TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to dispensers for products in stick form, for example cosmetics, lipsticks, lip balms, deodorants, adhesives and other products for topical application to a surface, for example to a person’s skin or lips. The product in stick form may be any consumer or personal care product, for example. The invention extends to an assembly comprising a dispenser in accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments in combination with a product in stick form, and to a package comprising a dispenser or assembly in accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments.

BACKGROUND

Stick products such as lipsticks are supplied in a number of dispensers. The most common dispensers comprise components made of plastics.

It is desirable to reduce the amount of plastic material used in the dispenser, and provide a more sustainable dispenser.

SUMMARY

From a first aspect, there is provided a dispenser for a product in stick form comprising: a product stick carrier comprising a product stick support for supporting a product stick in use; an outer sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick carrier, wherein the product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve disposed inwardly of the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable relative to the outer sleeve from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise inter-engaging flaps which cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position; and wherein the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard.

In accordance with the invention in this aspect, therefore, a dispenser for a product in stick form includes a product stick carrier fixed relative to an outer sleeve, and a product concealing sleeve disposed inwardly of the outer sleeve. The product concealing sleeve is retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve in order to expose a product stick supported by the product stick support in use. Inter-engaging flaps associated with the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The inter-engagement of the flaps prevents the product concealing sleeve from being detached from the dispenser. The inter-engagement of the flaps prevents the product concealing sleeve from being fully removed from inside the outer sleeve. The arrangement of the present invention provides a particularly effective paper or card-based dispenser arrangement.

The arrangement provides a dispenser which may be more readily manufactured from card or paper- based materials, and which may function reliably on repeated occasions to expose and cover a product in stick form.

For brevity, in any of the aspects or embodiment of the invention, the product concealing sleeve may be referred to as the “concealing sleeve” and the product stick carrier as the “carrier” herein.

It will be appreciated that the outer sleeve is a (radially) outer sleeve relative to the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier. It may define at least a part of an outermost surface of the dispenser. However, arrangements in which additional component(s) are present radially outward of the outer sleeve are not excluded.

The product stick is arranged radially inwardly of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve in use, and projects beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve. Thus the product stick projects upwardly from the outer sleeve. The product concealing sleeve may be retracted or advanced (e.g. lowered or raised) within the outer sleeve to expose or cover the product stick. The product stick is supported by the product support of the product stick carrier in use.

The product stick will project beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve and a distal end of the product stick carrier in all operative states of the dispenser. The product stick extends in the above mentioned manner at least when an assembly including the dispenser and product stick is produced and prior to depletion of the product stick. The length of the product stick which is exposed will depend upon the position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. Retraction e.g. lowering of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will expose an increasingly greater portion of a length of the product stick while advancement e.g. raising of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will cover an increasingly greater portion of a length of the product stick.

The product stick remains static and is selectively exposed by movement of the product concealing sleeve of the dispenser. The outer sleeve also remains static with the product concealing sleeve moving between extended and retracted positions relative thereto.

Where a product stick is present in the dispenser, the product stick may be arranged in the above described manner. In those aspects and embodiments of the invention relating to a dispenser not necessarily in combination with a product stick, the dispenser is configured such that, when located therein in use, a product stick may be arranged in any of the above described manners. The dispenser defines a longitudinal axis. This define an axial direction with respect to the dispenser and its components. The outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve, and, where provided, product stick, each define a respective longitudinal axis. The outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and, where provided, product stick are each elongate. The product stick carrier may also define a longitudinal axis and may be elongate. The outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve, and, where provided, product stick, share the same longitudinal axis in the dispenser i.e. they are concentric. The product stick carrier may also share the same longitudinal axis. The dispenser (and the product stick carrier, outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve, and, where provided, product stick) each define a transverse direction. The product stick carrier (and, where provided, product stick) may be fixed to the outer sleeve so as to be centred in the transverse directions with respect to the outer sleeve.

The outer sleeve is disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier. The product concealing sleeve is disposed radially inwardly of the outer sleeve.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, the product concealing sleeve may be disposed outwardly of the product stick carrier between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve. The product concealing sleeve is disposed radially outward of the product stick carrier, radially between the product stick carrier and outer sleeve. The inter-engagement of the flaps where present may retain the product concealing sleeve between the product stick carrier and outer sleeve.

In accordance with any of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention or the second aspect of the invention (which is described below), the product stick carrier preferably comprises a proximal end and a distal end, and sidewalls connecting the proximal and distal ends thereof. The product stick carrier may be elongate. The sidewalls extend along an axial direction of the product stick carrier and dispenser. The product stick carrier may comprise one or more, and preferably a plurality of sidewalls.

In some embodiments of the invention in its first or second aspects, the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier and outer sleeve each comprise a plurality of sidewalls, and each sidewall of the product concealing sleeve is located between a sidewall of the product stick carrier and a sidewall of the outer sleeve.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments the product concealing sleeve may be disposed directly (radially) outwardly of the product stick carrier. The outer sleeve may be disposed directly outwardly of the product concealing sleeve.

The product concealing sleeve may be retractable relative to the outer sleeve from the first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve toward a second, fully retracted position for exposing the product stick in use. The concealing sleeve is retractable from the first, fully extended position to the second, fully retracted position. The second, fully retracted position is a set point, which, in embodiments, may, like the first fully retracted position, be defined by the action of inter-engaging flaps (or, more broadly, inter-engaging formations in some further aspects and embodiments), as described below. In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments the product concealing sleeve is freely movable between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions for exposing and covering the product stick in use. Thus the concealing sleeve may be retracted and advanced to expose and cover the product stick respectively. The concealing sleeve is mounted for reciprocating movement between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions relative to the outer sleeve. Unless otherwise stated (i.e. in relation to certain embodiments of the fourth aspect below), the first, fully extended position is a predefined, set position determined by the action of the inter- engaging flaps or formations. The second, fully retracted position is also a predefined, set position. The product concealing sleeve may have a predetermined range of travel relative to the outer sleeve (and, in embodiments, product stick support), defined between the set positions corresponding to the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions.

The product concealing sleeve is, in any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention, movable manually by a user. Thus, the product concealing sleeve is retracted or advanced by a user between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positons.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve so that neither rotational nor sliding movement of the product stick carrier relative to the outer sleeve is possible. Thus, movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will correspond to movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier. The product concealing sleeve is thus retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and the product stick carrier for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in order to expose a product stick supported by the product stick support of the product stick carrier in use. The product concealing sleeve may be retractable from the first, fully extended position to a second fully retracted position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier in order to expose the product stick.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, a distal end of the product concealing sleeve may extend beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve when the product concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position. This may enable the user to more easily grasp the product concealing sleeve in order to advance the product concealing sleeve when it is desired to advance the product concealing sleeve toward the first, fully extended position once more. The distal end of the product concealing sleeve may or may not additionally extend beyond a distal end of the product stick carrier when the product concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. A distal end of the product stick carrier may project beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve. The distal end of the product stick carrier will then project beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve in all operative conditions of the dispenser.

A proximal portion of the product concealing sleeve may slide within the outer sleeve as the product concealing sleeve is retracted and advanced relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The product concealing sleeve may be slidably disposed between the outer sleeve and product stick carrier. A proximal portion of the product concealing sleeve may slide between the outer sleeve and product stick carrier as the product concealing sleeve is retracted and advanced relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The product concealing sleeve is slidable relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier). In accordance with the first and second aspects of the invention the product concealing sleeve is preferably rotationally fixed with respect to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier. Thus, movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve preferably occurs without rotation in these aspects and embodiments of the invention.

The product concealing sleeve is snugly received in the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be snugly received within the product concealing sleeve.

In accordance with the invention in its first and second aspects the dispenser is multi-sided. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and optionally the product stick carrier are each multi sided, and may each comprise three or more sides. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may have the same number of sides. However, it is envisaged that the product concealing sleeve may have a lesser number of sides than the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may, where it comprises sidewalls, have the same number of sides as the outer sleeve, although it is envisaged that it may comprise fewer. Each component may have the same number of sides. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and optionally the product stick carrier, each comprise sidewalls, and may each include three or more sidewalls. For example, each component may have any one of 3, 4, 5 or 6 sidewalls. The most appropriate number of sides may depending upon the desired properties of a given dispenser. Each component may comprise at least one, and optionally a plurality of pairs of opposed sidewalls.

In some embodiments, the product stick carrier, product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve each comprise four sidewalls.

In accordance with the invention in its first and second aspects, the dispenser is preferably of noncircular cross section i.e. transverse cross section. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and optionally product stick carrier may each be of non-circular cross section. The dispenser may define any desired shape in transverse cross-section. For example, the dispenser may be square or rectangular in transverse-cross section.

The product stick carrier, product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may each be of the same cross sectional shape. However, it is envisaged that, depending upon the configuration of the product stick carrier, the product stick carrier may be of a different shape. In some embodiments, each of the product stick carrier, product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve is of square or rectangular transverse cross-section.

As discussed above, the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise inter-engaging flaps (or, in some further aspects and embodiments, more generally inter-engaging formations) which cooperate with one another to limit the travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond the first, fully extended position. The inter-engaging flaps or formations may cooperate with one another to retain the product concealing sleeve between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve.

Unless otherwise stated (i.e. in relation to certain embodiments of the fourth aspect below), the first, fully extended position is a position set by the action of the inter-engaging flaps (or, more generally, inter-engaging formations in the further aspects and embodiments of the invention described below).

In accordance with any of the aspects and embodiments described herein ,the term “fully extended” as used herein in reference to the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments refers to a position that corresponds to the maximum available travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in the direction so as to advance the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The extent to which the product concealing sleeve projects beyond the outer sleeve may vary depending upon factors such as the intended use of the dispenser, the type and dimensions of the product stick with which it is to be used etc. Likewise, the term “fully retracted” as used herein in reference to the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments refers to a position that corresponds to the maximum available travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in the direction so as to retract the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in the second, fully retracted position may vary depending upon factors such as the intended use of the dispenser, the type and dimensions of the product stick with which it is to be used etc.

In accordance with the invention in its first or second aspects, one or more pair of inter-engaging flaps may be provided. For example, from 1-4 such pairs of inter-engaging flaps may be provided. Regardless of the number of pairs of inter-engaging flaps, each pair of flaps may be associated with a respective pair of adjacent sidewalls of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve. The adjacent sidewalls are radially adjacent. Each one of the inter-engaging flaps in the pair of flaps is associated with one of the respective pair of adjacent sidewalls of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve. Where multiple pairs of inter-engaging flaps are provided, they are associated with different pairs of adjacent sidewalls. In some embodiments fewer pairs of inter-engaging flaps are provided than a number of pairs of adjacent product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve sidewalls. For example, one or two fewer pairs may be provided. Providing fewer pairs of inter-engaging flaps may facilitate sliding of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. Conversely, providing a greater number of inter-engaging flaps may facilitate obtaining secure engagement between the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve.

In the context of a four sided outer sleeve, for example, one, two or three pairs of inter-engaging flaps may be provided, each associated with a different adjacent pair of sidewalls of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve.

Regardless of how many pairs of inter-engaging flaps are provided, each pair of inter-engaging flaps comprises a flap associated with the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve and a flap associated with the distal end of the outer sleeve. The flaps may be connected along respective foldlines to a sidewall of the product concealing sleeve or outer sleeve as appropriate at an end thereof.

In embodiments, the inter-engaging flaps comprise at least one pair of inter-engaging flaps, each pair of inter-engaging flaps comprising a locking flap at the distal end of the outer sleeve and an engagement flap at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, wherein: the locking flap is folded inwardly at the distal end of the outer sleeve so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve; and the engagement flap is folded outwardly at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve so as to extend along the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end of the product concealing sleeve.

The locking flap and engagement flap of each pair of inter-engaging flaps may be associated respectively with adjacent sidewalls of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve. The adjacent sidewalls are radially adjacent sidewalls.

Each locking flap may be connected along a foldline to a respective sidewall of the outer sleeve at the distal end of the outer sleeve. Each engagement flap may be connected along a foldline to a respective sidewall of the product concealing sleeve at the proximal end thereof.

Each locking flap and each engagement flap may comprise a first end and a second end. The first and second ends may be referred to as proximal and distal ends respectively. The locking flap may be connected at the first end of the flap along a foldline to the distal end of the outer sleeve and the engagement flap may be connected at the first end of the flap along a foldline to the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve.

In each pair of inter-engaging flaps, an end edge of the engagement flap may be configured to engage an end edge of the locking flap to prevent further movement of the concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end of the outer sleeve to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The end edges of the locking flap and engagement flap which engage one another are edges at the second (or distal) ends of the flaps. These are the free end edges of the flaps.

It will be appreciated that the dimensions of the flaps, i.e. the lengths thereof, may be used to define how far the product concealing sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve in the first, fully extended position. The range of travel may vary widely depending upon the desired properties of the dispenser, such as the desired strength and stability properties thereof, the nature and configuration of product stick with which it is to be used etc. In some exemplary embodiments in accordance with any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention including locking flap(s), and by way of example only and not limitation, each locking flap extends a distance of at least 5% or at least 10% or at least 15% or at least 20% of a length of the outer sleeve from the distal end of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end thereof. Alternatively or additionally, and by way of example only and not limitation, each locking flap may extend a distance of no more than 60%, or no more than 40%, or no more than 30% of a length of the outer sleeve from the distal end of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end thereof. Alternatively or additionally, and by way of example only and not limitation, each engagement flap may extend a distance of at least 5% or at least 10% or at least 15% of a length of the product concealing sleeve from the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end thereof. Alternatively or additionally, and by way of example only and not limitation, each engagement flap may extend a distance of no more than 50% or no more than 30% or no more than 25% of a length of the product concealing sleeve from the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end thereof.

The product concealing sleeve may have a proximal portion which, in the fully extended position, does not extend beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve. In embodiments in which the end edges of the locking and engagement flaps engage one another, the proximal portion may have a length corresponding to a total length of the locking and engagement flaps.

In accordance with the invention in any of the embodiments of the first or second aspect of the invention, each locking flap of the outer sleeve may or may not be bonded to an interior surface of the outer sleeve e.g. to an interior surface of a respective outer sleeve sidewall with which the locking flap is associated. Each engagement flap of the product concealing sleeve may or may not be bonded to the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve. Whether or not the locking and/or engagement flaps are bonded down may depend upon the intended properties of the dispenser, e.g. size, shape and stability, and the method of manufacture etc. Any combination of bonded and unbonded locking and engagement flaps may be used. Embodiments in which the engagement flaps are bonded down may provide a more rigid and stable device, and may also aid assembly where the product concealing sleeve is pushed into the outer sleeve during manufacture i.e. where the outer sleeve receives the product concealing sleeve. In this context, it has been found that there may be no need to bond down the locking flaps on the outer sleeve, since the product concealing sleeve will be pushed past the locking flaps in the direction of folding of the locking flaps. Of course, depending upon the method of assembly, it may be more appropriate to alternatively or additionally bond down the locking flaps. In some embodiments at least one of the locking flap(s) and engagement flap(s) are bonded down to the interior surface of the outer sleeve or the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve as appropriate.

It is envisaged that in some arrangements, the locking flaps may, rather than engaging end to end with the engagement flaps, slide underneath the engagement flaps so the end edge of a locking flap engages with the foldline that connects the engagement flap to a product concealing sleeve sidewall. The locking flaps and engagement flaps will then be unbonded to the interior of the outer sleeve and the exterior of the product concealing sleeve respectively.

In the dispenser, the locking flaps and engagement flaps are located between the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve sidewalls.

The outer sleeve may comprise at least one fewer locking flaps than sidewalls of the outer sleeve. As mentioned above, the outer sleeve may, in embodiments of the first and second aspects of the invention, comprise a plurality of outer sleeve sidewalls, such as four sidewalls. The sidewalls may comprise at least one pair of opposed sidewalls, and may comprise two pairs of opposed sidewalls. For example, the outer sleeve may comprise first, second, third and fourth outer sleeve sidewalls.

The sidewalls are connected to one another along foldlines along the side edges thereof. Each sidewall may be connected to an adjacent sidewall along a foldline to define a closed sided configuration of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may include an assembly flap attached to one of the outer sleeve sidewalls (e.g. a fourth outer sleeve sidewall) along a foldline at a side edge of the outer sleeve sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded surface-to-surface to a one of the outer sleeve sidewalls adjacent the one of the outer sleeve sidewalls to which the assembly flap is attached along a foldline, e.g. to the first outer sleeve sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded to a surface of said outer sleeve sidewall. The bonding may be direct bonding or indirect bonding e.g. over a region in which an intermediate flap is present. In any of the embodiments including an assembly flap, the assembly flap may be a glue flap.

In some embodiments, the outer sleeve sidewall to which the assembly flap is bonded comprises a side flap connected along a foldline to a free side edge thereof. The side flap is bonded to an interior of the sidewall. The side flap avoids the presence of a visible cut edge at the edge of the sidewall and may act to reinforce the sidewall, imparting the region in which it is present with an additional layer. This may facilitate manufacture and improve appearance. The free side edge refers to the side edge of the sidewall which is not connected along a foldline to an adjacent sidewall. The side flap is sandwiched between the assembly flap and the sidewall to which the assembly flap is bonded. The side flap extends over only a portion of the area of the sidewall to which it is bonded. The side flap may be trapezoidal. However, it will be understood that the use of a side flap is only optional. For example, depending upon factors such as a basis weight of the sheet material used to provide the outer sleeve, a desire to minimise material used, or the extent to which it is desired to avoid visible cut edges, a side flap may or may not be used.

Where locking flaps are associated with less than all of the sidewalls of the outer sleeve, an end flap may optionally be associated with the distal end of any other one(s) of the sidewalls. The end flap may be connected along a foldline to the distal end of the sidewall and folded inwardly so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve in the same way as the locking flaps. The end flap may be bonded to the interior surface of the outer sleeve sidewall. However, no engagement flap is provided to engage with the end flap. The end flap acts to avoid the presence of a visible cut edge at the distal end of the sidewall with which it is associated and may reinforce the distal end of the outer sleeve in the same manner as do the locking flaps, such that the locking flap(s) and end flap(s) together provide the distal end of each sidewall with a multi-ply construction. Where a side flap is also associated with an outer sleeve sidewall along a free side edge of one of the sidewalls thereof as described above, the side and end flaps may have complimentary shapes to avoid the side and end flaps from overlapping one another. However, it will be appreciated that, for example, where the presence of a visible cut edge is of less concern, or where it is desired to use a lesser amount of material, the end flaps may be omitted.

In accordance with the first or second aspect of the invention in any of its embodiments, the outer sleeve may comprise one or more stopper flaps at the proximal end of the outer sleeve, each stopper flap being folded inwardly so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve from the proximal end of the outer sleeve toward the distal end of the outer sleeve, wherein each stopper flap is configured to engage a proximal end of the product concealing sleeve to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in a direction from the distal end toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve to define a second, fully retracted position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. An end edge of the stopper flap may engage the proximal end of the concealing sleeve. Any suitable number of stopper flaps may be used, and there may be fewer stopper flaps than sidewalls of the outer sleeve and/or product concealing sleeve e.g. at least one, such as one or two fewer.

The stopper flaps may or may not be bonded to the interior surface of the outer sleeve. As described in relation to the locking and engagement flaps, whether or not the stopper flaps are bonded down may depend upon factors such as the intended shape, size and stability of the dispenser, and the method of manufacture. In some embodiments the stopper flaps are bonded to the interior surface of the outer sleeve.

Each stopper flap (e.g. an end edge thereof) is thus configured to engage the proximal end of the concealing sleeve when the concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position to limit the travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond the second, fully retracted position.

The extent of possible travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve may be defined by a distance between the opposed end edges of locking flaps associated with the distal end of the outer sleeve and stopper flaps associated with the proximal end thereof.

The length of a stopper flap may be chosen as desired to control the distance by which the product concealing sleeve extends relative to the outer sleeve and/or product stick carrier when in a fully retracted position. For example, by way of example only and not by limitation, the stopper flap may extend a distance of at least 5% or at least 10% or at least 15% of the length of the outer sleeve from the proximal end of the outer sleeve toward the distal end thereof. Alternatively or additionally, and by way of example only, and not limitation, the stopper flap may extend a distance of less than 50% or no more than 40% or less than 30% or less than 25% of a length of the outer sleeve from the proximal end toward the distal end thereof.

In embodiments in which the product concealing sleeve comprises one or more outwardly folded engagement flaps at the proximal end thereof, each engagement flap being connected along a foldline to a proximal end of a sidewall of the product concealing sleeve, the stopper flap may engage the foldline at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve connecting a respective one of said one or more engagement flaps to the sidewall. Thus, in these embodiments, the engagement flaps may be used in defining both the first, fully extended, and second, fully retracted positions of the product concealing sleeve. The use of stopper flaps is advantageous, but other methods may be used to define the fully retracted position. For example, the base of the product concealing sleeve might simply abut a base of the outer sleeve. It will also be understood that stopper flaps need not be used, or need not only be used, in conjunction with sidewalls of the outer sleeve adjacent sidewalls of the product concealing sleeve that are also associated with engagement flaps. Where an end flap that does not provide an engagement flap is provided at the proximal end of a sidewall of the product concealing sleeve, the stopper flap may engage a foldline connecting the end flap to the sidewall of the product concealing sleeve.

Regardless of its construction, the outer sleeve may be closed at a proximal end of the outer sleeve. This may provide a closed base to the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may comprise a base panel closing a proximal end of the outer sleeve. Any suitable arrangement may be used to secure the base panel in position. For example, a set of one or more flaps may be associated with the base panel, each being joined to an edge of the base panel along a respective foldline. Each flap may be tucked into a space between the outer sleeve and the product stick carrier to retain the base panel in position closing the proximal end of the outer sleeve. For example, from 1-3 such flaps may be provided. The use of such flaps may help to secure the base panel in place, and may help to provide a more secure base panel to which the product stick carrier may be affixed, in certain embodiments at least. At least some of the one or more flaps may be bonded to the interior of a respective sidewall of the outer sleeve at the proximal end thereof. One or more of the flaps may additionally be bonded to the exterior of the product stick carrier to aid in fixing the outer sleeve to the product stick carrier. However, such arrangements are merely exemplary, and any suitable method of closing the base of the outer sleeve, and where appropriate, securing a base panel thereof, may be used.

Where the outer sleeve comprises a base panel, the base panel may be attached to a proximal end of a panel of the outer sleeve. The panel may be a panel forming part of a sidewall of the outer sleeve, or, where provided, an assembly flap. In embodiments in which the outer sleeve comprises an assembly flap, the base panel may be attached to a proximal end of the assembly flap along a foldline. However, any suitable arrangement may be used.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be fixed directly or indirectly to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be fixed to the outer sleeve in any manner which does not impede the intended movement of the product concealing sleeve. In embodiments the product stick is fixed e.g. bonded to a base of the outer sleeve. A base of the product stick carrier may be fixed to a base of the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be fixed to the outer sleeve only through bonding of the product stick carrier to a base of the outer sleeve.

This may permit the product concealing sleeve to move freely relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier) between fully extended and fully retracted positions. The product carrier may be bonded to the outer sleeve so as to be centred in the transverse direction with respect to the outer sleeve.

In embodiments in which the outer sleeve comprises a base panel closing a proximal end of the outer sleeve, the product carrier may be bonded to the base panel to fix the product stick carrier to the outer sleeve. The product carrier may be bonded to the outer sleeve only via the base panel of the outer sleeve or may additionally be bonded to one or more base flaps associated with the base panel of the outer sleeve, where provided. Thus, in fixing the base of the product stick carrier to the base of the outer sleeve, bonding may be present between the proximal ends of the sidewalls of the product stick carrier and outer sleeve and/or between base panels at the proximal ends of the product stick carrier and outer sleeve.

In any of the embodiments of the invention in its first or second aspects, the product concealing sleeve may comprise a plurality of product concealing sleeve sidewalls, such as three or four sidewalls. The product concealing sleeve may comprise at least one pair, e.g. two pairs of opposed sidewalls. For example, the product concealing sleeve may comprise first, second, third and optionally fourth product concealing sleeve sidewalls. The sidewalls are connected to one another along foldlines along the side edges thereof. The product concealing sleeve may, where it defines a closed sided configuration, include an assembly flap attached to one of the outer sleeve sidewalls (e.g. a fourth product concealing sleeve sidewall) along a foldline at a side edge of the product concealing sleeve sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded surface-to-surface to a one of the product concealing sleeve sidewalls adjacent the one of the product concealing sleeve sidewalls to which the assembly flap is connected along a foldline, e.g. to the first product concealing sleeve sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded to a surface of said product concealing sleeve sidewall. The bonding may be direct or indirect bonding (e.g. where an intervening side flap of the product concealing sleeve is present).

The product concealing sleeve sidewall to which the assembly flap is bonded may optionally comprise a side flap along a free side edge thereof. The free edge is the side edge which is not connected along a foldline to an adjacent sidewall of the product concealing sleeve. The assembly flap may be bonded to the side flap of the sidewall, with the side flap sandwiched between the sidewall and the assembly flap. In some embodiments the side flap and assembly flap are both trapezoidal. The side flap may extend over only a portion of the area of the sidewall. In some embodiments, the assembly flap extends only over the portion of the sidewall in which the side flap is present. The presence of a side flap may act to avoid a visible cut edge and may enhance the strength of the product concealing sleeve. However, where such considerations are of lesser importance, the use of a side flap may be omitted.

Regardless of the construction of the product concealing sleeve, in some embodiments the product concealing sleeve comprises a plurality of end flaps attached to the distal ends of at least some of the product concealing sleeve sidewalls, and optionally to a distal end of each one of the sidewalls. Each end flap may be connected to its respective sidewall along a foldline. Each end flap is folded inwardly and extends along an interior surface of the sidewall with which it is associated toward the proximal end of the concealing sleeve. Each end flap may be bonded to the inner surface of the respective concealing sleeve sidewall with which it is associated.

Each end flap preferably has a length less than a length of the sidewall of the product concealing sleeve with which it is associated. In some embodiments, each end flap has a length at least as great as a length of a portion of the product concealing sleeve that extends beyond the distal end of the product stick carrier when the concealing sleeve is in the first, fully extended position relative to the product stick carrier. The end flaps may avoid a visible cut edge at the distal end of the sidewalls with which they are associated and may provide an additional layer in a distal portion of the concealing sleeve, reinforcing the part of the product concealing sleeve which protrudes relative to the product stick carrier. The use of such end flaps is optional, and such flaps may or may not be provided, depending upon the intended properties of the dispenser, and the extent to which the presence of cut edges etc. is of importance.

Where side flap is associated with a side edge of one of the sidewalls of the product concealing sleeve, an end flap associated with a distal end of the sidewall may have a complimentary shape to the side flap such that the side and end flaps do not overlap. This may avoid creating a regions of excessive thickness in the product concealing sleeve.

As mentioned above, in accordance with any of the embodiments of the invention in its first or second aspects, the product concealing sleeve includes one or more engagement flaps at the proximal end thereof, which each form part of a pair of inter-engaging flaps with corresponding set of one or more locking flaps of the outer sleeve. For example, from 1-4 engagement flaps may be provided. In some embodiments, the product concealing sleeve includes at least one fewer engagement flaps than the number of product concealing sleeve sidewalls, such as one or two fewer, or even more, depending upon the number of product concealing sleeve sidewalls. This may facilitate sliding of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve.

In accordance with any of the embodiments of the first or second aspects of the invention, the product stick carrier may be of any suitable form. In a simple embodiment, the product stick carrier might be in the form of a planar piece of material fixed relative to the outer sleeve and to which the base of a product stick may be bonded in use. The product stick carrier might then secured e.g. bonded to the base of the outer sleeve. In other embodiments, the product stick carrier might be an annular member arranged to receive the base of a product stick. However, preferably the product stick carrier comprises proximal and distal ends connected by one or more sidewalls as described above.

While the invention is described in relation to the case in which the product stick carrier is of paper or card-based material, it is envisaged that, in other embodiments, it could be made of other materials. However, for sustainability benefits, the product stick carrier is preferably of paper or card-based material.

The product stick carrier comprises a product stick support. The product stick carrier may comprise a proximal end and a distal end, the distal portion comprising the product stick support. The product stick support may be spaced from a proximal end of the product stick carrier e.g. by sidewalls of the product stick support. This may raise up the product stick away from the base of the dispenser, allowing fuller use of the product stick.

The product stick support may comprise a platform for supporting the base of a product stick. The product stick support preferably additionally provides support to the sides of a base of a product stick. The platform may be recessed from the distal end of the product stick support. The platform may be a continuous platform. The platform may close a distal end of the product stick support.

