The Institute of Packaging SA, together with AfriStar Awards, recently held its annual Gold Pack awards. The programme is designed to showcase the very best of the packaging industry, and with the introduction of AfriStar the awards are now an international celebration and showcase for packaging across the African continent.
The Coalition Group, incorporating VRV Logistics and In The Box packaging were awarded a Gold Pack for excellence in packaging execution and the overall Gold Pack 2024 trophy for its Extra CCCCold cooler box. Business partners Dave Vermaak and Graham Verne were delighted to win not only the Gold Pack medal, but also the overall trophy: “This campaign was a fun challenge and winning makes the accomplishment even more enjoyable for us. Our passion lies in packaging, and we were ecstatic that something this unique has been given such meaningful industry accolades,” says Vermaak.
He says that the Group is grateful to ABinBev for the opportunity to create such an incredible product.
Submitted by the combined team of The Coalition Group (VRV Logistics and In the Box) Keypack, and ABinBev, the convenient disposable, single use cooler box is designed for outdoor functions or special occasions. The uniquely designed carton opens using a specialised hinge system enabling the full carton of beer to be engulfed in ice, underpinning the brand message of CCCCold. The BOPP film delivers a leak-proof carton and is fully recyclable.
The institute’s judges were impressed by the ease of use and functionality of the cooler box. A previously seen concept but applied in a novel way for a beer brand which uses ice cold as a value proposition.
Vermaak says the awards help the team end 2024 on a significant high. In its 49th year, the Gold Pack awards has grown into the most prestigious awards programme and a highlight of the South African packaging industry’s annual calendar. Celebrating and rewarding excellence in the comprehensive art and science of packaging, the awards take into consideration the design, marketing, functionality, and creative application of innovative ideas alongside existing and evolving technologies.
The Coalition Group were deserving winners and look forward to 2025 and its packaging challenges.