Distribution testing at Smithers
Watch this video from Smithers distribution testing experts to get an overview of how they help clients validate packaging performance, simulating every part of the supply chain.
The Smithers magazine sachet and give-away test realistically simulates the physical hazards experienced by give-away samples from point of insertion into the magazine to point of sale. Commonly known as the 'Pira Test', the test protocol consists of three distinct physical tests performed sequentially:
During Pira Testing, samples are inspected to examine material and seal strength - both of these factors are vital in developing packs suitable for magazine insertion. Other issues are equally important, including product fill level and viscosity, location of the sample within the magazine and the size and weight of the magazine itself - these are all key to the overall performance in distribution and all are assessed through the Pira Test. No other test sequence assesses this full range of performance parameters.
Testing is normally based on a set of known parameters for the publication and sachet or give-away concerned, for example the magazine format and size, number of pages, location of sachet or give-away. The testing reproduces the intended real life magazine and sachet arrangement so delivers best possible simulation of intended use.
If the type of magazine associated with the give-away is not known at the time of testing, then 'Range Testing' can be requested. The sachet or give-away is tested in a 50 page title and a 450 page title to provide an assurance of performance across the normal range of magazine weights and sizes.
Laboratory-based testing offers the significant advantage of controlled, repeatable and rapid sample evaluation, allowing an objective assessment of real life performance.