Bottle Royale: Battle for Leak-Free Delivery (Survival of the fittest package.)

HeroX, in partnership with a major consumer packaged goods (CPG) company and yet2, has launched the “Bottle Royale: Battle for Leak-Free Delivery” challenge. This global open innovation competition seeks inventive packaging designs for large liquid detergent bottles to support both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail channels. The challenge addresses a critical issue: the incompatibility of current packaging with Amazon's distribution standards, particularly the stringent SIPP and PFP protocols. The competition is focused on creating a packaging solution that prevents leakage and minimizes damage during e-commerce delivery while maintaining consumer usability and compatibility with existing manufacturing processes. The primary objective is to develop a unified, leak-resistant packaging “system” for large HDPE liquid detergent bottles (100oz–175oz) that meets Amazon SIPP and PFP requirements. The company stresses that maintaining one universal packaging design is vital to avoid the inefficiencies and costs associated with dual packaging systems. This competition invites a diverse group of participants including packaging professionals, researchers, equipment manufacturers, students, and non-experts, to propose new concepts. The design must support both retail formats and enable integration with current manufacturing and filling lines with minimal capital investment. In addition to distribution compliance, the challenge emphasizes four key priorities: developing a single, unified packaging solution; ensuring consumer-friendly design and functionality; enabling seamless integration with current production equipment; and supporting adaptability for future market shifts. Entrants are encouraged to consider secondary packaging solutions, especially if they enhance the durability of primary packaging. However, automation readiness remains a critical requirement for any hybrid solutions. To participate, applicants must submit a two-page detailed proposal accompanied by non-AI-generated illustrations or technical drawings of their solution. CAD files and a two-minute demonstration video may also be submitted. Participants must describe the materials used, justify their innovation, and optionally include citations or supporting documentation. The proposal must demonstrate compliance with Amazon standards and outline the solution’s development maturity and potential for success. The total prize pool is $30,000, with a grand prize of $15,000 and a runner-up prize of $10,000. Additional awards of $1,000–$2,000 each may be given for outstanding features such as creativity, adaptability, or sustainability. The competition opened on March 25, 2025, and the submission deadline is May 22, 2025. Judging will take place from May 23 to June 25, 2025, with winners announced on June 26, 2025. Participation is open to individuals and teams worldwide, and no specific expertise is required. All submissions must be made in English through HeroX.com by the final deadline. Only original concepts will be considered, and entrants must agree to the Challenge-Specific Agreement, which outlines intellectual property rights and other legal terms. Proposals will be judged on a strict scorecard assessing Amazon protocol compliance, feasibility, user experience, and adaptability.