Blog - Grano — 15.04.2025 — min read time

Packaging solution created by CreaMill and Grano wins iF Design Award 2025

We are proud to announce that the closure innovation crafted by Grano experts and developed by CreaMill founder Matti Koskinen for flexible paper-based packages has received the distinguished iF Design Award 2025. This internationally recognised design award is one of the sector's most prestigious honours. This year, 11,000 products vied for the prize in multiple categories.

Focus on user experience

The easy usability of a package is essential for consumers, and the jury commended the functionality of the sealing invention, in particular. The durable closure is easy to open and close, and the packaging will retain its shape even when it is half empty. Because you do not need to tear the package open, it is easier on the eye when used and the information on the packaging remains readable. By widening the closure, a Euro slot, carrying handle or tamper-evident element can be added, which makes the packaging versatile and adaptable to different uses.

Watch our product video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRRuDcFUs7g

The paper-based flexible package with a durable closure is an excellent choice for dry foodstuff, such as flakes, nuts and sweets. It could replace many plastic bags and paperboard boxes, which would be in line with the objectives set out in the PPWR, i.e. the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, drafted by the EU.

Patent applications concerning the innovation have been and will be submitted in key market areas.

Grano quick to explore this innovative solution

The cooperation was started at the PacTec trade fair, when Koskinen presented his concept to Lauri Raumanni from Grano Packaging Solutions. The solution piqued Raumanni’s interest immediately, and the project was advanced by Production Manager Sasu Martenson. The test rolls were successfully manufactured on the first go. The challenge was to find food-safe materials that provide excellent user experience. The closure is delivered on rolls with optional printing to industrial customers.

“This award is especially meaningful to me, because I based my design on usability, simple manufacturing and environmental values. The design is borne out of the need for functionality, and it is encouraging to have the jury appreciate what they saw. Innovations never make it to shop shelves without fearless partners, and Grano had faith in the concept from the start. It was wonderful to find a partner who had both the skill and the willingness to advance the project,” Koskinen says.

Raumanni from Grano is excited about the award and the fruits of the collaboration. “This award is excellent proof of what we can achieve when we combine creative thinking with strong expertise. We are proud to be involved in this project. Collaboration projects like this help us develop improved, more eco-friendly solutions for our customers.”

From pilot to industrial product

Even though the closure solution is still being piloted, it has garnered plenty of interest. The award has allowed us to quickly make new contacts in the packaging and food sector as well as retail chains in Europe and the United States. In addition to this, an international partner is ready to attach our closure solution to their packaging, which allows for the pilot to be followed through and the distribution of the products to interested parties. Next, we are looking for Finnish packaging operators and brands that want to be at the forefront of introducing this innovation to the consumers.