Diageo expands Smart Keg trial for Smirnoff to cut glass waste in Irish pubs

IRELAND – Diageo has extended its trial of a smart keg-and-dispense system for Smirnoff vodka in Irish pubs, focusing on real-time monitoring and reducing single-use glass bottles before the busy festive season.

The company first introduced the Everpour system last year in Dublin and surrounding areas. 

In a statement, Diageo explained that the expansion aims to support pubs during peak demand, when quick service and stock tracking matter most. 

The system uses durable stainless steel kegs in 5- or 20-liter sizes that last up to 25 years. Bartenders place empty spirits bottles into the dispense unit, which automatically refills them from the keg. 

Once empty, the keg returns to Diageo for cleaning and refilling before heading back to bars.

This second phase starts with 10 pubs receiving the upgraded units, followed by 15 more in the new year. 

According to Diageo, the enhanced technology includes smart sensors that alert staff when kegs are low, detect leaks or blockages, and monitor temperature for optimal serving. 

Each keg features an RFID tag, allowing tracking via an app for location and status updates.

A lifecycle analysis projects that each Everpour unit could replace at least 500 single-use 70cl glass bottles over its lifetime, leading to up to 83% savings in packaging carbon footprint if scaled across Ireland.

The trial will continue until summer 2026, with potential for broader rollout based on results.

Diageo recently updated its sustainability goals, targeting 50% recycled content in packaging by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. 

This year, the company has already reduced glass bottle weights for brands like Baileys, Cîroc, and several Johnnie Walker variants, including Gold, Green, and Double Black Label.

In related news Kingsland Drinks and MM Packaging have launched a fully enclosed cartonboard pack for wines and ready-to-drink cocktails. 

Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, the design holds eight or twelve cans and includes a perforated zip-tear for easy shelf placement. 

Available in the UK market, it serves both as transit protection and retail display, helping retailers save time on unpacking.

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