DS Smith, an International Paper company, and leading global provider of sustainable fibre-based packaging solutions, and Fantasy Forts, the creator of unique construction toy kits for children, are collaborating to bring sustainable, imaginative, and open-ended play to life.

Fantasy Forts set out with a mission to spark children’s inspiration with their unique DIY construction kits for building houses and fortresses. Their toys are intended to engage children in imaginative play and to encourage them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills and develop confidence around the building of uniquely personalised creative spaces.

The DS Smith expert team refined the design and composition of the Fantasy Forts play kits, including the folding structures, die-cutting methodologies, and accessory integration using 100% recyclable corrugated cardboard materials that are both robust and easy to produce at scale.

DS Smith also minimised the volume of materials required to make the products and eliminated corrugated plastic elements in the structure. In addition, the latest design incorporates a clever and versatile click-system design that enables the play sets to be integrated into furniture and suitable for both indoor and outdoor play scenarios.

Marco van den Berg, founder, Fantasy Forts:

“The concept seemed simple, but the technical execution required a lot of thought. We were looking for a partner who could translate our creative vision into a product that was sustainable, easy to manufacturable, and scalable. From day one our new packaging was extremely well received by our consumers who are mostly parents, and the feedback has been superb. Our play kits are sparking unlimited creative potential and providing children with hours of creativity and screen-free play. The panels can also be made compact for storage and folded away neatly when not in use.”

The Fantasy Forts toy kits are manufactured and produced locally in the Netherlands and packed in a social workplace represented by Social Work Netherlands (ESN). The company is proactive in spearheading opportunities for the local community and in creating ‘social impact’ to help to drive and develop its customer base and international expansion.

The collaboration between DS Smith and Fantasy Forts was initially inspired via a DS Smith PackRight Centre, a dedicated venue and part of a network of wider facilities where companies and brands are encouraged to meet with DS Smith experts to explore, define, and agree on specific optimisation areas and develop packaging solutions in line with bespoke requirements and priorities.

Remko Berkhout, Marketing and Communications Manager, DS Smith Benelux:

“We are excited to collaborate with Fantasy Forts on this innovative cardboard solution and to support this valued customer in their strategic vision to create a sustainable and versatile product. Due to the technical expertise of our designers, the corrugated cardboard elements of the play kits are not only inventive in their design, but remarkably durable and this is vital given the need for them to withstand so many different options for creative reinvention.”

The fun play kits can be purchased from a variety of online retailers, including the Fantasy Forts e-commerce shop that can be accessed online, and they are tailored for both indoor and outdoor use.

DS Smith is committed to leading an industry-wide transition to a circular economy while delivering sustainable circular solutions for its customers across thirty-four countries worldwide. The business has a target led Now and Next sustainability strategy in support of its purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World.

For further information, interviews, and additional images:
Daniella Steadman, PR Manager, Packaging Division, DS Smith
Tel: +44 750 735 7755 / Email: daniella.steadman@dssmith.com

DS Smith

DS Smith, an International Paper company, is a leading global provider of sustainable fibre-based packaging, which is supported by recycling and papermaking operations. The company plays a central role in the value chain across sectors including e-commerce, fast moving consumer goods, food and beverage, and industrials. It has a target-led Now & Next sustainability strategy, Redefining Packaging for a Changing World, and is committed to leading an industry-wide transition to a circular economy while delivering sustainable circular solutions for customers. As a part of this mandate, there is a focus on replacing plastics, taking carbon out of supply chains, providing recycling solutions, innovation and significant investment into Research & Development including alternative materials and fibres. The company has a progressive approach to the service and optimization of sustainable supply chains, a well-known and bespoke ‘Box-to-Box’ in fourteen days operational model and a unique Circular Design Metrics approach. It is a proactive member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and the original DS Smith box-making business was started by the London based Smith family in the 1940s. Additional information can be found by visiting http://www.dssmith.com      

International Paper

International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. With company headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) headquarters in London, UK, we employ more than 65,000 team members and serve customers around the world with operations in more than thirty countries. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Net sales for 2024 were $18.6 billion. In 2025, International Paper acquired DS Smith creating an industry leader focused on the attractive and growing North American and EMEA regions. Additional information can be found by visiting http://www.internationalpaper.com     

Fantasy Forts

Fantasy Forts creates imaginative building kits that allow children to create their own forts and play spaces fostering creativity and independent play. The idea for Fantasy Forts came about in 2015 and the inspiration came from the energy that the founders experienced building cabins as children. Fantasy Forts stands for building without rules, and the play kits can be built with tables, chairs, and beds. The clips on the product panels make it possible to build with height and attach with Velcro. Fantasy Forts are produced in the Netherlands and more than 400,000 sets have been sold worldwide since 2016. Website : www.fantasy-forts.com

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