Nestlé pilots refillable vending machine for Milo and Koko Krunch to explore disposable packaging elimination
INDONESIA – Nestlé has launched a refillable vending machine pilot program for Milo and Koko Krunch as part of its efforts to explore novel solutions that help eliminate the need for disposable packaging.
This particular program is a result of the concluded piloting in South Jakarta conducted in 2021, in which Nestlé was trailing reusable and refillable containers for Milo, Dancow, and Koko Krunch.
In the program, consumers had the option of purchasing the products from tricycle carts fitted with refillable dispensing systems.
According to Nestlé, the findings from the pilot program resulted in valuable insights that gave it a push to embark on the second phase of the pilot, where people can purchase Milo and Koko Krunch.
In the second phase of the broad, such as novel solutions, the company has unveiled innovative machines that will be available to two local retailers in Indonesia during a four-to-six-month trial period.
The Swiss multinational company is conducting the piloting in collaboration with the start-up Qyos by Algramo.
Packaging experts at Nestlé R&D centers in Singapore and Switzerland worked in collaboration with the Nestlé teams in Indonesia, as well as the start-up for the development of the vending machines.
Using their expertise, they ensured that the refillable systems maintain the safety and freshness of products across the supply chain while considering the local context, such as hot and humid climate conditions in Indonesia.
Nestlé explained that consumers can bring their containers, or they can buy provided containers that are available at each of the locations.
Through a QR code, they can digitally access product information that is typically found on the packaging, such as ingredients, nutritional values, and shelf life.
Gaelle de Mestral, Head of R&D Packaging at Nestlé, says: “We are actively exploring innovative, alternative delivery systems such as bulk, reuse, and refill options across several product categories.”
“By undertaking this second pilot for Milo and Koko Krunch, we’ll be able to gain new insights that can be applied to our products, as well as further assess the refillable system’s effectiveness in preventing packaging waste along the supply chain.”
Samer Chedid, President Director of Nestlé Indonesia, noted that locally, the company is pursuing the development of sustainable packaging by launching a second study for the refillable system.
“We hope that through the Nestlé x Qyos refilling machine technology, we can support the government to encourage people to reduce the use of packaging while also contributing to environmental sustainability goals in Indonesia,” Chedid underscored.
Nestlé says it is actively engaging with start-ups, suppliers, and academic institutions to research and develop new packaging materials and solutions to address the global issue of plastic packaging waste effectively.
In January 2023, the processing conglomerate corporation headquartered in Vevey also conducted a pilot test for Nesquik reusable containers in Germany in collaboration with start-ups, local retailers, and other partners.
circolution tested “Anita” with three brands in practice – “Nesquik” from Nestlé, “Hoppenworth & Ploch” and “BE.AN”. Anita in Steel” is the name of the first packaging solution which, thanks to gas-tight sealing, is ideal for foods with a long shelf life, the startup said.
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