Super packaging for superberries
“We set the requirements; Orapac produces the solutions.”
Jan-Ole and Gallina Sandås, Finnish Superberries
This is how the entrepreneurial couple behind the “Finnish superberries” describe their cooperation with Orapac. Finnish Superberries began operating in 2019, but the idea took shape several years earlier when Jan-Ole and Gallina Sandås considered the future of their family farm in Nykarleby. The older generation wanted to step back gradually, leaving the future of the farm uncertain.
After some hesitation, the couple took over when they found a business idea rooted in sustainable development. They wanted to create a company that generates value today and for generations to come.
“We do not only want to take nutrients from the soil. We want to nourish people while safeguarding the planet for future generations.”
Gallina Sandås
Environmental considerations mattered to Jan-Ole Sandås, as did the crop’s commercial potential. He wanted to build something that would also benefit the next generation.
The king of berries
The couple found what they were looking for in the aronia bush and its berries. The superberries behind the company’s name are rich in antioxidants. Interest in aronia is growing in Finland, while its distinctive properties are also attracting attention abroad.
“Aronia is the Rolls-Royce of berries – extremely healthy and nutritious.”
Jan-Ole Sandås
Finland’s climate and the soil at the Nykarleby farm are also well suited to growing aronia.
A family business with in-house production
Finnish Superberries operates entirely according to organic principles and manages the complete production process itself. The production equipment comes from Korsholm. Jan-Ole Sandås is managing director and oversees the technical process, while Gallina Sandås is responsible for sales, marketing and other commercial tasks. Jan-Ole’s brother Sten-Erik Sandås is also involved in the company and production.
The company has ambitious growth plans and has brought in additional growers to meet the expected increase in demand.
Packaging is crucial
Finnish Superberries and Orapac met at an early stage. The Sandås family understood that functional, attractive packaging is crucial to sales, particularly for a start-up introducing a new product.
“We had many requirements, and Orapac provided the solutions.”
Jan-Ole Sandås
The couple especially value the open dialogue and creativity shown in Orapac’s solutions.
“They are genuinely keen to discuss suitable solutions with us, proactively contribute ideas and devote time to our challenges.”
Jan-Ole Sandås
Packaging filled with innovation
The customer’s high standards and innovative thinking, combined with Orapac’s expertise and flexibility, have created distinctive packaging. One example is an innovative 1.5-litre aronia juice pack. In addition to the juice and tap, the pack includes a drinking glass sized for the recommended daily serving.
“We contacted Iittala when we noticed that the size of their glass suited our needs, and they were very interested in cooperating.”
Gallina Sandås
A window in the juice pack reveals the design glass carrying the company logo. The result is both stylish and resource-efficient.
“Responsible thinking is important to us, and Orapac shares those values.”
Jan-Ole Sandås
Bag-in-box packs often use a plastic handle. The Finnish Superberries solution instead has two comfortably shaped carrying holes. Another example is the transport and display case for jars of aronia powder. Its upper section tears away easily, allowing the products to be placed directly on the shop shelf and reducing stocking time.
