Earlier this month, we launched our new reman aftermarket packaging, the culmination of a company-wide rebrand. On the surface, it might look like a simple packaging update. New boxes. New colours. New visuals. But for us, it’s about much more than that. Every design decision we made reflects the direction of Carwood as a business and the values that continue to shape everything we do.
Why does our packaging redesign matter?
As a remanufacturing specialist, sustainability has always been at the heart of what we do. Every day, we take automotive components that have reached the end of their service life and restore them back to their original spec; giving them a new lease of life – often for multiple lifecycles – while reducing waste, conserving raw materials, and significantly lowering the energy required compared with manufacturing new parts. Unfortunately our packaging didn’t always mirror the same – it needed to catch up.
A greener box
So the goal was simple; to create a box that better reflects both our environmental credentials, and the quality of the remanufactured parts inside. Hence our new boxes are now manufactured using FSC-certified kraft board made from more than 70% recycled content. We’ve also removed all hard-to-recycle inner packaging materials, well ahead of the planned phasing out of Instapak in 2030. Instead, the new orbital wrap system, whereby the product is shrink wrapped to a board insert, is fully recyclable in mainstream waste, along with the box.
That’s if you don’t reuse the box. Supporting our mission to ‘give used parts a new lease of life’, they are intended to be reused to send back core, simplifying the return process and underpinning our commitment to the circular economy.
A simpler look. A stronger message.
At the centre of the redesign is also a cleaner, more minimalistic approach. We’ve made way with a largely black, full-colour design, in favour of a simplified, modern two-colour, water-based pallet on kraft board. It’s bold, instantly recognisable, and communicates our brand clearly without unnecessary clutter.
What about inside the box?
Of course, packaging isn’t just about appearances. We wanted a box that worked for our customers too. Which is why we’ve paid as much attention as to how it’s constructed, as we did to its look, and what it’s made from.
By streamlining the number of boxes and optimising pack dimensions, we’ve eliminated unnecessary bulk and empty void across our aftermarket range. Not only will this allow more efficient storage, handling and transportation, it also reduces material usage. The new boxes alone will save up to 5.2 tonnes of material and 6.9 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, based on current annual production.
Having asked our customers what matters to them, we know protection is equally important. A smarter design has strengthened the carton’s walls – effectively doubling up protection in key areas. And the new orbital wrap system will hold the part firmly in place throughout its journey. So wherever you are in the world, the product will arrive exactly as it left us.
And outside?
We’ve added a QR code to the side of the box too, giving technicians immediate access to technical content. By scanning the code via a mobile device, installers can quickly access best-practice installation videos and technical guidance at the point of fitment. Unlike printed materials, the digital content can be updated whenever required, ensuring customers always have access to the most current information available. It’s a simpler, smarter, and more practical solution.
Rolling out now
Our new boxes will be progressively rolled out throughout the remainder of 2026 – you may have already seen them. Ongoing we also plan to phase out the use of OEM branded packaging for our OE-approved fuel pumps and injectors. As well as addressing recent shortfalls in OE boxes, the move will drive stronger and more consistent brand identity across the entire supply chain. This is not only good for us, but for you too when buying, selling or installing Carwood product. Which is why, when coupled with a fresher, smarter and more sustainable design, we believe our new packaging ticks all the boxes.
