Mars, Incorporated, the conglomerate behind popular brands such as M&M’s and Snickers, is revolutionizing its packaging process by implementing advanced simulation technology to enhance virtual testing and prototyping, aiming to boost sustainability and efficiency.
Innovative Packaging Solutions
Mars, Incorporated is pioneering a novel approach to packaging by integrating sophisticated simulation technology. This strategic move is set to transform the packaging process within its snacking division, utilizing Ansys’ multi-physics computer modeling technology. The initiative is designed to diminish the reliance on extensive physical testing, thereby streamlining the packaging development lifecycle.
The simulation technology provides Mars with valuable insights into the production process, including the impact of wrapping on fulfillment operations, the behavior of products when subjected to drops, and strategies to reduce packaging failures.
Enhanced Efficiency and Sustainability
Mars has already observed significant improvements, with packaging development time cut by up to 40% and a reduction of approximately 246 tons in the plastic materials required for testing purposes. Darren Logan, Mars’ Vice President of Science Research, anticipates that this collaboration will “further revolutionize our packaging process, making it even more eco-friendly and efficient.”
The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its goal to achieve 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging for all its products. The digital-first strategy is not only introducing new efficiencies but also benefiting the company’s R&D teams and the broader packaging ecosystem. This includes the ambitious task of redesigning over 12,000 packaging types to align with current and future recycling infrastructures.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
Qing Qi, Vice President of R&D Global Innovation at Mars Snacking, emphasizes the company’s vision where packaging does not become waste. This vision is a core component of Mars’ multi-billion dollar ‘Sustainable in a Generation’ plan, which relies on innovative science and partnerships to expand the realm of possibilities in packaging sustainability.
Fabiano Lima, Global SVP of Mars Snacking, shared on LinkedIn the advantages of the pioneering simulation technology, highlighting its capability to explore every facet of packaging development, from wrapping techniques to drop tests, all while minimizing the carbon footprint associated with actual production.