Preferably the product stick carrier comprises a plurality of sidewalls. The product stick carrier may comprise the same number of sidewalls as the outer sleeve.

Preferably the product concealing sleeve slides over the product stick carrier as it retracts from the first, fully extended position. The product concealing sleeve may slide over the product stick carrier as it moves between first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions. Sidewalls of the product concealing sleeve may slide over adjacent sidewalls of the product stick carrier.

In preferred embodiments the product stick support comprises a cradle portion. The cradle portion may comprise a first pair of opposed flaps, each one of the opposed flaps being attached, at a proximal end of the flap, to a distal end of a respective one of a first pair of opposed sidewalls of the product stick carrier along a foldline. Each flap of the first pair of opposed flaps includes a proximal portion extending from the distal end of the carrier sidewall with which it is associated along the interior surface thereof toward the proximal end of the product stick carrier sidewall. The flaps are thus folded inwardly. The proximal portion of the flap may be bonded to the interior surface of the product stick carrier sidewall. Each flap of the first opposed pair of flaps further comprises a distal portion connected along a foldline to the proximal portion of the flap, the distal portion of the flap extending across the interior of the product stick carrier from the product stick carrier sidewall to which the flap is attached along a foldline toward the opposed product stick carrier sidewall. The distal portions of the pair of opposed flaps are bonded to each other in a face-to-face relationship to create a support for the product in stick form. The distal portions of the pair of opposed flaps may extend across the entire width of the product stick carrier. This may close the end of the product stick carrier.

The cradle portion provides a platform for supporting the base of a product stick recessed from the distal end of the product stick carrier by the distance defined by the proximal portions of the first pair of opposed flaps. The cradle portion is provided at a distal portion of the product stick carrier.

The product stick carrier may optionally include a second opposed pair of flaps attached to the distal end of a second pair of opposed carrier sidewalls. The second opposed pair of flaps may be bonded to the interior surface of the second pair of opposed carrier sidewalls. The flaps are thus folded inwardly. These flaps may act to avoid a visible cut edge at the distal end of the sidewalls of the carrier, and may also reinforce the distal ends of the walls which are not associated with the first opposed pair of flaps. The proximal portions of the first pair of flaps may reinforce the distal ends of the sidewalls with which they are associated and the presence of the first pair of flaps will also avoid a cut edge at the distal end of the sidewalls with which they are associated. Each one of the second opposed pair of flaps may have a length at least as long as the proximal portions of the first opposed pair of flaps. In some embodiments, each sidewall which is not associated with one of the first opposed pair of flaps may be associated with a flap attached to a distal end thereof and extending along the interior of the sidewall toward the proximal end of the product stick carrier. The end flap may be bonded to the interior of the sidewall. Each flap may have a length at least as long as the proximal portions of the first opposed pair of flaps.

In any of the embodiments of the invention in its first or second aspects, the product stick carrier may comprise a plurality of product stick carrier sidewalls, such as four sidewalls. The product stick carrier may comprise at least one pair, such as two pairs of opposed sidewalls. For example, the product stick carrier may comprise first, second, third and fourth product stick carrier sidewalls. The sidewalls are connected to one another along foldlines along the side edges thereof. The product stick carrier may define a closed sided configuration. The product stick carrier may include an assembly flap attached to one of the outer sleeve sidewalls (e.g. a fourth product stick carrier sidewall) along a foldline at a side edge of the product stick carrier sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded surface-to- surface to a one of the product stick carrier sidewalls adjacent the one of the product stick carrier sidewalls to which the assembly flap is connected along a foldline, e.g. to the first product stick carrier sidewall. The assembly flap is bonded to a surface of said product stick carrier sidewall. The bonding may be direct or indirect bonding (e.g. where an intervening end flap is present). An end flap associated with the distal end of the sidewall to which the assembly flap is bonded may be sandwiched between the sidewall and the assembly flap.

The product stick carrier may comprise a closed base. The product stick carrier may comprise a base panel closing the base thereof. One or more base flaps may be provided underlying the base panel. The base panel may be bonded to a base panel of the outer sleeve.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, the product stick carrier may have a length of at least 50% of a length of the outer sleeve, or at least 75% of the length of the outer sleeve, and preferably has a length greater than a length of the outer sleeve. Alternatively or additionally, the product stick carrier may have a length of at least 50% of a length of the outer sleeve, or at least 75% of the length of the outer sleeve, and preferably has a length greater than that of the product concealing sleeve. The above ranges are merely by way of example and not by limitation.

In some exemplary embodiments the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may be of the same or similar length.

In some further aspects and embodiments of the invention, it is envisaged that a product carrier may be omitted, and a product stick may, for example, be bonded directly to the outer sleeve e.g. to the base thereof. The use of inter-engaging flaps associated with a product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve of the dispenser in such arrangements, which do not necessarily include a product stick carrier, is advantageous in its own right. In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided an assembly comprising a dispenser for a product in stick form and a product in stick form located therein; wherein the dispenser comprises; an outer sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick, wherein the product stick is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick between the product stick and the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve for concealing the product stick in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise inter-engaging flaps which cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position; and wherein the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve are each formed of a paper- based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard.

The present invention in this second aspect may include any or all of the features described in the earlier aspect (i.e. first aspect) or embodiments of the invention, to the extent they are not mutually exclusive.

In particular, the construction of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and the way in which they cooperate with one another, may be in accordance with any of the previously described embodiments. The inter-engagement of the flaps to define the first, fully extended position may function in the same manner as in the earlier embodiments. The product concealing sleeve may be movable between a first, fully extended and second, fully retracted position as previously described. Any of the ranges of extent of the flaps or of movement of the product concealing sleeve are equally applicable to this further aspect and embodiments.

The product stick may be fixed in any desired manner to the outer sleeve, and may be fixed directly or indirectly thereto. For example, a base of the product stick may be secured e.g. bonded to the base of the outer sleeve i.e. to an interior of the base of the outer sleeve.

The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may each comprise three or more sidewalls, such as four sidewalls. The product concealing sleeve may have the same number of sidewalls as the outer sleeve. Where no product stick carrier is provided between the product concealing sleeve and product stick, this may help to guide the product concealing sleeve.

The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may each be formed from a respective blank of sheet material, optionally a single piece blank of sheet material.

Each of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may be of square or rectangular transverse cross-section. The inter-engaging flaps of the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve may comprise at least one pair of inter-engaging flaps, each pair of inter-engaging flaps comprising a locking flap at the distal end of the outer sleeve and an engagement flap at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, wherein: the locking flap is folded inwardly at the distal end of the outer sleeve so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve; and the engagement flap is folded outwardly at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve so as to extend along the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end of the concealing sleeve.

In each pair of inter-engaging flaps, an end edge of the locking flap may be configured to engage an end edge of the engagement flap to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end of the outer sleeve to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. As discussed in respect of the earlier aspects of the invention, either one or both of the engagement and locking flaps may be bonded down or left unbonded.

The outer sleeve may comprise one or more stopper flaps at the proximal end of the outer sleeve, each stopper flap being folded inwardly so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve from the proximal end of the outer sleeve toward the distal end of the outer sleeve, wherein each stopper flap is configured to engage a proximal end of the product concealing sleeve to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point in a direction from the distal end toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve so as to define a second, fully retracted position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The stopper flap may engage a foldline at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve connecting a respective one of said one or more engagement flaps to the sidewall.

In this second aspect in any of its embodiments, the dispenser may further comprise a product stick carrier comprising a product stick support for supporting the product stick, the product stick carrier being disposed inwardly of the outer sleeve and being formed of a paper-based or card-based material; optionally wherein the product concealing sleeve is disposed outwardly of the product stick carrier between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve; and/or wherein the product stick carrier has a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end comprising the product stick support.

The product stick support may comprise a cradle portion, wherein the cradle portion comprises: a first opposed pair of flaps, each one of the opposed flaps being attached, at a proximal end of the flap, to a distal end of a respective one of a first pair of opposed sidewalls of the product stick carrier along a foldline; wherein each flap of the first opposed pair of flaps includes a proximal portion extending from the distal end of the carrier sidewall with which it is associated along the interior surface thereof toward the proximal end of the product stick carrier sidewall, the proximal portion of the flap optionally being bonded to the interior surface of the product stick carrier sidewall; each flap of the first opposed pair of flaps further comprising a distal portion connected along a foldline to the proximal portion of the flap, the distal portion of the flap extending across the interior of the product stick carrier from the carrier sidewall to which the flap is attached along a foldline toward the opposed carrier sidewall; wherein the distal portions of the opposed pair of flaps are bonded to each other in a face-to- face relationship to create a support for the product in stick form.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve, and, where provided, product stick carrier, together define a base part of the dispenser. The dispenser may further comprise a removable cap for closing an open end of the base part.

The removable cap is configured to be located over the product concealing sleeve, when the product concealing sleeve is in the first, fully extended position. The removable cap covers a portion of the product concealing sleeve which extends beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve when in the first, fully extended position.

In some embodiments, a proximal end of the removable cap is configured to abut a distal end of the outer sleeve when the cap is located on the base part of the dispenser with the product concealing sleeve in the first, fully extended position.

The external surfaces of the outer sleeve and of the cap may be flush with one another when the cap is located on the base part of the dispenser with the product concealing sleeve in the fully extended position.

The cap may be of any suitable construction. In some embodiments of the invention in its first or second aspect, the cap includes a plurality of cap sidewalls attached to one another along axial sides thereof along foldlines. The sidewalls may comprise a plurality of pairs of opposed sidewalls e.g. two pairs of opposed sidewalls. For example, the cap may include first, second, third and fourth cap sidewalls. The cap may include an assembly flap attached to one of the cap sidewalls e.g. a fourth cap sidewall along a foldline at a side edge of the sidewall. The assembly flap may be bonded surface-to-surface to one of the cap sidewalls e.g. the first cap sidewall. This retains the cap in a closed sided configuration. The assembly flap may be a glue flap.

The cap may include a lid panel. A lid panel may be attached to a distal end of the assembly flap along a foldline. The cap may also include a plurality of lid flaps attached to the lid panel along foldlines at side edges of the lid panel. The lid flaps may be bonded face-to-face to respective ones of the cap sidewalls on interior surfaces of the cap sidewalls.

The cap may include a plurality of distal end flaps, each attached to the distal end of a respective one of the cap sidewalls along a respective foldline. The cap may also include a plurality of proximal end flaps, each attached to the proximal end of a respective one of the cap sidewalls along a respective foldline. In the erected cap, the proximal and distal end flaps are folded inwardly and bonded to the interior surfaces of the cap sidewalls.

The cap may include a side flap attached to a side edge of a first cap sidewall along a foldline. The side flap, in the erected cap is folded inwardly and bonded to the interior surface of the first cap sidewall. The side flap may be trapezoidal. Where side and distal end flaps area associated with a given sidewall e.g. a first sidewall of the cap, they may be of complimentary shapes to avoid creating excessive thickness in that region of the cap.

It will be appreciated that the use of end flaps or side flaps associated with the cap is optional. Such flaps may help to avoid a visible cut edge where there this is of concern, and may enhance the strength of the cap. However, in other contexts e.g. where it is desired to minimise the amount of material used, and strength/appearance factors are less important, some or all of the flaps may be omitted.

As mentioned above, in accordance with the invention in accordance with any of the embodiments of the first and second aspects, the number of outer sleeve sidewalls, and product concealing sleeve sidewalls (and, where present, product stick carrier and/or cap sidewalls) may or may not be the same as each other. In some embodiments, there are four of each sidewall; however, the dispenser may have any number of sidewalls equal to or more than three. For example, from three to six sidewalls may be present. Regardless of the number of sidewalls, each one of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve, (and, where present, product stick carrier and/or cap) may comprise at least one pair, and optionally at least two pairs of opposed sidewalls.

Similarly, the dispenser may have any cross sectional shape. In some embodiments, the dispenser has a square cross section. However, in other embodiments, the dispenser may have a rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other cross sectional shape.

Any or all of the components of the dispenser may have any such cross-section, and in embodiments, each one of the components of the base part of the dispenser i.e. the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve (and, where present, product stick carrier) may be of the same cross-sectional shape, such as square or rectangular. The cap may have the same cross-sectional shape.

While embodiments of the invention in its first and second aspects herein are illustrated by reference to the case in which the product concealing sleeve is of a closed sided configuration i.e. in which each of the sidewalls are connected to one another along foldlines, it is envisaged that the product concealing sleeve may be of an open sided configuration, such as where it defines a lesser number of sidewalls than the outer sleeve, or, in embodiments, product stick carrier. For example, where the outer sleeve has four side walls, the product concealing sleeve might have three or four sidewalls.

Any reference to the “product concealing sleeve” may be replaced herein by a reference to a “product concealing part”. The part may be open or closed sided as described above. However, preferably the product concealing sleeve is closed sided, and preferably has the same number of sides as the outer sleeve. Each component (i.e., the carrier (where provided), concealing sleeve, outer sleeve, and (where provided) cap) are separately formed. Each component may be made from a blank of sheet material, optionally a single piece blank of sheet material, which may aid assembly of the dispenser.

Each one of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and, where present, end cap, are separately formed. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and, where present, end cap and/or product stick carrier, may each be formed from a respective blank of sheet material, and optionally from a single piece blank of sheet material.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention there is provided; a dispenser for a product in stick form comprising: a product stick carrier comprising a product stick support for supporting a product stick in use; an outer sleeve in the form of a cylindrical tube disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier, wherein the product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve in the form of a cylindrical tube disposed radially inwardly of the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve is disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve; wherein inter-engaging formations are associated with either the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve, wherein the inter- engaging formations cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position; and wherein the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard.

Thus, in accordance with this further aspect, the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve are each in the form of cylindrical tubes.

This may provide a dispenser which is in the overall form of a cylindrical tube.

The product stick carrier is optionally in the form of a cylindrical tube.

Features of embodiments in accordance with the invention in this third aspect will now be described.

As in the earlier aspects and embodiments, the product concealing sleeve is retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier in order to expose a product stick supported by the product stick support in use. Inter-engaging formations associated with the product concealing sleeve and either the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. The inter-engagement of the formations prevents the product concealing sleeve from being detached from the dispenser. The inter-engagement of the formations prevents the product concealing sleeve from being fully removed from inside the outer sleeve. The set point defines the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve in an axial direction relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

As in the earlier aspects, the outer sleeve is a (radially) outer sleeve relative to the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier. It may define at least a part of an outermost surface of the dispenser. However, arrangements in which additional component(s) are present radially outward of the outer sleeve are not excluded.

The product stick is arranged radially inwardly of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve in use, and projects beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve. Thus the product stick projects upwardly from the outer sleeve. The product concealing sleeve may be retracted or advanced (e.g. lowered or raised) within the outer sleeve to expose or cover the product stick. The product stick is supported by the product support of the product stick carrier in use.

The product stick will project beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve and a distal end of the product stick carrier in all operative states of the dispenser. The product stick extends in the above mentioned manner at least when an assembly including the dispenser and product stick is produced and prior to depletion of the product stick. The length of the product stick which is exposed will depend upon the position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. Retraction, e.g., lowering, of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will expose an increasingly greater portion of a length of the product stick while advancement e.g. raising of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will cover an increasingly greater portion of a length of the product stick.

The product stick remains static and is selectively exposed by movement of the product concealing sleeve of the dispenser. The outer sleeve also remains static with the product concealing sleeve moving between extended and retracted positions relative thereto.

Where a product stick is present in the dispenser, the product stick may be arranged in the above described manner. In those aspects and embodiments of the invention relating to a dispenser not necessarily in combination with a product stick, the dispenser is configured such that, when located therein in use, a product stick may be arranged in any of the above described manners.

The dispenser defines a longitudinal axis. This defines an axial direction with respect to the dispenser and its components. The outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and, where provided, product stick each define a respective longitudinal axis. The outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and, where provided, product stick share the same longitudinal axis in the dispenser i.e. they are concentric. The product stick carrier may also share the same longitudinal axis. The dispenser (and the product stick carrier, outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and, where provided, product stick) each define a transverse direction. The product stick carrier (and, where provided, product stick) may be fixed to the outer sleeve so as to be centred in the transverse direction with respect to the outer sleeve.

The outer sleeve is disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier. The product concealing sleeve is disposed radially inwardly of the outer sleeve. For example, the product concealing sleeve may be disposed directly (radially) outwardly of the product stick carrier. The outer sleeve may be disposed directly (radially) outwardly of the product concealing sleeve.

In accordance with any of the embodiments of this third aspect of the invention, the product concealing sleeve is disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier radially between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve. The inter-engagement of the formations may retain the product concealing sleeve between the product stick carrier and outer sleeve.

As in the earlier aspects of the invention, the product concealing sleeve may be retractable relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier from the first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier toward a second, fully retracted position for exposing the product stick in use. The concealing sleeve is retractable from the first, fully extended position to the second, fully retracted position. The second, fully retracted position is a set point.

The product concealing sleeve is freely movable between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions for covering and exposing the product stick in use. Thus the concealing sleeve may be retracted and advanced to expose and cover the product stick respectively. The concealing sleeve is mounted for reciprocating movement between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier. The first, fully extended position is a predefined, set position determined by the action of the inter-engaging formations. The second, fully retracted position is also a predefined, set position. The product concealing sleeve may have a predetermined range of travel relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier defined between the set positions corresponding to the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positions.

The product concealing sleeve is movable manually by a user. Thus, the product concealing sleeve is retracted or advanced by a user between the first, fully extended and second, fully retracted positons.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve so that neither rotational nor sliding movement of the product stick carrier relative to the outer sleeve is possible. Thus, movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve will correspond to movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier. The product concealing sleeve is thus retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and the product stick carrier for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in order to expose a product stick supported by the product stick support of the product stick carrier in use. The product concealing sleeve may be retractable from the first, fully extended position to a second fully retracted position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier in order to expose the product stick. The outer sleeve and product stick carrier may of course extend to different extents relative to a proximal end of the dispenser.

A distal end of the product concealing sleeve may extend beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve when the product concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position. This may enable the user to more easily grasp the product concealing sleeve in order to advance the product concealing sleeve when it is desired to advance the product concealing sleeve toward the first, fully extended position once more. The distal end of the product concealing sleeve may or may not additionally extend beyond a distal end of the product stick carrier when the product concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. A distal end of the product stick carrier may project beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve. The distal end of the product stick carrier will then project beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve in all operative conditions of the dispenser.

A proximal portion of the product concealing sleeve may slide within the outer sleeve as the product concealing sleeve is retracted and advanced relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The product concealing sleeve may be slidably disposed between the outer sleeve and product stick carrier. A proximal portion of the product concealing sleeve may slide between the outer sleeve and product stick carrier as the product concealing sleeve is retracted and advanced relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The product concealing sleeve is slidable relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier). In accordance with these further aspects and embodiments of the invention in which at least the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve are in the form of cylindrical tubes, the product concealing sleeve may be rotatable relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier) as it is moved relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier). Thus the product concealing sleeve may be slidable and rotatable relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier) or may be only slidable (and not rotatable) relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier). Where the product concealing sleeve is rotatable relative to the outer sleeve (and product stick carrier) any degree of rotation may be possible. For example, in some embodiments described below, a threaded connection is provided between the product concealing sleeve and the product stick carrier or outer sleeve. This may provide more intuitive operation of the dispenser by the user, enabling them to twist the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve to reveal or cover the product stick. Greater or lesser amounts of rotation may be available whether or not a threaded connection is provided. Even more limited levels of rotation may be useful, facilitating movement of the product concealing sleeve, e.g. where there is some frictional resistance to its movement.

The product concealing sleeve is snugly received in the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be snugly received within the product concealing sleeve.

In these further aspects and embodiments of the invention, the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve and optionally the product stick carrier may each be in the form of cylindrical tubes. Each tube may be of circular or oval cross section, and optionally each tube is of circular cross section. Each tube comprises a sidewall extending between proximal and distal ends thereof.

In some embodiments the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes may each be formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card-based material, optionally wherein the blank is a single piece blank. Where the product stick carrier is in the form of a cylindrical tube, the product stick carrier cylindrical tube may also be formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card- based material, optionally wherein the blank is a single piece blank. It will be appreciated that the cylindrical tube portion of the respective sleeve (or, where applicable carrier) is formed from a blank e.g. single piece blank. Thus, the cylindrical main body of the respective sleeve or carrier is formed from such a blank. A separate component, e.g. base disc may be used to close an end of the outer sleeve or carrier. The outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve, or product stick carrier may be described as being formed from a respective blank e.g. single piece blank of sheet material.

In other embodiments, as discussed below, the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes may be of a spiral wound tube construction. A product stick carrier tube may then also be of such a construction.

One of; the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve, or the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier, are associated with inter-engaging formations which cooperate with one another to limit the travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond the first, fully extended position. The inter-engaging formations may cooperate with one another to retain the product concealing sleeve between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve.

The inter-engaging formations may be inter-engaging flaps, as in the earlier aspects and embodiments of the invention. The flaps may be provided integrally with blanks providing the applicable tubes.

In some embodiments the inter-engaging flaps are associated with the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve.

The inter-engaging flaps may comprise a set of one or more locking flaps at the distal end of the outer sleeve and a set of one or more engagement flaps at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, wherein: each locking flap is folded inwardly at the distal end of the outer sleeve so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve; and each engagement flap is folded outwardly at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve so as to extend along the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end of the product concealing sleeve.

The set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps are sets of opposed flaps. At least one of the set of one or more locking flaps engages at least one of the set of one or more engagement flaps to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps may each include any desired number of flaps. It is envisaged that the set of locking flaps may include a different number of flaps than the set of one or more engagement flaps. Thus, a single locking flap and a set of a plurality of engagement flaps may be provided, or vice versa. In other embodiments, a plurality of locking flaps and a plurality of engagement flaps may be provided, including the same or different numbers of flaps.

Each locking flap extends in a direction around the longitudinal axis of the outer sleeve i.e. in a circumferential direction. Each engagement flap extends in a direction around the longitudinal axis of the product concealing sleeve i.e. in a circumferential direction. The set of locking flaps may comprise a plurality of locking flaps spaced from one another around the axis of the outer sleeve. Alternatively or additionally the set of engagement flaps may comprise a plurality of engagement flaps spaced from one another around the axis of the outer sleeve. In yet other embodiments it is envisaged that either one or both of the set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps may comprise a single flap.

Each engagement flap may engage a respective one of the locking flaps to define the first, fully extended position, or, it is envisaged that where the extent of the locking and engagement flaps around the axis of their respective sleeve differs, more than one engagement flap may engage the same locking flap, or vice versa.

In embodiments the flaps of the set of one or more locking flaps and the flaps of the set of one or more engagement flaps are arranged such that at least one of the set of one or more engagement flaps will engage at least one of the set of one or more locking flaps irrespective of the rotational position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond the set point so as to define the first, fully extended position. This may provide reliable and simple operation of the dispenser where the product concealing sleeve is rotatable relative to the outer sleeve. This may be achieved by selecting the spacing of the flaps, and the dimension of the flaps in the direction around the axis of their respective sleeve appropriately, such that at least one engagement flap will engage at least one locking flap when the product concealing sleeve is extended relative to the outer sleeve to define the first, fully extended position.

Regardless of the number of locking and engagement flaps present, in any of the embodiments in which the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and optionally product stick carrier are in the form of tubes, the or each locking flap and engagement flap may each comprise a first end and a second end. The first and second ends may be referred to as proximal and distal ends respectively.

Each locking flap and each engagement flap comprises axially extending edges. The axially extending edges of the flap are side edges and extend between the first and second ends of the flap. The axially extending edges of a flap may extend parallel with one another. The axially extending edges may extend at any desired angle relative to the end edge of the respective one of the outer and product concealing sleeves with which the flap is associated. Thus the edges may extend along a helical path or may be straight edges (i.e. extending perpendicular to the respective end of the sleeve). The axially extending edges of a flap may correspond to axially extending edges of a respective tab from which the flap is formed, the tab forming part of a blank for providing the sleeve with which the flap is associated.

The or each locking flap may be connected at the first end of the flap along a foldline to the distal end of the outer sleeve tube and the or each engagement flap may be connected at the first end of the flap along a foldline to the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve tube. The first and second ends of each flap may be provided by first and second ends of a respective tab from which the flap is formed, the tab forming part of a blank for providing the sleeve with which the flap is associated.

The inter-engagement of the flaps which defines the first, fully extended position may be between end edges of ones of the set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps.

In embodiments opposed end edges of ones of the set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps are configured to engage one another to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end of the outer sleeve to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. One or more of the engagement flaps may be configured to engage one or more of the locking flaps end-to-end in this manner to define the first, fully extended position. The end edges are axial end edges of the flaps. The end edges of the locking flap and engagement flap which engage one another are edges at the second (or distal) ends of the flaps. These are the free end edges of the flaps. The end edges of the locking and engagement flaps abut one another when in engagement.

As described in relation to the earlier aspects of the invention, it will be appreciated that the dimensions of the flaps, i.e. the lengths thereof, may be used to define how far the product concealing sleeve extends beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve in the first, fully extended position. The range of travel may vary widely depending upon the desired properties of the dispenser, such as the desired strength and stability properties thereof, the nature and configuration of product stick with which it is to be used etc., and may lie in any of the ranges described above in relation to the earlier aspect of the invention. The product concealing sleeve may have a proximal portion which, in the fully extended position, does not extend beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve. In embodiments in which the end edges of the locking and engagement flaps engage one another, the proximal portion may have a length corresponding to a total length of the locking and engagement flaps.

The or each locking flap of the outer sleeve may or may not be bonded to an interior surface of the outer sleeve. The or each engagement flap of the product concealing sleeve may or may not be bonded to the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve. It has been found that the flaps may be held in position by being sandwiched between radially adjacent tubes of the dispenser without necessarily being bonded down. As in the earlier aspects and embodiments, in embodiments, one or both of the ones of the sets of engagement and locking flaps may be unbonded to the applicable surface of the sleeve with which they are associated. The locking and engagement flaps may then still engage one another end to end. However it is envisaged that in some arrangements, as in the earlier aspects or embodiments of the invention, the locking flaps could, rather than engaging end to end with the engagement flaps, slide underneath the engagement flaps so the end edge of a locking flap engages with the foldline that connects the engagement flap to a product concealing sleeve sidewall. The locking flaps and engagement flaps will then be unbonded to the interior of the outer sleeve and the exterior of the product concealing sleeve respectively.

Where the first, fully extended position is defined by inter-engaging flaps, it is envisaged that stopper flaps may be used as in the earlier aspects of the invention. However, preferably a second, fully retracted position of the product concealing sleeve is defined by engagement between a proximal end of the product concealing sleeve and a base of the outer sleeve. Avoiding the use of stopper flaps may facilitate manufacture in these further aspects and embodiments of the invention in which the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve are tubular.

In embodiments the inter-engaging flaps are defined by a single pair of inter-engaging flaps, wherein a single locking flap is provided at the distal end of the outer sleeve and a single engagement flap is provided at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve. Thus, in these embodiments, the set of one or more locking flaps consists of a single locking flap, and the set of one or more engagement flaps consists of a single engagement flap. In other words, only one locking flap and only one engagement flap is provided.

In these embodiments in which the inter-engaging flaps are defined by a single pair of inter-engaging flaps, each flap may extend any suitable angle around a longitudinal axis of the sleeve with which it is associated. Such embodiments may facilitate construction and operation of the dispenser. The locking flap and engagement flap may define respective collars extending around the outer sleeve and the product concealing sleeve. In embodiments the locking flap extends substantially fully around the longitudinal axis of the outer sleeve and the engagement flap extends substantially fully around the longitudinal axis of the product concealing sleeve. This may facilitate manufacture and operation of the dispenser. Furthermore, having the flaps extend substantially fully around the axis of their respective sleeves, enables the stop functionality to be provided regardless of the relative rotational positions of the sleeves. However, one or both of the flaps may extend through a lesser angle around the axis of its respective sleeve. For example, each flap of the pair of flaps may extend at least 270 degrees. Other angles may be appropriate, particularly where lesser amounts of rotation are available between the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve.

Although embodiments of the invention are described herein with particular reference to the case in which a single engagement flap and a single locking flap is provided, other arrangements are possible, provided that the sets of engagement and locking flaps present interact in the manner described to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve. Thus, any of the following features may apply to the or each locking flap or engagement flap present in the set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps, to the extent they are not mutually exclusive.

