Ocado Leads the Way: Supermarket First to Introduce Refillable Packaging
Collaboration with The Refill Coalition
The online grocer has partnered closely with the Refill Coalition, bringing together expertise to shape and launch efficient refilling and collection pathways for its product range.
Key Highlights of the Partnership
- Joint Design: Co‑created streamlined refill protocols tailored to the grocery line.
- Implementation: Rolled out a seamless collection system across all stores.
- Continuous Improvement: Ongoing evaluation to refine processes and enhance customer experience.
Ocado Introduces Refillable Packaging Trial for Everyday Goods
In a bid to slash single‑use plastic, the online retailer Ocado is rolling out a pilot program this month that will deliver staples like rice, pasta, and laundry detergent in refillable containers.
How the Reuse Initiative Works
The pilot, branded as Ocado Reuse, follows a simple cycle:
- Delivery: Customers receive products in durable, reusable tubs.
- Return: Empty vessels are collected by Ocado drivers during the next scheduled delivery.
- Cleaning: Returned containers are inspected, sanitized, and refilled.
- Re‑delivery: Freshly refilled goods are dispatched back to the same customers.
Phase One: Immediate Rollout
Phase I launches within this calendar month, offering:
- 2 kg bags of basmati rice.
- 1 kg packets of penne pasta.
Weave in
or plan to expand into a broader range in a following phase.
Phase Two: Upcoming Expansion
Looking ahead, Phase II will introduce larger items, such as:
- 3‑liter containers of fabric conditioner.
- 3‑liter containers of non‑biodegradable liquid detergent.
No Extra Cost for a Cleaner Planet
Customers can choose whether to have the refillable products delivered or simply pick up the refilled containers. Throughout the trial, there’s no surcharge for the reusable packaging.
Insights from Ocado Leadership
Simon Hinks, Product Director of Ocado Retail, told The Guardian:
“Consumers are already familiar with returning empty bags for recycling. Bringing refillable options directly to their homes is the logical next step in cutting down on plastic waste.”
Partnerships Driving the Program
Ocado collaborated with The Refill Coalition, a UK organization focused on scaling refill solutions across supermarkets. The partnership designates Berry Global as the supplier of the containers.
These reusable tubs can stand in for up to five single‑use plastic items and are designed for approximately 60 uses before requiring replacement. Each iteration saves plastics and reduces waste.
Customer Response and Market Potential
A recent Ocado survey of over 2,000 UK adults revealed:
- One in three respondents already choose refillable options for at least one staple item.
- About 75% of participants said that they would welcome more refillable choices, provided prices remain stable and product quality stays the same.
These insights underscore the growing appetite for sustainable retail solutions and pave the way for a future where reusable packaging becomes the norm.
Ocado ties up with Alcampo for first Customer Fulfilment Centre (CFC) in Spain
Ocado Partners with Alcampo to Launch Spain’s First Automated Customer Fulfilment Centre
Ocado has unveiled a collaboration with retailer Alcampo, creating Spain’s inaugural Customer Fulfilment Centre (CFC). The centre relies on robotic automation and artificial intelligence to streamline order packaging and pickup.
Statements from Ocado Leadership
“This partnership already marks a significant upswing in the service quality customers receive online,” said Gregor Ulitzka, President Europe of Ocado Solutions. He added that the state‑of‑the‑art CFC will benefit even more shoppers across Spain.
Insights from Alcampo Executives
Antonio Valverde, Alcampo’s e‑commerce director, emphasized the CFC as the pinnacle of an ambitious omnichannel strategy. He declared it will turn their commitment to shoppers into a daily reality, allowing customers to purchase groceries anytime and anywhere.
Key Features of the CFC
- Fully automated warehouse operations
- Robotic pick‑and‑pack system
- Intelligent AI‑driven inventory management
- Rapid order processing and fulfillment
With this joint venture, Ocado and Alcampo aim to redefine grocery shopping in Spain, offering seamless online experiences backed by cutting‑edge technology.
