UK – Diageo, the renowned Don Julio Tequila and Smirnoff Vodka producer, has begun a pilot program to test a 90% paper-based bottle for Johnnie Walker Black Label.
The trial launched on 25 September at the 1820 bar in Johnnie Walker Princes Street, Edinburgh, Scotland.
A total of 250 bottles will be used throughout the trial, which will continue until mid-October. This test aims to assess how the innovative bottle performs in a high-demand bar environment.
Jennifer English, Johnnie Walker’s Global Brand Director, commented, “We continuously push the boundaries of innovation, striving to deliver premium quality and iconic design while aligning with our sustainability goals.
“This trial represents a significant step forward in our packaging journey, allowing us to evaluate new solutions in the fast-paced on-trade environment.”
Developed in collaboration with PA Consulting, the bottle maintains Johnnie Walker’s iconic square shape and includes embossed branding.
Made from 90% paper with a thin plastic liner, the bottle is about 60% lighter than the traditional glass version, potentially reducing carbon emissions by up to 47%.
The bottle’s closure, created for the trial with PulPac, Setop DIAM, and PA, combines cork and Dry-Molded Fiber-Based paper technology. However, this closure is not currently recyclable.
This sustainable packaging initiative aligns with Diageo’s broader commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
The company has also introduced a 70cl aluminum bottle for Baileys and removed cardboard gift boxes from its premium Scotch range.
Additionally, Diageo recently launched the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ultra, featuring the lightest whisky glass bottle on the market at 180g.
Albertsons launches Bee Lightly wines in rPET bottles
In a move toward sustainable packaging, Albertsons Companies has introduced Bee Lightly, a new wine line under its Own Brands collection.
This initiative, which packages wine in 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) bottles, is a first in the U.S. wine market.
Bee Lightly features Packamama’s innovative flat bottle design, made from rPET. This design is 87% lighter than traditional glass bottles and fully recyclable.
This design also significantly reduces transportation emissions, enhancing the brand’s environmental footprint.
By improving logistics efficiency, Albertsons has achieved a 44% reduction in shipping pallets needed compared to standard glass bottles.
Brandon Brown, Albertsons Own Brands SVP, stated, “The introduction of Bee Lightly showcases our commitment to product quality and environmental stewardship.
“We’re proud to offer premium wine varietals that deliver on flavor, quality, and sustainability at an affordable price.”
Bee Lightly offers carefully selected Chardonnay and Rosé varietals from the emerging Hérault and Limoux regions of France.
The wines are now available at select Albertsons stores, including Safeway and Vons, with delivery options available through Vine & Cellar in California.
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