After The Coca-Cola Company announced last month to test a paper bottle as part of a longer-term bid to eliminate plastic from its packaging entirely, a survey has been conducted by GlobalData to evaluate the effects of such a new packaging on consumers.
According to the findings, 43% of global consumers are attracted by ethical or environmentally friendly products like Coca-Cola’s innovative new paper bottle for plant-based beverage AdeZ.
In October 2019, Danish brewer Carlsberg already unveiled prototypes of a cardboard bottle which could replace one-way bottles made from PET or glass in the future. Motor of the development is a company called Paboco (“Paper Bottle Company”). Next to Carlsberg and Coca-Cola, also Swedish vodka maker Absolut and cosmetics giant L’Oréal are partner in the new project. (inside.beer, 11.10.2019)
The move will encourage other companies to launch plastic packaging alternatives, and, in the long-term, consumers should expect to see paper-based bottles appearing for other liquid products in the hospitality, restaurant and café (HoReCa) segment and in other retail stores, ranging from beers to soft drinks, juices and ready-to-drink (RTD) items.
Arvind Kaila, Practice Head of Consumer Beverages at GlobalData, comments: “Coca-Cola’s paper bottle will open up a whole new world of possibilities for beverage companies. With growing pressure from consumers and government bodies alike on sustainability initiatives, it is no surprise that there has been a surge in research and development (R&D) into paper bottles.”
GlobalData’s survey also found that 22%* of global consumers now view recyclable or reusable packaging as significantly more important since the pandemic began, while 12% claimed it was their top priority.
Mr. Kaila continued: “Consumers worldwide are increasingly expecting brands to develop and bring to market new and sustainable packaging innovations. Sustainability and reducing environmental impact have become increasingly critical to consumers’ brand perception in the pandemic because it has given consumers time to gain a new perspective on their environmental and social footprint.
As Coca-Cola’s project moves into the testing phase, it will help gather information on consumers' attitudes towards paper packaging and its suitability for grocery sales. This information will be used in the further development of this packaging format in the long term.
Mr. Kaila adds: “This innovation is an important step in the development of a viable liquid packaging solution, and is likely to impact overall beverage industry positively.”
