of added PFAS across 100% of its products, Detpak is taking steps that benefit both people and the planet.

Transparency is also a key value. Through the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), Detpak reports on its emissions performance and invites collaboration with partners like Woolworths to push the envelope further.

With a simple paper bag serving as a strong example of how thoughtful collaboration and a shared commitment to improvement can lead to meaningful outcomes, we encourage our Trade Partners to look to evolve their own supply chains.

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