Polystyrene might not be the flashiest material out there, but when it comes to protective packaging materials, it’s still one of the hardest-working and most reliable solutions in the game. For decades, businesses across the UK—and particularly here at Advanced Protective Packaging in Manchester—have relied on polystyrene to safeguard their products against damage during storage and shipping.
So, what’s the secret behind its staying power? Let’s unpack it.
It’s not just nostalgia that keeps polystyrene on top. This material offers some real perks, especially when lightweight protection is the goal.
One of polystyrene’s most notable features is its incredibly lightweight nature. Despite being barely there on the scales, it provides solid protection—especially against shocks and impacts. That means you can ship goods without adding extra weight (and cost). For companies seeking to reduce shipping costs, this is a game-changer.
Here’s something you may not know: expanded polystyrene is a brilliant insulator. It helps keep temperature-sensitive products safe from external changes. This makes it ideal for industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and electronics—where even a slight temperature shift can be a deal-breaker.
Let’s be honest—cost matters. And expanded polystyrene comes through with affordability that doesn’t sacrifice quality. You get reliable protection at a fraction of the cost of some other materials. It’s why so many of our clients continue to use it for both short-term and long-term packaging needs.
At Advanced Protective Packaging, we don’t just sell standard packaging—we create custom solutions tailored to your product’s shape, fragility, and requirements. When polystyrene is the right material, we cut, shape, and configure it exactly as you need.
And yes, we’ve got the skills and machinery to get it right every time. Whether you’re looking to cushion fragile items, insulate sensitive gear, or save on shipping, our expanded polystyrene packaging is designed to protect what matters most to your business.
From our base in Manchester, we proudly serve businesses throughout the region and beyond. We’ve been in the packaging game for decades, and we know what works—and what doesn’t. Our clients love working with us because we mix experience, personalised service, and cutting-edge solutions.
Need advice on whether polystyrene is the right call for your packaging? Please call us at 0161 724 8080. Our team’s always ready to help.
Polystyrene is excellent, but it’s not the only ace up our sleeve. Depending on your needs, we also offer a variety of protective packaging products that cater to different types of goods, shapes, and challenges:
Each material has its strengths, and we’re here to help you select the right combination for your packaging needs.
While traditional polystyrene isn’t biodegradable, it can be recycled—and we’re seeing more innovation in eco-friendly alternatives. We always work with customers to find the most sustainable solution possible for their packaging.
Absolutely! One of its most significant advantages is how easily it can be moulded, cut, and shaped to fit even the trickiest product designs.
Both offer lightweight protection, but polystyrene provides more structural support, especially for fragile items or those that require insulation. Bubble wrap, on the other hand, is better for light surface protection.
Yes! It’s often used for electronics packaging because it cushions impacts and provides thermal insulation. Just ensure that you combine it with anti-static properties when necessary.
When it comes to lightweight, cost-effective, and insulating protective packaging, polystyrene remains the leader. It might be old-school material, but it’s far from outdated. At Advanced Protective Packaging, we’ve helped countless clients across Manchester and the UK protect their goods with custom polystyrene solutions—and we’re ready to help you too.
👉 Curious if polystyrene is the right fit for your packaging needs?
📞 Give us a ring at 0161 724 8080 or head to our contact page.
And remember: Whether it’s foam, corrugated boxes, bubble wrap, or specialised tape—we’ve got you covered.