The or each engagement flap is associated with the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve and the or each locking flap is associated with the distal end of the outer sleeve. The product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve may each comprise a sidewall extending between proximal and distal ends thereof, wherein the or each engagement flap is connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the product concealing sleeve at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, and the or each locking flap is connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the outer sleeve at the distal end of the outer sleeve. It will be appreciated that the sidewall of the outer sleeve or product concealing sleeve tube may comprise more than one ply of material at the end to which the respective flap is joined over at least a portion of the circumference of the tube e.g. formed by windings of a blank of material from which the tube is formed. The flap is then connected along a foldline to one of the plies defining the sidewall at the applicable end thereof.

The or each locking flap is associated with a sidewall of the outer sleeve, and the or each engagement flap is associated with a sidewall of the product concealing sleeve.

In the dispenser, the or each locking flap and the or each engagement flap is located between the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve sidewalls.

The or each locking flap may be connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the outer sleeve at the distal end of the outer sleeve. The or each engagement flap may be connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the product concealing sleeve at the proximal end thereof.

The outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes may each be formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card-based material, optionally wherein the blank is a single piece blank. Such embodiments are particularly applicable where the inter-engaging formations are in the form of flaps. The flaps may be provided by tabs forming part of the blanks providing the applicable tubes e.g. the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes.

The or each engagement flap may be connected along a foldline to an outermost winding of an axial end edge of the product concealing sleeve blank from which the product concealing sleeve tube is formed, and the or each locking flap may be connected along a foldline to an innermost winding of an axial end edge of the outer sleeve blank from which the outer sleeve tube is formed. The outermost and innermost windings of the blanks refer to the windings of the blank in the formed tubes. These terms do not necessarily imply that more than one winding of the respective blank is present, and if so, only a portion of the tube may comprise multiple plies.

The or each locking flap and the or each engagement flap present may be provided by a respective tab connected along a foldline to an axial end edge of a blank from which the respective one of the outer sleeve or product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes is formed. The axial end edge of the blank refers to the end edge of the blank which forms an axial end edge in the formed tube. In embodiments the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes are each formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card-based material, the or each locking flap is provided by a respective tab connected along a foldline to an axial end edge of the blank from which the outer sleeve is formed, and the or each engagement flap is provided by a respective tab connected along a foldline to an axial end edge of the blank from which the product concealing sleeve is formed.

In embodiments in which a single locking flap and a single engagement flap is provided, the axially extending edges of the locking flap may abut one another, and the axially extending edges of the engagement flap may abut one another. This may provide locking and engagement flaps which each extend substantially fully around the axis of their respective sleeves.

Regardless of the number of locking and engagement flaps provided, the axially extending edges of a locking or engagement flap may extend parallel to one another. The axially extending edges of the flap may extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve comprising the flap, or may extend in a helical path.

In embodiments the axially extending edges of the or each locking flap associated with the outer sleeve extend in the same direction relative to the distal end edge of the outer sleeve as an axially extending seam on the interior surface of the outer sleeve, the seam optionally being provided by an edge of a blank from which the outer sleeve tube is formed; and/or the axially extending edges of the or each engagement flap associated with the product concealing sleeve extend in the same direction relative to the proximal end edge of the product concealing tube as an axially extending seam on the exterior surface of product concealing sleeve, the seam optionally being provided by an edge of a blank from which the product concealing sleeve tube is formed.

In these embodiments, preferably a single locking flap and single engagement flap is provided.

In embodiments in which the axially extending edges of the or each locking flap extend in the same direction as an axially extending seam on the outer sleeve provided by an edge of a blank from which the outer sleeve tube is formed, the edge of the blank may be an edge which provided a leading edge of the outer sleeve tube during winding of the blank. In embodiments in which the axially extending edges of the or each engagement flap extend along the same direction as an axially extending seam on the product concealing sleeve provided by an edge of a blank from which the product concealing tube is formed, the edge of the blank may be an edge which provided a trailing edge of the product concealing sleeve tube during winding of the blank.

Thus, in embodiments the axially extending edges of the locking and engagement flaps associated with the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve tubes extend along the same direction as an axially extending seam on the surface of the respective one of the outer sleeve or product concealing sleeves along which the flap extends, the seam optionally being provided by an edge of the blank from which the sleeve tube is formed. The direction of an axially extending edge of a flap relative to the end edge of a respective sleeve may be defined by an angle at which the edge of the flap extends relative to the end edge of the sleeve.

The axially extending edges of a given locking or engagement flap extending in the same direction as an axially extending seam on the surface of the respective tube may extend parallel to the seam, or may be substantially aligned with the seam. In embodiments a single locking flap and single engagement flap is provided, the axially extending edges of the locking flap and the axially extending edges of the engagement flap each extending parallel to the seam on the surface of the respective one of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve along which the flap extends, or optionally being substantially aligned therewith.

Thus the axially extending edges of the or an engagement flap of the outer sleeve may extend in the same direction relative to the distal end edge of the outer sleeve as a seam on the interior surface of the outer sleeve. The axially extending edges and the seam define the same angle with respect to the distal end edge. The seam may be provided by an edge of the blank from which the outer sleeve is formed which provided a leading edge of the blank during winding of the outer sleeve tube. This may provide a neater overall appearance, and also provide improved stability of the tube.

Alternatively or additionally the axially extending edges of a or the locking flap of the product concealing may extend in the same direction relative to the proximal end edge of the product concealing sleeve as a seam on the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve. The axially extending edges and the seam define the same angle with respect to the proximal end edge. The seam may be provided by an edge of the blank from which the product concealing sleeve tube is formed which provided a trailing edge of the blank during winding of the product concealing sleeve tube. This may provide a neater overall appearance, and may facilitate printing or otherwise providing surface decoration to the product concealing sleeve.

In exemplary embodiments, the axially extending edges of the or each locking flap associated with the outer sleeve extend along a helical path. Preferably the interior surface of the outer sleeve then comprises a helically extending seam. The seam is optionally provided by an edge of the blank from which the outer sleeve tube is formed. The axially extending edges of the locking flap may optionally extend parallel to the seam or may be substantially aligned with the seam. The axially extending edges of the or each locking flap may extend along a helical path defining the same angle with respect to the distal end edge of the outer sleeve as the helical seam. The helically extending seam may be provided by an edge of a blank used to provide the tube during winding. The edge is a leading edge of the blank during winding. As described below, this may help to provide the outer sleeve tube with improved stability. For example, a more stable circular cross-sectional shape of the tube may be achieved. This may help to facilitate more reliable operation of the dispenser.

Alternatively or additionally, in exemplary embodiments, the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve comprises a seam extending perpendicular to the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, and the axially extending edges of the or each engagement flap associated with the product concealing sleeve also extend perpendicular to the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve.

The axially extending edges of the or each engagement flap may optionally extend parallel to the seam or may be substantially aligned with the seam.

Embodiments in which the axially extending edges of a single flap are aligned with a seam may provide a neater appearance to the sleeve, and help enhance the stability of the sleeve and/or maximise an available area of the sleeve for printing etc.

In embodiments in which the product stick carrier is in the form of a cylindrical tube, the product stick carrier cylindrical tube may also be formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card-based material, optionally wherein the blank is a single piece blank.

In general, regardless of the number of construction of locking flaps and engagement flaps, the interior surface of any one or ones, and optionally each of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve cylindrical tubes, and, where provided, product stick carrier cylindrical tube, preferably comprises a helically extending seam. The helically extending seam is provided by a leading edge of the blank used to provide the tube during winding. As described in more detail below, such a seam shape may help to maintain a circular cross sectional shape of the tube.

Whatever the direction of the axially extending seam on the product concealing and outer sleeves, where single locking and engagement flaps associated with the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve respectively are provided the axially extending edges of the flaps associated with each of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeves may be substantially aligned with an axially extending seam on the surface of the respective sleeve along which the flap extends. The seam may be provided by an edge of the blank from which the tube is formed. This may provide the appearance of a continuous axially extending seam on the applicable surface.

In embodiments in which a single locking flap and single engagement flap are provided, axially extending edges of the locking flap may be substantially aligned with an axially extending seam on the surface of the outer sleeve along which the flap extends, the seam optionally being provided by an edge of the blank from which the outer sleeve tube is formed; and/or axially extending edges of the engagement flap are substantially aligned with an axially extending seam on the surface of the product concealing sleeve along which the flap extends, the seam optionally being provided by an edge of the blank from which the product concealing sleeve tube is formed.

An axially extending edge of a flap is considered to be substantially aligned with a seam herein when the edge and seam are disposed substantially in an end to end relationship.

The axially extending seams of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve and/or product stick carrier described herein may be in the form of lap seams.

In some embodiments the tubes defining the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve, and, where applicable, product stick carrier may each be formed such that a thickness of the tube does not exceed two plies of the material from which the tube is formed at any point. This may provide a balance between providing a secure construction and avoiding excessive thickness of the components of the dispenser, facilitating operation and ease of assembly. However, it is envisaged that greater or lesser numbers of turns of the material may be used over at least a portion of the circumferential extent of the tube.

In any of the embodiments in accordance with the third aspect of the invention, regardless of the type and location of inter-engaging formations used, the outer sleeve may be closed at a proximal end of the outer sleeve. This may provide a closed base to the outer sleeve. In embodiments, the outer sleeve may comprise a base disc of paper-based or card-based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard closing the proximal end of the outer sleeve tube. The base disc may be bonded e.g. adhesively to the proximal end of the outer sleeve tube. The proximal end of the outer sleeve may be rolled inwardly to provide a lip for locating the base disc. However, such an arrangement is merely exemplary.

The product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be fixed directly or indirectly to the outer sleeve. The product stick carrier may be fixed to the outer sleeve in any manner which does not impede the intended movement of the product concealing sleeve. In embodiments the product stick carrier is fixed e.g. bonded to a base of the outer sleeve. A base of the product stick carrier may be fixed to a base of the outer sleeve. In embodiments in which the outer sleeve comprises a base disc closing a proximal end of the outer sleeve, the product stick carrier may be bonded to the base disc to fix the product stick carrier to the outer sleeve. However, other arrangements are possible. For example, the product stick carrier may alternatively or additionally be fixed to the base of the sidewall of the outer sleeve.

The product stick carrier comprises a product stick support.

The product stick carrier may comprise a proximal end and a distal end, the distal portion comprising the product stick support. The product stick support may of any suitable form and is configured to receive the product stick. The product stick support may be recessed from the distal end edge of the product stick carrier. The product stick support may, in exemplary arrangements, comprise a platform defining a surface for supporting the base of a product stick or may comprise a portion defining a central aperture through which the product stick may be inserted.

In embodiments the product stick support comprises an end plug e.g. disc at the distal end of the product stick carrier. Where the product stick carrier is in the form of a tube, the end plug e.g. disc may be inserted into the distal end of the tube. The end plug may comprise a distal end face recessed from the distal end edge of the product stick carrier (although the end face need not be recessed from the distal end edge). The end plug e.g. disc may be of paper-based or card-based material. The end plug e.g. disc may close the distal end of the product stick carrier. The end plug may be solid or may comprise a central aperture for receiving the product stick.

The product stick support thereof may comprise any suitable formations etc. to assist in engaging the product stick. As in the earlier aspects and embodiments, in accordance with the invention in the further aspects and embodiments in which the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve and optionally product stick carrier are in the form of tubes, the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier, together define a base part of the dispenser. The dispenser may further comprise a removable cap for closing an open end of the base part. The cap is preferably of paper-based or card-based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard.

The removable cap is configured to be located over the product concealing sleeve, when the product concealing sleeve is in the first, fully extended position. The removable cap covers a portion of the product concealing sleeve which extends beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve when in the first, fully extended position. In some embodiments, a proximal end of the removable cap is configured to abut a distal end of the outer sleeve when the cap is located on the base part of the dispenser. The proximal end of the cap may be configured to abut the distal end of the outer sleeve with the product concealing sleeve in any operative position, including the first, fully extended position. The external surfaces of the outer sleeve and of the cap may be flush with one another when the cap is located on the base part of the dispenser. The surfaces may be flush when the product concealing sleeve is in any operative position including its fully extended position.

The cap may be of any suitable construction. The cap is preferably in the form of a cylindrical tube. The tube may be formed from a blank of paper-based or card-based material, preferably a single piece blank.

The cap may comprise an end plug e.g. disc closing one end of the cap tube. The end plug e.g. disc may be of paper-based or card-based material. The end plug e.g. disc may be bonded, such as adhesively bonded, in position. In some embodiments, the end of the cap tube is rolled inwardly to provide a lip for locating the end plug e.g. disc. However, such a construction need not necessarily be used.

The tubes of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve and, where applicable, product stick carrier may be of any suitable construction.

As mentioned above, where the inter-engaging formations are inter-engaging flaps, the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve, and product stick carrier tubes are preferably each formed from a respective blank of paper-based or card-based material, such as cardboard or paperboard. The blank is preferably a single piece blank.

In these embodiments the blanks for providing the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve may comprise respective tabs for providing respective ones of the inter-engaging flaps of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve.

The present invention extends to a method of providing the dispenser in accordance with the third aspect of the invention in any of its embodiments, the method comprising; providing a first blank of paper-based or card-based material and wrapping the first blank around a mandrel to provide the outer sleeve tube; and providing a second blank of paper-based or card-based material and wrapping the second blank around a mandrel to provide the product concealing sleeve tube.

In embodiments in which the product stick carrier is in the form of a tube the method may further comprise providing a third blank of paper-based or card-based material and wrapping the third blank around a mandrel to provide the product stick carrier tube.

Where the dispenser further comprises a cap, the method may optionally further comprise a step of providing the cap, the step of providing the cap comprising providing a fourth blank of paper-based or card-based material and wrapping the fourth blank around a mandrel to provide a cap tube. The cap may be formed in a similar way to that described in relation to the outer sleeve, but, in contrast to the outer sleeve, does not include the tab(s) for forming ones of the inter-engaging flaps. The cap blank may be wound around the same mandrel as the outer sleeve blank, although this need not be the case. The method may comprise a step of providing an end plug e.g. disc and using the end plug e.g. disc to close one end of the cap.

Thus, in embodiments, each of the tubular components of the dispenser is provided by wrapping a respective blank around a respective mandrel. As mentioned below, each mandrel used may be a different mandrel of appropriate diameter, although it is envisaged that at least some of the mandrels could be the same e.g. with a larger diameter tube being wound around a smaller diameter tube.

The method may comprise removing each tube from its respective mandrel once formed and assembling the tubes to provide the dispenser.

Different mandrels may be used in wrapping each of the blanks. For example, first, second and third mandrels may be used in wrapping the first, second and third blanks, the mandrels being of increasingly greater diameter. Each mandrel may be a rotating mandrel. The step of wrapping the each blank around its respective mandrel may comprise feeding the respective blank around the rotating mandrel. Any suitable system e.g. using guide rollers etc. may be used to guide the blank onto and around the respective mandrel.

It will be seen that in accordance with some embodiments of the third aspect of the invention the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve, and, where in the form of a tube, the product stick carrier, (and, where provided, cap) are not spiral- wound tubes, but are instead of a “wrapped tube” construction formed from respective blanks wrapped round a respective mandrel. Spiral-wound tubes are produced by winding one or more strips diagonally over a mandrel, and laminating the strips together. In contrast, a wrapped tube is produced as described above, by wrapping a blank around a mandrel, with the blank being fed around the mandrel such that the end edges of the blank which are spaced along the axis of the mandrel during wrapping are perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the mandrel.

In some embodiments, as discussed below, it may be desirable to use a spiral tube construction. However, where the inter-engaging formations are inter-engaging flaps, using the wrapped tube process may facilitate formation of a tube with an integral flap for providing one of the inter-engaging flaps i.e. for providing the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve. This may also be helpful in reducing the number of layers of material present in the tube as far as possible, and providing a less rigid tube, where such considerations are of importance. For example an area defined by a single layer of material may be maximised and/or the maximum number of layers present at any point may be kept below a desired maximum e.g. two. This may also enable a smooth outer surface of a tube to be provided, devoid of seams, which can be directly printed, if desired. This may be useful for surfaces which may be visible in use, such as an exterior surface of the product concealing tube.

In the formed (wrapped) tube defining the outer sleeve or product concealing sleeve (or, where applicable product stick carrier, the axially spaced end edges of each turn of the blank from which the tube is formed may be axially aligned with one another. The same applies to an end cap, where provided.

When wrapping each of the first, second, and where applicable, third and/or fourth, blanks of card- based or paper-based material about the respective mandrel to provide the outer sleeve tube, product concealing sleeve tube, and, where applicable product stick carrier and/or cap tubes, the method may comprise wrapping the respective blank about the mandrel used in winding the blank such that each of the opposed axially spaced end edges of the respective blank extends perpendicular to an axis of the mandrel throughout wrapping of the respective tube therefrom. The opposed axially spaced end edges of the blank are the end edges which are spaced along the axis of the mandrel during wrapping, and which will be axially spaced in the resulting wrapped tube. The axially spaced end edges of the blank follow a circular path during wrapping of the blank. The axially spaced end edges of the blank do not follow a helical path during wrapping of the blank. The axially spaced end edges are maintained at the same axial position throughout the wrapping process (e.g. with respect to an axis of a mandrel upon which the blank is wound). In the resulting wrapped tube, the opposed axially spaced end edges of the blank do not define a helical path. The end edges may extend circumferentially but not axially with respect to the wrapped tube. Using a wrapping process in which the blanks do not follow a helical path has been found to facilitate wrapping of the tubes, and may make the wrapping process easier to control, as well as providing advantages in certain contexts in relation to the resulting dispenser as described above. This may also facilitate folding of a tab associated with an edge of the first and second blanks for providing ones of the inter-engaging flaps. The same applies in relation to forming the end cap from a fourth blank of paper-based or card-based material where applicable.

The blanks may be wrapped around their respective mandrels to provide the various components in any desired order, and the formation of the tubes may occur sequentially or simultaneously. References to first, second, third blanks etc. do not imply any order of use of the blanks to provide their respective tubes.

The respective blanks may be retained in their closed tubular configurations using any suitable technique, e.g., a bonding agent, such as adhesive. For example a bonding agent may be applied to a portion of the blank on the surface which is innermost during wrapping around the mandrel adjacent a trailing edge thereof. The construction of suitable blanks for use in providing the components will now be described, by way of example only.

The first, second, and where provided, third blanks for providing the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve, and, where applicable, product stick carrier tubes, may comprise first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the resulting tube, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the blank as it is wrapped around its mandrel to provide the respective tube, and the fourth edge a trailing edge of the blank. The first and second opposed edges provide axial end edges of the resulting tube.

In embodiments any one or ones, and optionally each of the first and second, and where provided, third blanks may each comprise first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the resulting tubes respectively, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the blank as it is wrapped around the mandrel to provide the respective tube, and the fourth edge a trailing edge of the first blank, wherein the third edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge, and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping leading edge of the blank. Optionally at least the first and second blanks are of the above form.

By providing a third edge which is angled with respect to the first and second edges in this manner, the lap seam created by the overlap between the respective edge and an overlying winding of the blank as a result of wrapping the blank around the mandrel to produce the tube may be spread around the circumference of the resulting tube to a greater extent than would be the case if the third edge were perpendicular to both the first and second edges. The third edge may provide the helically extending seam with an adjacent (i.e. outer) winding of the formed tube described earlier. The seam is located to the interior of the formed tube.

The fourth edge i.e. the trailing edge may or may not be shaped in the same manner as the third edge. In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth edge of the first and/or second blank defines an angle of 90 degrees with at least one of the first and second edges e.g. the second edge where it is connected thereto so as to provide a “straight”, non-angled edge, which may assist in maximising an available seam free area of the exterior surface. The exterior surface of the outer tube may form part of an exterior surface of the dispenser visible to a user, and it may be desired to print or otherwise decorate the surface. The fourth edge may also define an angle of 90 degrees with the other of the first and second edges e.g. the first edge.

It will be appreciated that one or more of the corners of any of the blanks may be rounded. In these cases, the rounding at the corner is disregarded when determining the angle between the sides which are connected to one another at that corner, and the general path of the sides approaching the corner is considered. The first edge of the first blank may comprise a step along the length thereof, so as to define a first portion and a second portion recessed therefrom. The first portion may be closer to the fourth edge and the second portion closer to the third edge. The first portion may define an outer winding of the proximal end edge of the outer sleeve tube projecting relative to an inner winding of the proximal end edge provided by the second portion. This may assist with rolling in the proximal end of the outer sleeve tube, reducing the thickness of the material to be rolled inwardly e.g. such that only a single ply provided by the portion of the third blank inboard of the first portion of the first edge needs to be rolled inwardly. Such a configuration is optional, and it will be understood that it is not necessary for the outer sleeve tube proximal end to necessarily be rolled inwardly for cooperation with a closure disc. For example, a closure plug may be used or any suitable form of end closure.

One or more tab, and in embodiments, a single tab, is attached to the second edge of the first blank along a foldline, and extends over a portion of the length of the second edge of the first blank. The or each tab is for providing a one of the inter-engaging flaps of the dispenser associated with the outer sleeve tube (i.e. one of the set of one or more locking flaps).

The or each tab may extend over any desired portion of the length of the second edge of the blank, depending e.g. on the number of turns of the blank to be included in the resulting tube. In embodiments in which a single tab is provided, the tab preferably extends over only a portion of the length of the second edge of the blank, such as up to 60% or up to 50% thereof. Where multiple tabs are provided, the total extent of the length of the second edge over which the tabs extend may be in this range. The tab or tabs extend over a portion of the length of the second edge which forms part of an innermost winding of the outer sleeve tube. In this way each tab provides a flap connected along a foldline to an innermost winding of the end edge of the resulting tube. Preferably each tab extends only over such a portion of the length of the second edge. This may avoid portions of a single tab or tabs of a plurality of tabs overlapping one another in the formed tube, providing a more compact construction e.g. in which the flap of the outer sleeve tube is formed of only one ply of the material of the outer sleeve tube.

Where a single such tab is provided, the tab attached to the second end edge of the first blank preferably extends up to the end of the second end edge adjoining the third edge of the blank i.e. a leading edge thereof. This may assist in providing a flap which extends fully around an axis of the resulting tube.

The or each tab attached to the second edge at the foldline may be of any suitable shape.

The tab may define a first edge extending along the second edge of the blank, and a first edge extending parallel thereto, the first and second edges of the tab being joined by third and fourth edges. The third and fourth edges are preferably parallel. The third edge is located closer to the fourth, i.e. trailing, edge of the blank.

In embodiments a single tab is provided in the shape of a parallelogram with the first and second edges of the tab being parallel to one another, and the third and fourth edges being parallel to one another, and wherein the first and second edges extend at an angle other than 90 degrees to both the third and fourth edges of the tab. The third and fourth edges of the tab may each extend along the same direction relative to the distal end edge of the outer sleeve as the seam defined by the third, leading edge of the first blank in the formed outer sleeve tube (and thus may extend parallel to or may be aligned with a helical seam defined by the third edge to the interior of the formed outer sleeve tube).

The third and fourth edges of the tab may abut one another in the formed outer sleeve tube.

One or more tab is attached to the first edge of the second blank along a foldline, and extends over a portion of the length of the first edge of the second blank. Each tab is for providing a one of the inter- engaging flaps of the dispenser associated with the product concealing sleeve i.e. one of the set of one or more engagement flaps.

The tab or tabs may extend over any desired portion of the length of the first edge of the blank, depending e.g. on the number of turns of the blank to be included in the resulting tube. In embodiments having a single tab, the tab preferably extends over only a portion of the length of the first edge of the blank, such as up to 60% or up to 50% thereof. Where multiple tabs are provided, the total extent of the length of the first edge over which the tabs extend may be in this range. The tab or tabs extend over a portion of the length of the first edge which forms part of an outermost winding of the product concealing sleeve tube. In this way each tab provides a flap connected along a foldline to an outermost winding of the end edge of the resulting tube. Preferably each tab extends only over such a portion of the length of the first edge. This may avoid portions of a single tab overlapping one another in the formed tube, or, where provided, multiple tabs overlapping one another, providing a more compact construction e.g. in which the flap of the product concealing sleeve tube is formed of only one ply of the material of the tube.

Where a single tab is provided attached to the first end edge of the blank, the tab preferably extends up to the end of the first edge adjoining the fourth edge of the blank i.e. a trailing edge thereof. This may assist in providing a flap which extends fully around an axis of the resulting tube.

The or each tab attached to the first edge of the second blank may be of any suitable shape.

The or each tab may define a first edge extending along the first edge of the blank, and a second edge extending parallel thereto, the first and second edges of the tab being joined by third and fourth edges. The third and fourth edges are preferably parallel. The third edge is located closer to the fourth, i.e. trailing edge of the blank, and may provide a continuation of the fourth edge of the blank, extending at the same angle as the fourth edge relative to the first edge of the blank.

In embodiments the or each tab is rectangular. Such a configuration may be particularly appropriate where a fourth edge of the blank extends perpendicular to the first edge thereof. The third and fourth edges of the tab providing the flap may then extend along the same direction relative to the proximal end edge of the formed product concealing sleeve tube as a seam defined by the fourth edge of the blank, and may be substantially aligned with the seam. The third and fourth edges of the tab may provide a continuation of the seam. Where a single tab is provided associated with the first edge of the second blank, the third and fourth edges of the tab may abut one another in the formed product concealing sleeve tube.

In general, in accordance with the method of providing the dispenser in accordance with the third aspect of the invention in any of its embodiments in which the inter-engaging formations comprise inter-engaging flaps, the first and second blanks may each comprise first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the outer sleeve tube or product concealing sleeve tube respectively, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the blank as it is wrapped around the mandrel to provide the resulting tube, and the fourth edge a trailing edge of the blank; wherein the first blank comprises one or more tab connected along a foldline to the second edge of the first blank and extending over a portion of the length of the second edge for providing a set of one or more of the inter-engaging flaps associated with the outer sleeve; and wherein the second blank comprises one or more tab connected along a foldline to the first edge thereof and extending over a portion of the length of the first edge for providing a set of one or more of the inter-engaging flaps associated with the product concealing sleeve.

Deflection of the tabs may be performed in any suitable manner e.g. using guide rollers etc.

The step of deflecting the tab(s) associated with the outer sleeve or product concealing sleeve blank may be performed at any suitable stage, but for ease of manufacture, is preferably performed prior to or during winding of the blank around its mandrel. For example, the deflection may occur as the blank is fed onto the mandrel. Bonding agent e.g. adhesive may be applied to each portion of the blank which is to receive a tab prior to deflecting the tab(s).

The method may further comprise deflecting the or each tab of the first blank such that the tab extends along the surface of the blank that forms an interior surface of the outer sleeve in the formed outer sleeve tube, and optionally bonding the tab to that surface of the blank; and deflecting the or each tab of the second blank such that the tab extends along the surface of the blank that forms an exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve in the formed product concealing sleeve tube, and optionally bonding the tab to that surface of the blank.

Where a third blank is used to provide a product stick carrier in the form of a tube, in embodiments the third blank comprises first and second opposed edges for providing proximal and distal end edges of the product stick carrier tube, the first and second edges being connected at their respective ends by opposed third and fourth edges, wherein the third edge provides a leading edge of the blank as it is wrapped around the mandrel to provide the product stick carrier tube, and the fourth edge a trailing edge of the blank, wherein the third edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping leading edge of the first blank, and the fourth edge is connected to the first edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the first edge and is connected to the second edge so as to define an angle other than 90 degrees with the second edge so as to provide a sloping trailing edge of the blank. It has been recognised that it may be advantageous for both the leading and trailing edges of the third blank to be sloping edges so as to maximise the effect of spreading the resulting lap seam described above, improving stability of the product stick carrier tube. The product stick carrier is less likely to be visible in the dispenser, and thus it may be less important to provide straight seams on either the inner or outer surfaces thereof e.g. to facilitate printing. However, it is envisaged that at least the trailing edge might alternatively be a straight edge.

The third blank may be in the shape of a parallelogram comprising first and second pairs of parallel edges, wherein the parallelogram is not a square or rectangle. Thus, none of the interior angles is 90 degrees. It will be appreciated that one or more corners of the parallelogram may be rounded.

The blank for providing the removable cap tube may be of a similar configuration to that for providing the outer sleeve tube but does not include the tab(s) for providing an inter-engaging flap. A step may be provided along an edge of the blank which is to provide an end edge of the cap tube which is to be rolled inwardly in embodiments where this is carried out.

While embodiments of the third aspect of the invention in which inter-engaging flaps are present have been described in particular reference to the case in which the flaps are associated with the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, it is envisaged that in alternative arrangements the flaps may be associated with the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier e.g. product stick carrier tube. It will be appreciated that in either case the flaps will be on radially adjacent components, and may function in the same manner to define the first, fully extended position of the outer sleeve.

For example, in some embodiments the inter-engaging flaps comprise a set of one or more locking flaps at the distal end of the product stick carrier and a set of one or more engagement flaps at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, wherein: each locking flap is folded outwardly at the distal end of the product stick carrier so as to extend along the exterior surface of the product stick carrier toward the proximal end of the product stick carrier; and each engagement flap is folded inwardly at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve so as to extend along the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end of the product concealing sleeve.

