Octal supplies Lulu hypermarkets with eco-friendly pet packaging & merchandising solutions

OCTAL is connecting local supply with local demand by realizing its import substitution strategy through a partnership with Lulu Hypermarkets. The pioneering packaging company now supplies PET containers across nine Lulu outlets which are used for packaging and merchandising a wide range of products sold by the popular shopping destination in Oman. 

Manufactured using OCTAL’s breakthrough DPET^TM sheet by the company’s thermoforming subsidiary CrystalPack carries forward the enhanced optical and mechanical properties of the first and only direct-to-sheet polyester sheet in the world. Through patented process-control technology, the finished product offers a reliable, environmentally-responsible and visually attractive packaging solution. 

“Our agreement with Lulu Hypermarkets represents a significant step forward in our import substitution strategy to serve local demand through high-quality, locally produced goods,” expressed Ghassan Sawaya, CrystalPack’s Regional Sales Manager. “We have always viewed ourselves as an integrated supplier with control of the value chain to promote independence of the economy and aid industrialization. This model encourages the retention of capital for use locally.” 

A.V. Ananth, Regional Director of Lulu Hypermarkets said, “While improving the retail experience remains our endeavor, we have been alert to the fact that providing the fresher experience is what drives our customers. For this purpose, we have gone the extra mile in utilizing the best materials in packaging with a keen eye on its environmental impact. CrystalPack’s excellent closure properties and leak-proof durability is ideal for packaging both dry and liquid contents with the added advantage of waste reduction. We are using the containers which have proven to be both strong and flexible enough to maintain crystal-clear clarity and rigidity through distribution, display and use.” 

“We have always been at the forefront in imbibing the technologies and processes for creating a sustainable environment. All our outlets currently use oxo degradable plastic bags which can biodegrade in quick time as a part of this initiative. We have also actively taken part in initiatives to reduce the impact of plastics by continuously encouraging shoppers to use reusable bags which have been displayed at all our checkouts,” he added. 

Since its launch, CrystalPack has successfully garnered the confidence of its users, many of whom are reputable brands in the Middle East. Backed by a strong network of distributors in the GCC and an efficient logistics team, CrystalPack is well structured to support the growing demand for thermoformed packaging in the region. “We are well on our way to becoming an industry leader by offering in the Middle East re-usable and innovative packaging products complemented with superior customer service,” concluded Sawaya.