Nestlé is taking the next step in a pilot exploring alternative packaging through refillable cereal vending machines
Located in Indonesia, this pilot is an extension of one in 2021, in which consumers could purchase cereal products from tricycle carts with refillable dispensing systems. Here, consumers can bring their own containers to two retailers or purchase containers there. Scanning a QR code unlocks access to such product information as ingredients, shelf life, and nutritional values. The machines are said to account for food freshness factors, such as heat and humidity.
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This pilot, which is expected to last four to six months, involves Nestlé Milo and Koko Krunch brands and was developed in collaboration with start-up Qyos by Algramo.
Gaelle de Mestral, head of R&D packaging at Nestlé, said the company is actively exploring alternative delivery systems such as bulk, reuse and refill options across several product categories. “By undertaking this second pilot for Milo and Koko Krunch, we'll be able to gain new insights that can be applied to our products, as well further assess the refillable system's effectiveness in preventing packaging waste along the supply chain.”
Nestlé, which is the No. 1 publicly owned consumer goods company, has executed more than 20 pilot tests for reuse and refill systems in 12 countries.