Viupax: Revolutionizing Footwear Packaging for a Sustainable Future

Redesigning Shoe Boxes for a Greener World

The inspiration for Viupax, the innovative footwear packaging designed by Andreas Kioroglou, stemmed from the need to address two critical issues in the industry: shoe availability and sustainability. Traditional shoe boxes make it impossible to see if a desired shoe design is available in the desired size, leading to frustration for consumers and salespeople alike. Additionally, the apparel industry, including footwear, is the second largest polluter globally. Viupax aims to tackle both these challenges head-on.

Viupax stands out as a one-of-a-kind packaging solution that is significantly more sustainable than traditional shoe boxes. With over 20 billion pairs of shoes produced and transported worldwide each year, the environmental impact is substantial. Viupax reduces costs, using 20-50% less paper and occupying 20-57% less volume during transportation. By adopting Viupax, brands can enhance their sustainability efforts and contribute to a greener future for the footwear industry.

Utilizing corrugated board and requiring no adhesive, Viupax showcases the designer's commitment to simplicity and efficiency. The packaging is available in various sizes, catering to shoe sizes ranging from EU 29 to 46. Each size has been meticulously designed to ensure a perfect fit and optimal functionality. Detailed specifications can be found on the Viupax website.

Viupax offers a range of unique features and benefits. Its open design allows for easy identification of shoe availability, saving time for both consumers and salespeople. The smart hole placement on the box enables salespeople to carry up to eight boxes at once, far surpassing the capacity of traditional shoe boxes. Furthermore, the open system allows for the integration of printed electronics, Arduino, and other technologies for limited editions.

Viupax's sustainability credentials are impressive. Compared to traditional shoe boxes, it uses 20-50% less paper and occupies 20-57% less volume during transportation. Moreover, Viupax can be transformed into toys, extending the lifecycle of the packaging. It can also be converted into a hand-carry bag, eliminating the need for plastic or paper bags. These features not only reduce waste but also contribute to cost savings for brands and consumers.

Andreas Kioroglou, the designer behind Viupax, collaborated with a structural engineer to ensure the packaging's strength and durability. Rigorous strength and drop tests were conducted to guarantee the safe transportation of shoes worldwide. The result is a robust packaging solution that can be effortlessly converted into a hand-carry bag without the need for tape.

The Viupax project spanned two years, during which extensive research was conducted. Shoe boxes from top brands were collected, and a sustainability analysis was performed for each size and brand. The aim was to identify waste and potential material and transportation savings. Additionally, thorough patent searches were conducted before filing international patents to protect the innovative design.

Viupax has already garnered recognition in the design world. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018 for its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach. This prestigious accolade is given to creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics.

By revolutionizing footwear packaging, Viupax offers a sustainable solution that addresses the industry's environmental impact while improving the shopping experience for consumers and salespeople. With its cost-effective production, reduced transportation volume, and versatility, Viupax has the potential to reshape the future of footwear packaging and contribute to a greener world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Andreas Kioroglou
Image Credits: Andreas Kioroglou
Project Team Members: Designer, Structural Engineer: Andreas Kioroglou
Project Name: Viupax
Project Client: Andreas Kioroglou


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