Ds Smith Hellas and Minerva S.a. Introduce Sustainable and Seamless Returns Packaging for E-commerce Customers
3 September 2025
DS Smith, an International Paper company, and a leading provider of sustainable fibre-based packaging solutions, have partnered with Minerva S.A., a renowned manufacturing company for the apparel sector in Greece, and in collaboration they have introduced DS Smith Tape Back to the Greek marketplace.
DS Smith Tape Back is designed to simplify the e-commerce returns process while utilising the minimal volume of materials. The packaging solution is straightforward to open, and it incorporates two integrated and easy to peel adhesive strips that enable the box to be opened simply and securely resealed for collection as a return consignment. The solution also successfully eliminates the need for internal protective materials such as filler paper or air cushions.
Ioannis Filippou, Managing Director, Minerva S.A., Greece: “Our partnership with DS Smith reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability. DS Smith Tape Back enhances the delivery and returns experience for our customers while helping us to reduce our environmental footprint. It is a solution that aligns with both our operational needs and values as a modern and responsible brand.”
In addition, DS Smith Tape Back design constitutes a crush lock or auto-lock bottom design with a unique locking mechanism to ensure that the packaging stays securely closed without additional adhesives or tape. This helps to optimise the packing and unpacking process and facilitates fast assembly on the production line.
George Filippoglou, Cluster Director, Greece, DS Smith: “We are proud to launch our innovative DS Smith Tape Back packaging in Greece for the first time. Our partnership with Minerva S.A. reflects a shared commitment to sustainability and to providing a streamlined experience for consumers. This DS Smith Tape Back solution is effectively supporting our customers in their e-commerce activities as we move collectively towards the circular economy.”
Minerva’s product portfolio includes luxury and ready-to-wear apparel for men, women, and children, and a homewares division, and the company have outlets in Greece, Cyprus, and Serbia.
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. The company’s circular business model plays a central role in e-commerce, FMCG (Fast-Moving-Consumer-Goods), food and beverage, automotive and industrial sectors, and their value chains.
For further information, interviews, images:
Daniella Steadman, PR Manager, Packaging Division, DS Smith
Email: daniella.steadman@dssmith.com / Mobile: +44 (0) 750 735 7755
NOTES TO EDITORS
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 problem 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 (CDM) approach. DS Smith Hellas has been in operation for sixty-six years with three facilities in Korinthos, Thessaloniki, and Ierapetra. Additional information can be found by visiting 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 www.internationalpaper.com
I. & V. Ladenis Bros, MINERVA SA
With over eighty years of experience, Minerva is one of the leading Greek creators in apparel such as underwear, sleepwear, and swimwear. The brand ethos is focused on quality, comfort, and timeless design, and the company sets out to create collections that meet the everyday needs of the modern consumer. Its range includes products for men, women, and children, and homewares to provide a retail solution for the entire family. The company has outlets in Greece, Cyprus, and Serbia. Additional information can be found by visiting www.minerva.gr