Packaging specialist Tosca has partnered with Kebol to implement a circular, reusable crate system that dramatically reduces waste and improves operational efficiency.
Founded in 1989, Kebol exports more than 70 million premium-quality flower bulbs annually to customers in over 40 countries. The family-owned business is rooted in strong values of sustainability, transparency and reliability, which guide its ongoing mission to minimise environmental impact.
"Sustainability is one of our core values, and Tosca's reusable crates fit perfectly with our vision to reduce waste and create a circular, global export system", said Jos van der Drift, Managing Director at Kebol.
© Tosca
Dealing with high packaging waste, rising costs and the need for a more sustainable export system
Before adopting Tosca's solution, Kebol relied heavily on single-use wooden and plastic crates that were non-foldable, costly to replace and difficult to reuse. Each year, the company used around 150,000 one-way boxes - an approach that created unnecessary material waste and limited logistical efficiency. As sustainability expectations across the industry accelerated, Kebol recognised the need for a more durable, long-lasting packaging solution that would reduce its environmental footprint while improving long-term operational costs.
Reusable plastic crates for an efficient global supply chain
Kebol transitioned to Tosca's 6423 Active Lock foldable reusable crates, integrating them into the full journey of its Amaryllis bulbs produced in Peru. The bulbs are packed directly into Tosca's reusable crates at source and remain in them throughout their international journey to customers in the USA and Europe. Once emptied, the crates are folded, collected and returned to Peru for reuse in the following season. This circular logistics flow eliminates the need for single-use packaging and enables a far more efficient, predictable system.
"We were looking for a solution to reduce waste in our supply chain, and we found it in Tosca's multiple-use crate", added van der Drift.
Lower total costs, near-zero waste and a more predictable, efficient supply chain
Since introducing Tosca's reusable packaging, Kebol has seen a notable transformation in both its operations and sustainability performance. The switch has delivered a 40% reduction in packaging costs, as the durable design of the crates removes the need for constant replacement and the disposal of single-use materials.
© Tosca
Waste has been virtually eliminated; instead of generating 150,000 boxes of waste per year, Kebol now operates with a continuous cycle of crates that move between Peru, the USA and Europe.
This closed-loop system has also resulted in a more stable and efficient supply chain. With crates rotating reliably across continents, Kebol experiences fewer disruptions and enjoys a smoother, more predictable export process. The environmental benefits are equally significant, with reuse and improved transport efficiency contributing to a reduced carbon footprint across the full logistics journey.
"Kebol is a fantastic example of how reusable packaging can transform an export operation. By switching to Tosca's reusable crates, they have been able to significantly cut waste, reduce packaging costs and create a far more efficient and predictable supply chain. It shows how a well-designed reuse system delivers measurable, long-term value - not only for sustainability performance, but for day-to-day operational success", said Laurent Le Mercier, EMEA President, Tosca.
© Tosca
A partnership built on shared values of innovation, reliability and sustainability
Kebol sees Tosca as a trusted partner committed to supporting its evolving business and sustainability needs. The collaboration extends beyond the packaging itself, with both companies working together to build a responsible, forward-looking export model based on transparency, operational excellence and shared ambitions.
"Tosca is a reliable packaging partner. Communication and deliveries are exactly as we expect. We trust Tosca will continue to develop in the packaging industry to meet future market demands". commented van der Drift.
Looking ahead
As retailers, regulators and NGOs increase pressure for greater transparency and environmentally responsible practices, Kebol remains confident that Tosca's solutions will continue to support its long-term goals. The company is committed to reducing environmental impact while maintaining strong operational performance - and its partnership with Tosca plays a central role in achieving both.
For more information:
Tosca
Email: [email protected]
toscaltd.com/
