How would you feel about enjoying your wine from a paper bottle?
Leading UK supermarket Aldi has announced plans to launch two own-label wines in paper bottles, the first supermarket to do so in that country.
The two wines - a shiraz and a sauvignon blanc from South Africa - will launch on March 18 to coincide with global recycling day, influential industry newsletter the drinks business reports.
And the wines under the Cambalala label will not be super-cheap: retailing for £7.99 (around $15.50 in Australian money).
The bottles are described as fully recyclable and are made from 94% recycled paperboard which is lined with a food-grade pouch that seals the wine.
English company Frugalpac says the packaging is both light in weight and easy to recycle.
It says the bottles have a carbon footprint 84% lower than a glass bottle.
The bottle is also five times lighter than a standard glass bottle.
Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi UK, said that shoppers are looking for small ways to make a big difference for our planet and become more sustainable in their daily lives.
“Our buying teams are continuously thinking of how we can evolve our ranges to offer greater value and greener choices," she says. "We are proud to be the first supermarket to launch an own-brand paper bottle, helping to drive sustainable change.”
I have no doubt that Aldi Australia wine buyer Jason Bowyer is monitoring the situation carefully.
Malcolm Waugh, CEO of Frugalpac, said his company was thrilled to be partnering with Aldi UK on the new line.
“Our ambition has always been to allow more people the opportunity to enjoy our paper Frugal Bottles, giving them greener choices,” he said.
“Launching in a major UK supermarket means more shoppers can now drink responsibly and sustainably and we are so pleased to be part of that journey.”
