Coca-Cola Tests Label-Free Packaging to Boost Recycling and Reduce Environmental Impact

Coca-Cola is conducting a pilot project in the UK to boost recycling efforts by temporarily removing labels from its Sprite and Sprite Zero 500ml rPET bottles. The traditional labels are being replaced with an embossed logo on the front of the pack and product information laser-engraved on the back. This trial will be carried out in eight Tesco Express Stores in various cities, running from January to March. The initiative aims to simplify recycling and reduce packaging materials by eliminating the need to separate labels from bottles.

Coca-Cola has been making efforts to improve the sustainability of its packaging, such as changing Sprite bottles from green to clear plastic and introducing caps attached to bottles to reduce littering. While labels contain valuable information for consumers, the company believes that technology can help share this data in other ways while minimizing environmental impact. The pilot project is seen as a milestone in the industry and could lead to changes in how brands communicate with consumers about their products.

This initiative aligns with the broader trend in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, where many companies are focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of their packaging. Sustainability efforts include exploring alternative materials like single-mold paper-based bottles and paper-wrapped packaging for products like chocolate bars and ketchup bottles.