Packaging
Orion helps Macphie to go over the top
Monday 07. January 2008 - The Orion headstand bottle from RPC Containers Corby has proved the ideal packaging format for Macphies range of delicious, versatile O.T.T (Over The Top) Dessert Toppings.
Whilst Macphie is already a leading supplier of UHT sweet and savoury sauces and desserts packed in Tetrapak to the foodservice sector, O.T.T represents a major departure for the company as it is its first major branded launch of an ambient product range. Aimed at the on-premise market, including pubs, hotels and restaurants, the O.T.T range comprises a variety of highly versatile toppings that can provide a finishing touch to countless desserts.
Six indulgent flavours – chocolate, toffee, butterscotch, raspberry, strawberry and lemon – are being launched in response to consumer demand for products containing fewer artificial ingredients. Finding the right packaging format was critical to communicating the premium value of the toppings, whilst maintaining the convenience essential to the foodservice sector.
“Many containers in the foodservice sector are merely functional,” explains Macphie general manager, Neil Coull. “We wanted something that combined optimum convenience, a long shelf life and an attractive appearance – and the Orion bottle suited our requirements perfectly.”
The Orions headstand format is ideal for the products to ensure ease of dispense, which is further assisted by the choice of a stay clean cap from Seaquist Closures. In addition, the Orions squeezability makes the bottle easy to use regardless of age or skill, something Macphie was keen to promote. “Who adds the toppings varies depending on the establishment,” confirms Neil Coull. “Whilst usually kitchen staff will be in charge, sometimes it may be entrusted to front of house staff, or even – for example a restaurant where children are encouraged to make their own ice cream – the consumers themselves.”
The Orion bottle is blow moulded in PP/EVOH/PP to provide long-term barrier protection for extended shelf life, with contact clear PP to help enhance product appearance on shelf. Its wide labelling area has provided Macphie with the opportunity to maximise branding with distinctive front and back labels. Different coloured caps provide further differentiation for the six flavours currently produced.
RPC Corby worked closely with Macphie to ensure optimum compatibility between the topping formulations, the bottle and the cap.
“The technical support RPC has given throughout the development process underlines the quality of the bottle itself, helping to give O.T.T the premium image it deserves,” Neil Coull concludes.