f’real in new partnership to create plastic-free cup

On-the-go shakes and smoothies brand f’real has announced a new partnership with Footprint, a global materials science technology company that provides solutions to eliminate single-use and short-term use plastics.

The companies will leverage Footprint’s fiber-based solutions to develop a sustainable replacement for f’real’s signature dairy cup.

As part of its sustainable packaging goals, f’real is transitioning away from single-use plastics and moving towards fully recyclable and responsibly sourced packaging. The company’s patented in-store blending system, which blends milkshakes and smoothies at the touch of a button in about a minute, can be found in more than 20,000 locations around the world, including convenience stores.

“Like many sustainably minded companies, we’re always looking to improve the impact we’re making on the environment and that includes the packaging of our delicious products,” said Nikkie McBrayer, senior director, global equipment platforms for Rich Products, parent company of the f’real brand.

“The opportunity to collaborate with Footprint to create a positive change while upholding packaging performance for our f’real milkshake and smoothie cups is truly a win-win.”

Footprint’s team will consider several design factors as they create this molded fiber cup to ensure it works seamlessly with f’real’s current and future equipment – including its powerful mixing technology – while providing an enjoyable drinking experience for consumers.

The cups will also utilize Footprint’s Print-to-Fiber Technology – an award-winning flexographic print process for molded fiber cups – to highlight the f’real brand. This innovative process delivers high-quality, color-rich printing on the fiber surface while eliminating the need for a separate plastic label on the product.

“Footprint’s engineers are always up for a challenge and are focused on perfecting the intricate design and engineering of this cup, which we look forward to bringing to market,” said Troy Swope, Footprint co-founder and chief executive.

“Working with customers like f’real allows us to highlight the significant science and engineering that goes into Footprint’s solutions while reinforcing our commitment to collaborating with customers to develop a product tailored to their unique needs.”