ADF Innovation Award Winner in the Design category
Tubex and DFNS win the ADF Innovation Award for the packaging design of the adidas CARE Footwear Protector powered by alu-air©.
Tubex and DFNS are proud to announce that their collaborative design, the adidas CARE by DFNS Footwear Protector powered by alu-air©, has been honored with the prestigious ADF Innovation Award at Paris Packaging Week 2025. Plastic waste and carbon emissions remain major global challenges. Rising to the occasion, Tubex and DFNS introduce alu-air© technology, the world's first air-powered dispensers.
The alu-air© ‘powered by AIR’ device emits pure product at high pressure without harmful propellants, cutting CO2 emissions by 79% compared to traditional aerosols. The can is made from 95% recycled aluminum, using 90% less energy to produce than new materials. With on-can printing, the packaging is free from plastic labels and 100% recyclable. Additionally, a unique patented groove design ensures the bottle is both distinctive and recognizable on the shelf. More than just a design feature, it also serves as a visual representation of the packaging’s “powered by AIR” functionality, setting it apart for consumers.
Tubex, the leader in cutting-edge aerosol production, brings years of expertise and creativity to packaging innovation under their "Made in Germany" quality standards. DFNS was born in 2019 with the vision to become the world’s no. 1 in athletic footwear and apparel care. Driven by sustainable innovation and increased consumer demand for more ethical goods, they are leading the way in product care and trusted by industry leaders such as adidas. This globally recognized sports brand is among the first to adopt the groundbreaking, powered by alu-air© packaging for its footwear and apparel care collection, which includes the award-winning adidas CARE by DFNS Footwear Protector.
The ADF Innovation Award recognizes alu-air© technology as a pivotal step toward the future of aerosols and dispensing systems. And the journey continues: the next phase of alu-air© technology will include a “pressure control system”, allowing for even dispensing of non-water-soluble ingredients using air pressure. A recognition that underscores Tubex and DFNS's commitment to revolutionizing sustainable packaging, pushing boundaries, and setting new industry standards.
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About TUBEX:
With over 75 years of experience, TUBEX supplies customers with award-winning aluminium aerosol cans, tubes and bottles for the cosmetics, food, pharmaceutical and technical industries. A strong commitment to innovation and the environment provides ongoing inspiration for designing pioneering packaging that protects both its contents and the planet. The TUBEX Group employs over 2,000 people across 9 locations and serves 650 clients in 76 markets worldwide.
About DFNS:
DFNS is a leading brand in footwear and apparel care and a globally recognized symbol of sustainable product care. DFNS oversees the complete manufacturing and filling process, from innovative formula development to production, packaging, assembly, and logistics. Collaborating with top global brands in the FMCG sector, DFNS has pioneered numerous cutting-edge formulas and is a recognized leader in advancing water-based formulation technologies.