Marks & Spencer's have introduced PaperTies - a new paper packaging innovation across its toy department ahead of Christmas.

These easy to open ties replace the traditional plastic variety and were created here by Design Futures.

The ties, made from a stronger, more flexible version of recyclable paper, lock the product in place, keeping the toys secure, but can be torn away with ease. The single lengths have locking teeth and enable products of various sizes to be secured.

The ties will also boost Marks & Spencer's eco credentials by reducing the amount of plastic it sends to landfill.

Alex Hill, Senior Packaging Technologist for General Merchandise at M&S said 'The PaperTies are designed to be as effective as plastic or metal ties, but can be torn away easily - no more accidents trying to cut plastic and wire ties on Christmas Day and no more frustrated children waiting to play with their new toy.'

Design Futures devised the initial concept for the ties as a direct response to the frustration caused by hard to open toy packaging. Identifying a special 310gsm BillerudKorsnäs FibreForm material that is very strong, it was used it to create a user-focused way of holding products in packs.

M&S are working on other options and versions of the ties to fit across other product ranges and plans to replace all plastic and wire ties 'where practically possible.'
Patent pending, M&S are keen for other retailers to use the ties; they would just need to apply for a licence to do so.