Smurfit Kappa collaborates with local entrepreneur on sustainable chair for Pope’s visit

Smurfit Kappa has worked with a local entrepreneur to launch a portable and sustainable chair ahead of the Pope’s visit to Ireland.

Dublin man John McGarry had the brainwave for the chair after finding himself on his feet for hours at sporting events and concerts. With over half a million people going to gather in the Phoenix Park in Dublin to see Pope Francis later this month, he felt it was the perfect time to launch the chair.

He approached Smurfit Kappa Display in Tallaght with the idea and worked with a team there testing designs and prototypes to make it a reality.

The chair, which is sold flat and takes seconds to assemble, is made from corrugated board and can withhold a weight of up to 100kg. The design features an image of the Pope and the chair is 100% recyclable.

Speaking about the innovative new product John McGarry said: “I heard that people could be on their feet for up to eight hours when they go to see the Pope. This chair is very lightweight and has a handle so it’s completely portable.

“Alongside being a great souvenir of this historic day, it’s completely biodegradable and made from Forest Stewardship Council approved paper.”

John O’Loughlin, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Ireland added: “We welcomed the opportunity to work with John to create the Pope’s chair. 
“At Smurfit Kappa, we’re always keen to identify sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics and this chair is the perfect solution for people who may need to sit down either on their way to or inside the Phoenix Park.”

Papal-themed merchandise, including the chair, has been flying off the shelves in Ireland ahead of the Pope’s visit. You can shop for the chair here.