Nestlé is launching reusable and refillable dispensers for soluble coffee as part of its plans to reduce single-use packaging. The in-store dispensers offer customers a shopping experience that is free of single-use packaging and provides flexibility and variety of product choices.
Nestlé, in collaboration with the start-up MIWA, recently launched the reusable and refillable dispensers in three shops in Switzerland. During a four-month trial period, the dispensers were reportedly well-received by consumers, and Nestlé was able to gain valuable insights, including the user-friendliness of the machines. For Nestlé to evaluate the dispensers’ effectiveness in preventing packaging waste along the supply chain, the dispensers are now being introduced across more locations in the next few months.
According to Hélène Lanctuit, R&D packaging lead at Nestlé packaging plays a crucial role in maintaining food safety during a product’s shelf life. Whenever new packaging systems are explored, the company needs to ensure that the products can be delivered safely and hygienically. These dispensers are novel because they incorporate smart technology, which allows ensuring product safety and guarantee the freshness and traceability of products.
The development of original, alternative delivery systems such as bulk, reuse, and refill options are an essential focus area for Nestlé across several product categories, the company said. Partnering with Terracycle, Nestlé is rolling out Loop, a subscription home delivery service in the US, which will soon be launched in France also. Additionally, mini dispensers for Nescafé and Milo are available for the out-of-home segment in many countries around the world.
Nestlé’s new systems are part of a broader set of actions by the company to decrease single-use packaging. Building on the company’s commitment to making 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025, Nestlé announced plans to reduce the use of virgin plastics one-third during the same period.
Philipp Navratil, global head of Beverage Strategic Business Unit at Nestlé, senior vice-president, stated that as part of Nescafé’s packaging transformation journey, the company has been working hard to rethink how the company designs packaging for better environmental impact. The company is excited to work on a refilling option made possible by an in-store dispensing system for its consumers who want to enjoy their Nescafé experience at home.
