Elizabeth Corbett: Sustainability, Innovation & Experience
Creating sustainable, cost-effective, and innovative packaging is a challenge, especially as consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions rises. Businesses must balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility while maintaining affordability. So, how can companies navigate these competing priorities to develop packaging that resonates with customers and meets sustainability goals?
Elizabeth Corbett, a packaging innovation and sustainability expert, shares key insights on addressing these challenges. She emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainability from the start — considering material sourcing, recyclability, and refillable solutions. Elizabeth also highlights the role of design and branding, explaining how unique shapes and colors can make packaging iconic while remaining cost-effective. By leveraging technology, businesses can speed up prototyping and reduce costs without compromising quality.
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Elizabeth Corbett, President of Enterprise at AE Global, about the evolving world of packaging and sustainability. Elizabeth discusses the balance between innovation, cost, and eco-friendly materials, highlighting how brands can create outstanding packaging. She also explores the transformation of cannabis packaging, the role of technology in rapid prototyping, and the importance of aligning brand identity with packaging design.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
[2:58] Elizabeth Corbett shares her journey from graphic design and print production to leading packaging innovation
[7:05] AE Global’s in-house innovation lab and its role in sustainable packaging
[8:50] The importance of aligning company values with sustainability and business growth
[12:02] Balancing sustainability, functionality, and cost in packaging solutions
[15:27] Elizabeth discusses how branding and packaging in the cannabis industry have evolved over time
[19:34] The role of technology in packaging design and production
[24:20] Why custom packaging shapes and colors create lasting brand recognition
[27:57] Packaging advice for upcoming entrepreneurs
[31:32] Elizabeth’s approach to work-life balance and self-care
About Elizabeth Corbett :
Elizabeth Corbett is the President of Enterprise Sales at AE Global, a custom packaging design and supply chain solutions provider. With over two decades of experience, she has developed sustainable packaging solutions for prominent brands such as Starbucks, Tiffany & Co., and Estée Lauder. Specializing in the cannabis sector for the past eight years, Elizabeth is passionate about creating environmentally responsible and sustainable packaging solutions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Business from the University of Oregon and is a founding member of Seattle Women in Business for Good.
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Quotable Moments:
"Sustainability was not an active decision. It was a survival choice — you used every part of an animal."
"Nobody throws away a Tiffany box. Nobody throws away an Apple box. That’s marketing that lasts a lifetime."
"If you have a good idea, the danger is they’re going to say, go do it."
"I want to be that complete solution for a customer, and if I can’t, I’ll find someone."
"Branding is really important. That package is going to get your attention, especially in competitive markets."
Action Steps:
Prioritize sustainability in packaging from the start: Integrating eco-friendly materials and recyclability at the beginning of product development prevents costly redesigns later.
Use packaging as a branding tool: Unique shapes, colors, and materials make a brand recognizable and memorable to consumers.
Leverage technology to speed up innovation: Using 3D printing and digital prototyping can reduce design time from months to weeks, allowing brands to test ideas and refine packaging before large-scale production.
Balance cost, functionality, and sustainability: Finding the right balance ensures operational success and a positive customer experience.
Consider refillable packaging solutions: This approach benefits the environment, builds brand loyalty, and reduces production costs.