Interview | Wilfried Duivenvoorden, Unilever

Can you tell us a bit about yourself? What interested you to be involved in the packaging industry? What do you enjoy most in your role? 

I have been working at Unilever for over 20 years. What I am most interested in about packaging is the way it makes our products and brands stand out on shelves. It is very satisfying to see one of the projects you have worked on displayed. Something else I love is being able to interact with marketing, R&D, production, engineering, design, etc. 

Can you name a pack/ product/ design/ project that you have worked on and you are very proud of? 

We have worked on many projects for our main brands like Dove, Rexona, Axe. But one of the special ones was Day 2, a laundry product that removes wrinkles from your shirt and leaves a fresh scent. This prevents a full wash of the shirt and allows the customer to wear the shirt for an extra day.

In five years’ time, what does the future of packaging look like to you? 

I think there will be many more aerosol products made out of recycled materials or in case of polymers, more mono-materials.

What does innovation mean to you? 

I think innovation is the only way forward to grow as a company. Specifically for a company like Unilever with a wide portfolio of well known brands, innovation is the lifeline to develop and grow our brands.

What is a piece of advice you would give someone who wants to join the packaging industry? 

I would strongly recommend entering into the packaging industry. It can be challenging but gratifying when you see the final product on the shelves. You will also work closely with internal departments as well as with suppliers.

What has been your experience at Paris Packaging Week. What do you enjoy about it? What are your highlights from the event? 

Paris Packaging Week brings all the industry experts together in a central and compact location. It is much more than an exhibition, it is a true networking occasion. You will meet all the relevant people in the industry during the two days. It is well organised with all facilities provided for.

What or who inspires you (people, a book etc)? 

People who break through boundaries or challenge the status. People in sports, science, art, or in business, who go into unchartered territories. 

What do you do in your free time, outside of work? 

I like spending time with my family as well as learning what the world has to offer by visiting nice places and continue to work on myself to become a better person. 

What is your favourite destination in the world and why?

On one hand I like to travel to quiet places such as remote nature parks for a hike and enjoy the nature, and on the other hand I enjoy city trips.