Thus, these embodiments of the invention may include any of the features described in respect of the earlier described embodiments, but with the set of one or more locking flaps being associated with the product stick carrier rather than the outer sleeve (and extending along the exterior surface thereof), and the set of one or more engagement flaps extending along the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve rather than the exterior surface thereof. The product stick carrier is in the form of a cylindrical tube. The flaps may be connected along respective foldlines to the end of their respective tubes as described in respect of the earlier embodiments. The tubes may be formed from respective blanks of paper-based or card-based material, e.g. single piece blanks. Thus, each locking flap may be connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the product stick carrier tube at the distal end of the product stick carrier tube, and each engagement flap may be connected along a foldline to the sidewall of the product concealing sleeve at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve.

Alternatively or additionally the inter-engaging flaps may be defined by a single pair of inter-engaging flaps, wherein a single locking flap is provided at the distal end of the product stick carrier and a single engagement flap is provided at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve.

Alternatively or additionally the locking flap may extend substantially fully around the longitudinal axis of the product stick carrier and the engagement flap may extend substantially fully around the longitudinal axis of the product concealing sleeve.

The locking flap and engagement flap may each define a collar extending around their respective sleeves.

Axially extending edges of the locking flap may abut one another, and axially extending edges of the engagement flap may abut one another.

The or each locking flap of the product stick carrier may be bonded to an exterior surface of the product stick carrier, and the or each engagement flap of the product concealing sleeve may be bonded to the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve.

Opposed end edges of ones of the set of one or more locking flaps and the set of one or more engagement flaps may be configured to engage one another to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end of the outer sleeve and product stick carrier to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

The product concealing sleeve may be slidable and rotatable relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier, and the locking flaps of the set of one or more locking flaps and the engagement flaps of the set of one or more engagement flaps may be arranged such that at least one of the set of one or more engagement flaps will engage at least one of the set of one or more locking flaps irrespective of the rotational position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond the set point so as to define the first, fully extended position.

The dispenser may be formed from a method similar to that earlier described, using blanks in which the product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve blanks include respective sets of one or more tabs for providing the flaps.

It will further be appreciated that the inter-engaging formations of the invention in its third aspect, whether associated with the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve or product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier, need not necessarily be in the form of flaps. In some embodiments the inter-engaging formations are provided by separate components joined to the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, or the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier. The separate components are components separately formed from and attached to the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve or product stick carrier as appropriate rather than being integrally formed therewith. An edge of a component joined to the product concealing sleeve may engage an edge of a component joined to the outer sleeve or an edge of a component joined to the product stick carrier to define the first, fully extended position of the outer sleeve.

The separate components are each of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard.

In these embodiments, in particular where the second component is associated with the product stick carrier, the product stick carrier is preferably in the form of a cylindrical tube.

In embodiments the inter-engaging formations are provided by a first component separate from and joined to the product concealing sleeve and a second component separate from and joined to either the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier, wherein a distal end edge of the first component engages a proximal end edge of the second component to define the first, fully extended position. The first and second components are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard.

The first and second components will be joined to radially adjacent surfaces of the respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve and product stick carrier e.g. to the interior of the product concealing sleeve and exterior of the product stick carrier, or to the exterior of the product concealing sleeve and the interior of the outer sleeve.

The first component may extend distally from the proximal end edge of the product concealing sleeve. A proximal end edge of the first component may be aligned with a proximal end edge of the product concealing sleeve.

The second component may extend proximally from the distal end edge of the outer sleeve or product stick carrier. A distal end edge of the second component may be aligned with a distal end edge of the outer sleeve or product stick carrier.

The first component extends over only a portion of a length of the product concealing sleeve and the second component extends over only a portion of a length of the one of the outer sleeve or product stick carrier with which it is associated. The first component may be joined to a proximal end of the product concealing sleeve and the second component may be joined to a distal end of the product stick carrier or outer sleeve. The axial extent of the components defines the relative axial travel available between the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve and product stick carrier. For example, the first and second components may each extend over less than 50% of the length of the respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier and outer sleeve with which they are associated. The first and second components may be joined to their respective one of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier or outer sleeve in any suitable manner such that they are fixed relative thereto. For example, the components may be bonded to the respective one of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier or outer sleeve e.g. adhesively. The components are bonded to radially adjacent surfaces of the respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier and outer sleeve as appropriate (e.g. the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve and the exterior surface of the product stick carrier or the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve and the interior surface of the outer sleeve). The first and second components may be directly joined to the respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier or outer sleeve.

In embodiments the first component is bonded e.g. adhesively to the product concealing sleeve and the second component is bonded e.g. adhesively to the outer sleeve or product stick carrier. While adhesive bonding is exemplified, other technologies may be used e.g. thermal bonding etc.

The first component and the second component may each define a proximal end edge and a distal end edge. The proximal and distal end edges of each component are longitudinal end edges of the component. The proximal and distal end edges of a component are spaced from one another in the axial direction along the length of the component. The proximal and distal end edges are each circumferentially extending edges. In embodiments the entirety of the distal end edge of the first component may engage the entirety of the proximal end edge of the second component to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve. However, this need not be the case.

Preferably the second component is joined to the product stick carrier. In these embodiments the first component is joined to the interior of the product concealing sleeve and the second component is joined to the exterior of the product stick carrier. Thus, preferably the inter-engaging formations are associated with the product stick carrier and product concealing tube in embodiments in which they are provided by separate components joined to respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier and outer sleeve. The second component may be bonded to the exterior surface of the product stick carrier and the first component bonded to the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve.

The first component and the second component are preferably each tubular components, and optionally one or both are formed from spiral wound tubes. Optionally the first component is a spiral wound tube. In embodiments the first component extends over only a portion of the length of the product concealing sleeve and the second component extends over only a portion of the length of the product stick carrier. The length of a component as defined herein refers to the length in the axial direction.

A tubular component may provided by or cut from a tube of appropriate diameter and secured to the interior or exterior of the respective one of the tubes of the dispenser with which they are to be associated. For example the tubular components may be cut from tubes of any construction, such as spiral wound tubes. The term “tubular component” encompasses components of varying axial length, including components in the form of a ring, etc. The first component may be in the form of a tube.

In some embodiments the second component is a collar. The collar may extend fully around the longitudinal axis of the component to which it is joined e.g. the product stick carrier or only partially around the longitudinal axis (for example, the collar may include an axial split).

In embodiments a single first component is provided which cooperates with a single second component to define the first, fully extended position. However, it is also envisaged that more than one separate component might be joined to one or both of the ones of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve and product stick carrier involved in providing the inter-engaging formations e.g. each defining a respective edge which cooperates with an edge of the or a one of the component(s) joined to the other one of the product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve and product stick carrier.

In these further embodiments in which the inter-engaging formations are provided by separate components joined to the outer sleeve or product stick carrier and the product concealing sleeve respectively, the outer sleeve, product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve may be of any suitable type. For example, they may be formed from blanks of material as described earlier. However, by using separate components to provide the inter-engaging formations rather than integral flaps, a wider range of tube constructions may be more readily used for the outer sleeve, product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve, and where in the form of a tube, the product stick carrier, may each be spiral wound tubes. Such tubes may provide a more rigid dispenser, where this is desirable, and may facilitate providing a threaded type connection between parts of the dispenser as described below.

In embodiments in which the product concealing sleeve is rotatable (and slidable) relative to the outer sleeve, regardless of the form of the inter-engaging formations, a helical element may be associated with the product concealing sleeve which is received in a helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier or the interior of the outer sleeve for guiding movement of the product concealing sleeve as it moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve. The helical element may move within the helical recess as the product concealing sleeve moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve. The helical element remains within the helical recess throughout the entire extent of relative axial travel available between the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier and outer sleeve i.e. between fully extended and fully retracted positions of the product concealing sleeve. The use of such a connection may improve the stability of the dispenser. In such embodiments, rotation of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve will cause the product concealing sleeve to move axially as the helical element travels along the helical recess. This may provide more intuitive operation of the dispenser.

The helical element may cooperate with the helical recess to provide a threaded connection between the product concealing sleeve and the product stick carrier or outer sleeve.

Providing the inter-engaging formations described herein to prevent the product concealing sleeve from being fully removed from the dispenser may interact with the provision of a threaded connection between a helical element and helical recess to provide a dispenser of paper-based or card-based material which is more stable in operation, and simple to use.

However, it is believed that the provision of a threaded connection between radially adjacent ones of the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier is advantageous in its own right, whether or not the dispenser comprises inter-engaging stop formations.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided; a dispenser for a product in stick form comprising: a product stick carrier, optionally in the form of a cylindrical tube, and comprising a product stick support for supporting a product stick in use; an outer sleeve in the form of a cylindrical tube disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier, wherein the product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve in the form of a cylindrical tube disposed radially inwardly of the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable from an extended position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve is disposed radially outwardly of the product stick carrier between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve; wherein the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard; wherein the product concealing sleeve is rotatable relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier; and wherein a helical element is associated with the product concealing sleeve which is received in a helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier or the interior of the outer sleeve for guiding movement of the product concealing sleeve as it moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve, wherein the helical element moves within the helical recess as the product concealing sleeve moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve.

The present invention in this further aspect may include any or all of the features described in relation to the third and other aspects of the invention, to the extent they are not mutually exclusive i.e. relating to the nature of the helical element, helical recess, and the manner in which they are provided. The product stick carrier is optionally in the form of a cylindrical tube. Where the product stick carrier comprises the helical recess, the product stick carrier will be in the form of a cylindrical tube.

Inter-engaging stop formations may optionally be provided. As in the earlier aspects and embodiments of the invention, each component in the form of a cylindrical tube may be of circular or oval cross section, and optionally each tube is of circular cross section. Each tube comprises a sidewall extending between proximal and distal ends thereof.

In this further aspect, the extended position is not necessarily a set position. Thus a stop mechanism is not necessarily provided to define the extended position. It has been found that the threaded connection between the helical element and recess may function to resist detachment of the product concealing sleeve from the remainder of the dispenser. The product concealing sleeve is movable between retracted and extended positions relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier for respectively exposing and concealing the product stick. The retracted position likewise need not be a set position, although it may be, whether or not the extended position is. The operation of the dispenser is otherwise as described with respect to the other aspects and embodiments of the invention i.e. the product concealing sleeve may be movable freely between retracted and extended positions. The most extended and retracted position available may be referred to as a “first, fully extended” and “second fully retracted position” respectively as in the other aspects or embodiments of the invention, differing only in that they need not necessarily be preset e.g. by the action of flaps or other formations.

The dispenser of the fourth aspect of the invention may optionally include inter-engaging formations defining the first, fully extended position as described in relation to any of the embodiments of the third aspect of the invention. Optionally, in the fourth aspect of the invention, the extended position of the product concealing sleeve is a first, fully extended position, and inter-engaging formations are associated with either the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve, wherein the inter-engaging formations cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position.

The inter-engaging formations may be provided by a first component separate from and joined to the product concealing sleeve and a second component separate from and joined to either the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier, wherein a distal end edge of the first component engages a proximal end edge of the second component to define the first, fully extended position, and wherein the first and second components are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The first and second components may be of any of the forms described above in relation to the third aspect of the invention. The first and second components may be directly joined to the respective ones of the product concealing sleeve, product stick carrier or outer sleeve. In embodiments the first component is bonded e.g. adhesively to the product concealing sleeve and the second component is bonded e.g. adhesively to the outer sleeve or product stick carrier. While adhesive bonding is exemplified, other technologies may be used e.g. thermal bonding etc. The first and second components may be joined to the components having the helical element and recess respectively. The second component may be joined to the product stick carrier, the first component being joined to the interior of the product concealing sleeve and the second component may be joined to the exterior of the product stick carrier.

The first and second components may be tubular components, The first component may extend over only a portion of a length of the product concealing sleeve and the second component may extend over only a portion of a length of the product stick carrier; optionally wherein one or both of the first and second components is formed from a spiral wound tube.

The first component may extend distally from the proximal end edge of the product concealing sleeve and the second component may extend proximally from the distal end edge of the outer sleeve or product stick carrier.

The second component may be a collar. The collar may or may not extend fully around the longitudinal axis of the product stick carrier.

The first component may be a tube e.g. spiral wound tube.

In embodiments of the fourth aspect the extended position of the product concealing sleeve is a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier, the dispenser further comprising a first component separate from and joined to the interior of the product concealing sleeve and a second component separate from and joined to the exterior of the product stick carrier, wherein a distal end edge of the first component engages a proximal end edge of the second component to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve and product stick carrier beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position, wherein the first and second components are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard, wherein the first component is a first tubular component and the second component is a second tubular component, such as a collar, and wherein the first component extends over only a portion of a length of the product concealing sleeve and the second component extends over only a portion of a length of the product stick carrier; optionally wherein one or both of the first and second components is formed from a spiral wound tube.

In any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention in which a helical element is associated with the product concealing sleeve and cooperates with a helical recess associated with the product stick carrier or outer sleeve, the helical element and helical recess are each axially extending. The following features apply to any aspects or embodiments of the invention including a helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve which cooperates with a helical recess associated with the outer sleeve or the product stick carrier, whether including inter-engaging stop formations or not i.e. whether in accordance with embodiments of the third or fourth aspects of the invention.

The helical element projects from the surface of a component on which it is provided e.g. to which it is bonded. A helical recess may be defined on either side thereof, or between turns thereof. Preferably the helical element is associated with (i.e. provided on) the interior of the product concealing sleeve and cooperates with (i.e. is received in) a helical recess associated with (i.e. provided on) the exterior of the product stick carrier for guiding the movement of the product concealing sleeve as it moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve, wherein the helical element moves within the helical recess as the product concealing sleeve moves relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve. It has been found that this may facilitate manufacture and provide more stable operation.

Some further features of embodiments comprising a helical element and cooperating helical recess will now be described by reference to the case in which a helical element associated with the interior of the product concealing sleeve is received in a helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier. However, it will be appreciated that the same features may equally apply in the case that the helical element is associated with the exterior of the product concealing sleeve and cooperates with a helical recess associated with an interior of the outer sleeve. For example, the helical recess associated with the interior of the outer sleeve may then be provided between the turns of a helical element joined thereto.

The helical element associated with the interior of the product concealing sleeve is fixed relative to the product concealing sleeve. Thus the helical element is rotationally and slidably fixed relative thereto. The helical element is joined to the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve. The helical element may be directly or indirectly joined thereto. In some embodiments, as described below, the helical element is joined to the interior surface of the product concealing sleeve using an intermediate component. However, in other embodiments the helical element may be bonded to and project from the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube itself. The helical element may be bonded directly to the product concealing sleeve tube.

The helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve extends over at least a portion of the length of the sleeve, and may extend over only a portion of a length of the sleeve e.g. from the proximal end edge thereof.

The helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier does not extend fully through the thickness of the product stick carrier. In other words, the helical recess is not an opening in the wall of the product stick carrier. The product stick carrier tube may be devoid of openings extending through the entire thickness thereof from one side to the other.

The helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier may be defined between turns of a helical element associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier. In such embodiments the helical element associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier is fixed relative to the product stick carrier. Thus the helical element is rotationally and slidably fixed relative thereto. The helical element is joined to the exterior surface of the product stick carrier. The helical element may be directly or indirectly joined thereto. In embodiments the helical element is bonded e.g. adhesively to the exterior surface of the product stick carrier i.e. the product stick carrier tube and projects therefrom. The helical element may be directly bonded to the exterior surface of the product stick carrier.

Where helical elements are associated with both the product concealing sleeve and the product stick carrier, they may be referred to as first and second helical elements respectively.

The helical elements associated with the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier cooperate with one another to provide a threaded connection between the components. This does not imply any limitation e.g. in relation to the extent that the helical element extends around the axis of the product concealing sleeve etc. The helical elements provide threaded portions associated with each of the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier. The threaded portion of the product concealing sleeve may then be moved in the manner of a nut with respect to the threaded portion of the product stick carrier, which acts as a bolt.

The helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may be snugly received in the helical recess. However, this need not be the case. Some degree of relative axial movement of the helical element between the axially extending edges of the helical recess may be available, and may be desirable in some cases e.g. to facilitate relative rotation of the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier.

Where the helical recess is defined between turns of a helical element associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier, the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve is confined to move within the helical recess. The axially extending edges of adjacent turns of the helical element associated with the product stick carrier provide a boundary within which the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve is confined. At least one of the axially extending edges of the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may engage an adjacent axially extending edge of the helical element associated with the product stick carrier during movement of the helical element of the product concealing sleeve along the recess. This will be the case in either direction of movement of the helical element along the recess. This may guide the movement of the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier as the helical element moves within the recess. This may in turn guide movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier. The edges need not necessarily engage one another at all times through the relative movement. In some embodiments the helical element of the product concealing sleeve is snugly received in the helical recess defined between turns of the helical element of the product stick carrier. In this case each of the axially extending edges of the helical element associated with the product concealing tube may engage a respective adjacent axially extending edge of the helical element associated with the product stick carrier during movement of the helical element of the product concealing sleeve along the helical recess. However, as mentioned above, it is not necessary that both axially extending edges of the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve engage axially extending edges of the helical element associated with the product stick carrier in this way. It may be desirable for some degree of axial movement of the helical element within the helical recess to be possible in order to facilitate movement of the helical element along the recess.

The second helical member may be received in a recess defined on one side of the first helical element. In some embodiments, depending upon the axial extent of the first helical element, the first helical element may define a second helical recess between the turns thereof which receives the second helical element of the product stick carrier. The helical recess defined between the turns of the second helical element may be referred to as the first helical recess. The second helical element may be received in the second recess in same manner as the first helical element is received in the first helical recess.

A helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve or product stick carrier may be of any desired configuration. The helical element is an element having axially extending edges which extend along a helical path. The axially extending edges of each helical element extend in a direction having both radial and axial components with respect to a longitudinal axis of the component with which they are associated i.e. product concealing sleeve or product stick carrier.

Each helical element present is of a paper-based or card-based material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The helical element may be in the form of a strip of such material.

Where helical elements are associated with both the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier, the helical element associated with the product stick carrier may, in some embodiments, extend over a greater length i.e. axial distance than the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve.

In embodiments in which first and second components are provided joined to the product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier respectively which cooperate with one another to define a fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve (i.e. provide the inter-engaging formations to define the fully extended position), the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve is preferably associated with an interior of the first component. The helical element is preferably joined to e.g. bonded, such as adhesively, to the inner surface of the first component and projects therefrom. The helical element may be directly bonded to the inner surface of the first component. The first component (e.g. tube) may be devoid of openings extending through the entire thickness thereof from one side to the other. The walls of the first component may extend continuously fully around the longitudinal axis of the product concealing sleeve. Such embodiments are also applicable to the dispenser of the fourth aspect of the invention where such first and second components are provided to define a first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve, as well as to embodiments of the third aspect.

The helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may extend over the full length of the first component. The helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may not extend beyond the axial end edges of the first component. In other words, the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may be confined to the first component and thus confined to the portion of the product concealing sleeve over which the first component extends. These embodiments in which the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve is provided on a first component joined thereto, which provides one of the inter-engaging formations of the stop mechanism, are advantageous. The same component which defines an end edge which provides part of the stop mechanism may also be used to provide a part of the connection guiding movement of the product concealing sleeve. Such arrangements may also facilitate manufacture. Such arrangements are advantageous in particular in the context of providing a dispenser of paper- board or cardboard material which functions in a stable an reliable manner, and which may be readily produced using such materials. The first component with its helical element may be produced and then inserted into the interior of the product concealing sleeve. The first component may be in the form of a tube e.g. spiral wound tube, with the helical element thereon.

However, the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve need not be associated with such a first component. For example, the helical element may be provided on the interior of at least a portion of the product concealing sleeve tube. The helical element is then provided directly on the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube. This may enable the dispenser to be provided with fewer components. In such arrangements, the inter-engaging formation associated with the product concealing sleeve may be of any alternative form, or, in accordance with embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention, the presence of inter-engaging formations to provide an end stop is not necessarily required. Thus, in accordance with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, the helical element may be provided on the interior of at least a portion of the product concealing sleeve tube. Where the helical element is provided on the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube, the helical element may extend the full length of the product concealing sleeve tube to facilitate manufacture. However, this need not be the case. The product concealing sleeve tube may be devoid of openings extending through the thickness thereof from one side to the other.

The helical recess may be defined between the turns of a helical element associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier e.g. bonded to an exterior surface of the product stick carrier. The helical recess (and, where applicable) helical element may extend axially from a proximal end edge of the product stick carrier. The helical recess associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier (or, where applicable, a helical element associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier) may extend at least to the proximal end edge of the second component (where present). The helical recess (and, where applicable helical element) may extend over the full length of the product stick carrier, with the second component covering the helical recess at the distal end of the product stick carrier to facilitate manufacture, or the helical recess (and, where applicable helical element) may terminate at the proximal end edge of the second component.

The helical element(s) associated with the product concealing sleeve, and where applicable, product stick carrier, may be provided in any suitable manner.

The helical element(s) extend along a spiral path. It has been recognised that they may advantageously be provided as part of a spiral winding process used to product a spiral wound tube forming part of the dispenser. The helical element may be provided by wrapping a strip of material spirally around the same mandrel as the one or more helically extending strips of material wound spirally round the mandrel to define the spiral wound tube component.

Advantageously, one or more, and optionally each helical element is bonded to and projects from a surface of a spiral wound tube component of the dispenser. Either or both helical elements present where first and second helical elements are present may be formed in this way. For example, the helical element associated with the product concealing sleeve may be bonded to the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube, which may thus be a spiral wound tube, or may be bonded to the interior of a first tubular component (defining an inter-engaging formation of the dispenser), which may thus be a spiral wound tube. The helical element associated with the product stick carrier may be bonded to the exterior of the product stick carrier, which may be a spiral wound tube. Likewise, if the helical element is associated with the outer sleeve rather than the product stick carrier, the product stick carrier may be in the form of a spiral wound tube. At least the components to which the helical elements are bonded may then be in the form of spiral wound tubes.

Where a helical element is bonded to and projects from a surface of a spiral wound tube component, preferably the helical element has been formed as part of the process of winding the spiral wound tube of the spiral wound tube component. The spiral wound tube component with its helical element may have been provided by spirally winding a plurality of strips of card-based or paper-based material around a mandrel, wherein one of the strips provides the helical element. The strip providing the helical element will be the inner most or outermost strip as appropriate depending whether the helical element is on the interior or exterior of the spiral wound tube.

The helical element and each strip forming part of the spiral wound tube may define the same angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the spirally wound tube.

The present invention extends to a method of forming the dispenser in those aspects or embodiments in which one or more, and optionally each helical element is bonded to and projects from a surface of a spiral wound tube component of the dispenser, wherein the method comprises providing the helical element by spirally winding the strip of card-based or paper-based material forming the helical element around the same mandrel used to provide a spiral wound tube for providing the spiral wound tube component, wherein the helical element and spiral wound tube are formed around one another. The helical element may be formed around the spiral wound tube, or the spiral wound tube may be formed around the helical element depending whether the helical element is to be associated with the interior or exterior of the tube.

The winding of the helical element and the winding of the spiral tube advantageously occurs simultaneously.

The method may comprise spirally winding a plurality of strips of card-based or paper-based material around the mandrel, wherein one of the strips forms the helical element and the or each further strip provides the spiral wound tube. The strips of material are preferably wound simultaneously around the mandrel. The mandrel may be a stationary mandrel. The strips may be supplied to the mandrel using any suitable system e.g. a belt system. The plurality of strips of card-based or paper-based material wound around the mandrel to form the helical element and spiral wound tube are laminated to one another. This may be achieved in any suitable manner e.g. by applying a bonding agent e.g. adhesive to at least some of the strips.

Where the helical element is bonded to and projects from an interior surface of the spiral wound tube component, the (radially) innermost strip will provide the helical element. Where the helical element is bonded to and projects from an exterior surface of the spiral wound tube component, the (radially) outermost strip provides the helical element.

The strip of material providing the helical element may be wound around the mandrel at the same rate as the one or more strips of material used to provide the spiral wound tube.

The helical element and the spiral wound tube may be removed as a unit from the mandrel.

The strip of material forming the helical element is wound around the mandrel in a manner such that the axially extending edges of the strip of material do not overlap one another.

The strip of material forming the helical element is wound around the mandrel in a manner such that gaps are defined between adjacent turns of the helical element.

The helical element may be formed from a strip of material having a width less than a width of each of the strips of card-based or paper-based material forming the spiral wound tube component. The width is measured in a direction perpendicular to its axially extending edges.

The width of the strip of material forming the helical element and the angle defined by the strip of material as it is wound about the mandrel should be selected as appropriate to enable the resulting helical element to cooperate with the helical recess forming the other part of the threaded connection.

After producing the spiral wound tube with its helical element thereon it is envisaged that the spiral wound tube may be cut to a desired length to provide the spiral wound tube component or may directly provide the spiral wound tube component.

The method may comprise spirally winding a plurality of strips of material around the mandrel to provide the spiral wound tube with the helical element thereon, for example at least 2 or at least 3 e.g. 3 or 4 strips. The number of strips used will depending upon the desired properties e.g. rigidity of the resulting tube, and the type of material e.g. thickness used etc.

The strip of material for providing the helical element should have an appropriate thickness to result in the helical element projecting radially a desired extent from the surface of the spiral wound tube. The appropriate width and thickness and other parameters should be chosen as appropriate to provide a suitable engagement with the threaded portion provided on the cooperating part e.g. product stick carrier.

In some embodiments including a cooperating helical element and helical recess, regardless of how it is formed i.e. whether first and second helical elements are provided, and/or which components they are associated with or how they are produced, the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve, and where in the form of a tube, the product stick carrier, are each spiral wound tubes. Where provided, first and second components defining inter-engaging formations providing an end-stop may also be in the form of spiral wound tubes. This may provide a more robust construction, and also enables the helical elements to be provided as part of the spiral winding process.

Of course, helical elements need not be provided on their respective tubes as part of a spiral winding process, and, where they are provided as part of the process, it is envisaged that the formation of the helical element and the spiral wound tube could occur sequentially, in the applicable order, by winding around the same mandrel, rather than simultaneously. For example, the strip may be wound around the mandrel to provide the helical element, and the strips to form the spiral wound tube then wound around the helical element or vice versa, depending whether the helical element is to be inward or outward of the tube.

In any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention having a cooperating helical element and helical recess, the angle of the helix defined by the helical element of the product concealing sleeve and helical recess of the product stick carrier may be selected as desired. For example, the angle may be used to control factors such as the ease with which the product concealing sleeve may move relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve, the axial distance of travel available for the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve between the fully extended and retracted positions and/or the degree of rotation need to move the product concealing sleeve axially relative to the product stick carrier and outer sleeve a given amount etc. Similarly the helical element of the product concealing sleeve and the helical recess of the product stick carrier may extend around the axis of the dispenser by any desired amount, depending upon similar factors. The distance between the helically extending edges of the helical element or helical recess i.e. a width of the helical element or recess measured perpendicular to its axially extending edges, may be selected as desired. Likewise a thickness of the or each helical element, which will control the extent to which it projects from a surrounding surface, may be selected as desired.

While embodiments incorporating a threaded connection have been described in particular reference to the case in which spiral wound tubes are used to form the tubular components of the dispenser, a threaded connection is broadly applicable to a dispenser including tubular components of any construction including e.g. the wrapped tube constructions earlier described, and which may advantageously be used with inter-engaging formations in the form of flaps. It will be appreciated that helical elements may be bonded to the respective surfaces of such tubular components.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects (including the first, second, third, and fourth aspects and the further method aspect described herein) or embodiments, whether or not the dispenser or its components are of a tubular construction, the product stick may be a stick of any product that may be provided in stick form. The product stick is a stick of solid material. The product may be any consumer product. The product may be a personal care product, such as a cosmetic product, skin care product, hair care product, ortoothcare product, but is not limited thereto. A personal care product includes any product used in grooming or dressing, as well as products used at other times, and may include products for providing a medicinal benefit. The product is not limited to personal care product, and may be any type of consumer product that is provided in stick form, such as a stick of adhesive, or paint. The product stick may be selected from any one of; a stick of cosmetic, lipstick, lip balm, deodorant, adhesive product or of any product for topical application to a surface, for example to a person’s skin or lips.

There is also provided an assembly that includes the dispenser in accordance with the invention in any of the aspects or embodiments described herein and a product in stick form supported by the product support.

