Asia-Pacific spirits distributor, Proof & Company, has made a foray into circular packaging with the launch of Smart Kiosk – a patent-pending technology by EcoSpirits – that allows customers to reuse and refill their empty branded spirits bottles.
In partnership with DFI Retail Group, the refillable spirits kiosk made its debut in CS Fresh, Tanglin Mall, in Singapore, with four more locations planned to roll out later this year.
The new SmartKiosk will provide customers access to sustainable refills of various craft spirits brands, including Brass Lion Distillery, Tried and True Straight Wheat Vodka, Widges Gin, Los Arcos Destilado de Agave, and Mackintosh Blended Malt Scotch Whisky.
Customers can accurately refill empty bottles with their favourite spirits simply by placing them under an intelligent pouring system with brand authentication through a “Verified Sustainable Refill” feature using a touch screen.
The company says each refill can help eliminate an estimated 550g of carbon emissions and more than 700g of single-use packaging waste. Customers can also save up to 20 per cent off the price of their favourite drink with refills instead of purchasing a brand new single-use bottle.
“Circular retail for spirits and wine presents enormous opportunities and equally great challenges,” said Paul Gabie, CEO, EcoSpirits.
“Helping shoppers adapt to novel consumption patterns is difficult, but adaptation is a must in the face of global waste and climate crisis.”
EcoSpirits says it plans to roll out SmartKiosks in multiple international markets during the coming months.
