How OPRL supports innovation with TRI-LOCKER
When a start-up has an idea that can meaningfully shift the packaging landscape, they need more than ambition. They need support from those who understand the technical, regulatory, and reputational challenges of sustainability. TRI-LOCKER is a perfect example of how our membership, advice and tools at OPRL help bring that shift to life.
TRI-LOCKER: where innovation meets purpose
TRI-LOCKER is revolutionising tray /pot sealing for packaging with a cold-seal, cellulosic-based sealing system that is 99.5% plastic-free, fully recyclable( lower EPR fees ) and avoids heat sealing, reducing energy use and carbon footprint. TRI-LOCKER have UK , US and ( Pending ) EU PATENTS for the invention.
This year has seen TRI-LOCKER become finalists in the MASS CHALLENGE Switzerland ACCELARATOR competition, placing them in the top 7% of over 1,500 start-ups globally. They’re the only UK start up in the Sustainability section. They have completed a Boot Camp in Switzerland meeting mentors and are now working through the final weeks of the competition programme. Winners to be announced in October. (Huge congratulations to Chris and Mike for getting this far.)
How OPRL steps in: Advice, tools, and resources
OPRL membership provides so much more than the widely known recycling labels. It offers a suite of support that builds credibility and helps navigate a complex, changing landscape. Key among those supports are:
- Recyclability Assessment Tool
One of our most powerful tools. It enables members to test their packaging design and materials against what can actually be recycled in the UK system. For TRI-LOCKER, whose innovation depends heavily on claims of recyclability, this assessment was crucial. It helped them refine their materials, ensure clarity in labelling, and bolster confidence when engaging potential customers and regulatory bodies. - Expert Advice & Regulatory Insight
Between changing legislation, shifting consumer expectations, and evolving waste-management infrastructures, packaging innovation needs more than engineering. It needs legal/regulatory clarity, market insight and credibility. We provide that. We help to interpret upcoming regulations, check that materials meet recycling criteria, answer detailed technical questions, and ensure our members are well placed for government or retailer requirements. - Support for Credibility & Exposure
Beyond the technical, OPRL membership adds reputational value. For a start-up, being able to say you are OPRL-assessed and certified gives confidence to potential partners, customers, and investors. In TRI-LOCKER’s case, this level of credibility has helped in the MASS CHALLENGE process, in conversations with manufacturers and retailers, and in media/funding opportunities.
What recent developments mean
With TRI-LOCKER now a finalist in a global competition, their trajectory is accelerating. Being the only UK start-up in the Sustainability track is a distinction that shows how far they’ve come. OPRL is proud to have been on that journey with them, offering the tools, feedback and reassurance needed at every stage.
Words from TRI-LOCKER: Mike McLaughlin on change and support
“We believe in doing more than good intentions, it’s about measurable impact. When you know your packaging is designed to be sustainable and is tested, assessed, and certified, that changes conversations. Working with OPRL, using their recyclability assessment tool and expert advice , allows TRI-LOCKER to stand shoulder to shoulder with existing players and make sustainability standard, not special.” – Mike McLaughlin, Co-Founder at TRI-LOCKER.
In conclusion
If TRI-LOCKER’s journey is emblematic of what strong, effective support for sustainability innovation looks like:
- a bold technical idea
- grounded in real materials science and life-cycle thinking
- evaluated and improved through expert feedback and assessment tools
- equipped with clear labelling so that the benefits are understood and delivered all the way to the consumer
- supported to grow, compete, and gain exposure
At OPRL, we believe in supporting members not just in complying, but in leading. TRI-LOCKER is doing exactly that. We couldn’t be prouder to be supporting them on their journey.
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