The launch of Stirling-based PackSure offers the drinks sector the first dedicated laboratory for testing existing and new packaging materials, including more environmentally friendly options.

PackSure has been established with Scottish Government grant assistance to help brands improve the design of their packaging to make it more resilient, resulting in less breakage, waste and costly returns.

Brian McCready, Lab Manager, at PackSure said: “PackSure is the first facility of its kind in Scotland. Offering a range of testing services, tailored to the requirements of the drinks industry, we provide a comprehensive suite of environmental, physical and specification conformance tests.

Being able to test new designs and specifications before products are placed on the market gives brands and companies the peace of mind that their product packaging is fit for purpose and can significantly boost the use of more sustainable materials.”

PackSure plays a key role in the research and development phase of new materials, designs and finished products. By measuring the performance of new and existing specifications, managing risks, and accelerating the transition to more environmentally friendly solutions, it supports the whisky industry in its efforts to reduce its environmental impact.

Scotch Whisky is exported to over 200 markets globally and its packaging is exposed to a broad range of environmental conditions en route to market.

McCready commented: “Probably the most popular service is climatic testing. We can simulate all conditions, from Nordic cold to the tropical climates of Asia.

No matter where your product is shipped, we can accurately track any changes that might affect your packs in transit and on the shelf in a specific market and prepare a fully-confidential report.”

PackSure is a member of ISTA (International Safe Transit Association) and BSI (British Standards Institution), giving access to package design and testing tools, vast amounts of industry research, as well as hundreds of UK-specific and global industry testing standards.

The laboratory recently gained ISTA certification, allowing it to offer this widely recognised and accepted certification to customers selling products through third-party online retailers or directly to consumers via their own web stores. ISTA certification is a recognised standard for transit trialling by many online retailers.

Jan Grochowski, Laboratory Technician, said: “Whether you are working on new product development, or your product has been on the market for years, it can be worth testing the packaging throughout its life cycle.

Testing ensures that it can withstand the demands of its supply chain, environmental conditions, and handling, while still meeting the high standards expected by the premium and luxury drinks sector. We encourage customers to visit the site in the Central Belt to see the testing results first-hand and discuss the next steps.”

This dedicated facility in Stirling was awarded £200,000 from Scottish Enterprise, as part of the Green Jobs Funding Scheme. This funding initiative aims to support businesses in creating and maintaining jobs that improve the environment and align with the Scottish Government’s net zero policies.