Energizer launches plastic-free battery packaging

Battery manufacturer and distributor Energizer Holdings Inc., St. Louis, has launched 100 percent recyclable plastic-free packaging for its portfolio of Energizer batteries.

The company says the new paper-based packaging offers a user-friendly design that simplifies the shopping, opening and storage experience for consumers while also being easier for retail partners to merchandise. Energizer says the redesign marks an exciting milestone in its commitment to environmental stewardship while also addressing the consumer desire for more renewable solutions.

RELATED: Simplifying battery recycling

The new packaging will roll out at Walmart stores nationwide and online in March, with additional North American retailers to follow later this year.

“With a legacy of pioneering innovative solutions that benefit consumers globally, advancing the sustainability of our packaging was a natural next step on our responsibility journey,” says Lori Shambro, executive vice president and chief marketing officer at Energizer. “We set out to create a more intuitive design tailored to meet the needs and expectations of our shoppers and retail partners. Our end result is a forward-thinking design that enhances the product experience and helps pave the way for a plastic-free future at Energizer Holdings.”

Energizer says it invested in extensive research to inform the structure of the new packaging, adding that its user-friendly design enables consumers to easily peel open the battery pack, which now includes easy-to-store boxes. For retailers, the company says key design fundamentals were incorporated throughout to help streamline store operations and maximize merchandising capabilities such as a slim design for increased shelf capacity for each facing; shelf-ready display trays that cut down on restocking time; and a larger visual footprint.

“We are excited to bring this innovative packaging from Energizer to our customers and store operators and enhance the battery shopping experience,” says Tyler Lehr, Walmart’s senior vice president and general merchandising manager of chilled beverage and convenience. “Their plastic-free packaging initiative is aligned with our mission as we continue on our path to becoming a regenerative company. Working closely with suppliers like Energizer on this project helps provide customers more convenient and visually appealing ways to purchase batteries.”

Energizer says that once all retail partners complete this packaging transition, more than 90 percent of the brand’s North American portfolio will have plastic-free packaging.