Where a product in stick form is provided in the dispenser, the product in stick form (product stick) may have a base that is sized and shaped to fit within a product support of the product carrier (e.g. cradle portion in certain embodiments of the invention in the first and second aspects), or, where no product carrier is provided, for example, in a base of the outer sleeve. A base of the product stick may be supported by a platform of the product stick support, or, in alternative embodiments, may extend through a central aperture of a portion of the product stick support or be supported in any of the manners exemplified herein or otherwise.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments the product stick projects beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve, and the product stick carrier, where provided, in all operative states of the dispenser. Whether or not a product stick carrier is provided, the product stick does not project beyond the distal end of the product concealing sleeve, when the concealing sleeve is in the first, fully extended position. However, at least when the concealing sleeve is in the second, fully retracted position, the product stick extends beyond the distal end of the product concealing sleeve. The product stick extends in the above mentioned manner at least when the assembly is produced and prior to depletion of the product stick.

The product stick is fixed relative to the outer sleeve, and, where provided, product stick carrier.

The base of the product stick may be secured to the product support (e.g. cradle portion of the carrier in certain embodiments of the first or second aspects), or, in other embodiments, where a product stick carrier is not used, to the base of the outer sleeve, in any suitable manner. For example, the product stick may be bonded e.g. adhesively thereto, or secured thereto through mechanical interlocking, interference fit or magnetically. In some embodiments the product stick may extend through a central opening of a portion of the product stick support.

There is also provided a package comprising the dispenser or assembly in accordance with any of the aspects or embodiments described herein and further comprising an outer packaging arranged to house the dispenser. For example, the outer packaging may be a carton. The outer packaging is preferably of card-based or paper-based material. The outer packaging may be formed from a blank of sheet material e.g. a single piece blank. The outer packaging may be of the same cross sectional shape as the dispenser. In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, the extent of the possible travel of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve may be selected as desired, depending e.g. upon a length of a product stick with which the dispenser is to be used. In some embodiments the product concealing sleeve is moveable relative to the outer sleeve over a distance corresponding to at least 5% or at least 40% or at least 50% of a length of the outer sleeve. Alternatively or additionally the product concealing sleeve may be moveable relative to the product stick carrier, where provided, over a distance corresponding to at least 5%, or at least 30% or at least 35% of a length of the product stick carrier. In some embodiments at least 5%, or at least 30% or at least 40% or at least 45% or at least 50% of a length of the product concealing sleeve may extend beyond a distal end of the outer sleeve when in the first, fully extended position. Alternatively or additionally, no more than 95% or no more than 85% or no more than 60% of a length of the product concealing sleeve may extend beyond the distal end of the outer sleeve when in a first, fully extended position. In general, the range of travel of the product concealing sleeve may be selected within a broad range of values, depending upon the desired properties and intended use of the dispenser. For example, ranges of movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve might range from over 5% to over 95% of a length of the outer sleeve.

The dimensions of the dispenser may be selected as desired to house a given type of product stick. For example, the dispenser may have a width of less than 30cm, or less than 20cm, such as less than 10cm or less than 5cm, or less than 3cm, or less than 2cm, and/or the dispenser may have a length with the product concealing sleeve in the first, fully extended position, of less than 50cm, or less than 30cm or less than 20cm, or less than 15cm. The width of the dispenser is a maximum dimension thereof in the transverse direction. The above ranges are particularly suitable for use with a personal care type product. However, depending upon the type and configuration of product stick, whether for personal care products or otherwise, different dimensional ranges may be appropriate.

The term “folded inwardly” means folded into the interior of the respective component, and “folded outwardly” means folded to the exterior of the respective component.

The term “bonded” as used herein means joined by adhesive, heat sealing or any suitable bonding method. In exemplary embodiments, adhesive is used. Any reference to bonding herein may refer to adhesive bonding.

The product concealing sleeve, outer sleeve, and, where provided, product stick carrier may each be formed from a paper-based or card-based material. Any such paper based or card based material may be used, for example cardboard or paperboard. Any additional component of the dispenser e.g. a cap, or where provided, outer housing, helical element(s), first and second (tubular) components, is preferably also formed of a paper-based or card-based material. Each component of the dispenser may be made from a card or paper based material. Any reference to card-based or paper-based material herein may refer to a card-based or paper-based material such as cardboard or paperboard.

References to concealing a product stick refer to concealing the sides of the product stick. The distal end of the product stick may be visible through an open end of the base part of the dispenser when a cap is not provided over the base part of the dispenser. The product concealing sleeve may extend around the entire circumference of a product stick.

An assembly flap as referred to herein may secure the component e.g. cap, sleeve, carrier in a three- dimensional configuration. Thus the assembly flap maintains the component in a closed configuration.

The distal and proximal directions referred to herein correspond to directions toward the top and bottom of the dispenser respectively. That is, the distal end is the end in the same direction from which the product stick is configured to protrude in use. The proximal end is the end from which the product stick never protrudes.

The term “free edge” refers to an edge of a component e.g. flap or panel which is not connected to another component along a foldline. The component having the free edge may or may not be bonded down.

A fold line as referred to herein refers to any line about which components have been folded. The fold line may comprise a line of weakness, crease line and/or perforations. If not explicitly stated, and unless inconsistent therewith, any connection described herein may be about a fold line.

The term “spiral wound” as used herein refers to a method of forming a tube in which one or more and typically a plurality of strips of card-based or paper-based material are spirally wound around a mandrel and laminated together to form the tube. The strips are fed diagonally around the mandrel i.e. such that the axis of each strip is at a non-perpendicular angle to the axis of the mandrel. The strips follow a helical path as they move around the mandrel. The strips may be joined together using a bonding agent e.g. adhesive applied to one or more of the strips. Tubes of this general type referred to herein as “spiral wound” tubes are manufactured for example by WestRock®.

It will be appreciated that any of the further aspects of the invention may include any or all of the features of the invention described in relation to any other aspects and embodiments of the invention to the extent they are not mutually inconsistent therewith. In particular, it will be appreciated that the invention in the second aspect may comprise any or all of the features described in respect of the first aspect of the invention, and vice versa. The invention of the third and fourth aspects may function in the same manner as described in relation to the first and second aspects i.e. in relation to the interengagement of the flaps.

Various features of embodiments of the invention will be described in further detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Some preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a product dispenser in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 1 A is an exploded view of the product dispenser of figure 1 ;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the product dispenser of the embodiment of figure 1 , with a cap removed and a product concealing sleeve in a fully extended position;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the product dispenser of the embodiment of figures 1 , 1 A and 2, with the concealing sleeve in a fully retracted position and the product shown in dotted lines;

Figure 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the product dispenser, taken along line A-A of figure 2, and additionally showing a product located in the product stick carrier;

Figure 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the product dispenser, taken along line B-B of figure 3 and additionally showing a product located in the product stick carrier;

Figure 5A is a perspective view of the product stick carrier erected;

Figure 5B is a partially erected product stick carrier of figure 5A;

Figure 5C is a blank for the product stick carrier of figure 5A;

Figure 6A is a perspective view of the product concealing sleeve erected;

Figure 6B is a partially erected product concealing sleeve of figure 6A;

Figure 6C is a blank for the product concealing sleeve of figure 6A;

Figure 7A is a perspective view of the outer sleeve erected;

Figure 7B is a partially erected outer sleeve of figure 7A;

Figure 7C is a blank for the outer sleeve of figure 7A;

Figure 8A is a perspective view of the cap erected; Figure 8B is a partially erected cap of figure 7A;

Figure 8C is a blank for the cap of figure 7A.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of an outer packaging which may be used in a package including the dispenser of the present invention.

Figure 10 shows a dispenser in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention with a removable cap in place;

Figure 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the dispenser of Figure 10 with the product concealing sleeve in a fully extended position covering the product stick;

Figure 12 is a further vertical cross-sectional view of the dispenser of the embodiment of Figure 10 similar to that of Figure 11 and showing the product concealing sleeve in the fully extended position but with the cap removed from the base part;

Figure 13 is a perspective view and shows the dispenser of Figure 10 with its cap removed and the product concealing sleeve in a fully retracted position exposing the product stick;

Figure 14 is a vertical cross sectional view of the dispenser as shown in Figure 13 with the product concealing sleeve in the fully retracted position;

Figure 15 is an exploded view showing the components of the dispenser of the embodiment of Figure 10;

Figure 16A illustrates a blank for providing the product stick carrier of the embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with Figures 10-15;

Figure 16B illustrates a blank for providing the product concealing sleeve of the embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with Figures 10-15;

Figure 16C illustrates a blank for providing the outer sleeve of the embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with Figures 10-15;Figure 16D illustrates a blank for providing the cap of the embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with Figures 10-15;

Figure 17A illustrates a first step in an exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving wrapping the blank of Figure 16A around a mandrel to provide the product stick carrier;

Figure 17B illustrates the product stick carrier tube resulting from the step shown in Figure 17A;

Figure 17C illustrates a further step in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving wrapping the blank of Figure 16B around a mandrel to provide the product concealing sleeve;

Figure 17D illustrates the product concealing sleeve resulting from the step shown in Figure 17C; Figure 17E illustrates a further step in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving feeding the blank of Figure 16C onto a mandrel for providing the outer sleeve and showing the deflection of the tab for providing the locking flap as the blank is fed onto the mandrel;

Figure 17F illustrates the subsequent wrapping of the blank of Figure 16C around the mandrel to provide the outer sleeve;

Figure 17G illustrates the outer sleeve resulting from the step shown in Figure 17F;

Figure 17H illustrates a further step in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving wrapping the blank of Figure 16D around a mandrel to provide the cap;

Figure 171 illustrates the cap resulting from the step shown in Figure 17H;

Figure 18A illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving inserting a base disc into the product stick carrier;

Figure 18B illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving inserting the product stick carrier into the product concealing sleeve;

Figure 18C illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving inserting a base disc into the outer sleeve and rolling the end of the outer sleeve inwardly;

Figure 18D illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving inserting the assembly of the product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve into the outer sleeve;

Figure 18E illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving rolling the end of the cap inwardly;

Figure 18F illustrates a further step in the assembly of the dispenser in the exemplary process of manufacturing the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 involving inserting an end disc into the cap;

Figure 18G illustrates the resulting cap;

Figure 19 illustrates a yet further embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with the invention that is tubular in form, showing a base part with the product concealing tube in a fully extended position, and with any removable cap removed; Figure 20 illustrates the dispenser of the embodiment of Figure 19 with the product concealing tube in a fully retracted position;, and with any removable cap absent;

Figure 21 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the dispenser of the embodiment of Figure 19 with the product concealing tube in the fully extended position;

Figure 22 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the dispenser of the embodiment of Figure 19 with the product concealing tube in the fully retracted position;

Figure 23 is an exploded view showing the components of the dispenser of the Figure 19 embodiment;

Figure 24 is a further exploded view of the dispenser of the Figure 19 embodiment with the first and second tubular components assembled to the product concealing tube and product stick carrier respectively;

Figure 25 illustrates the product concealing tube and the first tubular component located therein;

Figure 26 illustrates the product stick carrier with the second tubular component bonded thereto;

Figure 27 illustrates the product concealing tube and its first tubular component mounted to the product stick carrier with its second tubular component, showing the product concealing tube in its fully extended position, and illustrating the interaction of the first and second tubular components to provide a stop mechanism defining the fully extended position; and Figure 28 is a schematic diagram illustrating the principles of spiral winding of tubes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to figures 1 , 2 and 3 a dispenser 2 for a product 4 in stick form in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention is shown.

The dispenser 2 comprises an outer sleeve 6, a product concealing sleeve 8, a product stick carrier 10 and may comprise a cap 12.

Each component of the dispenser 2, i.e. the outer sleeve 6, product concealing sleeve 8, product stick carrier 10, and, where provided cap 12, is made of paper-based or card-based material. In the illustrated embodiment, each component is constructed from a respective single piece blank of such material. However, it is not necessary that each need be a single piece blank, or, indeed, that any component need be folded from a blank at all.

An outer packaging 14 (shown in Figure 9) may be provided to house the dispenser 2. The outer packaging 14 may be in the form of an outer carton made of cardboard or paperboard. Together, the outer packaging 14, dispenser 2 and product stick 4 then form a package.

For ease of illustration, the product 4 is shown only in Figures 4A and 4B. The dispenser 2 defines an axial direction X which extends in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the dispenser 2 between a proximal end 16 of the dispenser 2 and a distal end 18 of the dispenser 2. The terms distal and proximal may, in some arrangements, correspond to upper and lower, or top and bottom, when the dispenser 2 is arranged in a vertical position, such that, when assembled, the cap 12 is vertically above the outer sleeve 6. Transverse directions Y, Z may be defined perpendicular to the axial direction X. Transverse may correspond to radial.

The concealing sleeve 8 is dimensioned to fit snugly (i.e. , so that it touches, but can still slide) within the outer sleeve 6 in the transverse directions Y, Z. The carrier 10 (product stick carrier) is dimensioned to fit snugly within the concealing sleeve 8. The carrier 10 is bonded to the outer sleeve 6. The bonding may be by adhesion, or any other suitable technique, such as heat sealing. The bonding of the carrier 10 to the outer sleeve 6 does not inhibit the ability for the product concealing sleeve 8 to slide. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the end panel (base flap) 40A of the product stick carrier 10 is bonded to the end wall panel (base panel) 100 of the outer sleeve 6.

The cap 12 is dimensioned such that the concealing sleeve 8 fits snugly within the cap 12 in the transverse directions Y, Z. A proximal end 20 of the cap 12 is configured to abut a distal end 22 of the outer sleeve 6 as shown in the arrangement of figure 1 . In the illustrated embodiment, the exterior surface 24 of the cap 12 is flush with the exterior surface 26 of the outer sleeve 6. The cap 12 has a length so as to fit over the concealing sleeve 8 and abut the distal end 22 of the outer sleeve 6 when the concealing sleeve 8 is in a first, fully extended position relative to the product stick carrier 6 (and outer sleeve 10).

The concealing sleeve 8 may move (e.g., slide) between a first, fully extended position 11 , as shown in figure 2, and a second, fully retracted position 13 relative to the outer sleeve 6 and product carrier 10, as shown in figure 3. The movement is a linear movement which occurs without relative rotation between the components. This movement may be driven by a force applied by a user to the concealing sleeve 8. The interaction of the concealing sleeve 8 and the outer sleeve 6 which leads to the limits at the fully extended and fully retracted positions can be seen in figures 4A and 4B, and is described in more detail further below.

Figures 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate the carrier 10, as assembled (or erected), as partially erected and as a blank 28 respectively.

The carrier 10 is a product stick carrier 10.

The carrier 10 is constructed from a single piece blank 28, as shown in figure 5C.

The carrier 10 comprises a product support 30 to hold the product 4 in stick form at a distal end 32 of the carrier 10 such that the product 4 extends beyond the distal end 32. The position of the product 4 is illustrated with respect to Figures 4A and B below.

The carrier 10 comprises a plurality of carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, for example, first, second, third and fourth carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D, connected to one another along axial side edges (i.e. that extend axially) along foldlines 36A, 36B, 36C. The carrier 10 also comprises an assembly flap 38 e.g. glue flap 38 attached to an axial side edge (i.e. , that extends axially) of the first carrier sidewall 34A along a foldline 36D. The assembly flap 38 is trapezoidal, which may provide for easier assembly. When erected, as shown in Figure 5A, the assembly flap 38 is bonded to a surface, e.g., the exterior surface, of the fourth carrier sidewall 34D. The assembly flap 38 may be bonded to either the interior surface or the exterior surface of the fourth carrier sidewall 34D. If the assembly flap 38 is bonded to the exterior surface of the fourth carrier sidewall 34D then the presence of a visible cut edge at the distal edge of the assembly flap in the fully erected dispenser may be avoided.

The carrier 10 also includes a plurality of base flaps 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, each attached to a proximal end 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D of a respective one of the carrier walls 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D along a foldline 44A, 44B, 44C, 44D. The base flaps 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D form a closed base 46 of the carrier 10.

The proximal i.e. outer side of the lowermost base flap 40C is bonded to the outer sleeve 6 in the assembled dispenser 2. It will be appreciated that the shape and number of the base flaps may differ from that illustrated. At least one of the flaps 40A and C will typically close the open area at the base of the carrier, with the other flaps not needing to provide full area coverage.

The carrier 10 thereby forms a square cross section. The cross section is the transverse cross section. It will be appreciated that the carrier 10 may in other embodiments be of another multi-sided shape, such as a hexagon, or any other shape. The outer sleeve 6, product concealing sleeve 8, and cap 12, where provided, will then be of corresponding cross sectional shape.

The product support 30 of the product carrier 10 includes a cradle portion at the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 that forms a platform for supporting the product stick 4 in use. The cradle portion includes a first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C (or cradle flaps) attached along foldlines 52A, 52C, at a proximal end of the first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C, to the distal end 54A, 54C of a first pair of opposed carrier sidewalls 34A, 34C, such as the first and third carrier sidewalls 54A, 54C. Each flap 50A, 50C of the first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C includes a proximal portion 56A, 56C and a distal portion 58A, 58C. The proximal portion 56A, 56C extends inwardly from the distal end 54A, 54C of the carrier sidewall 34A, 34C with which it is associated along the interior surface thereof, being bonded to the interior surface of the carrier sidewall 34A, 34C. The distal portion 58A, 58C is connected along a foldline 60A, 60C to the proximal portion 56A, 56C of the flap 50A, 50C. The distal portion 58A, 58C of the flap 50A, 50C extends across the interior of the product stick carrier 10 toward the opposed carrier sidewall 34C, 34A. The distal portions 58A, 58C of the opposed pair of flaps 50A, 50C are bonded to each other in a face-to-face (surface-to-surface) relationship to create a cradle for the product in stick form 4.

The product carrier 10 also includes a second opposed pair of flaps 50B, 50D attached to the distal end 54B, 54D of a second pair of opposed carrier sidewalls 34B, 34D, such as the second and fourth carrier sidewalls 34B, 34D, wherein the second opposed pair of flaps 50B, 50D are folded inwardly from the distal ends 54B, 54D of the carrier sidewalls 34B, 34D and bonded to the interior surface of the second pair of opposed carrier sidewalls 34B, 34D. The proximal portions 56A.56C of the first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C and the second pair of opposed flaps 50B, 50D reinforce the distal end of the product carrier 10, providing the region which will extend along the sides of a product stick in use with a multi- ply thickness. The sidewall 34D will be located between the flap 50D and the assembly flap 38 in the erected product carrier 10 in the embodiment illustrated. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the flap 50D is located between the sidewall 34D and the assembly flap 38 in the erected product carrier 10. However, it is envisaged that the flaps 50B, 50D could be omitted in other embodiments.

The product stick 4 is sized to fit snugly between the proximal portions 56A, 56C of the first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C and the second pair of opposed flaps 50B, 50D and is affixed to the distal portions 58A, 58C of the first pair of opposed flaps 50A, 50C which are bonded to one another and provide a cradle portion including a platform supporting the base 62 of the product 4. The proximal portions 56A, 56C of the first pair of opposed flaps 58A, 58C space the product supporting platform from the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10. By recessing the platform in this way, some support is additionally provided to the sides of the product 4 at the base 62 thereof.

In other words, the product carrier 10 includes a product support 30 that includes a platform (the distal portions 58A, 58C of the first opposed pair of flaps 50A, 50C) for supporting the base 62 of the product 4 and also extending up the sides (the proximal portions 56A, 56C of the first opposed pair of flaps 50A, 50C, and the second opposed pair of flaps 50B, 50D) of the product carrier 10.

Alternatively or additionally, the product support for holding the product 4 may include any other suitable features for holding the product 4 at the distal end 32 of the carrier 10, for example, the product support may include one or more spikes enabled to secure the product 4 in place. The product support may be arranged to provide an interference fit with a product.

Other types of product support may be used to those illustrated. For example, a cradle portion constructed as described above need not necessarily be used. Furthermore, the assembly of the product stick carrier may be performed in a different manner to that described. The configuration and/or shape of any assembly flap or set of flaps for providing a closed base may differ from that described.

With reference to figures 6A, 6B and 6C, the concealing sleeve 8 (or product concealing sleeve 8) and the blank 64 thereof will be described below.

The concealing sleeve 8 includes first, second, third and fourth concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D. However, other numbers of sidewalls may be used as previously discussed with respect to the product carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D. The concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D are attached along axial sides thereof along foldlines 68A, 68B, 68C. The concealing sleeve 8 includes an assembly flap 70, e.g., glue flap 70, attached to the first concealing sleeve sidewall 66A along a foldline 68D. The assembly flap 70 may be trapezoidal. In the erected concealing sleeve 8, the assembly flap 70 is bonded face-to-face (surface-to-surface) to the inner side of the fourth concealing sleeve sidewall 66D. Alternatively, the assembly flap 70 may be bonded face-to-face (surface-to-surface) to the outer side of the fourth concealing sleeve sidewall 66D. However, bonding the assembly flap 70 to the inner side of the fourth concealing sleeve sidewall 66D reduces the length of visible cut edge of the assembly flap 70 as compared to an arrangement with the assembly flap 70 bonded to the outer side.

In the embodiment illustrated, the concealing sleeve 8 also includes a plurality of end flaps 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D attached to the distal ends 74A, 74B, 74C, 74D of the concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A,

66B, 66C, 66D and a side flap 72E attached to the axial side edge 75 of the fourth concealing sleeve sidewall 66D respectively along foldlines 76A, 76B, 76C, 76D, 76E. The end flaps 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D and side flap 72E are folded inwardly (i.e., towards the side of the blank 64 for the concealing sleeve 8 that faces inwards in the erected concealing sleeve 8) and are bonded to the inner face of the respective concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D. In the embodiment illustrated the end flaps 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D attached to the distal ends 74A, 74B, 74C, 74D are at least as long as the length of the concealing sleeve 8 that extends beyond the distal end 32 of the carrier 10 in the first, fully extended position 11 (as shown in Figure 2). The end flaps 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D thereby make the concealing sleeve 8 multi-ply at a distal end 78 thereof (and over a distal portion thereof below the distal end 78) and acts to reinforce the sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D. Imparting the regions in which the end flaps 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D are present with an additional layer avoids the presence of a visible cut edge at the edge of the sidewall.

As may be seen in Figure 6B, the end flap 72D and side flap 72E have complimentary shapes, such that when the end flap 72D and side flap 72E are folded inwardly, they do not overlap. This may help avoid creating areas of the wall 66D which are excessively thick, supporting obtaining a snug fit between the concealing sleeve 8, product carrier 10 and outer sleeve 6. This may be particularly useful in the context of the relatively small dispenser 2 required for use with at least some types of product stick 4 e.g. lipsticks.

The assembly flap 70 is bonded to the interior of the side flap 72E (which in turn is on the interior of the sidewall 66D) in the erected product concealing sleeve 8. The assembly flap 70 underlies the inner surface of the side flap 72E. The shape of the side flap 72E corresponds to that of the assembly flap 70, again helping to avoid excessive thickness of the wall 66D of the product concealing sleeve 8 i.e. such that the assembly flap 70 does not overlap the end flap 72D.

As described above, the assembly flap 70 may, in alternative embodiments, be bonded to the exterior side of the sidewall 66D.

It will be appreciated that the arrangement illustrated is merely exemplary, and a lesser number of end flaps may be used. Furthermore, the details of the assembly flap and the shapes of the various flaps may differ from that shown.

The concealing sleeve 8 includes engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C at its proximal end 122, which each form part of a pair of inter-engaging flaps with locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D of the outer sleeve 6, described below. In the embodiment illustrated, the concealing sleeve 8 includes one fewer engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C than the number of concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C,

66D (this also applies to the other sidewalls, e.g., the product carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D). It will be appreciated that while three engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C are shown, a greater or lesser number of engagement flaps may be provided. For example, for a four sided concealing sleeve, one, two, three or four such locking flaps may be provided. In general, the concealing sleeve 8 includes at least one such locking flap 80A, 80B, 80C. Each inter-engaging flap provided will form a pair of inter- engaging flaps with a locking flap 110B, 11 OC, 110D of the outer sleeve 6. Thus, for each engagment flap 80A, 80B, 80C of the concealing sleeve, an inter-engaging locking flap 11 OB, 110C, 110D is provided associated with the outer sleeve 6.

There may be any number of pairs of inter-engaging flaps. For example, there may be one fewer pairs of inter-engaging flaps than outer sleeve sidewalls. Alternatively, there may be more than one fewer pairs of inter-engaging flaps than outer sleeve sidewalls. In the context of a four sided outer sleeve, there may, for example, be 2 or 3 pairs of inter-engaging flaps provided. Including fewer pair of inter-engaging flaps than sidewalls may help facilitate sliding of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve. However, the number of pairs of flaps may be selected depending upon various factors, such as the intended properties of the dispenser and the materials forming it etc.. For example, including the same number of pairs of inter-engaging flaps as sidewalls may help to support more secure inter-engagement between the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve being obtained,.

Each engagement flap 80A, 80B, 80C is connected to a proximal end 82A, 82B, 82C of a respective concealing sleeve sidewall 66A, 66B, 66C along a foldline 84A, 84B, 84C.

In the erected concealing sleeve 8, each engagement flap 80A, 80B, 80C is folded outwardly (i.e. , in a direction away from the centre of the erected concealing sleeve 8) such that it is flat against the outer surface of the respective concealing sleeve sidewall 66A, 66B, 66C to which it is attached.

The concealing sleeve 8 in the erected dispenser is retractable from the first, extended position to the second, fully retracted position. The concealing sleeve 8 is freely movable between the first and second positions. The concealing sleeve 8 is mounted for reciprocating movement between the first and second positions between the carrier 10 and the outer sleeve 6.

As may be seen in Figures 2 and 3, a greater portion of the concealing sleeve 8 extends beyond a distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 when in the first, extended position 11 than when in the second, fully retracted position 13. The concealing sleeve 8 includes a distal portion 86 that extends beyond the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 when in the second, fully retracted position (and also, in the first, extended position). The concealing sleeve 8 includes a proximal portion 88 that does not extend beyond the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 when in the first, extended position 11 (and also in the second, fully retracted position 13). The concealing sleeve 8 includes an intermediate portion 90 that extends beyond the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 in the first, extended position, but that does not extend beyond the distal end 32 of the product carrier 10 in the second, fully retracted position. The end flaps 72A-D have a length such that they reinforce a portion (the distal and the intermediate portions 86, 90) of the product concealing sleeve 8 that extends beyond the distal end of the product carrier 10 when in the first, fully extended position 11 .

With reference to figures 7A, 7B and 7C, an exemplary outer sleeve 6 and an exemplary blank 92 thereof will be described below.

In the embodiment illustrated the outer sleeve 6 includes first, second, third and fourth outer sleeve sidewalls 94A, 94B, 94C, 94D. However, other numbers of sidewalls may be used as previously discussed with respect to the product carrier and concealing sleeve sidewalls 34A-D, 66A-D. The outer sleeve sidewalls 94A, 94B, 94C, 94D are connected to one another along foldlines 96A, 96B, 96C along the side edges thereof.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outer sleeve 6 includes an assembly flap 98, e.g., glue flap 98 attached to the fourth outer sleeve sidewall 94D along a foldline 96D at a side edge of the fourth outer sleeve sidewall 94D. When the outer sleeve 6 is erected, the assembly flap 98 is bonded face-to-face to one of the outer sleeve sidewalls 94A, being the first outer sleeve sidewall 94A as illustrated. The assembly flap 98 is bonded to the interior of said outer sleeve sidewall 94A. Of course, the assembly flap 98 may in alternative arrangements be bonded to the exterior of said outer sleeve sidewall 94A; however, the arrangement with the assembly flap 98 bonded to the interior of said outer sleeve sidewall 94A may avoid visible cut edges of the assembly flap 98 in the fully erected dispenser 2.

In the illustrated embodiment, the outer sleeve 6 includes a base panel 100 to a proximal end 102 of the assembly flap 98 along a foldline 104. The outer sleeve 6 also includes a plurality of base flaps 106A, 106B, 106C attached to the base panel 100 along foldlines 108A, 108B, 108C at side edges of the base panel 100. The base flaps 106A, 106B, 106C are configured such that, when the outer sleeve 6 is erected, the base flaps 106A, 106B, 106C are each in face-to-face contact with (and each flap 106A, 106B, 106C optionally bonded to) to a respective one of the outer sleeve sidewalls 94D, 94C, 94B on interior surfaces of the outer sleeve sidewalls 94D, 94C, 94B. In some embodiments, some or all of the base flaps 106A, 106B, 106C are bonded to exterior surfaces of respective carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C. In other embodiments the base flaps 106A, 106B, 106C are not bonded to the carrier sidewalls 34A, 34B, 34C. The most appropriate arrangement will depend upon factors such as the packing line assembly, product stick carrier arrangement and security of closure required. The assembly flap 98 is bonded face-to-face to the interior of the outer sleeve sidewall 94A. As described above, in other arrangements the assembly flap may be bonded to the exterior of the outer sleeve sidewall 94A.

