Pouch packaging is a US first


Pouch packaging for lubricants is set to hit the shelves in the US.

Eco pack

The new ECO ULTRA pouch Image: Universal Lubricants

The pouches are the latest marketing innovation from Universal Lubricants, a relatively small player in the lubes sector. However, the packaging to significantly boost Universal's sales of its ECO ULTRA range, with the pouches claimed to be the first of their kind in the US lubes industry.

Pouch packaging for liquids and blended food products have been available in many global retail outlets for some years - particularly in the sports drinks market.  However, while consumers are already usingpouch packaging for lubricants in some countries, Universal claims to be the first to introduce it to the US lubes market.

Available in US-sized one and 5.1 quart packs, they are designed to stand upright for display purposes and for packing in larger six and 12-unit cardboard boxes for distribution.  They also incorporate a narrow spout for ease of pouring and which, according to the product information, reduces "glugs" when air bubbles cause the oil to surge out of the pack and over the engine cover.

Universal is gradually gaining a reputation for innovative product development, despite its relatively low production levels in comparison to the lubes majors. Earlier this year it launched another industry first with a range of compressed natural gas-specific lubes for the truck industry under the ECO ULTRA brand.