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Amazon Frustration Free Packaging Works to Reduce Wrap Rage

A year ago, Amazon was working hard to convince retailers to join their sustainable packaging efforts. The “Frustration-Free” packaging program was launched in 2008, and it was challenging to convince retailers to try simpler, greener packaging for their Amazon products.

Today, Amazon works with more than 2,000 manufacturers to reduce packaging waste, including Fisher-Price, Microsoft, Seventh Generation, Unilever, and Victorinox Swiss Army.  These retailers deliver products in smaller, recyclable cardboard boxes, using significantly less packaging but maintaining product protection. To qualify, packages must be easy to open (no knives required), and clamshell casings, wire ties, and excess packaging is prohibited.

Amazon claims that Frustration-Free packaging has reduced box sizes by 14.5 million cubic feet, thus removing 24.7 million pounds of packaging, and eliminating 58.9 million square feet of cardboard. How did Amazon achieve this feat? By shipping more than 75 million Frustration-Free items to over 175 countries.

Just in time for the gift-giving season, Amazon has made sure to note the success of their Frustration-Free packaging program. “We’ve all experienced the frustration of trying to remove a product from nearly impenetrable packaging like plastic clamshell cases and products bound by dozens of wire ties,” said Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. “We’ve worked with both manufacturers and customers to design Frustration-Free Packaging that is easy-to-open, protects the product and reduces waste.”

Currently, over 200,000 items are sold in Frustration-Free packaging–which makes for a super easy way to finish your Christmas shopping…