Diageo and ecoSpirits revolutionise bar service with innovative refillable alcohol containers.

Diageo and ecoSpirits first collaborated in 2021 for the Diageo Sustainable Solutions programme which aimed to help customers reach their ESG goals. They then worked together again in 2022, launching the ecoTOTE and SmartPour editions of Smirnoff Vodka across Bali and Jakarta in 38 venues.

This groundbreaking partnership seeks to test and expand circular packaging across 18 markets within the next three years – building on the success seen in Indonesia. Using the ecoTOTE technology, this initiative will distribute Gordon’s gin, Captain Morgan rum and Smirnoff vodka in reusable packaging across restaurants, bars and hotels.

This commitment is the first of its kind within the packaging industry, setting the tone for future innovations.

The ecoTOTE works in a similar way to a keg, designed to be used up to 150 times and reduce the use of glass bottles by up to 1,000. Once the containers are empty, they are collected to be cleaned and sent back filled with the same spirit for continued use.

After the 6^th use of one of the ecoTOTEs, the carbon footprint is set to improve compared to the single use bottles.

This collaboration highlights Diageo’s efforts towards a more sustainable future. As well as benefitting the planet, the switch to ecoTOTEs is expected to assist Diageo in meeting their sustainability targets which include halving carbon emissions across their supply chain by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Visit London Packaging Week 2024 to see Miguel Olarte, the global breakthrough innovation lead of Diageo, discuss sustainability challenges and advise how to navigate your next packaging project to cut through the crowded market the way Diageo have.