Cider-maker switches to cardboard packaging
The firm has installed an eco-card packing machine as part of its sustainability programme, which will see it replace shrink wrap and plastic rings with cardboard equivalents – a move it has estimated will save 6.7mt of raw materials annually.
Aston Manor has introduced the new cardboard multipacks on its most popular brands, including Crumpton Oaks, Friels and Frosty Jacks.
£3m investment in 2019
Work to install the new machinery brought Aston Manor’s total spend on production capability to more than £3m in 2019. The firm has invested more than £30m over the past five years in a bid to meet the expanding sustainability ambitions of the business.
Commenting on the company’s decision to reduce plastic packaging, head of compliance Jamie Weall said: “As all of our packaging is either reusable, recyclable or compostable, [so] it is the next significant and logical step for the business to take to replace shrink wraps and plastic rings with a more sustainable cardboard option.
“It has been a clear priority for Aston Manor over several years to become as sustainable as possible. We have taken important measures across every facet of the business to deliver on this promise.”
51% recycled content
Since introducing its sustainability programme, Aston Manor now uses 51% recycled plastic content in its large pack PET bottles – a move the business estimated would save about 1,000t of raw material annually and 25m fewer plastic bottles made from the virgin material.
The cider-maker was also one of the first alcohol producers to sign up to the Waste & Resources Action Programme’s UK Plastics Pact. Signatories of the pact have pledged to make 70% of plastic packaging effectively recycled or composted by 2025.
Meanwhile, drinks giant Coca-Cola has announced the introduction of new paperboard KeelClip on its multipack offerings in a bid to further reduce plastic waste.
