Gentlebrand presented the SmartWeighting solution using the Minera bottle for still water as an example. The concept was developed as a design and development approach focused not only on reducing packaging weight, but above all on optimizing the distribution and use of material in the bottle structure. According to the company, this approach makes it possible to reduce raw material consumption without impairing functional performance, packaging aesthetics or the way the product is perceived in the beverage market. The project combines structural engineering with design in order to ensure that a lighter bottle retains the required functional reliability and an appropriate shelf presence. As Gentlebrand emphasizes, the solution responds to a common industry problem in which lightweight bottles are often associated with a lower price segment. In this approach, weight reduction is to be achieved in a way that does not weaken the quality perceived by the consumer or limit the ability to build a distinctive brand identity.
Andrea Rizzardi, director of Gentlebrand, said: "The Minera SmartWeighting solution helped us demonstrate that weight reduction does not have to involve compromises. SmartWeighting places emphasis on how the material is used, not just on how much of it is used, ensuring structural reliability, good aesthetic qualities and maintenance of brand positioning."
In the Minera SmartWeighting project, the principles of this concept were applied to a still water bottle. The goal was to achieve an optimal packaging weight while maintaining strength and stability across successive stages of processing and use, from blow moulding and filling to transport and storage. Gentlebrand states that the solution was developed in cooperation with Competek, an engineering partner specializing in beverage packaging, which supported the project from the technical and industrial side.
Structural design assumptions of the bottle
To meet functional requirements, the bottle design was based on a combination of clean, minimalist surfaces with technical and functional elements that reinforce the packaging structure. Additional optimization included the bottle neck finish, which according to the company made it possible to reduce excess material while also improving ease of use. Development work was also carried out in cooperation with international partners from across the beverage supply chain to ensure the solution met industrial requirements.
Material selection and label
The Minera bottle also reflects the material aspect of the SmartWeighting concept. The packaging is made from 100% BioPET supplied by UPM Biochemicals. A PCR Vanish film from UPM Raflatac was used for the label. This solution is intended to provide a no-label effect, emphasizing the visual simplicity of the packaging and the high-quality perception of the product. According to the project description, the solution also helps reduce material consumption and facilitates recycling.
For beverage producers, SmartWeighting is intended to deliver benefits across the entire supply chain, including reduced PET consumption and improved logistics efficiency, without impairing bottle performance parameters or perceived quality. Gentlebrand indicates that the combination of aesthetics, engineering and material optimization is intended to provide a balance between responsible resource use and brand expression requirements.
In a broader perspective, the company sees SmartWeighting as a development direction for beverage packaging, based on more considered solutions supporting environmental and economic goals. In this approach, lightweight packaging is meant to be a deliberate design choice rather than a limitation.
