Pernod Ricard Partners with EcoSPIRITS for Global Circular Spirits Distribution

Pernod Ricard has entered into a five-year global licensing agreement with EcoSPIRITS to expand the distribution of its spirits brands using the company's circular packaging technology. This collaboration aims to significantly reduce waste and carbon emissions associated with spirits distribution.

The agreement builds on a pilot program conducted in Singapore in late 2022, which provided valuable insights into the operational and sustainability aspects of circular distribution. The initiative is a key component of Pernod Ricard's 2030 Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap.

Under the EcoSPIRITS system, products are transported in bulk and delivered to on-trade venues in reusable 4.5-litre glass containers, known as ecoTOTEs™. This method eliminates the need for single-use bottles and secondary packaging, thereby lowering environmental impact.

A recent implementation in Cuba for Havana Club rum, utilizing a closed-loop system with a dedicated ecoPLANT™, demonstrated substantial environmental benefits. This specific deployment is projected to result in an 88% reduction in carbon emissions related to spirits packaging and distribution, along with a 99% decrease in glass waste.

The global agreement will see brands like Beefeater Gin, Havana Club rum, and Absolut vodka, which were part of the initial pilot, rolled out to new markets. Pernod Ricard stated that this expansion aligns with their 'Circular Making' pillar, promoting circularity across all stages of production and distribution.