Ravenwood Packaging has announced its latest linerless packaging success story in fresh produce. In partnership with its approved linerless label printer, ProPrint Group, a new linerless fruit lid for Kissabel Naturally Red-Fleshed Apples has been launched, produced on the Com500 Coater and applied using the high-speed Nobac 5000L Fresh Produce Linerless Applicator.
This latest linerless development marks a UK first in fresh produce: a 3×2 (six-pack) linerless apple format, following the earlier 2×2 Sassy pack also supplied by Mansfield, owners of the Kissabel brand.
Kissabel Rouge, known for its vivid red skin, natural red flesh and berry-like flavor, made its UK retail debut on December 2 in a plastic-free linerless pack that reflects the fruit’s premium appeal. To meet the brief, the packaging solution needed to deliver:
- Strong on-shelf standout
- Fully recyclable materials
- High-speed, reliable application
- A bold design aligned with the Kissabel identity
ProPrint Group collaborated with Worldwide Fruit, the Kissabel design team and Smurfit Westrock to produce a robust linerless fruit lid and cartonboard tray format, evolving from the previously launched 4-pack to the new 6-pack configuration. All materials are kerbside recyclable to support retailer sustainability goals.
Nobac 5000L: High-Speed, Low-Waste Linerless Application
At the core of the project is Ravenwood’s Nobac 5000L fresh-produce linerless applicator, engineered for efficient, accurate application of linerless fruit lids. The success of this launch demonstrates the synergy between Ravenwood’s advanced machine technology coupled with Ravenwood’s linerless label printer, ProPrint Group.
Two clean trials were quickly conducted at Ravenwood, achieving optimal setup – essential for this seasonal product. Notably, the first production run was delivered just seven working days after artwork approval.
The Nobac 5000L delivered:
- Consistent, precise label placement
- High-speed performance
- Minimal waste due to the linerless format
- Fast, reliable setup for rapid turnaround
Jan Rees, UK Sales Manager, Ravenwood Packaging, says, “The Kissabel project is a perfect example of how linerless packaging technology can elevate premium fresh produce. The Nobac 5000L was developed to give packers both efficiency and flexibility and it’s great to see it helping our partners bring a UK-first format to market.”
Building on Success with Mansfield Fruit Brands
This launch builds on the success of the Sassy apples linerless 2×2 pack, also produced for Mansfield using Ravenwood machinery and linerless technology. Together, these projects highlight how linerless innovation enhances shelf presence while supporting retailers in reducing material waste.
Sustainable Packaging Moving Forward
The Kissabel 3×2 pack reinforces the shift toward plastic-free, kerbside-recyclable packaging. With the high-performance Nobac 5000L and the print expertise of ProPrint Group, a Ravenwood approved linerless label printer, Kissabel enters the UK market with a standout, sustainable solution.