Unusual designs from two US boxmakers won top honors in the 4th International Packaging Competition, held this spring in Loch Lomond, Scotland. The contest brought together entries from the National Paperbox Association (Alexandria, VA), the British Packaging Association and the Canadian Paperboard Packaging Association. The event showcases converters' design and manufacturing capabilities.

The Intl. Rigid Box winner, Warren, RI-based Taylor Box Co.'s "Centurion Welcome Kit," (A) was converted for American Express to package a credit card, benefit book and legal documents. The box organizes a significant amount of material for upscale customers, said judges. A metal end cap is attached to the box's base tray, and a paper hinged base and lid includes a 1-color hot-stamping.

The Intl. Folding Carton winner, Utah Paper Box Co.'s (Salt Lake City) "Christmas Cottage," (B) was manufactured for Salt Lake Candle. It incorporates a special auto-bottom and "cottage top," allowing the consumer to see, feel and smell the candle product, said judges. The carton was printed 4-color offset and detailed with hot-stamped foil.