In the latest edition of the Spotlight, Colpac explains how its redesigned Tower Trays™ offer a solution tailored to the dynamic demands of the food sector.
As the European food-to-go market continues to evolve, packaging solutions are under increasing pressure to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and operational demands. Whether in bustling Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), high-energy sports stadiums, or the lively streets of European cities, packaging must combine convenience, versatility, and sustainability.
Flexible design for diverse environments
Colpac’s updated Tower Trays™ cater to the dual needs of dine-in and takeaway, supporting foodservice operators in hybrid environments. The trays can be used as standalone units for in-house dining, providing a practical and appealing way to serve meals. Alternatively, two trays can interlock to create a secure takeaway box.
Available in square and rectangular formats, with medium and large sizes for each shape, the Tower Trays™ accommodate a wide range of dishes - from classic burger and fries combinations to loaded nachos and even sharing portions. This versatility aligns with the needs of the increasingly diverse European food-to-go market.
Efficiency meets practicality
Foodservice operators, particularly those in fast-paced settings like sports arenas and street food markets, will appreciate the operational efficiency built into the design. The wide apertures allow for easy filling back-of-house, while the interlocking mechanism ensures the trays can be quickly combined into takeaway boxes, saving precious seconds during peak service hours.
Teams can also work more quickly as the trays do not necessarily need to be closed, as with formats such as clamshells, but can be secured if required by simply placing another tray on top. This saves valuable labour and time when queues are long.
For venues with limited space, the nested design reduces storage requirements and simplifies inventory management, with one product delivering multiple functions. Service points can be extremely busy and space is at a premium, so the requirement for one simpler style of packaging with multiple uses supports caterers in space efficient environments.
Sustainability in design
Consumers across Europe are placing increasing focus on sustainability in line with the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes. Colpac’s Tower Trays™ have been designed as an alternative to traditional lidded boxes, providing flexibility for caterers to only use lids when needed.
The simple design means front line operators can actively reduce packaging use according to the needs of the consumer, demonstrating true sustainability in design. Utilising less packaging also reduces associated EPR costs.
The Tower Trays™ contain recycled material and are made from FSC® certified paperboard, giving customers assurance of sustainable sourcing. As the paperboard used is uncoated, it is easily recyclable in waste management systems across Europe. This is also in line with lower EPR fees and the drive for reduced plastic.
By manufacturing these trays at its UK factory, Colpac has also minimized lead times for UK and European customers. This not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping, but also shortens and simplifies supply chains.
Unique food presentation
In a crowded packaging market, Colpac’s Tower Trays™ stand out, not just for their functionality but also for their unique silhouette. With a sleek and modern design, they offer foodservice providers a point of differentiation to elevate the presentation of their dishes, whether it’s a burger chain delivering quick-service in store, or a street food vendor aiming to impress on-the-go customers.
Kate Berry, head of marketing and product at Colpac, says:
“The new formats offer flexibility across usages and configurations, making them a multi-functional packaging solution. We designed our new and improved Tower Trays™ in collaboration with customers to ensure they align with real-world needs and preferences. We are really looking forward to seeing what our customers’ own creativity can develop using this new format.”
As the food-to-go market in Europe continues to grow and diversify, solutions like this show how thoughtful innovation can simplify service. For providers looking to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and reduce environmental impact, Colpac’s Tower Trays™ offer a practical and unique food packaging solution.
Colpac’s Tower Trays™ are available to order now: https://colpacpackaging.com/products/hot-food-to-go/trays/tower-trays/
This content was sponsored by Colpac.
