McCormick Place — Packaging manufacturer Cascades, Inc. was honored with the 2019 Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation for its next-gen Northbox packaging, described as the first-ever fully recyclable insulated packaging in North America. The packaging is made of recycled materials and provides multiple insulation options for various shipping needs.
The Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation is presented at the Sweets & Snacks Expo by NCA to celebrate breakthrough innovations from the supplier community that advance the confectionery industry.
“Sustainability is becoming more and more important for consumers as they seek companies that source responsibly and proactively recycle,” John Downs, NCA president & CEO, notes. “With the introduction of its Northbox packaging, Cascades has created a unique solution to help confectionery manufacturers meet the changing demands of both their retail customers and consumers. In addition to being both recycled and recyclable, the Northbox product provides an energy-efficient alternative to refrigerated trucks and is a terrific option for confectionery distributors.”
Founded in 1964, Cascades has been producing eco-friendly insulated shipping boxes since 2010.
Food and beverage ingredient supplier Tate & Lyle earned recognition as a runner-up for the 2019 Ruby Award for its low-calorie sugar replacement Dolcia Prima Allulose. The sweetener, which comes in a syrup and newly developed crystalline form, has a similar taste and behavior profile to sugar and synergizes with other sweeteners for a more cost-efficient result.
The award was chosen based on supplier submissions and judged by a panel of industry experts: Jeff Brown, vice-president of operations, Jelly Belly Candy Co.; Norberto Chaclin, global head gum & candy RDQI, Mondelez International, Inc.; Estee Farber, vice-president, marketing & sales, The Madelaine Chocolate Co.; Tim Jones, director, procurement and supply & demand planning, Just Born, Inc.; John Kretchmer, CEO, American Licorice Co.; Brendon Myers, director of purchasing, Spangler Candy Co.; Bhavna Ramani, director of R&D/quality, The Promotion In Motion Cos., Inc.; and Mark Schlott, executive vice-president of operations/COO, R.M. Palmer Co.
