Andrew Hodgson (Beko), Ben Whitford (Whitfords Designer Appliances), Jim Kalotheos (Beko) and Lauren Beekman (Beko)

Beko has successfully completed a trial of shipping appliances locally without Expanded Polystyrene (EPS).

Beko says the launch of two new 60cm built-in oven models – BBO6851PDX1 and BBO6851PSDX – in EPS-free packaging represents the next step in the company’s sustainability journey.

Acording to Beko ANZ marketing manager, Amanda Hart, this initiative aligns with the company’s 2030 plastics plan and is part of a broader commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining product safety and quality.

“EPS-free packaging eliminates expanded polystyrene in favour of recyclable materials, such as solid timber supports and reinforced cardboard layers, making it easier to dispose of responsibly while improving stability and handling. The transition to EPS-free packaging has gained momentum in Western Australia, where government-led sustainability initiatives are accelerating demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

To ensure durability across Australia’s diverse transport environments, in late 2024, Beko shipped up to 20 units of its 60cm built-in ovens from its Ormeau, Queensland warehouse to retailers nationwide, including Reilly’s Designer Appliances (Bendigo, VIC), Whitfords Designer Appliances (Camperdown, NSW), BiRite Appliances (Underwood, QLD), BiRite Appliances (Wangaratta, VIC), Betta (Bateman’s Bay, NSW) and Retravision (Cannington, WA)

“Retailers provided invaluable feedback on the new packaging’s performance. Key benefits included improved product stability due to solid timber reinforcements, easier handling and repacking, making display setup a single-person job and stronger protective layers, ensuring ovens arrive undamaged.

“The solid timber supports really give it stability, and the thick cardboard, egg carton construction keeps the oven well-protected,” said Beko ANZ national sales manager, Eddie Gaymer.

Eddie Gaymer from Beko with Larry Waldron from BiRite Underwood

Beko has been testing EPS-free packaging solutions since late 2024, and this launch marks the first phase of a broader rollout. By eliminating expanded polystyrene, the company aims to reduce plastic waste across the supply chain, enhance recyclability for consumers and retailers and meet evolving sustainability regulations in Australia and New Zealand.

Eddie Gaymer from Beko with Josh Hatton from Batemans Bay Betta

Hart acknowledged the crucial role of retail partners in shaping this initiative.

“We’re deeply grateful for the support and open feedback from our retail partners. Their commitment has enabled us to gather essential insights, which we’ve shared with our factories and development teams. We’re excited to continue collaborating with them to deliver EPS-free packaging solutions that benefit our consumers, our partners, and our planet.

Nicki Whiley & Travis Whiley from BiRite Wangaratta with Eddie Gaymer from Beko

“Beko will closely monitor the performance of the BBO6851PDX1 and BBO6851PSDX models in EPS-free packaging and will expand testing to other product categories. This is part of a larger sustainability strategy to refine eco-friendly packaging solutions without compromising on product protection or customer experience. With the launch of these two new models, Beko ANZ continues to lead the way in sustainable innovation – delivering quality appliances with a lower environmental impact.”

Read more: Beko rolls out new campaign as Europe’s number one home appliance company

Read more: Beko’s parent company achieves top score in S&P Global Sustainability Assessment