Waitrose pioneers an eco-friendly cork recycling trial across the UK.
- Starting October 7, Waitrose will implement the scheme in selected stores.
- Customers can recycle natural corks at designated collection points.
- Recycled corks are transformed into products like mulch and household items.
- Success of the trial may lead to a wider rollout in the future.
Starting 7 October, Waitrose introduces an innovative cork recycling initiative across seven stores in the UK, marking a pivotal moment in sustainable retailing. This trial includes stores such as Waitrose’s Salisbury, with others like Saltash and Lymington joining as it expands. This strategic move aims to reduce landfill waste and enhance environmental sustainability.
Customers are invited to bring their used natural corks for recycling at dedicated collection points. In partnership with Amorim, the world’s largest cork processing group, these corks will be repurposed into diverse applications, ranging from mulch to everyday household items such as placemats, coasters, flooring, and even shoes. This initiative not only aids waste reduction but also fosters innovative reuse of materials.
Barry Dick, Waitrose’s manager for global bulk wine sourcing, highlighted that their customers use approximately 25 million natural corks annually. He pointed out, “Cork is a durable material and has the potential to be repurposed into a variety of products after it has been used as a wine cork. This trial is a fantastic way for us to reduce waste and play a part in improving our sustainability as a category.” Dick further commented on the trial’s potential to gauge customer interest in recycling their natural corks.
Waitrose has previously led sustainability initiatives, notably being the first UK supermarket to trial wine bottles devoid of plastic or foil sleeves, eliminating half a tonne of unnecessary packaging yearly. The current trial aligns with their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, exploring further expansion depending on customer engagement and results from the pilot.
The trial could signify broader implementation, further embedding sustainability into Waitrose’s operational ethos.