The base panel 100, in the erected dispenser 2 is bonded to the lowermost base flap 40 of the product carrier 10, such that the product carrier 10 is centred in the transverse directions Y, Z with respect to the outer sleeve 6.

The outer sleeve 6 includes locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D, each being attached to the distal end 112B, 112C, 112D of a respective one of the outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D along a foldline 114B, 114C, 114D. In the embodiment illustrated, the outer sleeve 6 includes three locking flaps I I OB, 11 OC, 110D, for example one fewer than the number of outer sleeve sidewalls 94A, 94B, 94C, 94D. It will be appreciated that a greater or lesser number of locking flaps 110B, 11 OC, 110D may be provided. For example, for a four sided outer sleeve 6, one, two, three or four such locking flaps may be provided. In general, the outer sleeve 6 includes at least one such locking flap. An additional flap 110A is provided attached to the distal end 112A of the first outer sleeve sidewall 94A along a foldline 114A. The additional flap 110A reinforces the distal end 112A of the first outer sleeve sidewall 94A, so it is also multi-ply, similarly to the distal ends 112b, 112C, 112D of the other outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D.

In the erected dispenser 2, the locking flaps 110B, 11 OC, 110D, together with the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C of the concealing sleeve 8, provide pairs of inter-engaging flaps 80A, 11 OB, 80B,

I IOC, 80C, 110D configured to prevent further movement of the concealing sleeve 8 relative to the outer sleeve axially in a direction away from the proximal end and toward the distal end of the concealing sleeve 6. . This is illustrated in figure 4A.

While Figure 2 does not show a product located in the product stick carrier, the product is shown in Figure 4A.

The inter-engaging flaps 80A, 11 OB, 80B, 110C, 80C, 110D cooperate with one another to prevent the travel of the concealing sleeve 8 as it is extended relative to the outer sleeve 6 and product carrier 10 further beyond the first, fully extended position and thereby retain the product concealing sleeve 8 between the product carrier 10 and the outer sleeve 6.

In the embodiment illustrated, the ends 81 A, 118B, 81 B, 118C, 81 C, 118D of the interengaging flaps 80A, 11 OB, 80B, 110C, 80C, 110D engage one another to provide a locking effect.

The locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D are folded inwardly (i.e. , towards the centre of the dispenser 2), and each locking flap 11 OB, 110C, 110D is bonded to the interior surface of the respective outer sleeve sidewall 94B, 94C, 94D to which it attached along a foldline 114B, 114C, 114D. This may improve engagement with the ends of the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C and provide a slimmer dispenser 2.

Alternatively, it is envisaged that in other embodiments the locking flaps 110B, 11 OC, 110D might slide underneath the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C between the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C and the outer surface of the concealing sleeve 8 so the ends 118B, 118C, 118D of the locking flaps 110B, 11 OC, 110D may engage with the foldlines 84A, 84B, 84C that connect the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C to the concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C. In these embodiments, the locking flaps 11 OB, C, D would not be bonded to the interior surfaces of the respective outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D.

In other embodiments only one set of the locking flaps 110B, 11 OC, 110D and the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C may be bonded to the interior surfaces of the respective outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D or the outer surface of the concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C respectively. The choice of which of the locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D and engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C ae bonded to the respective sidewall surfaces and which are not bonded will depend on a variety of factors, such as manufacturing and cost considerations and the rigidity requirements of the various components of the dispenser for various different uses. Bonding down the engagement flaps may, for example, facilitate manufacture where the product concealing sleeve is pushed into the distal end of the outer sleeve. It may then be less important to bond down the locking flaps, since the product concealing sleeve will be pushed past them in the direction of folding. However, the reverse may be the case. In general, one or both of the engagement flaps and locking flaps may be either bonded down or unbonded. Thus, combinations of bonded and unbonded flaps are envisaged.

In the erected dispenser 2, the locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D are located between the product concealing sleeve 8 and the outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D.

The outer sleeve 6 also includes stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D attached to the proximal end 120 of the outer sleeve 6 along foldlines 117B, 117C, 117D. Each stopper flap 116B, 116C, 116D is folded about the respective foldline 117B, 117C, 117D into the interior of the outer sleeve 6 and is bonded to the interior surface thereof. In the embodiment illustrated, an edge 115B, 115C, 115B of each stopper flap 116B, 116C, 116D closer to the distal end 22 of the outer sleeve 6 is configured to engage with the base 122 of the concealing sleeve 8 along one of the foldlines 84A, 84B, 84C connecting the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C to the concealing sleeve sidewalls 66A, 66B, 66C.

As with the engagement and locking flaps, it will be appreciated that the stopper flaps need not be bonded down.

In the erected dispenser 2, the stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D are located between the product concealing sleeve 8 and the outer sleeve sidewalls 94B, 94C, 94D.

The stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D are thereby configured to restrict the axial movement of the concealing sleeve 8 relative to the outer sleeve 6 in the direction toward the proximal end 16 of the outer sleeve 6 so as to define the second, fully retracted position 13 of the concealing sleeve 8. This is shown in figure 4B. It will be appreciated that such stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D need not necessarily be used. For example, the proximal end 16 of the concealing sleeve 6 may simply engage a base of the dispenser 2 to define a fully retracted position. However, the use of stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D which cooperate with the base of the engagement flaps 80A, B, C may provide a space efficient arrangement to define the fully retracted position 13.

The extent of travel of the product concealing sleeve 8 between the fully retracted and fully extended positions 13, 11 may be controlled in the embodiments illustrated by selecting the extent of the inter- engaging flaps 80A, 80B, 80C, 110B, 110C, 110D, and, where provided, stopper flaps 116B, 116C,

116D, appropriately. The extent of the travel may correspond to a distance separating the opposed ends of the stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D and locking flaps 110B, 110C, 110D of the outer sleeve 6 minus the length of the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C of the product concealing sleeve 8 in the illustrated embodiment. While Figure 3 only shows the product 4 located in the product stick carrier 10 with dotted lines, the product 4 is shown in Figure 4B with solid lines and hatched shading.

It will be appreciated that Figures 4A and 4B are schematic drawings that are not drawn to scale, but are included for ease of understanding the functioning of certain features of the dispenser 2. For example, the space between the outer sleeve 6 and the product carrier 10 has been exaggerated. Similarly, the thickness of the paperboard or cardboard of the components has been exaggerated.

The product may have a greater length than illustrated, and a greater portion of the product may be exposed when the product concealing sleeve is retracted. The product concealing sleeve may have a greater length than illustrated. More accurate illustrations are shown in Figures 1 to 3.

The outer sleeve 6 in the illustrated embodiment also includes a side flap 124 attached to an axial edge of the first outer sleeve sidewall 94A along a foldline 96E. The side flap 124 is optional. In the illustrated embodiment, the side flap 124 is folded back along foldline 96E and bonded to the interior of the sidewall 94A. In the erected outer sleeve 6, the side flap 124 is sandwiched between the sidewall 94A and the assembly flap 98. The side flap 124 avoids the presence of a visible cut edge at the edge of the sidewall 94A and acts to reinforce the sidewall 94A, imparting the region in which it is present with an additional layer.

With reference to figures 8A, 8B and 8C, an exemplary cap 12 and an exemplary blank 126 thereof will be described below.

As suggested above, it is envisaged that the dispenser 2, though described herein as comprising a cap 12, may in some embodiments not include a cap 12.

The cap 12 is replaceably removable from the base part (i.e., the outer sleeve 6, product concealing sleeve 8 and product carrier 10) of the dispenser 2.

For some products in stick form 4, a cap 12 may be beneficial, for example, by keeping the end of the product 4 from being exposed to air and thereby drying out.

In the embodiment illustrated, the cap 12 includes first, second, third and fourth cap sidewalls 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D. However, as described above for the components of the base part, the cap 12 may include any number of sidewalls. The cap sidewalls 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D are attached along axial sides thereof along foldlines 130A, 130B, 130C.

The cap 12 includes an assembly flap 132, e.g., a glue flap 132 attached to the fourth cap sidewall 128D along a foldline 130D at a side edge of the fourth cap sidewall 128D. When the cap 12 is erected, the assembly flap 128 may be bonded face-to-face to one of the cap sidewalls 128A, for example, the first cap sidewall 128A. The assembly flap 132 may be bonded to the interior side of said cap sidewall 128A.

The cap includes a lid panel 134 attached to the assembly flap 132 attached to a distal end 136 of the assembly flap 132 along a foldline 138. The cap 12 also includes a plurality of lid flaps 140A, 140B, 140C attached to the lid panel 134 along foldlines 142A, 142B, 142C at side edges of the lid panel 134. The lid flaps 140A, 140B, 140C are configured, such that when the cap 12 is erected, the lid flaps 140A, 140B, 140C are bonded face-to-face (surface-to-surface) to each of the cap sidewalls 128D, 128C, 128B on interior surfaces of the cap sidewalls 128D, 128C, 128B. The assembly flap 132 is bonded face-to-face (surface-to-surface) to the cap sidewall 128A. The assembly flap 132 may be bonded to the interior surface of the cap sidewall 128A to avoid visible cut edges on the fully erected dispenser 2; however, in alternative arrangements it is feasible that the assembly flap 138 could be bonded to the exterior surface of the cap sidewall 128A.

The cap 12 includes a plurality of distal end flaps 144A, 144B, 144C, 144D, each attached to the distal end 146A, 146B, 146C, 146D of a respective one of the cap sidewalls 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D along a respective foldline 148A, 148B, 148C, 148D. The cap 12 also includes a plurality of proximal end flaps 150A, 150B, 150C, 150D, each attached to the proximal end 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D of a respective one of the cap sidewalls 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D along a respective foldline 154A, 154B, 154C, 154D. In the erected cap 12, the proximal and distal end flaps 144A-D, 150A-D are folded inwardly (i.e., toward the centre of the cap 12) and bonded to the interior surfaces of the cap sidewalls 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D. The presence of the proximal and distal end flaps 144A-D, 150A-D avoids the presence of a visible cut edge at the edge of the cap sidewalls 128A-D and acts to reinforce the cap sidewalls 128A-D, imparting the region in which it is present with an additional layer.

The cap 12 also includes a side flap 156 attached to a side edge of the first cap sidewall 128A along a foldline 130E. The side flap 156, in the erected cap 12 is folded inwardly (i.e., toward the centre of the cap 12) and bonded to the interior surface of the first cap sidewall 128A. The side flap 156 avoids the presence of a visible cut edge at the edge of the first cap sidewall 128A and acts to reinforce the first cap sidewall 128A, imparting the region in which it is present with an additional layer.

It will be seen that the shapes of end flaps 144A, 150A and side flap 156 are complimentary in the illustrated embodiment to avoid creating excessive thickness in the sidewall 128A of the cap 12 to which they are bonded.

The form of the cap 12 shown in Figures 8A-C is merely exemplary, and other types of cap may be used.

The external surfaces of the outer sleeve 6 and the cap 12 are flush in the arrangement described. The cap 12 is sized to fit over the product concealing sleeve 8 when the sleeve 8 is in the fully extended position 11 , with the proximal end 20 of the cap 12 abutting the distal end 22 of the outer sleeve 6.

The dispenser 2 is used in the following manner. Firstly, the dispenser is removed from housing 14, in embodiments where housing 14 is present. Then the cap 12 is removed from the dispenser 2. The concealing sleeve 8 is then manually retracted to reveal the product 4. The concealing sleeve 8 is, in some embodiments, prevented from traveling more further than the second, fully retracted position 13 (as shown in figure 3) by the engagement of the base of the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C and the stopper flaps 116B, 116C, 116D. The product may then be used, for example by being applied to a surface (e.g., lips, or face). Then the concealing sleeve 8 is manually slid to the first, fully extended position 11 (as shown in figure 2), thereby concealing the product 4. The concealing sleeve 8 is prevented from further travel in an axial direction by the engagement of the locking flaps 11 OB, 110C,

110D and the engagement flaps 80A, 80B, 80C.

The dimensions of the dispenser 2 may be selected as desired. For example, in one exemplary embodiment of a lipstick dispenser, the dispenser 2 may be less than 15cm long with the product concealing sleeve 8 in the fully extended position, and less than 3 cm wide.

These dimensions are only exemplary, and similar dimensions and sizes may be used for the dispenser 2 and the components thereof.

In exemplary embodiments, the product stick carrier 10 may have a length greater than that of both the outer sleeve 6 and the product concealing sleeve 8. The outer sleeve 6 and product concealing sleeve 8 may be of similar lengths.

The range of travel of the product concealing sleeve 8 between the first, fully extended, position and the second, fully retracted, position may vary widely depending upon the desired properties of the dispenser 2, such as the desired strength and stability properties thereof, the nature and configuration of product stick 4 with which it is to be used etc. A greater range of travel may be useful in providing greater product exposure and ease of use.

The embodiment illustrated by reference to Figures 1-9 is merely exemplary of one form of a dispenser 2 including a product concealing sleeve 8, product stick carrier 10 and outer sleeve 6 cooperating in the manner of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the dispenser 2, and the components thereof, may differ in construction from the exemplary embodiment shown. For example, while the components are each shown as being folded from a single piece blank of material, this need not be the case. While each component is shown as being four sided in the illustrated embodiment, other polygonal shapes in cross section having a greater or lesser number of sides, may be envisaged. These include, for example, a six sided shape. The sides of the shape defined in cross section need not be of equal length. For example, a rectangular rather than square cross section might be used.

While the product concealing sleeve has been shown as extending around the full circumference of the product stick, this need not be the case.

It will be appreciated that the number of sidewalls of each component of the dispenser may differ from the illustrated embodiment and from each other. Furthermore, it is envisaged that the product concealing sleeve may have fewer sidewalls than the outer sleeve, such as one less sidewall than the outer sleeve. In this regard, where the outer sleeve has four sidewalls, the product concealing sleeve might, in exemplary embodiments, have 3 or 4 sidewalls.

Each component may, for example, have 3, 4, 5, or 6 sidewalls in some exemplary embodiments.

The product stick carrier could be of a different form to the product stick carrier illustrated. The product stick carrier could take the form of anything that can support the product in stick form, for example at the base thereof. For example, the product stick carrier could be a planar member, or any other element confined to the base of the dispenser. Alternatively, it is envisaged that the dispenser might not comprise a product stick carrier at all with the product in stick form instead being secured directly to the base of the outer sleeve. The other components of the dispenser may then be as described herein. The outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve will have inter-engaging flaps as described in relation to the illustrated embodiment.

While, in the illustrated embodiments, the components include various end flaps (which do not form part of any of the pairs of inter-engaging flaps contributing to the cooperation between the various components) and side flaps which may avoid the presence of a cut edge and can increase strength of the components, such additional end flaps and side flaps are only optional. For example, where the visibility of cut edges is of less concern, and where other factors e.g. quantity of material used, is of greater concern, some or all of the flaps may be omitted.

With reference to Figures 10-15 a dispenser 200 for a product in stick form in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention is shown.

This further embodiment functions in a similar manner to that previously described, but utilises tubular components.

The dispenser 200 comprises an outer sleeve in the form of an outer tube 206, a product concealing sleeve in the form of a tube 208, and a product stick carrier 210. The embodiment illustrated also includes a cap 212, although the cap is optional. In this embodiment, the product stick carrier 210 is also in the form of a tube. The outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208 and product stick carrier tubes 210 are all cylindrical tubes.

The outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208 and product stick carrier 210 may be considered to provide a base part 209 of the dispenser 200, over which the removable cap 212 may be placed. The base part 209 and cap 212 are tubular in shape. In the embodiment illustrated they are circular in cross section, although other cross sectional shapes e.g. oval, may be possible.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the dispenser 200 with the cap 212 in place. Figure 11 is a vertical cross sectional view of the dispenser 200 of Figure 10, showing that the product concealing tube 208 is in its fully extended position relative to the product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206. Figure 12 is a cross sectional view similar to that of Figure 11 , but with the cap 212 removed to more clearly show the position of the product concealing tube 208.

Figure 13 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the dispenser 200 with the product concealing tube 208 in a fully retracted position relative to the product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206. Figure 14 is a vertical cross sectional view of the dispenser 200 in the state shown in Figure 13.

Each component of the dispenser 200, i.e. the outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208, product stick carrier 210, and, where provided cap 212, is made of paper-based or card-based material. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208, product stick carrier tube 210 and cap tube 212 are each constructed from a blank of such material, more specifically, a single piece blank of such material. However, it is not necessary that each need be formed from a single piece blank, or, indeed, that any component need be folded from a blank at all.

An outer packaging (not shown) may be provided to house the dispenser 200. The outer packaging may be in the form of an outer carton made of cardboard or paperboard. Together, the outer packaging, dispenser 200 and product stick 204 then form a package.

The dispenser 200 defines an axial direction X which extends in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the dispenser 200 between a proximal end 216 of the dispenser 200 and a distal end 218 of the dispenser 200. The terms distal and proximal may, in some arrangements, correspond to upper and lower, or top and bottom, when the dispenser 200 is arranged in a vertical position, such that, when assembled, the cap 212 is vertically above the outer tube 206. Transverse directions Y, Z may be defined perpendicular to the axial direction X. Transverse may correspond to radial.

The product concealing tube 208 is dimensioned to fit snugly (i.e. , so that it touches, but can still slide) within the outer tube 206. The product stick carrier 210 is dimensioned to fit snugly within the product concealing tube 208. The product stick carrier 210 is bonded to the outer tube 206. The bonding may be by adhesion, or any other suitable technique, such as heat sealing. The bonding of the carrier 210 to the outer tube 206 does not inhibit the ability for the product concealing tube 208 to slide relative to the outer tube 206 and product stick carrier 210. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the product stick carrier 210 is in the form of a tube having a bottom end bonded to a base disc 223 closing a bottom end of the outer tube 206.

The cap 212 is dimensioned such that the product concealing tube 208 fits snugly within the cap 212 when the product concealing tube 208 is in its first, fully extended position relative to the product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206. A proximal end 220 of the cap 212 is configured to abut a distal end 222 of the outer tube 206 when located over the product concealing tube 208, whether the product concealing tube 208 is in either its extended position as shown in the arrangements of Figures 11 -12, or the retracted position as shown in Figures 13 and 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the exterior surface 224 of the cap 212 is flush with the exterior surface 226 of the outer tube 206. As seen in Figures 10 and 11 , the cap 212 has a length so as to fit over the product concealing tube 208 and abut the distal end 222 of the outer tube 206 when the product concealing tube 208 is in a first, fully extended position relative to the product stick carrier 210 (and outer tube 206).

The product concealing tube 208 may move between a first, fully extended position, as shown in Figures 10-12 and a second, fully retracted position relative to the outer tube 206 and product stick carrier 210, as shown in Figures 13 and 14. In contrast to the earlier embodiment, in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 10 onward, the product concealing tube 208 is able to both slide and rotate relative to the product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206. This provides the user with the ability to twist the product concealing tube 208 as they extend or retract it relative to the outer tube 206, facilitating ease of operation. However, it is envisaged that in other embodiments, the movement of the product concealing tube 208 might be constrained such that only slidable i.e. linear and not rotational movement relative to the outer tube 206 and product stick carrier 210 is possible. This movement may be driven by a force applied by a user to the product concealing tube 208. The interaction of the product concealing tube 208 and the outer tube 206 which leads to the limits at the fully extended and fully retracted positions can be seen in Figures 11 , 12 and 14, and is described in more detail further below.

The dispenser 200 is shown in exploded form in Figure 15, which better illustrates the components of the base part 209.

References to the proximal and distal end of the outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208 and product stick carrier 210 respectively may correspond to the ends which will typically be lowermost and uppermost in use. Thus, the proximal and distal ends of the tube/carrier may be interchangeably referred to as the lower and upper ends thereof. However, this does not necessarily confer any limitation on the orientation of the dispenser in use. The proximal and distal ends of a component may also be referred to as the first and second ends thereof.

The cap 212 is made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard.

Its upper (or distal) end may be closed by a disc 213 of such a material in a conventional manner which locates against a rolled over lip 211 formed at the upper end of the cap 212. The disc 213 may be a laminated structure, for example comprising a plurality of layers of card material bonded together, or a unitary, one piece construction. The disc 213 could of course be located in some other manner. In another embodiment, for example, the upper end of the cap 212 need not be rolled and an end closure in the form of a plug e.g. disc may be inserted into the upper end of the cap 212 and bonded into position.

The outer tube 206 is made from a paper-based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard. The outer tube 206 is of a wrapped tube construction formed in a manner later described, and is not spiral wound.

The cap 212 is, similar to the outer tube 206, formed of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spiral wound.

The base part 209 further includes the product concealing tube 208 which is rotatably and slidably received within the outer tube 206. The product concealing tube 208 is also made from a paper- based or card-based material such as paperboard or cardboard, and is of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spiral wound.

The base part 209 further comprises the product stick carrier 210 which is in the form of a tube of a paper-based or card-based material and which supports a product stick 50. The product stick carrier tube 210 is fixed at its base to the outer tube 206. This may be achieved using an adhesive attachment.

The product stick carrier 210 is formed of a wrapped tube construction, rather than being spiral wound. As may be seen in more detail in Figures 11 , 12 and 14, the bottom (proximal) end of the outer tube 206 is rolled inwardly to provide a lip 221 for locating a base closure disc 223. This is a similar construction to the closed end of the cap 212, described above. The base disc 223 could of course be located in some other manner. In another embodiment, for example the lower end of the outer tube 206 need not be rolled and the base disc 223 may simply be bonded in position. The base disc 223 may be formed of a paper-based or card-based material. The base disc 223 may be of a laminated structure, for example comprising a plurality of layers of card material bonded together, or a unitary, one piece construction.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base closure disc 223 is bonded to a bottom (proximal) end of the product stick carrier 210 to thereby fix the outer tube 206 in relation to product stick carrier 210. However, in particular where the end of the outer tube 206 is not inwardly rolled, any suitable arrangement may be used to close the end of the outer tube 206 and to fix the outer tube 206 relative to the inner tube (product stick carrier 210). For example, a closure plug may achieve this effect without inward rolling, or another arrangement may be used. The outer tube 206 is advantageously fixed to the product stick carrier 210 at the base of the tubes 206, 210 to avoid interfering with movement of the product concealing tube 208.

The product concealing tube 208 is able to move in the space defined between the product stick carrier 210 tube and outer tube 206 between its fully extended and fully retracted positions relative to the product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206, and also the product stick 204.

In the configuration shown in Figures 10-12, it may be seen that the product concealing tube 208 covers the product stick 204 i.e. the sides thereof. In the configuration shown in Figures 13 and 14, the product concealing tube 208 exposes the product stick 204.

In the fully retracted position as shown in Figures 13 and 14, the product concealing tube 208 still projects upwardly from the upper i.e. distal end 222 of the outer tube 206 and also from the upper i.e. distal end of the product stick carrier 210, but to a lesser degree than when in the fully extended position of Figures 10-12. In this way, the product 204 is exposed for use.

The product stick 204 is arranged radially inwardly of the product stick carrier 210 and, in the embodiment shown, projects upwardly from the outer tube 206 in all operational states of the dispenser 200, as can be seen for example in Figures 11 and 14. As the product stick carrier 210 is rotationally fixed to the outer tube 206, both it and the product stick 204 remain static during use of the dispenser 200. As will be described further below, raising or lowering of the product concealing tube 208 relative to the outer tube 206 will therefore expose or cover the product stick 204.

The product stick 204 may be secured to the product stick carrier tube 210 in any suitable manner. This may or may not involve the use of additional components. For example the product stick 204 may be bonded to a carrier disc or plug formed of a paper-based or card-based material and bonded to a distal (upper) end of the product stick carrier tube 210. Such a carrier disc or plug may be located at the distal tip of the product stick carrier tube 210 or may be recessed therefrom to enable the distal end portion of the product stick carrier tube 210 to support the sides of the product stick 204 at its base. In other embodiments, the product stick 204 might be secured to the product stick carrier tube 210 using an interference fit, or a mechanical interlocking arrangement or using a magnetic coupling, for example. Any arrangement may be used which fixes the product stick 204 relative to the product stick carrier tube 210 , with the distal end of the product stick 204 extending beyond the distal tip of the product stick carrier tube 210 for access by the user when the product concealing tube 208 is in a retracted position. It is envisaged that the product stick 204 could even be secured to a proximal end of the product stick carrier 210 e.g. using an end closure such as a carrier disc or plug as described above in relation to the distal end. However, the further the product stick 204 extends into the product stick carrier tube 210, the greater the extent of the product stick 204 which will not be available for use, and hence the greater the portion of the product stick 204 which may be wasted. The product stick 204 may be bonded to the product stick carrier tube 210 directly or indirectly (e.g. via a carrier, such as an end closure), using any suitable bonding agent e.g. adhesive, or wax, or a layer of the unset product itself.

In the illustrated embodiment, the product stick 204 is retained relative to the product stick carrier 210 by being inserted through an apertured disc inserted into the distal end of the product stick carrier tube 210 and bonded thereto, so as to be recessed from the distal tip of the tube 210. In other embodiments, the product stick 204 could be mounted to a non-apertured disc. Various forms of attachment may be envisaged between the product stick and product stick carrier. For example, to facilitate attachment the disc to which the product stick is mounted may be provided with some surface features to enhance gripping etc. It is also envisaged that multiple end discs might be inserted into the distal end of the product stick carrier tube e.g. one to close the end of the tube and a second one distal thereto for receiving the product stick.

The product concealing tube 208 is rotatably and slidably received over the product stick carrier 210. Thus, the product concealing tube 208 is radially sandwiched between the outer tube 206 and the product stick carrier 210. The product stick carrier 210 is arranged radially inwardly of the product concealing tube 208.

Having described the overall construction of the dispenser 200, the features which define the fully extended position of the product concealing tube 208 relative to the outer tube 206 and product stick carrier 210 will now be described.

Referring in particular to Figure 15, it may be seen that at the proximal end of the product concealing tube 208 an engagement flap 240 is provided. The engagement flap 240 is connected at a first end 242 to a portion of a blank from which the product concealing tube 208 is wound defining an outermost winding of the product concealing tube 208 along a foldline at the bottom end of the tube 208 (the multiple windings are not shown in schematic Figure 15). The engagement flap 240 is folded outwardly and extends along the exterior surface of the product concealing tube 208 toward the distal end thereof. The engagement flap 240 defines an edge 244 at the second end of the flap 240 (closer to the distal end of the product concealing tube). The engagement flap 240 may be bonded to the exterior of the product concealing tube 208, but this is optional. The flap may be suitably held in position by its location between the product concealing tube 208 and outer sleeve. The engagement flap 240 extends around substantially the full circumference of the product concealing tube 208 in the embodiment illustrated. However, this need not necessarily be the case. It is also envisaged that rather than providing a single outwardly folded engagement flap 240 at the proximal end of the product concealing tube 208, a plurality of such flaps might be provided. However, the arrangement illustrated, in which a single flap 240 is provided, may facilitate manufacture of the product concealing tube part of the dispenser 200.

The outer tube 206 includes an inwardly folded locking flap 250 at its distal end. The locking flap 250 is connected to a portion of a blank from which the outer tube 206 is wound and defining an innermost winding of the outer tube 206 along a foldline 254 at the distal or top end of the tube 206 (the multiple windings are not shown in schematic Figure 15). The locking flap 250 is folded inwardly and extends along the interior surface of the outer tube 206 toward the proximal end thereof. The locking flap 250 is optionally bonded to the interior of the outer tube 206. It has been found that the locking flap 250, may like the engagement flap 240 may be retained in position by being trapped between the product concealing tube and outer sleeve such that the flaps may engage one another end to end. The locking flap 250 defines an edge 252 at the second end of the flap 250 corresponding to the end closer to the proximal end of the outer tube 206. The locking flap 250 extends around substantially the full circumference of the outer tube 206 in the embodiment illustrated. However, this need not necessarily be the case. It is also envisaged that rather than providing a single inwardly folded locking flap 250 at the distal end of the outer tube 206, a plurality of such flaps might be provided. However, the arrangement illustrated, in which a single flap 250 is provided may facilitate manufacture of the outer tube part of the dispenser. The use of inter-engaging flaps 244, 250 which extend substantially the entire distance around the longitudinal axis of the respective tubes 206, 208 is also advantageous in that this enables the mechanism to operate more reliably regardless of the relative rotational positions of the product concealing tube 208 and outer tube 206.

