Food Chain - Issue 195 - August 2023 | Page 12

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With consumers becoming increasingly interested in such initiatives , I explore how the biggest brands in the FMCG market are adopting refillable packaging strategies .
Refill at home
To drive the widespread adoption of refillable packaging , some innovative brands are taking significant strides to make the process as effortless and convenient as possible for consumers . Home delivery refill models have been gaining popularity , presenting an enticing option for sustainability-conscious consumers to refill their favorite products from the comfort of their own homes .
A prime example of this approach is seen in the partnership between Milk & More and Coca-Cola , collecting , refilling , and reusing Coca-Cola Zero Sugar glass bottles directly to and from customers ’ homes . This initiative not only drastically reduces the consumption of single-use plastic bottles but also promotes a more circular approach to packaging .
While home delivery refill models show great promise , they may pose challenges for smaller brands that lack robust supply chains and logistical capabilities . However , the success of this approach presents exciting potential for e-commerce retailers , as it aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly options and offers a unique selling proposition in the competitive market .
Pre-fills
Pre-filled products have emerged as a convenient and sustainable solution for consumers to purchase refills both in-store and online . By adopting pre-fill strategies , FMCG brands can make significant strides in minimizing single-use packaging and reducing the consumption of virgin plastic . Concentrated refills represent a prime example of this sustainable approach , offering a host of benefits beyond environmental advantages . Notably , they can lead to lower production and transportation costs , especially for smaller products .
An additional advantage of concentrated refills is their contribution to a circular economy . By designing refills to be 100 percent recyclable , brands further extend their commitment to sustainability . This encourages a closed-loop system where the packaging can be repeatedly recycled and repurposed , reducing the overall environmental impact .
One example of a brand successfully implementing this strategy is Cif , which offers eco-refills with a 10x concentrated formula for its home cleaning products . The impact
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