DS Smith tests standing desks for ultimate office performance

Innovative corrugated board desk developed by packaging experts

DS Smith’s UK Packaging Division has created a prototype standing desk made entirely from corrugated board. The desk was produced for a member of staff who was interested in making lifestyle changes in response to a specific health need. 

Commercially available standing desk solutions can be expensive – costing anything up to £3,000 a time. However one DS Smith employee thought that the engineering skills and innovative materials at the heart of the company’s packaging operation could produce something that was just as effective at significantly lower cost.

After a few initial prototypes the design team produced an entirely free standing desk made from corrugated board, that is strong enough to support a computer and all the technology and paperwork that normally sit on a desk. Being made from corrugated board means it is also entirely sustainable and more cost effective than wooden or plastic alternatives.

“This is a great example of the ongoing innovation that lies within our business – our teams have that same enthusiasm to help customers overcome challenges and to deliver continuous improvement for them,” said Tony Foster, Sales and Marketing Director, at DS Smith’s UK packaging division. “We innovate every day in every way, and it’s great to see this having a positive impact on our own teams as well as the wider industry.”

The employee himself is delighted with the result, and he now uses the desk every day. He said: “It’s very practical and sturdy - it’s amazing what we can achieve when faced with a challenge!”

Employee health and wellbeing is extremely important to DS Smith and this innovative prototype standing desk is just one way the business is supporting healthy lifestyle habits. Working with national charity Heart Research UK, the supply cycle specialist is also offering healthy heart checks at its 31 sites – from Livingston to Launceston - providing workers with the opportunity to have their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, BMI and waist measurements checked and ask questions about their lifestyle habits.