From this month Marks & Spencer will be the first retailer to convert its entire range of mini (25cl) still wine bottles to PET – saving a mega 525 tonnes of packaging a year – the equivalent of three 747 jumbo jets!
The range includes 19 bottles of red, white and rose wine.
The mini bottles, are 88% lighter than glass bottles and are significantly more eco-friendly:
Less energy is required to manufacture a PET bottle than a glass bottle and the lightweight bottle reduces the carbon footprint in transport and distribution
The retailer has been working in partnership with Paul Sapin and Roger Harris Wines to develop the new technology behind the bottles, which are guaranteed to keep wine fresh for at least 12 months.
Traditionally, PET has been used for sporting events or in-flight catering where there is a very fast turnover, but with the a new oxygen barrier technology, it is now possible to achieve a significantly longer shelf life.
Belinda Kleinig M&S winemaker, commented, “This is a really exciting step for M&S – our research has shown that our customers really like the greater convenience of lighter weight bottles – and with summer around the corner, we’re hoping they prove a real hit”.
Belinda continues: “This is really exciting for M&S as it means our customers can enjoy the same great quality wine but in much lighter bottles, which is not only easier for them to carry, but better for the environment”.
The pioneering technology used to produce MLP®PET for wine bottles, has taken over two years to develop. It’s made with two layers of Polyethylene Terephthalate and a barrier material in between which blocks oxygen entering the bottles - oxygen being the enemy of good quality wine.
As well as being more eco-friendly, the new lightweight bottles are also more practical for customers – lighter in weight to carry and shatterproof, therefore perfect for picnics, and outdoor summer concerts.
The new mini PET bottles will be available in stores from mid April across 19 wines. Prices range from £1.99 - £6.99
| Hazel Macrae Hazel.macrae@marks-and-spencer.com |
