DFNS and Tubex celebrate winning collaborative design
Image: DFNS
Tubex and DFNS‘ collaborative design, the adidas CARE by DFNS Footwear Protector powered by alu-air, has been honoured with the prestigious ADF Innovation Award at Paris Packaging Week 2025. Plastic waste and carbon emissions remain major global challenges. Rising to the occasion, Tubex and DFNS introduce alu-air technology, the world’s first air-powered dispensers.
The alu-air ‘powered by AIR’ device emits pure product at high pressure without harmful propellants, cutting CO2 emissions by 79% compared to traditional aerosols. The can is made from 95% recycled aluminium, using 90% less energy to produce than new materials. With on-can printing, the packaging is free from plastic labels and 100% recyclable. Additionally, a unique patented groove design ensures the bottle is both distinctive and recognisable on the shelf. More than just a design feature, it also serves as a visual representation of the packaging’s “powered by AIR” functionality, setting it apart for consumers.
Tubex, a leader in cutting-edge aerosol production, brings years of expertise and creativity to packaging innovation under its “Made in Germany” quality standards. DFNS was born in 2019 with the vision to become the world’s number one in athletic footwear and apparel care. Driven by sustainable innovation and increased consumer demand for more ethical goods, DFNS is leading the way in product care and trusted by industry leaders such as adidas. This globally recognised sports brand is among the first to adopt the groundbreaking, powered by alu-air packaging for its footwear and apparel care collection, which includes the award-winning adidas CARE by DFNS Footwear Protector.
The ADF Innovation Award recognises alu-air technology as a pivotal step toward the future of aerosols and dispensing systems. And the journey continues: the next phase of alu-air technology will include a “pressure control system,” allowing for even dispensing of non-water-soluble ingredients using air pressure. A recognition that underscores Tubex and DFNS’s commitment to revolutionising sustainable packaging, pushing boundaries, and setting new industry standards.