The engagement flap 240 and locking flap 250 provide a pair of inter-engaging flaps 240, 250 which cooperate with one another to define a fully extended position of the product concealing tube 208 relative to the outer tube 206 (and hence product stick carrier 210). As seen in Figures 11 and 12, the product concealing tube 208 can be extended relative to the outer tube 206 and product stick carrier 210 until the edge 244 defined by the second end of the engagement flap 240 of the product concealing tube 208 engages the edge 252 defined by the second end of the locking flap 250 of the outer tube 206. Thus, the flaps 240, 250 provide a stop mechanism limiting the travel of the product concealing tube 208 and preventing it from being fully removed from the outer tube 206.

In the illustrated embodiment, the product concealing tube 208 may be retracted relative to the outer tube 206 (and product stick carrier 210) until the bottom edge of the product concealing tube 208 engages the base disc 223 at the base of the outer tube 206. Thus, engagement between the bottom of the product concealing tube 208 and the base disc 223 defines the fully retracted position of the product concealing tube 208 relative to the outer tube 206. The mode of operation of the dispenser 200 will now be described.

Prior to first use, the dispenser 200 is in the closed configuration shown in Figure 10.

To use the dispenser 200, the cap 212 is first removed, as shown in Figure 12. It will be seen from this Figure that the product concealing tube 208 is in a fully extended position, and projects from the outer tube 206 and covers the product stick 204.

The user then manually pushes the product concealing tube 208 downwardly into the outer tube 206. The user may grip the exposed section of the product concealing tube 208 and the outer tube 206 and simply push the product concealing tube 208 into the outer tube 206. However, they may twist the product concealing tube 208 relative to the outer tube 206 as the product concealing tube 208 is able to rotate relative to the outer tube 206.

The product concealing tube 208 is retractable relative to the outer tube 206 until the bottom edge of the product concealing tube 208 engages the base of the outer tube 206 (in the illustrated embodiment defined by the base disc 223). This corresponds to the fully retracted position shown in Figures 13 and 14.

It will be appreciated that, for ease of illustration, the detail of the construction of the engagement 240 and locking flaps 250 is not shown in the schematic sectional views of Figures 11 , 12, and 14.

Once the user has finished applying product, they may grasp the product concealing tube 208 and extend it relative to the outer tube 206 once more until the edge 244 associated with the engagement flap 240 of the product concealing tube 208 engages the edge 252 defined by the locking flap 250 associated with the outer tube 206 to define the fully extended position shown in Figures 10-12 once more. The product concealing tube 208 covers the product stick 204 once more. The interengagement of the edges 252, 244 provided by the locking and engagement flaps 250, 240 prevents the product concealing tube 208 from being fully removed from the base part 209 of the dispenser. The user may then locate the cap 212 back over the open end of the product concealing tube 208 to provide a closed dispenser 200 as shown in Figure 10 once more.

It should be noted that as shown in Figure 14, a portion of the product concealing tube 208 still projects from the outer tube 206 even when the product concealing tube 208 is fully retracted. This means that the cap 212 may still be replaced on the dispenser 200 in that condition, and provide a portion of the product concealing tube 208 which can be grasped when it is desired to extend the product concealing tube 208 once more.

The dispenser 200 may initially be provided to the user in the configuration of Figures 10 or 13, i.e. with the product concealing tube 208 fully extended or retracted, as in both cases, the cap 212 may fit over the product concealing tube 208 and abut the upper or distal end of the outer tube 206.

It will be seen from the above description that a dispenser 200 in accordance with the invention operates in a manner such that rather than extending and retracting a product stick 204, the product stick 204 is selectively exposed by the extension and retraction of a tubular shield 208 relative to an outer tube 206. This may make the product easier to handle, provide greater stability to the product stick 204 and allow the exposure of the product stick 204 to be more finely controlled.

The dispenser 200 as described above is advantageous in that apart from the product stick 204, it may be and preferably is made entirely from a paper-based or card-based material. It will therefore be fully recyclable. At least the tubular elements and the guide element of the dispenser are preferably made from a paper-based or card-based material. It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiment disclosed without departing from the scope of the invention.

The use of a removable cap 212 is optional.

A preferred embodiment of one method for forming the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 10-15 will now be described.

First the blanks for the various components will be illustrated by reference to Figures 16A-D. It will be appreciated that the blanks shown in Figures 16A-D are merely exemplary.

Each of the blanks shown in Figures 16A-D is provided by a single piece of card or paper based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard.

Figure 16A illustrates a blank 360 in the flat for providing the product stick carrier 210 with the surface that will define an outer surface of the product stick carrier 210 uppermost. The blank includes a first edge 362 which will provide the proximal end edge of the product stick carrier 210 and a second edge 364 which will provide the distal end edge of the product stick carrier 210. The blank 360 also includes a third edge 366 which provides a leading edge of the blank 360 as it is wrapped around a mandrel, and a fourth edge 368 which provides a trailing edge.

The blank 360 is generally in the shape of a parallelogram, having first and second edges 362, 364 which are parallel, and third and fourth edges 366, 368 which are parallel. The leading corner of the blank 360 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 366 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 362, 364. The trailing fourth edge 368 is likewise a sloping edge which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 362, 364.

Figure 16B illustrates a blank 370 in the flat for providing the product concealing tube 208 with the surface that will define an inner surface of the product concealing tube 208 uppermost. The blank 370 includes a first edge 372 which will provide the proximal end edge of the product concealing tube 308 and a second edge 374 which will provide the distal or upper end edge of the product concealing tube. The blank also includes a third edge 376 which provides a leading edge of the blank 370 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the tube, and a fourth edge 378 which provides a trailing edge.

The first and second edges 372,374 of the blank 370 are generally parallel. The first edge 372 includes a tab 382 attached thereto along a foldline 380 for providing the engagement flap 240 of the product concealing tube 208. The tab 382 extends along the first edge 372 from the fourth, trailing edge 378 of the blank 370. The tab 382 has a first edge 387 connected to the first edge 372 of the blank 270 along the foldline 380 and an opposite second edge 389. The tab 382 also has third and fourth shorter edges 383, 385, the third edge 383 being closest to the fourth edge 378 of the blank 370 and providing a continuation thereof. The tab 382 extends around half way along the edge 372, although the extent may vary from that illustrated. The tab 382 extends along a portion of the blank 370 which will form an outermost winding of the product concealing tube 208. The tab 382 as shown is rectangular in shape, although it is envisaged that other shapes may be used.

The leading corner of the blank 370 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank 370 around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 376 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 372, 374.

The blank 390 for providing the outer tube 206 is shown in Figure 16C in the flat with the surface that will define an outer surface of the outer tube 206 uppermost. The blank 390 includes a first edge 392 which will provide the proximal end edge of the outer tube 206 and a second edge 394 which will provide the distal or upper end edge of the outer tube 206. The blank 390 also includes a third edge 396 which provides a leading edge of the blank 390 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the tube, and a fourth edge 398 which provides a trailing edge.

A tab 402 is attached to the second edge 394 along a foldline 400 for providing the locking flap 250 of the outer tube 206. The tab 402 has a first edge 397 extending along the second edge 394 of the blank 390 and a second edge 399 extending parallel thereto. The tab 402 has third and fourth edges 393, 395 connecting the first and second edges 397, 399, the third edge 393 being closest to the trailing fourth edge 398 of the blank. The tab 402 is in the shape of a parallelogram, having two pairs of parallel sides. Its shorter side edges 393, 395 each define an angle of less than 90 degrees with the second edge 394 of the blank. The tab extends along the second edge 394 from the third, leading edge 396 of the blank 390. The tab 402 extends around half way along the edge 394, although the extent may vary from that illustrated. The tab 402 extends along a portion of the blank 390 which will form an outermost winding of the outer tube 206.

The first and second edges 392, 394 of the blank 390 are generally parallel. However, the first edge 392 includes a step around half way along its length. This feature is optional, but is useful in the context of the illustrated embodiment in which the lower end of the outer tube 206 is rolled inwardly. The recessed portion of the first edge 392 adjacent the third edge 396 means that the thickness of material to be rolled in at the end of the tube 206 is reduced e.g. to one layer of material, corresponding to the outer winding of the blank 390.

The first edge 392 may also include a chamfered edge adjacent the fourth edge 398, meeting the fourth edge 398 at an angle other than 90 degrees. The presence of a chamfered edge is optional, and, where present, the degree of chamfer and extent of the chamfer may differ from that illustrated depending upon factors such as the extent of the area of the blank 390 to be printed and/or visible. A chamfer might alternatively or additionally be provided at the other end of the trailing edge adjacent the second edge 394. Chamfering may be helpful in reducing the amount of material present where this is not detrimental to the appearance of the resulting tube 206 or the bonding of the blank 390 to provide the tube 206, and may facilitate in bonding of the blank 390 in tubular form. Chamfering may similarly be provided in the region of the join between edges 374 and 378 of the blank 370 for providing the product concealing tube 206. A skived edge region of lower thickness may be provided in the vicinity of the trailing edge 398 to reduce the overall thickness of the tube 208 in the region where the wound layers overlap.

The leading corner of the blank 390 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank 390 around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 396 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 392, 394.

The blank 500 for providing the tubular cap 212 is shown in Figure 16D in the flat with the surface that will define an inner surface of the cap 212 uppermost. The blank 500 is of the same general shape as the blank 390 for providing the outer tube 206, but is a mirror image about the edge 394 of the blank 390, and does not include the tab 402. The blank 500 includes a first edge 502 which will provide the lower end edge of the cap 212 and a second edge 504 which will provide the upper end edge of the cap 212. The blank 500 also includes a third edge 506 which provides a leading edge of the blank 500 as it is wrapped around a mandrel to provide the cap 212, and a fourth edge 508 which provides a trailing edge.

The first and second edges 502, 504 of the blank 500 are generally parallel. However, the second edge 504 includes a step around half way along its length. This feature is optional, but is useful in the context of the illustrated embodiment in which the upper end of the cap 212 is rolled inwardly. The recessed portion adjacent the third edge 506 means that the thickness of material to be rolled in at the end of the cap 212 is reduced e.g. to one layer of material, corresponding to the outer winding of the blank 500.

The second edge 504 also includes a chamfered edge adjacent the fourth edge 508, meeting the fourth edge 508 at an angle other than 90 degrees. As with the outer tube 206 and product concealing tube 208, the presence or absence of a chamfer, the configuration of the chamfer and/or whether any additional chamfered edge is provided may be selected as desired depending on factors such as the visibility of the edge, the importance of reducing the amount of material etc. A skived edge region of lower thickness may be provided in the vicinity of the trailing edge 508 to reduce the overall thickness of the cap 212 in the region where the wound layers overlap.

The leading corner of the blank 500 is rounded. This may facilitate feeding of the blank 500 around the mandrel in the process described without buckling. It will be seen that the leading third edge 506 is a sloping edge, which defines an angle other than 90 degrees with both the first and second edges 502, 504. It will be appreciated that which of the first and second edges 362, 364 of the blank 360 shown in Figure 16A provides the proximal or distal edge of the resulting product stick carrier 210 in use may vary from that illustrated. However, the stepped edges of the blanks 390, 500 in Figures 16C and 16D should be located at the edge of the blank 390, 500 which is intended to be rolled inwardly if rolling is to be performed. If rolled edges are not used, the stepped edges may be omitted.

One method of forming the components of the dispenser 200 using the set of blanks 360, 370, 390, 500 shown in Figures 16A-D will now be described by reference to Figures 17A-I. This method is merely exemplary, and various modifications may be made e.g. to the order of the steps performed.

In a first step shown in Figure 17A, the product stick carrier tube blank 360 is wrapped around a first mandrel 600 rotating in the direction of the arrow in Figure 17A with the third edge 366 leading in order to provide the product stick carrier 210. The blank 360 may be guided onto and retained on the mandrel 600 using any suitable technique e.g. one or more guide rollers. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 362, 364 of the product stick carrier tube blank 360 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel 600. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 369 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 368 on the surface which will form the interior of the inner tube or product stick carrier 210 prior to the blank 360 being wound around the mandrel 600. In this way, the inner surface of the region 368 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the product stick carrier 210 to retain the tube in its wound configuration. The region 368 may be skived to reduce the overall thickness of the tube where the wound layers overlap.

The resulting product stick carrier 210 is then removed from the mandrel 600, and is shown in Figure 17B.

The sloping leading edge 366 of the product stick carrier tube blank 360 shown in Figure 16A results in the lap seam to the interior of the wound product stick carrier 210 extending along a helical path. In this way, the seam is spread over a greater distance than would be the case with a straight leading edge to the blank. This has been found to provide an improved tube with a rounder cross section than would be the case with a straight leading edge, which may result in a tube of tear drop shaped cross section. Similarly, the trailing edge 368 slopes, and provides a helical seam extending around the exterior of the product stick carrier 210.

In the next step shown in Figure 17C, the product concealing tube blank 370 is wrapped around a second mandrel 620. The blank 370 may be guided onto and retained on the mandrel 620 using any suitable technique e.g. one or more guide rollers. The product concealing tube blank 370 is wrapped around the mandrel 620 while the mandrel is rotating in the direction of the arrow in Figure 17C, with the third edge 376 leading in order to provide the product concealing tube 208. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 372, 374 of the product concealing tube blank 370 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel 620.

A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 379 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 378 on the surface which will form the interior of the product concealing tube 208 prior to the blank 370 being wound around the mandrel 620. In this way, the inner surface of the region 379 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the product concealing tube 208 to retain the tube in its wound configuration. The region 369 may be skived to reduce the overall thickness of the tube where the wound layers overlap.

A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is also optionally applied to the region 383 of the blank 370 on the surface which will form part of the exterior of the product concealing tube 208. The region 383 is adjacent the portion of the first edge 372 along which the tab 382 is connected along foldline 380. During the second step, the tab 382 is folded back along the foldline 380 toward the surface of the blank 370 which will define the outer surface of the product concealing tube 208, and is bonded to the region 383 to provide the bonded down engagement flap 240 of the product concealing tube 208.

This may be seen in Figure 17D, which illustrates the product concealing tube 208 once removed from the mandrel 620. The step of folding back and bonding down the tab 382 may be performed at any stage, before, during or even after wrapping the blank 370 around the mandrel 620 to provide the product concealing tube 208. However, for ease of wrapping of the blank 370, this step is advantageously performed before or during wrapping of the blank around the mandrel 620. The tab 382 may be folded back, for example, using a suitable tool (not shown) as the blank 370 approaches the mandrel 620. The flap 382 may alternatively be folded back without being bonded down. It may be seen that the third and fourth edges 383, 385 of the tab 382 which extend axially in the formed product concealing tube 208 abut one another in the formed tube. The edges extended parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube (and perpendicular to the proximal end edge of the product concealing tube) and are substantially aligned with the seam provided by the trailing edge 378 of the blank on the exterior surface of the product concealing tube 208.

In the illustrated embodiment shown in Figure 17D, the flap 382 of the blank 370 for forming the flap 240 of the product concealing tube 208 extends along the edge 372 of the blank 370 a distance chosen such that, following winding of the blank to product the product concealing tube 208, the flap will extend 360 degrees around the outside of the resulting product concealing tube 208. The extent of the flap 382 along the edge 372 is such that it is present only in the outermost winding of the product concealing tube 208 i.e. the side edges of the flap 382 do not overlap one another in the resulting tube 208. This avoids excessive thickness of the product concealing tube 208 in the region of the flap 240.

Figure 17D shows the helical lap seam obtained on the interior of the product concealing tube by virtue of the sloping leading edge 376. The seam extends at a given angle with respect to the proximal end of the tube. In contrast, the exterior lap seam extends parallel to the axis of the tube and perpendicular to the proximal end thereof, due to the straight trailing edge 378. This may maximise the available area for printing or other finishing, since this surface of the product concealing tube may be visible to the user, and it may be desirable to provide some aesthetic finish. Such concerns are less in the context of the product stick carrier 210, which is not generally visible to the user. The side edges of the tab 382 adjacent the trailing edge 378 of the blank 370 are parallel to or substantially aligned with the lap seam provided by the trailing edge 378. In alternative embodiments, a sloping trailing edge of the blank 370 (and of the flap 382) may alternatively be provided for the product concealing tube 208 where the functional benefit of the resulting lap seam shape is of greater importance than aesthetic considerations. In such cases, the shape of the tab 382 might then be modified, e.g. to correspond to the shape of tab 402 so that the third and fourth edges 383, 385 extend parallel to or so as to be aligned with the resulting helical seam provided on the exterior of the product concealing tube 208.

In the next step shown in Figure 17E, adhesive is applied to the surface of the outer tube blank 390 which will form part of the interior surface of the blank 390 during winding of the blank 390 to product the outer tube 206. The bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 399 adjacent the fourth edge 398 of the outer tube blank 390, and optionally to the region 403 adjacent the foldline 400 connecting the tab 402 to the second edge 394 of the blank 390. The region 398 may be skived to reduce the overall thickness of the tube 206 where the wound layers overlap.

The outer tube 206 is produced by wrapping the blank 390 around a third mandrel 630 with the third edge 396 leading. The blank 390 may be guided and retained on the mandrel 630 using any suitable technique e.g. one or more guide rollers. As the blank 390 is fed onto the mandrel 630 in the direction of arrow A, as shown in Figure 17E, the tab 402 is caused to be folded in the direction of the arrow B shown about the foldline 400 so as to contact and become bonded to the area 403 to which bonding agent e.g. adhesive has been applied. The tab 402 may be folded back, for example, using a suitable tool (not shown) as the blank 390 approaches the mandrel 630. Alternatively the tab 402 may be folded back without being bonded down. As shown in Figure 17F, the blank 390 then continues to be wrapped about the third mandrel 630 in the direction of the arrow. The wrapping process is performed such that the first and second edges 392, 394 of the outer tube blank 390 are perpendicular to the axis of the mandrel 630. The inner surface of the region 98 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the outer tube 206 to retain the tube 206 in its wound configuration. The resulting outer tube 206 is shown in Figure 17G. The bonded down tab 402 provides the inwardly folded flap 250 at the distal end of the outer tube 206.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 402 of the blank 390 for forming the flap 250 of the outer tube 206 extends along the edge 394 of the blank 390 a distance chosen such that, following winding of the blank 390 to product the outer tube 206, the flap 250 will extend 360 degrees around the outside of the resulting outer tube 206. The extent of the tab 402 along the edge 394 is such that it is present only in the outermost winding of the outer tube 206 i.e. the side edges of the tab 402 do not overlap one another in the resulting tube. This avoids excessive thickness of the outer tube 206 in the region of the flap 250. As with the product concealing tube 210, it may be seen that the third and fourth edges 393, 395 of the tab 402 abut one another, and in the formed outer tube 206, extend along a helical path. In this illustrated embodiment the edges 393, 395 extend in the same direction relative to the distal end of the outer tube 206 as the helical seam provided by leading edge 396 on the interior of the outer tube 206. The edges 393, 395 are parallel to or substantially aligned with the helical seam provided by the edge 396. Figure 17G shows the helical lap seam obtained on the interior of the outer tube 206 by virtue of the sloping leading edge 396. In contrast, the exterior lap seam extends parallel to the axis of the tube (and perpendicular to the distal end of the outer tube), due to the straight trailing edge 398. This may maximise the available area for printing or other finishing, since this surface of the outer tube may be visible to the user, and it may be desirable to provide some aesthetic finish.

In alternative embodiments, a sloping trailing edge of the blank 390 may alternatively be provided for the outer tube 206 where the functional benefit of the resulting lap seam shape is of greater importance than aesthetic considerations.

In the next step, shown in Figure 17H, the cap 212 is produced from the cap blank 500. The blank 500 is wrapped around a fourth mandrel 640 while the mandrel 640 rotates in the direction of the arrow in Figure 17H, with the third edge 506 leading. The blank 500 may be guided and retained on the mandrel 640 using any suitable technique e.g. one or more guide rollers. A bonding agent e.g. adhesive is applied to the region 509 adjacent the fourth, trailing edge 508 on the surface which will form the interior of the cap 212 prior to the blank 500 being wound around the mandrel 640. In this way, the inner surface of the region 509 will become adhered to an adjacent inner winding of the cap 212 to retain the tube in its wound configuration. The region 509 may be skived to reduce the overall thickness of the tube where the wound layers overlap. The cap 212 once removed from the mandrel 640 is shown in Figure 171.

It will be appreciated that the third and fourth mandrels 630, 640, in the illustrated embodiment, have the same diameter. The same mandrel 630 used to produce the outer tube 206 could be used to produce the cap 212 once the outer tube 206 has been removed therefrom following step 17F. The first, second and third mandrels 600, 620, 630 used to produce the product stick carrier 210, product concealing tube 208 and outer tube 206 have progressively greater diameters.

The sloping leading edges of the outer tube and cap blanks 390, 500 provide improved shape properties to the resulting outer tube 206 and cap 212 in the same manner described in relation to the product stick carrier 210 and product concealing tube 208. Again, for these components, the trailing edge 398, 508 is shown as straight, to maximise area for printing etc., but this need not be the case.

It will be appreciated that the steps of forming the cap 212 need not be carried out after forming the outer tube 206, and these steps may be carried out before, or at the same time (as one another). Likewise, it is not necessary that the product stick carrier 210 and product concealing tube 208 necessarily be produced before the outer tube 206 and/or the cap 212. The product stick carrier 210 and product concealing tube 208 may be produced subsequently or at the same time as the outer tube 206 and/or cap 212.

The method may be performed so as to result in no more than two plies of material being present at any point in any of the formed tubes i.e. the product stick carrier 210, outer tube 206, product concealing tube 208, cap 212. The finishing steps involved in producing the components of the dispenser 200 and the assembly thereof in accordance with one exemplary embodiment will now be described by reference to Figures 18A-G.

As shown in Figure 18A, a disc of paper or card-based material is inserted through the distal end of the product stick carrier 210 and bonded at a position recessed from the distal edge thereof to provide the product stick support 225 (see for example Figure 12). The support provides a surface for supporting the base of a product stick. The disc providing the product stick support 225 is shown schematically in Figure 18A, and does not include the aperture shown in Figure 12. It will be appreciated that the disc may or may not be apertured, depending upon the way in which mounting of the product stick is to be achieved. Similarly it may be envisaged that multiple discs might be provided at the distal end of the product stick carrier 210 e.g. one to close the end of the tube and a further disc distal thereto for providing the product stick support, especially if the product stick support itself it non apertured. The product stick support disc may in any embodiment be provided with features to facilitate mounting of the product stick e.g. to enhance gripping thereof. Other forms of product stick support may be envisaged e.g. a small cup or tube provided at the distal end of the product stick carrier.

The product stick carrier 210 is then inserted into the open distal end of the product concealing tube 208 in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 18B to provide a sub-assembly of the product stick carrier 210 and product concealing tube 208. The product stick carrier 210 is inserted into the product concealing tube 208 until its upper end is approximately aligned with the upper end of the product concealing tube 208. The product concealing tube 208 is thus in its fully retracted position relative to the product stick carrier 210. The product concealing tube 208 remains in this position relative to the product stick carrier 210 during assembly by virtue of frictional engagement between the tubes.

The proximal end of the outer tube 206 is then rolled inwardly as indicated by the arrows C in Figure 18C. Any suitable technique may be used. Due to the shape of the edge 392 of the blank 390, only a single ply of material need be rolled inwardly to create the lip, as the inner winding of the outer tube 206 will be recessed from the proximal end due to the recessed portion of the edge 392. A base disc 223 of paper or card-based material is then inserted into the outer tube 206 in the direction of the arrow D illustrated so as to be located on the lip 221 created by the inward rolling of the base. The base disc 223 is secured in position using a bonding agent e.g. adhesive.

The sub-assembly of the product stick carrier 210 and product concealing tube 208 shown in Figure 18B is then inserted into the outer tube 206 in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 18D. The proximal end of the product stick carrier 210 is bonded to the base disc 223 at the base of the outer tube 206. This is carried out in a manner which does not impede the ability of the product concealing tube 208 to slide or rotate relative to both the product stick carrier 210 and the outer tube 206. For example, the type of adhesive and the way in which it is applied may be chosen to result in the adhesive being applied only to a specific area. A combination of local adhesive application and a fast drying adhesive may assist in achieving this. The base disc may if desired by treated e.g. by providing surface texture or cutouts etc. to promote adhesive penetration. This provides a base part 209 of the dispenser as shown e.g. in Figure 14 (with the product concealing tube 208 being in a retracted position).

The end of the cap 212 is then closed as shown in Figures 18E-G. The end of the cap 212 is rolled inwardly as indicated by the arrows in Figure 18E to create a lip 211 as shown in Figure 18E. Any suitable technique may be used. Due to the shape of the edge 504 of the blank 500, only a single ply of material need be rolled inwardly to create the lip, as the inner winding of the cap 212 will be recessed from the upper end due to the recessed portion of the edge 504. A disc of paper or card- based material 213 is then inserted through the opposite end of the cap 212 so as to become located on the lip 211 , closing the end of the cap 212 as shown in Figure 18F. The disc 213 is bonded in position e.g. using adhesive. The resulting closed ended cap 212 is shown in Figure 18G. The cap 212 may then be located over the distal end of the base part 209 sub-assembly resulting from step 18D to close the upper end of the dispenser as shown in Figure 13.

A product stick 204 is disposed within the assembly of the product concealing tube 208, product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206 such that it extends from the distal end of the product stick carrier 210 and beyond the distal end of the product concealing tube 208 when in the fully retracted position. The product stick 204 may be affixed to the product stick carrier 210 e.g. the distal end thereof in any suitable manner as described above. The product stick 204 may be inserted into the distal end of the product stick carrier 210 through the open end of the product concealing tube 208 prior to or preferably after insertion of the product concealing tube 208 and product stick carrier 210 sub- assembly into the end of the outer tube 206 in the step shown in Figure 18D. However a product stick 204 may be inserted at any stage, and this may be performed even after the cap 212 has been located over the base part 209 of the dispenser 200, with the cap 212 then being removed to permit insertion of the product stick 204.

The range of travel available between the product concealing tube 208 and outer tube 206 may be set as desired by selecting the length of the inter-engaging flaps 240, 250, and hence the position of the cooperating edges 244, 252, appropriately.

The embodiment of the dispenser 200 illustrated is merely exemplary of one form of a dispenser 200 including a product concealing sleeve 208, product stick carrier 210 and outer tube 206 in the form of tubes and cooperating in the manner of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the dispenser 200, and the components thereof, may differ in construction from the exemplary embodiment shown. For example, while the components are each shown as being folded or wound from a single piece blank of material, this need not be the case.

While a single engagement flap 240 and single locking flap 250 are shown as being present on the product concealing tube 208 and outer tube 206 respectively, with each flap 240, 250 extending substantially 360 degrees around the respective tube 208, 206, this need not be the case. For example a plurality of such flaps might be present and/or the flaps may extend through less than 360 degrees around the axis of the respective tube 208, 206. In order to enable the flaps 240, 250 to appropriate inter-engage to provide the stop mechanism even when the product concealing tube 208 is rotated as it is advanced, it is advantageous for the flaps 240, 250 to extend through greater angles around the axes, and optionally completely around the axes as shown. In alternative embodiments, a plurality of engagement flaps and a plurality of locking flaps might be provided, which are configured such that at least one engagement flap will engage a locking flap to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing tube irrespective of the rotational position of the product concealing tube relative to the outer tube. For example, this may be ensured by consideration of the width (in the circumferential direction) and spacing of the flaps in the sets of engagement and locking flaps.

Any suitable arrangement may be used in which a set of one or more locking flaps and a set of one or more engagement flaps are provided which may interact with one another in the manner described to define the first, fully extended position. It is envisaged that different ones of the locking and engagement flaps might interact with one another on different occasions depending upon the relative rotational positions of the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve. It is also envisaged that a single locking flap might be provided with a plurality of engagement flaps or vice versa. A single locking flap or a single engagement flap might engage a plurality of engagement or locking flaps to define the first, fully extended position, or might engage different ones of the engagement or locking flaps depending upon rotational position etc. Where a plurality of locking and engagement flaps are provided, they may include different numbers of the flaps.

While in the embodiments described, the product concealing tube is rotatable, this need not be the case. Where rotation is not possible, the position of the locking and engagement flaps, and the extent thereof, may be adapted accordingly. For example, the flaps need not extend to the same extent around the axis of the sleeves provided that flaps are located such that they will engage in use to define the fully extended position.

Where multiple locking and/or engagement flaps are provided, these may be provided by multiple tabs associated with the blanks used to form the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve in a similar manner to the single flap embodiments described above.

It is to be understood that the locking and engagement flaps need not be bonded down as described but may be retained in their position by virtue of being sandwiched between the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve so as to engage end to end in the manner described. As in the earlier aspects, an engagement flap might slide under a locking flap, such that an edge of the engagement flap abuts a foldline at the base of the locking flap to define the first, fully extended position. Any combination of bonded down and unbonded engagement and locking flaps may be used.

