Road to Refill: Our Packaging Journey

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Road to Refill: Our Packaging Journey

From the very beginning, our mission has been to create a closed-loop system for our product containers—one where packaging is returned, sanitized, and reused rather than discarded. Achieving that vision took time, experimentation, and plenty of learning. Here's how we got there.

Overcoming Past Challenges:

  • The 5-gallon Smart Bottle: Initially promising for its reusability, but it struggled with humidity, seasonal changes, weight, and long-term durability.
  • The 2.5-Gallon Pouch: A manageable size, but weak seals and the "hammer effect" during shipping caused frequent leakage.
  • Bag-in-Box System: Stronger protection and better for return shipments, yet micro tears and issues with bladder compression hindered reuse.

Each of these trials brought us closer to a practical solution. We learned that true sustainability means balancing durability, reusability, and user experience, especially for refill stations and return logistics.

Embracing Sustainable Solutions:

Today, we proudly use a range of eco-friendly and refillable containers that support our closed-loop system:

  • Glass Containers: Locally sourced, reusable, and available in half-gallon and one-gallon sizes.
  • Plastic Containers: Lightweight, durable, and made from food-grade plastic in convenient half-gallon and one-gallon options.
  • 5-Gallon Eco Jugs: Made with up to 80% recycled plastic for high durability and long-term reuse.
  • 5-Gallon Buckets: Designed for repeated use, these reliable buckets offer a sustainable alternative.
  • 55 or 30-Gallon Barrels: Perfect for bulk purchases and large-scale sustainability efforts while great for their reusability

The Advantages of Our Refillable Containers:

  • Less Waste: Significantly reduces single-use plastic waste.
  • Resource Conservation: Lower demand for new materials and energy.
  • Cost Efficiency: More economical over time.
  • Closed-Loop System: Encourages customer participation in returning containers for reuse.
  • Lower Emissions: Reduces overall carbon footprint.

We’ve carefully selected these containers to ensure they meet our high standards for sustainability and reusability. Each container is designed to be sent back to us for sanitizing and refilling, with our customers’ participation playing a crucial role in our closed-loop program. We invite everyone to join us in committing to a more sustainable future for our planet.

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