Case study:
The Challenge
The floriculture sector faces growing pressure to become more sustainable. International buyers and new regulations demand higher standards for reusability, CO₂ reduction, and traceability. Hoek Flowers, a leading flower exporter, wanted to take concrete steps toward a circular supply chain. Their goal: a sustainable and efficient export packaging solution that is reusable, enhances logistics performance, and integrates seamlessly with existing operations.
Our Approach
We began with a thorough analysis of Hoek Flowers’ logistics flows, volumes, load efficiency, and return cycles. In close collaboration with the customer and their supply chain partners, we examined not only the packaging itself, but also process optimization, handling, and data integration.
Thanks to our experience with reusable packaging solutions and deep knowledge of the floriculture industry, we were able to move quickly and design a solution grounded in real-world operations.
Sustainable Solution
Together, we developed an innovative, sustainable flower export box designed for multiple life cycles. Made entirely of reusable materials, the box is stackable and optimized for high load efficiency. The design maximizes return logistics, reduces transport damage, and improves stability. In addition, the packaging includes a track & trace solution to improve visibility and control throughout the
supply chain.
Hoek has now reached the point where they independently carry out repairs after approximately 35 return cycles. We provided the tools that enable these in-house repairs, further extending the packaging's life span, clear proof that circularity works in practice. This solution supports both Hoek Flowers’ circular ambitions and their CSRD objectives.
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Impact
Thanks to this solution, Hoek Flowers has significantly reduced its use of single-use packaging. The logistics chain is now more efficient, with less volume loss, reduced CO₂ emissions, and less residual waste. At the same time, smart technologies have been implemented, improving transparency and enabling more reliable customer reporting.
A measurable step forward toward a sustainable future
and a powerful example of how collaboration leads to lasting impact.
Case study:
The VVR Set: A Sustainable Retail Container for a Circular Future
The Challenge
For over 50 years, traditional CC and DC containers have been the industry standard in retail. However, their wooden components, especially the base boards, are fragile, hard to clean, and non-recyclable. Wood is porous, absorbs moisture and dirt, and is difficult to disinfect.
In sectors where flowers, plants, or food products are sold, wood can eventually become a breeding ground for bacteria such as E. coli and Listeria, as well as mould and yeast, posing risks to hygiene and product safety. Additionally, worn wooden parts are often incinerated and contain chemical adhesives such as phenol, harmful to both people and the environment.
Our Approach
We partnered with retailers to conduct thorough field research. This resulted in a clear list of must-haves and nice-to-haves, which formed the foundation for the development of the VVR set.
Using these insights, we created multiple prototypes, which were tested extensively with millions of sensor measurements to optimize performance, hygiene, and reliability.
The Sustainable Solution
The VVR set combines a robust base, smart uprights, and a hygienic, circular plate. Every component contributes to sustainability, from fast replacement and modular compatibility to a demonstrably lower CO₂ footprint. All plastic elements are fully recyclable and designed for reuse. The patented system is now in use by leading retailers across multiple European countries. Independent LCAs
support the environmental benefits. The full digital LCA report is available upon request.
Benefits of the VVR Set
- Sustainable alternative to chemically treated wood
- Suitable for retail, DIY stores, and garden centres
- Hygienic, industrially cleanable, and highly durable
- Minimum lifespan of 15 years
- Replaceable components and easy to repair
- Circular plastic elements: reusable and recyclable
- Proven impact: lower CO₂ footprint per use
The Impact
By switching from wood to circular plastic, retailers achieve measurable results:
- Substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions over the full lifecycle
- Lower maintenance and replacement costs thanks to longer lifespan
- Improved hygiene and safety, critical in food, flower, and plant sales
- Enhanced sustainability profile for customers and partners
- A concrete step toward a circular supply chain that preserves raw materials
The VVR set not only delivers logistical efficiency, but also makes a tangible contribution to the sustainability goals of our clients.
Download the product sheet or request the LCA via your account manager.
Case study:
Online supermarket - Smarter Delivery, Less Waste
The Challenge
When Picnic started searching for an alternative to their full-aluminium solution, they presented a list of ambitious requirements: higher load capacity, longer lifespan, lower maintenance costs, no diagonal reinforcements, and full compatibility with automated robotic systems.
Our Approach
Leveraging our one-stop-shop model and years of industry experience, we began with a comprehensive supply chain analysis and targeted R&D. Thanks to our integrated approach, we identified key
opportunities for efficiency and sustainability. We developed multiple prototypes and validated them with millions of sensor data points to ensure optimal performance. The result: a solution that fits seamlessly with Picnic’s logistics vision.
Sustainable Solution
An innovative racking system, perfectly suited for their distribution centers and delivery vehicles. The design offers maximum strength with minimal material use, built for durability and lower maintenance costs.
Impact
With this system, Picnic achieves immediate gains on multiple levels:
- Extended lifespan and lower maintenance costs,
- Full compatibility with automated robotic operations,
- Improved efficiency across the entire supply chain.
The flexible partner Picnic was looking for – one who believes in their concept, can scale with them, and delivers solutions that truly work – they found in Newwen.
Smarter supply chain transparency with IoT
Stay compliant while reducing waste and cost
The Challenge
In future-proof logistics, real-time visibility is essential. Yet many companies lack the tools to effectively track and manage their assets, leading to excess transport movements, waste, and unnecessary costs. At the same time, regulatory pressure is increasing: businesses must be able to prove where their products have been throughout the chain, critical for food safety and market access.
To truly build a more sustainable and compliant supply chain, you need reliable data, on location, usage, temperature, and humidity, at every step of the process.
Our Approach
With our integrated supply chain view, we combine logistics expertise with digital innovation. Together with our clients, we identify the key areas of improvement and apply IoT technology and smart identification tools accordingly. By equipping assets with cost-effective sensors and RFID, we lay the foundation for smarter, cleaner, and more efficient operations.
The Sustainable Solution
Newwen’s IoT solutions provide real-time insights into the location, movement, temperature, and humidity of your assets. Anomalies are detected faster, inventory flows become more efficient, and unnecessary transport is avoided. This leads to reduced waste, lower CO₂ emissions, and significant cost savings. Our technology is affordable, fully integrable, and already used worldwide, from flower exporters in the UK to Home Depot in the US. One system. Full control. Clear progress toward a circular supply chain.
The Impact
- Real-time asset performance and usage monitoring • Less waste and unnecessary transport
- Measurable CO₂ reduction through smarter logistics
- Lower operational costs and improved asset availability
- Data-driven progress toward circular goals
Smart data. Less waste. Greater sustainable impact.
Read more about our IoT