CINCINNATI, OH - Kroger has recently announced a new partnership to revolutionize the way it approaches packaging. Teaming up with Loop, a circular e-commerce platform developed by TerraCycle, the retailer hopes to advance its zero-waste vision by reducing single-use plastics in the environment.
"Our commitment to innovative solutions on our path to Zero Hunger | Zero Waste aligns perfectly with Loop's mission to create a convenient circular packaging platform for consumers," said Jessica Adelman, Kroger's Group Vice President of Corporate Affairs. "Customers are increasingly seeking out sustainable products and services that fit their lifestyle. As the exclusive grocery retail partner for Loop in the U.S., Kroger is taking another big step toward a world with zero waste."
According to a press release, the new reusable packaging system will be tested out soon, enabling customers in select markets to purchase over 100 different products from prominent consumer brands that have been redesigned with durable, reusable containers. The packaging will now include reusable glass or metal containers that are directly shipped to consumers in a specially designed tote bag. After they are used, the product's packaging is retrieved through free at-home pickup, cleaned, refilled, and reused—a first-of-its-kind circular packaging system.
"Loop was designed from the ground-up to reinvent the way we consume by leveraging the sustainable, circular milkman model of yesterday with the convenience of e-commerce," said Tom Szaky, Founder and CEO of Loop and TerraCycle. "TerraCycle came together with dozens of major consumer product companies from P&G to Nestle to Unilever, the World Economic Forum, logistics and transportation company UPS, and leading retailers Kroger and Walgreens to create a simple and convenient way to enjoy a wide range of products, customized in brand-specific durable and reusable packaging."
The first phase of the U.S. launch will target a select number of consumers in New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. Consumers in those states who are interested in being a part of the test program can visit www.thekrogerco.com/loop starting May 21 for information on how to apply to participate.
For more innovative retail packaging solutions, keep up with AndNowUKnow.
