Cartons are efficient in logistics and storage. Their unique shape helps you stand out on shelves. But how seamless is the switch? This roadmap sets out the six steps defining a typical transition, from initial opportunity assessment through to launch and beyond.
Step 1: Confirm the opportunity
Before anything else, assess the business impact.
Are you considering expanding your portfolio to meet rising consumer demands for variety and convenience? From identifying what consumers are reaching for to fine-tuning your recipe for a package that was built for both variety and convenience, we can help you find the strongest opportunities for your business. As preferences evolve, explore how a paper-based package can help you meet the needs of the future. And the compact design and logistical efficiency of Tetra Recart can offer further advantages.
Australian soup brand Rosella chose Tetra Recart to relaunch its iconic Condensed Tomato Soup. Find out why they made the switch and what it delivered.
Step 2: Assess your product
How can you optimise your recipe for cartons? With the right technical guidance.
Our Food Development Centre (FDC) works with brand owners to accelerate product development without disrupting regular production. You can run trials at the FDC in Lund, Sweden, or we can bring a mobile test unit to your site so that you can test on your own lines, with your own ingredients.
Together we assess the suitability of your product, then adapt and fine-tune the recipe, looking at factors such as particle size, viscosity, heat treatment and filling/sealing. This helps ensure that your product retains its taste, texture and quality.
The process is designed to be straightforward: you bring the product ambition and we provide the technical pathway.
Step 3: Trial and refine
The FDC is where product ideas get validated and become production ready.
The process is iterative. After each test, we present a detailed report and product evaluation. We can then help you scale up commercially or make further adjustments based on your feedback, including new samples or follow‑up trials.
For example, one Swedish baby food producer came to the FDC to expand from liquid products into ready meals. We helped adapt their recipes for Tetra Recart and advised on ingredient selection and overall quality. The result was new products on the shelf, opening an entirely new category for the brand.
Step 4: Choose your route to market
You don’t have to start with your own filling line to launch in Tetra Recart. There are two proven routes that will help streamline your switch:
- Co-packer route: Ideal for brands that want speed and a faster route to market. We connect you with established co-packing facilities that already operate Tetra Recart lines.
- Own-line route: Perfect for producers with larger volume requirements or for those who want greater control over production. We support you with product‑specific line design as well as installation, optimisation and continuous support.
The right choice depends on your specific needs or demands and we can help you decide the best way forward. Read more about finding the right co-packer.
Step 5: Scale up and launch
Once the product and route are confirmed, the focus shifts to industrialisation. This covers everything from line configuration and operator training to package design (graphics and print management) for full commercial readiness. We support this phase from start to finish.
Step 6: Keep optimising, keep growing
Our assistance extends beyond the initial installation. We support your growth by continuously optimising and updating our solutions and can help you identify where improvements can be made based on best practices. We also have a range of upgrades for existing equipment that can unlock better performance and more flexibility, while software and firmware updates keep your systems secure and up to date.
As you adopt Tetra Recart, explore how Tetra Pak can help you accelerate growth within your category. Find out more about Tetra Recart carton packages and shelf-stable food categories.
Ready to take the next step with Tetra Recart?
Talk to a Tetra Pak expert about your product, your timeline and your route to market. Contact us
