For the third time in four years, MeadWestvaco Packaging Systems received the President’s Award, during the Paperboard Packaging Council’s (PPC) 62nd National Paperboard Packaging Competition held earlier this year.

The TAILGATE’R was developed by MeadWestvaco Packaging Systems for Labatt Brewing Company. Created with sports fans in mind, the TAILGATE’R holds 28 standard size cans and allows for easy carrying and cool down. The innovative carton features a tear away section for easy access to the cans, as well as a liner that allows consumers to add ice directly to the package for quick chilling.

“The TAILGATE’R incorporates all the needs of a sports fan into a compact and easy to carry package,” says Aaron Bates, director of Global Packaging Development, MeadWestvaco Packaging Systems. “The package was designed to appeal to consumers in a hurry and integrated several features such as a plastic handle and bag liner to further enhance the on-the-go convenience of the pack.”

MeadWestvaco’s innovative new carton is printed on 18 and 27 pt MeadWestvaco’s Coated Natural Kraft® (CNK®) board. The unique shape of the carton attracts consumers and provides for maximum billboard space to promote the brand. The TAILGATE’R package’s six-piece construction is simple for the packer to assemble and even provides coasters for the consumer through perforated inserts.