The finalists for the 2025 European Carton Excellence Award (ECEA) have been announced. Out of the 30 shortlisted entries, five are made of Metsä Board’s premium lightweight paperboard.
The ECEA, hosted annually by Pro Carton and the European Carton Makers Association (ECMA), has become a benchmark for excellence and creativity in the packaging industry.
“The wide variety of packaging solutions nominated this year clearly demonstrates the versatility of Metsä Board’s folding boxboard grades. Our lightweight paperboards deliver the strength and thickness of heavier materials while using less raw material. Their smooth surface also ensures excellent print quality and 
supports demanding finishes — perfect for creating innovative standout brand designs,” says Bettina Tschoner-Fuchs, Marketing Communications Manager at Metsä Board.
The winner will be revealed on 18 September at the ECEA 2025 ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey.
Lumene 24 Nordic Beauty Secrets
The LUMENE 24 Nordic Beauty Secrets advent calendar 
draws inspiration from the traditional Advent Wreath, reimagining it as a hexagonal tray filled with 24 puzzle-like boxes arranged in a spiral. Visually, the snowy landscapes and native berries are brought to life on high-brightness board, with translucent holographic foil and 3D embossing adding festive shimmer and tactile appeal, without compromising recyclability. The outer packaging is made of MetsäBoard Prime FBB Bright 380 g/m2, and the inner packaging is made of MetsäBoard Pro FBB Bright 220 g/m. The advent calendar was converted by Van Genechten Packaging.
Germaine de Capuccini Timexpert Lift IN
The promotional packaging for Germaine de Capuccini offers a new solution for the cosmetics sector. Its innovative opening system breaks away from conventional box formats, offering full product visibility and easy access when opened. The structure incorporates two strategically placed cuts that enable a clean, secure closure, preventing accidental openings and preserving the pack’s flawless presentation. Easy to assemble, handle, and shelf-ready, this case elevates the cosmetic routine while distinguishing the product as a premium offering in the competitive beauty care market. The packaging made of MetsäBoard Prime FBB Bright 305 g/m2, was converted by Alzamora Group.
Jelen Cosmetic Box
The Jelen Cosmetic Box was designed to minimise material use while maintaining a strong shelf presence. Instead of a conventional folding carton, each product is held in place by a banderole featuring a round die-cut that frames the product and adds visual interest. The minimalist yet distinctive design offers a practical, 
eye-catching packaging solution. The packaging, made of MetsäBoard Natural FBB 325 g/m2, was converted by STI Group | STI Gustav Stabernack GmbH.
Ringana CAPS
The packaging for Ringana CAPS delivers a bold and distinctive presentation. Upon opening, the packaging unfolds like a flower, revealing a centrally placed circular capsule container. Each inner flap is printed with detailed information on ingredients, 
dosage, and benefits, transforming the unboxing into an engaging, educational moment. Visually, the packaging pairs a refined black-and-blue colour scheme with a sleek structural design. More than a protective container, this packaging acts as a communication tool while reinforcing brand values. The packaging, made of MetsäBoard Natural FBB 325 g/m2 , was converted by Cardbox Packaging Wolfsberg GmbH.
BIOBALANCE Mineral sense sun fluid
The packaging for BIOBALANCE Mineral Sense sun fluid addresses a complex design challenge: to securely hold a round cosmetic product within a square carton while ensuring full product visibility, without the use of plastic windows or inserts. The solution is a fully paper-based structure that achieves transparency and security, while maintaining strong shelf appeal. Visually, the packaging impresses through multi-surface printing, soft-touch finishing, and hot foil stamping. The result is a design that combines protection, usability, and elevated aesthetics. The packaging, made of MetsaBoard Pro FBB Bright 245 g/m2, was converted by Omaks Packaging.
