Data from the London-headquartered packaging firm found that between 2019 and 2022, production of plastic-free advent calendars jumped by over 200%.

DS Smith predicted that spend on plastic-free calendars this year was on track to outstrip 2022 levels.

From alcoholic drinks to chocolate, pet food, and domestic products, the demand for alternative advent calendars has continued to surge in popularity, with Printweek examining the reasons behind the growing trend earlier this month.

And with advent calendars becoming increasingly elaborate, DS Smith said it has been working with brands to help ensure their designs are as functional and sustainable as possible.

Recent innovations have included incorporating pulp or recycled paper and removing the number of individual parts needed in the overall designs to minimise materials and reduce potential for waste.

By designing 100% recyclable packaging and helping customers to design out hard to recycle plastics, DS Smith said it seeks to reduce waste and keep materials in use for longer.

“In line with its Now and Next strategy and purpose to Redefine Packaging for a Changing World, DS Smith uses unique Circular Design Principles to help customers embrace circularity and meet their own ambitious sustainability goals,” the company stated.

“Since their creation in 2019, the DS Smith Circular Design Metrics have supported thousands of design projects, and around 3,000 circular-ready projects are presented to customers every month.”

Andy Brereton, design for creative lead at DS Smith, said: “As more consumers demand a festive countdown that goes beyond the traditional picture-behind-the-door offering, brands of all kinds are responding with new and innovative advent offerings.

“Although a fun festive tradition, some advent calendars can pose a problem for recycling, as they might be made from a combination of materials, not all of which will be easily recyclable. Once the last door is opened, it is important that advent calendars can be recycled so that the materials are used again.

“At DS Smith, we collaborate with our customers to design unique advent calendars that not only stand out on shelves but are made from fibre-based materials – using our Circular Design Metrics.

“We remove plastic, take away any unnecessary materials, and ensure recyclability. The goal is to achieve a reduction in the carbon emissions required to make and transport the advent calendars and support the transition to a circular economy.”