TRENTON, N.J. — Nestle S.A., Mondelez International, Inc. and Unilever all have joined the Loop initiative, a new subscription-based model for distributing consumer goods to homes in reusable containers. The initiative from Trenton-based recycling company TerraCycle aims to reduce reliance on single-use packaging.
Nestle, Vevey, Switzerland, will debut a reusable stainless-steel, double-walled ice cream container designed by its global research and development group in Bakersfield, Calif. The design and transportation will keep the company’s Häagen-Dazs brand ice cream fresh and cold from the moment the canisters are filled to when they are delivered to people’s homes. The new service will improve convenience while maintaining affordability, according to Nestle.
“Loop provides a much-needed innovation platform, challenging companies to take a fresh look at our value chains and integrate reusable product packaging as part of our efforts to (reduce waste),” said Laurent Freixe, chief executive officer for Nestle’s Zone Americas. “Nestle is proud to be a founding investor of and partner of Loop. It’s a critical part of our commitment to work with consumers to protect our planet for future generations.”
Mondelez International, Deerfield, Ill., will use four stainless-steel containers to provide consumers with Milka Cake & Choc soft cake, Milka Choco Biscuit cookies and Milka Tender Break bars.
“At Mondelez International, we are committed to reducing packaging waste and making all our packaging recyclable by 2025,” said Debora Koyama, chief marketing officer for Mondelez Europe. “We are proud to be part of the Loop initiative with our iconic Milka brand, building on its strong commitment to sustainability and well-being and delivering on the brand’s purpose of making the world a more tender place.”
Unilever, London, unveiled new packaging across Hellmann’s and several other brands. Non-food brands include REN Clean Skincare, Love Beauty and Planet, Love Home and Planet, Seventh Generation, Dove, Rexona, AXE and Signal.
“We want to put an end to the current take-make-dispose culture and are committed to taking big steps toward designing our products for re-use,” said Alan Jope, c.e.o. of Unilever. “We’re proud to be a founding partner of Loop, which will deliver our much-loved brands in packaging which is truly circular by design.”