Diageo has unveiled an exciting new trial involving paper-based bottles for their renowned Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur. In collaboration with PA Consulting as part of the Bottle Collective with PA and PulPac, Diageo is pioneering a new direction in sustainable packaging.

The Dry Molded Fiber bottle will be composed of 90% paper, featuring a thin plastic liner and a foil seal. Notably, this innovative bottle is designed for recycling within standard paper streams, eliminating the need for consumers to separate the plastic liner from the paper bottle during disposal. This feature aims to simplify the recycling process and enhance consumer participation in sustainability efforts.

The trial will involve 2,000 bottles, specifically in the mini format (80ml) of Baileys, the Original Irish Cream Liqueur. It is set to take place at the Time Out Festival in Barcelona, Spain, from May 25th to 26th. This initiative marks Diageo's inaugural consumer-facing trial with paper-based bottles. The trial aims to assess various aspects, including the bottles' journey from the filling site in Ireland to Barcelona, consumer interaction with the material, and their comprehension of the paper bottle's sustainability attributes.

Ewan Andrew, President, Global Supply Chain & Procurement, and Chief Sustainability Officer at Diageo, commented: "When it comes to our packaging, we’re taking an approach of progress over perfection, knowing our packaging will need to evolve along with consumer needs and technological advancements. The consumer is becoming more sustainability savvy and we believe we can meet that need using our design and innovation to bring premium products and more sustainable solutions together."

Diageo is also currently trialling lightweight aluminium Baileys bottles at airports. This dual approach highlights the company’s commitment to exploring and implementing various sustainable packaging solutions.

The Dry Molded Fiber technology used in these paper bottles represents a significant advancement in sustainable packaging. It is a part of Diageo’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing their environmental impact and responding to the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. By incorporating innovative materials and designs, Diageo is setting a new standard in the beverage industry.

This trial is not only a test of the paper bottle’s durability and consumer acceptance but also a step towards a more sustainable future. The results of this trial could pave the way for broader adoption of paper-based bottles across Diageo’s product lines and potentially influence the wider industry to follow suit.

In summary, Diageo’s trial of paper-based bottles for Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur represents a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability journey. Through innovative collaborations and a commitment to progress over perfection, Diageo is leading the way in creating sustainable packaging solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers and the environment.