In this ongoing series of case study articles, Weatherchem explores some of the applications developed for its various closures.  This installment features Milliken Chemical's "Capture" carpet cleaner and the various benefits Weatherchem was able to provide.

Customer: TricorBraun
End user: Milliken Chemical
Product: Capture carpet cleaner
Market: Household

Through customer research, Milliken's brand and packaging team found that the Flapper® cap provided the highest consumer satisfaction levels when dispensing the product. Another benefit to consumers and Milliken's operations was the elimination of a separator sifter replaced effectively by the dispensing closure.

According to Scott McDowell, Milliken's Product Line Manager, "The closure allows the use of induction liners that offer tamper evidence and a longer shelf life which could not be offered with the previous closure.  Weatherchem's reputation for making high quality products gave us confidence that there would be no failures when using the caps."

Market factors:

Weatherchem offers a wide variety of sizes and dispensing options available for its Flapper closures that can handle just about any requirement imaginable for dry household chemicals. In addition, Weatherchem offers its LiquiFlapper closure for pourable household chemicals. Together, LiquiFlapper and Flapper provide one-hand easy-to-use closures with an audible snap that tells consumers their chemicals are sealed securely and safely.

Regulated more than many other industries, chemical products must be packaged in materials that can withstand aggressive liquids and other substances, provide excellent barrier properties to prevent leakage, and dispense without glugging, spilling, or creating a mess. Also:

• The household chemical market has reached a market size of $4.5B and is forecast to grow at approximately 3% per year.
• New product trends include environmentally-friendly ingredients and disposable and easy to use cleaners.
• Convenience is required by today’s busy consumer and must be built into a winning package. Liquid substances have taken the lead over dry powder cleaners for their ease of use and improved dispensing capabilities.

 Results of the implementation:

• Higher level of shelf appeal - customers prefer firm, recyclable containers to bags or boxes.
• Higher level of consumer satisfaction - the closure provides an easier-to-use solution than other closures.
• Easy transition from screw-on caps.