AVI Global Plast has entered into a strategic partnership with Smart Packaging Industries AS to manufacture Q-Bic packaging solutions in India. The collaboration marks the introduction of a cube-based packaging system designed to improve efficiency across fresh produce supply chains.
Through this partnership, AVI Global Plast becomes a manufacturing partner for Q-Bic in India—bringing advanced packaging design into a high-growth market, supported by its vertically integrated capabilities in PET sheet extrusion, tooling, and thermoforming.
Addressing inefficiencies in conventional packaging
Fresh produce exports, particularly for berries and grapes, are highly dependent on packaging performance. Conventional clamshell punnets are typically tapered to allow nesting when empty. Once filled and palletised, this geometry creates gaps between packs.
In many export programs, up to 40–50% of pallet volume can consist of unused space, increasing logistics costs and reducing efficiency in refrigerated transport.
This results in:
- higher freight cost per unit
- increased cold storage requirements
- added handling and distribution complexity
Q-Bic: a structural approach to packaging
Q-Bic introduces a cube-based configuration where filled punnets combine into compact, stackable units. Instead of functioning as standalone packs, the system enables tighter packing within cartons and across pallets.
The impact is measurable:
- up to 2× more packs per pallet
- ~50% reduction in transport and cold storage volume
- up to 59% reduction in corrugated secondary packaging
These improvements allow exporters to increase throughput while reducing logistics and material costs across the value chain.
Improved load distribution and product protection
Beyond space efficiency, the cube-based structure changes how loads are distributed during transit.
In conventional packaging, stacking pressure is concentrated on lids and rims. Q-Bic configurations distribute loads across multiple axes, reducing compression on individual packs.
This leads to:
- improved stacking stability
- lower risk of deformation
- reduced product damage during transit
Integrated ventilation channels support airflow through palletised stacks, helping maintain temperature consistency for sensitive produce such as berries.
Manufacturing closer to export markets
With Q-Bic production established in India, AVI Global Plast enables local manufacturing of a globally proven packaging system. This reduces reliance on imports and improves responsiveness for exporters operating across multiple geographies.
“Packaging geometry plays a critical role in logistics efficiency across produce supply chains,” said Sukhdeep Singh Sethi. “Designing packaging as a system enables better space utilisation, improved handling, and more consistent product movement.”
Showcased at Fresh Produce India 2026
AVI Global Plast introduced its Q-Bic cube-based punnet solutions at Fresh Produce India 2026, demonstrating how packaging design can directly influence pallet density, handling stability, and retail presentation.
The showcase was led by Akhilesh Bhargava, along with Sujeet Pathare, Deputy General Manager – Marketing & Sales, and Sampad Xavier Chaudhuri, Marketing Lead. Discussions focused on real supply chain challenges, including shelf life, damage reduction, and logistics efficiency.
Q-Bic punnets were presented as a system enabling:
- 2× pack density within the same pallet footprint
- improved stacking stability across handling stages
- enhanced on-shelf visibility through structured formats
Alongside Q-Bic, AVI also showcased its range of plastic tax-compliant rPET punnets for fruits including grapes, berries, avocados, apples, and kiwis—designed for consistent performance across harvest, transit, and retail environments.
From packaging formats to packaging systems
The introduction of Q-Bic reflects a broader shift—from standalone packaging formats to integrated systems that directly influence logistics efficiency, cost structures, and sustainability outcomes.
By combining cube-based design with recycled PET materials and local manufacturing scale, AVI Global Plast is positioned to support customers seeking measurable improvements in supply chain performance.
The partnership and introduction of Q-Bic in India were formally announced by Smart Packaging Industries AS via their LinkedIn platform.