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Swiss Chalet Partners with WestRock to Launch Recyclable Paperboard Packaging

This dramatic material change is an important step by restaurant parent company, Recipe Unlimited, toward sustainability goals

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WestRock, a leading provider of differentiated paper and packaging solutions, has announced a partnership with Recipe Unlimited to implement a suite of recyclable paperboard packaging, intended to divert 31 million plastic containers from landfills across Canada each year. The packaging began appearing at Swiss Chalet restaurants in October, 2021 and is now available across all its locations.

With a goal to replace black plastic trays and lids with packaging made from renewable resources, the two companies used discovery sessions in their early collaboration to zero in on the right sustainable solution. The modular system uses uncoated recycled board (URB) and EnShield to maintain the high performance standards required by Swiss Chalet, while simultaneously increasing the sustainability attributes of its takeout containers. It received the PAC Global Award for Sustainable Design during the Inclusive Opportunities & Universal Design Summit in February, 2022.


Sam Shoemaker, president, consumer packaging Sam Shoemaker, president, consumer packaging
“WestRock is proud to have partnered with Swiss Chalet to advance its sustainability efforts. Collaboration and partnership are at the heart of our work. By leveraging our commitment to innovation and portfolio of sustainable products, we can drive the industry one step closer to a fiber-based future – together.”
Sam Shoemaker president of consumer packaging at WestRock

Sustainable packaging has been identified by Recipe Unlimited, parent company of Swiss Chalet, as one part of their $20 million commitment to sustainability, announced in the company’s inaugural Sustainability Report, released in August. The new packaging is recyclable. It is produced by WestRock using both recycled fiber and fiber from responsibly managed forests.

“Our goals create a greater vision that helps to further unite our teammates, franchisees, and suppliers around the priorities that matter most: sustainably growing the business, taking care of our People and Planet, and delivering the exceptional dining experiences our guests have come to expect,” said Frank Hennessey, chief executive officer at Recipe Unlimited.

WestRock leveraged its comprehensive portfolio of sustainable paper to develop this packaging solution for Swiss Chalet. Uncoated recycled board containing 100% recycled fiber was selected for outer meal cartons to increase ease of disposal in curbside recycling. EnShield® Natural Kraft was selected for inserts and hot sides cartons to provide recyclable options with a grease barrier where the menu items demand it.