The milkman model is being reinvented to reduce waste and thanks to a first-of-its-kind milk bottle recycling initiative, consumers can receive money in return for their efforts. Recycling technology innovators Polytag and Sweden-based recycling app Bower teamed up with online supermarket Ocado Retail to introduce unique, scannable QR codes for Ocado Own-Brand two and four-pint plastic milk bottles.
The aim is to get more milk bottles to end up in the recycling bin and with this initiative, the first 20,000 codes scanned will see customers receive 20p in their digital wallet through the Bower app. Following this, all scanned barcodes will connect consumers to other perks like coupons and charity donations.
With connected packaging, the initiative aims to streamline the recycling process and offer a more convenient alternative to reverse vending machines.
Rewarding Milk Packaging
Ocado's Milk Bottle Recycling Initiative Gives Rewards for Recycling
Trend Themes
1. Connected Packaging - Implementing scannable QR codes on packaging to streamline recycling and offer additional perks.
2. Incentivized Recycling - Rewarding consumers for recycling efforts by giving them monetary incentives and other perks.
3. Digital Wallet Integration - Integrating digital wallet technology with recycling initiatives to facilitate rewards and transactions.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Implementing connected packaging solutions in retail to encourage sustainable practices and improve customer engagement.
2. Waste Management - Exploring incentivized recycling programs to increase recycling rates and reduce waste generation in the waste management industry.
3. Mobile Apps - Developing mobile apps that integrate with digital wallets to facilitate reward distribution and enhance user experience in recycling initiatives.