Ocado trials QR code rewards for milk bottle recycling

Ocado trials QR code rewards for milk bottle recycling

Sustainability

Customers of Ocado can simply scan a QR code on Ocado own-brand two and four-pint plastic milk bottles to receive a reward for responsibly disposing of their packaging in a recycling bin.

Polytag, a UK-based recycling technology company, and Bower, a recycling app from Sweden, have joined forces with Ocado Retail, the world's largest online supermarket, to introduce a groundbreaking recycling initiative. As part of this 'world-first' collaboration, UK customers will now be financially rewarded for recycling milk bottles.

Polytag's unique-every-time QR codes will be featured on more than 8 million of Ocado's milk bottles. The first 20,000 codes scanned by customers will result in a reward of 20p being added to their digital wallet through the Bower app. This money can be withdrawn to their bank account. Subsequent barcodes scanned will offer users various benefits, including cash, coupons, and charitable donations, all accessible through the Bower app.

To claim their reward, customers simply need to download the Bower app, create an account, and register their regular recycling bins and bank account. After scanning the QR code on the milk bottle via the app and disposing of the packaging in their designated recycling bin, they can easily withdraw the funds to their bank account.

This initiative aims to simulate the deposit customers will be able to redeem when the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is implemented in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland in 2025. By showcasing the convenience and viability of a Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS), this initiative sets the stage for the future of recycling in the UK.

Ocado trials QR code rewards for milk bottle recycling
© EDDIE (CC BY-ND 2.0)

The DDRS enables customers to receive a financial incentive for recycling through their smartphones, eliminating the need to return bottles to reverse vending machines. Leveraging existing kerbside recycling systems, the DDRS prioritises maximum convenience for customers.

Latest Packaging News

Lidl GB scraps 'Use By' labels for own brand milk and yoghurt
Sustainability

Lidl GB scraps 'Use By' labels for own brand milk and yoghurt

Lidl GB has revealed significant modifications to the labelling of its yogurt and fresh milk...
Plastics Recyclers Europe calls for genuine plastic circularity in EU
Sustainability

Plastics Recyclers Europe calls for genuine plastic circularity in EU

Plastics Recyclers Europe urges the EU to commit to genuine plastic circularity, emphasising...
Big-name brands and speakers are set to step out for the packaging sector's big day
Events

Big-name brands and speakers are set to step out for the packaging sector's big day

With exhibitors rushing to confirm their attendance at Packaging Innovations & Empack,...
Your package, your pick: Post Office joins forces with DPD and Evri
Business

Your package, your pick: Post Office joins forces with DPD and Evri

Post Office has partnered with DPD and Evri to introduce an in-branch parcel delivery service,...
Innovation in healthcare packaging: Berry Global's pledge to South East Asia
Supplier News

Innovation in healthcare packaging: Berry Global's pledge to South East Asia

Berry Global demonstrated its dedication to delivering innovative, patient-centric packaging,...