Convened in 2020 by GoUnpackaged, The Refill Coalition comprises Aldi UK, Ocado, and CHEP, a supply chain solutions company. Joining forces with leading global manufacturers Berry, DIGI, and Eden Trade Fixtures, the Coalition has successfully developed an innovative bulk refill solution. A crucial contribution to this initiative comes from Innovate UK’s Smart Sustainable Plastic Packaging fund.
Across the globe, the use of single-use plastic has become a major threat to the environment. In recent years, refills have emerged as one of the most effective solutions. However, retailers have faced challenges in implementing refill systems for their customers. The process has been impractical, costly for retailers, and time-consuming for shoppers.
Each in-store refill station is equipped with DIGI e.Sense tags placed under the handle of the vessels. When customers move the handle to dispense and fill their containers, a signal is sent to the DIGI SM-6000 self-service scale, informing it about the specific product dispensed. Subsequently, customers place the product on the scale, using either their own container or a bag provided by the retailer. The scale measures the weight and prints a label for the customer to present at the checkout. This entire process eliminates the need for any single-use plastics.
DIGI also offers an Auto-tare solution for shoppers who bring their own containers, facilitating a stress-free shopping experience. The Refill Coalition’s solution is designed to be adaptable for any retailer, ensuring the global adoption of bulk refills as the new standard for both in-store and online shoppers. For in-store customers, reusable vessels replace existing bulk dispensers at each refill station, enabling them to fill their own containers.
Continuing their partnership, DIGI and The Refill Coalition are committed to developing sustainable solutions that support retailers in minimizing their environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. Drawing on DIGI’s extensive experience working with retail customers, innovative solutions will be developed to address the industry’s environmental concerns.
For more information, please visit digisystem.com/uk.