While for ease of assembly the product stick carrier 210 of the dispenser 200 is a tube as illustrated herein, the product stick carrier 210 could be of a different form to the product stick carrier 210 illustrated. The product stick carrier 210 could take the form of anything that can support the product in stick form, for example at the base thereof. For example, the product stick carrier could be a planar member, or any other element confined to the base of the dispenser 200. A dispenser 700 in accordance with a yet further embodiment of the invention will now be described by reference to Figures 19-28. The dispenser is of a similar configuration to that of the embodiment of Figures 10- 18G, including an outer sleeve tube 706, product stick carrier tube 710 and product concealing sleeve tube 708 movable between fully extended and fully retracted positions to respectively cover and reveal a product stick 704 supported by the product stick carrier tube 710 in use. In this embodiment the product concealing tube 708 is rotatable, following a helical path as it moves between the extended and retracted positions.

The outer tube 706, product stick carrier tube 710, and product concealing tube 708 are each made of card-based or paper-based material, such as cardboard or paperboard. Each component of the dispenser is made of such material in the embodiment described.

Figure 19 shows schematically the dispenser 700 with the product concealing tube 708 in a raised position for concealing a product stick.

Figure 20 shows schematically the dispenser with the product concealing tube 708 in a lowered position for revealing the product stick.

Figures 21 and 22 are vertical sectional views through the dispenser in the states shown in Figures 19 and 20 respectively.

The product stick 704 is not shown in Figures 19 and 20, but may be seen in Figures 21 and 22.

The part of the dispenser shown in Figures 19-22 may be considered to form a base part thereof. A removable cap may also be provided, although this is optional. The removable cap may be located over the open, distal end of the base part of the dispenser 700 in a similar manner to the earlier embodiment shown in Figures 10-13. The cap is of card-based or paper-based material e.g. cardboard or paperboard, and may be of the construction shown in the earlier embodiment. For example the cap may be in the form of a cylindrical tube having one end closed by a disc of cardboard or paperboard material. Any suitable construction may be used. Thus, rather than being a wrapped tube construction, the cap tube may be provided by a spiral wound tube. Any suitable end plug may be used to close the open end of the cap, and it is not necessary that a disc is used, or that the distal end is rolled inwardly in the manner shown in the earlier embodiment.

However it is formed, the cap may be such that a lower, proximal end of the cap abuts the distal edge of the outer tube 706 e.g. to provide a flush fit between the cap and outer tube, as in the earlier embodiment. The cap may be configured such that it will fit over the open end of the product concealing tube 708 and abut the distal end of the outer tube 706 with the product concealing tube 708 in either the raised position of Figure 21 or the lowered position of Figure 22.

This further embodiment differs from that of Figures 1-18G in relation to the manner in which the interengagement between components of the dispenser to prevent the product concealing tube 708 being moved beyond the most fully extended position (shown in Figures 19 and 21) is achieved, and so preventing complete removal of the product concealing tube 708 from the remainder of the base part of the dispenser from occurring. Rather than having inter-engaging flaps associated with the outer tube and product concealing tube as in the earlier embodiment, in this further embodiment, the inter-engagement is provided between tubular components associated with the product stick carrier 710 and the product concealing tube 708. The tubular components are separately formed from and attached to the respective product stick carrier and product concealing sleeve tubes.

In addition, in this further embodiment, the movement of the product concealing tube 708 relative to the product stick carrier 710 and outer tube 706 follows a helical path, guided by the cooperation of a helical element provided on the interior of the product concealing tube 708 with a helical recess provided on the exterior of the product stick carrier 710.

While a wrapped tube construction may be used for the tubular components e.g. outer tube 706, product stick carrier tube 710 and product concealing tube 708, in this further embodiment other tube constructions may be used. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the outer tube, product stick carrier tube and product concealing tube are each spiral wound tubes. Tubes of this general type are known in the art and are manufactured for example by Westrock® Chicago facility, USA.

The details of the construction of the embodiment will be described with particular reference to Figures 23 and 24, which are exploded views showing the components of the dispenser at first and second stages of assembly respectively.

The outer sleeve tube 706 provides the radially outer most part of the dispenser as shown. The outer sleeve tube 706 is in the form of a spiral wound tube with a rolled proximal end. A base disc 723 of card-based or paper-based material, for example cardboard or paperboard, is located on the rolled end and bonded thereto e.g. adhesively.

With reference to Figure 23, the next radially inward component is the product concealing tube 708. The product concealing tube 708 is in the form of a spiral wound tube. In this embodiment a first tubular component 750 is bonded e.g. adhesively to the interior of the product concealing tube 708 at its proximal end. The position of the first tubular component 750 after such bonding is shown in Figure 24. The first tubular component 750 extends distally from the proximal end edge 718 of the product concealing tube 708. The first tubular component 750 is of paper-based or card-based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard. The first tubular component may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, it may be of a wrapped or spiral tube construction, but in some advantageous embodiments described below is of a spiral wound tube construction. The first tubular component may be inserted into the product concealing tube 708 and bonded in position (e.g. first being first cut from a longer tube of any suitable construction e.g. a spiral wound tube).

However it is formed, the first tubular component 750 defines a distal end edge 752 and a proximal end edge 753. The proximal edge 753 is aligned with the proximal end edge 718 of the product concealing tube 708. The product concealing tube 708 also has a distal end edge 716. The first tubular component 750 extends over only a portion of the length of the product concealing tube 708 (in the axial direction). The inner surface of the first tubular component 750 comprises a first helical element 770 bonded thereto, which in the illustrated embodiment extends the entire length of the first tubular component 750. The helical element cooperates with a second helical element 760 and corresponding helical recess on the exterior of the product stick carrier tube 710 as described in more detail below. The first helical element 770 is in the form of a helical strip of card-based or paper-based material, such as cardboard or paperboard bonded e.g. adhesively to the interior surface of the first tubular component 750 such that it projects from the interior surface of the first tubular component 750. In this way a threaded portion is provided associated with the interior of the product concealing tube 708, providing a threaded connection to a corresponding threaded portion associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier 710.

The radially innermost component of the dispenser is the product stick carrier tube 710. This has a proximal end 714 and a distal end 712 and is in the form of a spiral wound tube, although other forms of tube may be used. As seen in Figures 23 and 24, a threaded portion is provided associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier tube 710. The threaded portion is defined by a second helical element 760 in the form of a helical strip of card-based or paper-based material, such as cardboard or paperboard bonded e.g. adhesively to the exterior surface of the product stick carrier tube 710 such that it projects from the exterior surface of the tube 710. In the illustrated embodiment the second helical element 760, and hence the threaded portion, extends the full length of the product stick carrier tube 710, being covered by the second tubular component 740 at the distal end in the assembled dispenser. The threaded portion extends to the proximal edge 742 of the second tubular component 740, but in alternative embodiments could terminate at the proximal edge 742 rather than continuing to the distal end 712 of the product stick carrier tube 710 as shown. In this way, a threaded portion is provided associated with the exterior of the product stick carrier tube 710. A helical recess 762 is defined between the turns of the second helical element 760. The helical recess is defined by the exterior surface of the product stick carrier tube 710.

The helical elements 760, 770 are advantageously formed by winding helical strips of card-based or paper-based material around the same mandrel used to form the spiral wound tube forming the product stick carrier 710 and the first tubular component 750 respectively.

Figure 28 illustrates an exemplary spiral winding process used to form a spiral wound tube. In this case strips of material defining a first, inner ply 810, second middle ply 820 and third outer ply 830 are wound diagonally around a mandrel 800 and the plies are laminated together e.g. by adhesive applied to two or more of the plies. The mandrel is fixed in this process and its diameter defines the resulting tube diameter. The number of plies may differ from that shown. A spiral wound tube may be produced from one or plies, although typically a plurality of plies i.e. strips of material are used. For example, at least 3, or optionally 3 or 4 plies may be used. The strips of material may be wrapped around the mandrel using a belt system. Typically a longer tube is produced and tubes of a desired length cut therefrom. The second helical element 760 on the exterior of a spiral wound product stick carrier tube may be provided as part of the process of forming the spiral wound product stick carrier tube by an outermost ply of a plurality of plies wound around a mandrel and laminated together to provide the tube. The outermost ply will then provide the second helical element 760 and the inner plies the spiral wound tube. The product stick carrier tube with the second helical element 760 bonded to the exterior thereof may then be provided by cutting a tube of appropriate length from the spiral wound tube with its helical element thereon. It will be seen that it is therefore simpler to manufacture the product stick carrier tube with the helical element running the whole length thereof. The second helical element 760 is formed in a manner such that gaps are defined between its turns to provide the recess for receiving the helical element associated with the interior of the first component 750. In exemplary embodiments, the strip/ply used to provide the second helical element 760 has a width in the direction perpendicular to its axial length that is less than that of the plies used to form the spiral wound tube. The strip forming the second helical element 760 may be fed at the same rate as the other plies around the mandrel to result in such gaps being present between its turns. In these embodiments, the second helical element 760 is formed at the same time as the spiral wound tube providing the product stick carrier tube. For example, this may be achieved using an apparatus as shown in Figure 28, with the outermost ply 830 being narrower than the innermost and middle plies. Of course, the number of plies used to form the product stick carrier tube may differ from those illustrated in Figure 28. In other embodiments, the spiral wound tube could first be formed by wrapping one or more plies around the mandrel, with the second helical element 760 being formed by wrapping a further strip around the thus formed spiral wound tube while the tube is still on the mandrel.

The first helical element 770 may similarly be provided by on the interior of a spiral wound tube from which the first tubular component 750 is cut. The first helical element 770 may be provided by an innermost one of a plurality of card-based or paper-based material strips which are wrapped around a mandrel and laminated together, with the remaining strips then providing the spiral wound tube. Adhesive may be applied to at last some of the strips to form the spiral wound tube with the helical element bonded thereto. The first tubular component 750 with the first helical element 770 bonded to the interior thereof may then be provided by cutting a tube of appropriate length from the spiral wound tube with its helical element thereon. The mandrel used to provide the first tubular component 750 will be of greater diameter than that used to provide the product stick carrier 710. In exemplary embodiments, the strip used to provide the first helical element 770 has a width in the direction perpendicular to its axial length that is less than that of the plies used to form the spiral wound tube. For example, this may be achieved using an apparatus as in Figure 28 with the innermost ply 810 being narrower than the other plies 820, 830. The number of plies used may differ from that shown in Figure 28. The strip forming the first helical element 770 may be fed at the same rate as the other plies around the mandrel to result in such gaps being present between its turns.

In alternative embodiments, the strip providing the first helical element 770 may be wound around the mandrel first, with the plies forming the spiral wound tube then being wound therearound. The number of turns defined by the second helical element 760 may differ from that shown. The angle defined by the first helical element 770 around the axis of the product concealing sleeve may also differ from that shown. For example, the helical element 770 may extend less than one full turn around the product concealing sleeve

The second helical element 760 associated with the product stick carrier defines a helical recess in which the first helical element 770 of the product concealing sleeve is received. It is envisaged that the helical element may be snugly received in the recess such that both of the axially extending edges of the first helical element 770 may engage axially extending edges of the second helical element 760 defining adjacent turns thereof around the product stick carrier. However, it may be desirable at least in some cases that the recess is wider than the width of the helical element (measured perpendicular to the axial edges of the helical element or recess) to provide some latitude in the position of the helical element within the recess. This may make it easier to rotate the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier with the recess still acting to locate the helical element. All such arrangements are referred to herein as a threaded connection.

At the distal end of the product stick carrier tube 710 a second tubular component 740 in the form of a collar is provided. The second tubular component 740 is bonded e.g. adhesively such that the distal end edge 743 of the component 740 is aligned with the distal end edge 712 of the product stick carrier tube 710. The second tubular component 740 is shown as being formed by a section of a spiral wound tube. In general, for both the first and second tubular components 740, 750, any suitable form of tube may be used, and the tubular components may be formed in situ, or provided as a tube which is then bonded to the product stick carrier tube 710 or product concealing sleeve tube 708 as appropriate (e.g. being cut from a longer tube). Typically the first and second tubular components 740, 750 are each cut from appropriate spiral wound tubes and then bonded to the product stick carrier tube and product concealing sleeve. While the second tubular component 740 is shown as a collar extending all the way around the longitudinal axis of the product stick carrier, it may extend only partially around the axis e.g. such that an axial split is defined between axially extending end edges thereof.

Figure 24 illustrates the components of the dispenser showing the product stick carrier tube 710 once the second tubular component 740 has been bonded thereto.

Figure 25 illustrates the product concealing tube 708 with the first tubular component 750 joined to the interior thereof.

In one exemplary method, in orderto assemble the dispenser, the proximal end of the product stick carrier 710 with the second tubular component 740 attached thereto is inserted into the distal end of the product concealing tube 708 with the first tubular component 750 bonded therein. The threaded portion of the product stick carrier 710 is then screwed onto the threaded portion of the first tubular component 750 until the proximal ends of the product stick carrier 710 and product concealing tube 708 are nearly aligned. The proximal end of the product stick carrier 710 is bonded to the base 723 of the outer tube 706. This results in a configuration as shown in Figure 22, although with the product stick 704 not yet present. The product stick may be attached to the product stick support disc 725 e.g. adhesively at any stage, before or after assembly of the remainder of the dispenser. The above mentioned sequence of steps is merely exemplary, and alternative methods may be used.

Although not illustrated in Figures 23 and 24, an end disc 725 in the form of a disc of paper-based or card-based material e.g. paperboard or cardboard is bonded to the distal end of the product stick carrier 710 to provide a support for the product stick 704. However, other forms of product stick support may be used as in the earlier embodiments described e.g. depending upon the type of product stick, and the way in which it is to be retained.

The distal end 743 of the second tubular component 740 may be aligned with the distal end 712 of the product stick carrier 710, or may extend distally slightly beyond that end e.g. as shown in Figures 21 , 22 and 24. The end disc 724 may be flush with the distal end of the second tubular component 740, or may be recessed therefrom e.g. as shown in Figures 21 and 22 (which may be particularly, although not exclusively applicable where the second tubular component 740 extends distally beyond the distal end 712 of the product stick carrier 712).

Figure 26 illustrates the product stick carrier 710 with the second helical element 760 and second tubular component 740 bonded thereto in more detail.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second tubular component 740 covers the distal end of the threaded portion. This may simplify manufacture, although in other embodiments the threaded portion could terminate at the proximal end edge 742 of the second tubular component 740. The threaded portion extends at least as far as the proximal end edge 742 of the second tubular component 740.

Once assembled, the threaded portions associated with the product stick carrier 710 and the product concealing tube 708 are matingly engaged. The first helical element 770 associated with the first tubular element 750 is received in the helical recess defined between adjacent turns of the second helical element 760 associated with the product stick carrier 710. The first helical element 770 may be snugly received in the recess, or there may be some axial play in the position of the first helical element 770 in the recess between the turns of the second helical element 760. In either case at least one of the axially extending edges of the first helical element 770 may engage an axially extending edge of the second helical element 760 to guide movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the product stick carrier in each axial direction i.e. during extension and retraction.

The helical elements 760, 750 defining the threaded portions may extend along any suitable path, and may extend any suitable angle around the axis of applicable tube, depending upon the distance of relative travel desired between the product concealing tube and product stick carrier.

Figure 27 illustrates the interaction between the product stick carrier 710 and the product concealing tube 708 in more detail, showing the product concealing tube in its most fully extended position.

As may be more clearly seen by reference to Figures 21 and 22, the product concealing tube 708 is freely movable between the extended position of Figure 21 and the retracted position of Figure 22 (relative to the outer tube 706 and product stick carrier 710). The product stick carrier 710 and the outer tube 706 are both fixed to the base 723 of the outer tube 706. Movement of the product concealing tube 708 is obtained by twisting the product concealing tube 708 relative to the outer tube 706. The first helical element 770 associated with the product concealing tube 708 cooperates with the second helical element 760 associated with the product stick carrier 710 and the helical recess defined between the turns of the second helical element 760 to guide movement of the product concealing tube 708 relative to the product stick carrier 710 (and hence outer tube 706). In particular, the product concealing tube 708 is constrained to follow a helical path.

The general profiles of the helical elements 770, 760 associated with the tubular component 750 and product stick carrier 710 are shown schematically in one arrangement in Figures 21 and 22.

However, it will be appreciated that the detail of the construction of the helical elements, and hence of the threaded portions associated with the components 750, 710 are not shown in these Figures. It will also be recognised that the location and dimensions of the helical elements, and hence the configuration of the threaded portions, may differ from the arrangement exemplified in the Figures.

Starting from the retracted position shown in Figure 22, as the product concealing tube 708 is twisted relative to the outer tube 706, the first helical element 770 defined in the interior of the first tubular component 750 moves up the helical recess defined between turns of the second helical element 760 defined on the exterior of the product stick carrier 710. The adjacent axially extending edges of the helical elements 760, 770 may cooperate with one another to guide the movement of the product concealing sleeve tube. In this way the product concealing tube 708 is advanced relative to the outer tube 706 and product stick carrier 710. This movement continues until the distal end edge 752 of the first tubular component 750 abuts the proximal end edge 742 of the second tubular component 740. This position is shown in Figure 21 and also illustrated in Figure 27. Thus, inter-engagement of the edges 752, 742 of the first and second tubular components 750, 740 provides the stop mechanism preventing movement of the product concealing tube 708 beyond the fully extended position shown in Figure 2

The available axial travel between the product concealing tube 708 and the product stick carrier 710 is defined by the distance between the distal end edge 752 of the first tubular component 750 and the proximal end edge 742 of the second tubular component 740 with the product concealing tube 708 in its most fully retracted position shown in Figure 22. It will be appreciated that in the most fully retracted position shown in Figure 22 a small gap is shown between the proximal ends of the product concealing tube 708 and the first tubular component 750 and the base 723. The most fully retracted position may be defined by the point at which the proximal ends of the product concealing tube 708 and first tubular component 750 engage adhesive present on the distal surface of the base if adhesive has reached this side during bonding of the base to the outer tube 706, or where they can move no further proximally due to any convergence of the walls of the outer tube in this region toward the rolled end or for any other reason. In other embodiments, the proximal ends of the product concealing tube 708 and first tubular component 750 may engage the distal end face of the base 723 to define the most fully retracted position. In use, to access the product stick, the user first removes any removable end cap (and any additional external packaging) to obtain the dispenser in the state shown in Figure 21 , with the product concealing tube 708 in its fully extended position. The user then twists the product concealing tube 708 relative to the outer tube 706. The product concealing tube 708 moves downward from the position shown in Figure 21 toward the retracted position of Figure 22, with the first helical element 770 associated with the product concealing tube moving within the helical recess defined by the second helical element 760 associated with the product stick carrier. Movement continues until the product concealing tube 708 reaches the fully retracted position of Figure 22.

The product stick 704 is then exposed for use.

After use the user twists the product concealing tube 708 in the reverse direction relative to the product stick carrier and outer tube back toward the position shown in Figure 21 . The product concealing tube 708 advances relative to the product stick carrier and outer tube with the first helical element 770 moving along the helical recess defined by the second helical element 760. Movement continues until the distal end edge 752 of the first tubular component 750 abuts the proximal end edge 742 of the second tubular component 740, defining the fully extended position as shown in Figure 21 . The cap may then be replaced. It is also envisaged that the cap could initially (or subsequently) be located over the distal end of the base part of the dispenser with the product concealing tube 708 in its retracted position.

In other embodiments it is envisaged that a stop mechanism defining the fully extended position of the product concealing tube 708 could be provided in a similar manner to that described by reference to Figures 19-28, but without necessarily providing the cooperating helical elements i.e. threaded portions. Thus, the use of separate tubular components joined to the product stick carrier and product concealing tube to provide the stop mechanism could be used without providing the threaded portions i.e. the helical elements associated with the surfaces of the first tubular component and the product stick carrier. However, the presence of a threaded connection is advantageous in providing more intuitive and reliable operation of the dispenser using the familiar “twist” action known with conventional lipstick dispensers. The use of a tubular component associated with the product concealing tube to provide both a threaded portion and an edge which forms part of the stop mechanism is particularly advantageous, providing a cardboard or paperboard based dispenser which may be readily assembled with minimal components. The use of the first tubular component facilitates providing a threaded connection associated with the interior of the product concealing tube.

In yet further embodiments, rather than providing the first helical element 770 on a separate tubular component joined to the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube, it could be provided directly on the interior of the product concealing sleeve tube, eliminating a component. In such embodiments the helical element could be provided thereon by providing a product concealing sleeve tube in the form of a spiral wound tube, and winding the plies of the spiral wound tube around the strip used to form the helical element on the same mandrel, in the same manner described in relation to forming the first tubular component above. For ease of manufacture, the first helical element 770 may then extend the full length of the product concealing sleeve tube. In the absence of the first tubular component, the second tubular component could also be omitted and, if desired, an alternative end stop arrangement provided.

In yet further alternative embodiments, a threaded connection could be associated with the dispenser of the embodiment of Figures 10-18G to guide rotational movement of the product concealing tube relative to the outer tube and product stick carrier. For example, this may be achieved by bonding helical elements to the product stick carrier and product concealing tube in a similar manner to that described by reference to the embodiment of Figures 19-28, or alternatively a threaded connection could be provided between the product concealing tube and the outer tube.

Rather than providing inter-engaging flaps to define a fully extended position of the product concealing tube as shown in the embodiment of Figures 10-18G, it is envisaged that a stop mechanism might alternatively be provided using separate components e.g. tubular components associated with radially adjacent ones of the product stick carrier, product concealing tube and outer tube. However, the use of flaps is particularly advantageous in the context of the embodiment illustrated in which the tubes are formed from respective blanks wrapped around mandrel(s).

It is also envisaged that inter-engaging flaps could be associated with the product concealing tube and product stick carrier rather than the outer tube and product concealing tube as illustrated in Figures 10-18G. In the embodiment of Figures 19-28 it is envisaged that a stop mechanism could alternatively be provided using tubular components associated with the outer tube and product concealing tube respectively.

It is recognised that the use of a threaded type connection may be advantageous in general in embodiments in which a product concealing tube is movable between extended and retracted positions between a product stick carrier and outer tube, without necessarily including a stop mechanism for defining the fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve as described herein. It may be particularly advantageous where the threaded portions are provided on tubular components which are of a spiral wound tube construction, as the threaded portions may be provided as part of the spiral winding process, as described above.

LIST OF CLAUSES

1 . A dispenser for a product in stick form comprising: a product stick carrier comprising a product stick support for supporting a product stick in use; an outer sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick carrier, wherein the product stick carrier is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve disposed inwardly of the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve for concealing a product stick supported by the product stick support in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise inter-engaging flaps which cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position; and wherein the outer sleeve, product concealing sleeve and product stick carrier are each formed of a paper-based or card-based material.

2. The dispenser of clause 1 wherein the product stick carrier has a proximal end and a distal end, the distal portion comprising the product stick support.

3. The dispenser of clause 1 or clause 2 wherein the product concealing sleeve is disposed outwardly of the product stick carrier between the product stick carrier and the outer sleeve.

4. The dispenser of any preceding clause wherein the product stick carrier comprises a proximal end and a distal end connected by one or more sidewalls.

5. The dispenser as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the product stick carrier comprises a plurality of sidewalls, and the product stick support comprises a cradle portion, wherein the cradle portion comprises: a first opposed pair of flaps, each one of the opposed flaps being attached, at a proximal end of the flap, to a distal end of a respective one of a first pair of opposed sidewalls of the product stick carrier along a foldline; wherein each flap of the first opposed pair of flaps includes a proximal portion extending from the distal end of the product stick carrier sidewall with which it is associated along the interior surface thereof toward the proximal end of the product stick carrier sidewall, the proximal portion of the flap optionally being bonded to the interior surface of the product stick carrier sidewall; each flap of the first opposed pair of flaps further comprising a distal portion connected along a foldline to the proximal portion of the flap, the distal portion of the flap extending across the interior of the product stick carrier from the product stick carrier sidewall to which the flap is attached along a foldline toward the opposed carrier sidewall; wherein the distal portions of the opposed pair of flaps are bonded to each other in a surface- to-surface relationship to create a support for the product in stick form.

6. The dispenser as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and optionally the product stick carrier, each comprise three or more sidewalls, such as four sidewalls. 7. The dispenser of clause 6 wherein the product stick carrier, product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve each have the same number of sidewalls; optionally wherein each of the product stick carrier, product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve has a square or rectangular cross section.

8. The dispenser as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve, and optionally the product stick carrier, are each formed from a respective blank of sheet material, optionally a single piece blank of sheet material.

9. The dispenser of any preceding clause wherein the product stick carrier is bonded to a base of the outer sleeve to fix the product stick carrier relative to the outer sleeve.

10. The dispenser of any preceding clause wherein the product stick carrier has a length of at least 50% of a length of the outer sleeve, optionally of at least 75% of the length of the outer sleeve, and optionally greater than a length of the outer sleeve.

11. An assembly comprising a dispenser for a product in stick form and a product in stick form located therein; wherein the dispenser comprises; an outer sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick, wherein the product stick is fixed relative to the outer sleeve; and a product concealing sleeve disposed outwardly of the product stick between the product stick and the outer sleeve, the product concealing sleeve being retractable from a first, fully extended position relative to the outer sleeve for concealing the product stick in use in order to expose the product stick; wherein the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise inter-engaging flaps which cooperate with one another to prevent advancement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a set point so as to define the first, fully extended position; and wherein the outer sleeve and product concealing sleeve are each formed of a paper- based or card-based material.

12. The assembly as recited in clause 11 , wherein the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve each comprise three or more sidewalls, such as four sidewalls.

13. The assembly of clause 11 or clause 12 wherein the product concealing sleeve has the same number of sidewalls as the outer sleeve; optionally wherein each of the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve has a square or rectangular cross section.

14. The assembly as recited in any one of clauses 11 to 13, wherein the product concealing sleeve and outer sleeve are each formed from a respective blank of sheet material, optionally a single piece blank of sheet material. 15. The dispenser or assembly as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the inter-engaging flaps of the product concealing sleeve and the outer sleeve comprise at least one pair of inter- engaging flaps, each pair of inter-engaging flaps comprising a locking flap at the distal end of the outer sleeve and an engagement flap at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve, wherein: the locking flap is folded inwardly at the distal end of the outer sleeve so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve; and the engagement flap is folded outwardly at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve so as to extend along the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve toward the distal end of the concealing sleeve.

16. The dispenser or assembly as recited in clause 15, wherein, in each pair of inter-engaging flaps, an end edge of the locking flap is configured to engage an end edge of the engagement flap to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve in a direction from the proximal end toward the distal end of the outer sleeve to define the first, fully extended position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve.

17. The dispenser or assembly as recited in clause 15 or clause 16, wherein the engagement flap is bonded to the exterior surface of the product concealing sleeve and/or wherein the locking flap is bonded to the interior surface of the outer sleeve.

18. The dispenser or assembly as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the outer sleeve comprises one or more stopper flaps at the proximal end of the outer sleeve, each stopper flap being folded inwardly so as to extend along the interior surface of the outer sleeve from the proximal end of the outer sleeve toward the distal end of the outer sleeve, wherein each stopper flap is configured to engage a proximal end of the product concealing sleeve to prevent further movement of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve beyond a second set point in a direction from the distal end toward the proximal end of the outer sleeve so as to define a second, fully retracted position of the product concealing sleeve relative to the outer sleeve.

19. The dispenser or assembly as recited in clause 18 as dependent directly or indirectly upon clause 15, wherein each engagement flap is connected along a foldline to a proximal end of a sidewall of the product concealing sleeve, and wherein the stopper flap engages the foldline at the proximal end of the product concealing sleeve connecting a respective one of said one or more engagement flaps to the sidewall.

20. The dispenser or assembly as recited in any preceding clause, wherein the product stick carrier, outer sleeve and, where provided, product concealing sleeve together define a base part of the dispenser, wherein the dispenser further comprises a removable cap for closing an open end of the base part.

21 . The dispenser or assembly of clause 20, wherein a proximal end of the removable cap is configured to abut a distal end of the outer sleeve when located over the base part with the product concealing sleeve is in the first, fully extended position. 22. The dispenser or assembly of any preceding clause, wherein: the dispenser has a width of less than 30cm, or less than 20cm, such as less than 10cm or less than 5cm, or less than 3cm, or less than 2cm, and/or the dispenser has a length with the product concealing sleeve in the first, fully extended position, of less than 50cm, or less than 30cm or less than 20cm, or less than 15cm.

23. An assembly comprising the dispenser of any one of clauses 1 -10, or any one of clauses 15 to 22 as dependent directly or indirectly on any one of clauses 1-10, further comprising a product in stick form supported by the product support.

24. The dispenser or assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising an outer packaging arranged to house the dispenser.

25. The dispenser or assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the product stick is a stick of personal care product, such as lipstick.