Aldi cuts packaging waste with naked corks on own-brand wines in the UK

UK – Aldi is reducing packaging waste by removing protective sleeves from corks on its own-brand wine bottles in the UK.

This initiative, reportedly a first among UK supermarkets, is expected to eliminate 38 tonnes of aluminium and plastic packaging annually.

The change applies to 46 Aldi-branded wine selections, including Côtes du Rhône, Rioja Reserva, and Atlantique Rosé.

Following a successful trial in stores beginning in March 2024, Aldi plans to extend this packaging update across all its own-label corked wines by the end of 2025.

Aldi UK’s National Sustainability Director, Luke Emery, stated, “We know that sustainability is a priority for our customers, and we’re always looking for new ways to reduce packaging and offer more sustainable choices.

“Launching wines with naked corks is a step in the right direction, and we’re proud to be the first supermarket to introduce this change across our entire range of own-brand quality corked wines.” 

This move aligns with Aldi’s broader efforts to cut plastic waste. Last year, the supermarket trialled the removal of pulp trays and plastic punnets from select fruit and vegetable lines.

Changes included eliminating plastic punnets from Nature’s Pick Cherry Tomatoes, a practice already in place for sliced mushrooms and soon to be extended to Baby Plum Tomatoes.

Additionally, Aldi is phasing out pulp trays from its Nature’s Pick Mango and Avocado twin packs. If fully implemented across all stores, these adjustments could remove more than 370 tonnes of plastic and packaging annually.

“At Aldi, we are constantly reviewing ways to reduce excess plastic and packaging, and these trials on a range of our fruit and vegetables are the next steps in helping us achieve our goals,” Emery added.

“Becoming a more sustainable supermarket is important to not only us but also our customers, and further reducing packaging is just one of many changes to come.” 

Beyond packaging reductions, Aldi is also improving animal welfare in its supply chain. On October 30, the retailer launched new packaging for its fresh chicken products, reinforcing its commitment to higher animal welfare standards.

In July, Aldi introduced new stocking density requirements, giving chickens 20% more space than the industry standard.

This adjustment allows birds to engage in natural behaviours such as wing stretching, roaming, and dust bathing, improving their overall well-being.

The fresh chicken, sourced exclusively from British farms, now adheres to these enhanced welfare conditions.

Aldi’s ongoing sustainability efforts demonstrate a comprehensive approach to reducing waste while promoting ethical sourcing and responsible retail practices.

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