GlaxoSmithKline shortlists for packaging roster

GlaxoSmithKline has shortlisted groups pitching for a place on its UK consumer healthcare packaging design roster.

The pharmaceuticals giant, which kick-started the category’s first review since 2004 in July, is understood to have held a creative pitch with up to 12 consultancies vying for work on its portfolio of brands which includes Panadol, Lucozade, Nicorette/Niquitin, Beechams, Horlicks, Macleans, Ribena and Zovirax. Procurement manager Sara Cook is thought to have led the pitch process.

The review follows GSK’s re-evaluation of its global structural packaging roster last year, to which Blue Marlin, Slice Design and PI Global were thought to have been appointed. GSK has previously worked with Slice Design, Seachange Creative, The Brand Union (formerly Enterprise IG) and Coley Porter Bell on rebranding and strategic projects.

Earlier this year, GSK launched Aquafresh Iso-Active, an aerosol gel for its Aquafresh toothpaste range, designed by London consultancy Slice. Slice also relaunched the entire Aquafresh range and developed several products, including the White & Shine, Advanced and Kids ranges. Coley Porter Bell has also worked on the range.