Arbacommerce case: reusable fish trays designed for demanding fishing operations

When Croatian fish processor Arbacommerce wanted to improve the performance of its fish trays used during sea expeditions, the challenge was both operational and ergonomic.

The trays needed to withstand harsh conditions at sea, improve handling for fishermen, and better protect the fish during transport and storage onboard.

DW Reusables was asked to redesign the tray into a more durable, efficient, and sustainable solution adapted to real fishing environments

Fishing operations place heavy demands on handling equipment. Constant exposure to rough weather conditions, seawater, and intensive daily use caused the existing trays to wear out quickly, resulting in frequent replacements.

Space on fishing boats was also limited, making storage efficiency an important operational challenge.

In addition, the original tray design created ergonomic issues for fishermen. The trays were too deep, causing sardines and anchovies at the bottom to become compressed under the weight of the fish above. The absence of drainage holes meant seawater accumulated inside the trays, increasing carrying weight and making handling more difficult during long fishing operations.

A more practical and durable solution was required.

To fully understand the operational challenges, the DW Reusables development team joined fishermen onboard during sea expeditions and analysed how the trays were used in practice.

This hands-on approach led to several targeted design improvements.

The trays were produced in HDPE, selected for its durability, hygienic properties, and resistance to rough handling. Structural ribs were added around the handles to increase strength in demanding conditions.

The tray dimensions and height were optimised to reduce pressure on the fish and prevent overload. Ergonomic handles were integrated on all four sides to improve carrying comfort for fishermen during intensive daily use.

Drainage holes were added to allow seawater to flow out quickly, reducing weight and improving cleanability. In addition, the new design allows the trays to be stacked when full and nested when empty, significantly improving storage efficiency onboard.

The blue colour was also chosen deliberately. Beyond matching the maritime environment, the pigment reduces heat absorption from sunlight, helping preserve fish quality before processing.

The redesigned tray significantly improved day-to-day operations for Arbacommerce.

Weighing only 1 kg, the lightweight tray is easier to handle while remaining strong enough to withstand harsh fishing conditions. The integrated drainage holes reduce excess water weight and simplify cleaning processes after use.

The stackable and nestable design optimises storage space on the fishing boats, where every square metre matters.

At the same time, the reduced heat transfer and improved tray dimensions help preserve fish quality during transport, reducing product loss before processing and improving overall profitability.

The result is a reusable tray designed specifically around the realities of industrial fishing operations.

This project demonstrates how DW Reusables develops reusable packaging solutions by analysing operational reality first.

Rather than adapting standard products, we work closely with users in the field to understand practical challenges and improve functionality where it matters most. By combining ergonomic design, durable materials, and operational efficiency into one integrated solution, we help customers improve both performance and sustainability throughout their operations.

The result is packaging designed around people, processes, and long-term use.

Founded in 1993, Arbacommerce is one of Croatia’s leading fish processors, specialising in sardines and anchovies. The family-owned company processes more than 5,000 tonnes of fish annually and employs over 100 people across its operations.

We combine technical expertise, industry knowledge, and genuine collaboration to create reusable packaging solutions that perform in your operations today and evolve with your needs tomorrow.