PepsiCo to introduce takeaway glass bottles in Maharashtra, India

PepsiCo India has unveiled plans to launch takeaway glass bottles across its carbonated beverage portfolio in the state of Maharashtra.

The move is part of the company’s strategy to focus on recyclable packaging formats, thehindubusinessline.com reported.

The new glass packaging will cover the beverage company’s Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7UP and Mirinda brands, and will be made available in 250ml packs.

So far, the company’s 250ml packaging category was reserved for PET packs.

The new takeaway glass bottles will feature PepsiCo’s unique Twist Cap and add to the company’s existing portfolio, which includes returnable glass and plastic bottles.

PepsiCo India Beverage Category vice-president Vishal Kaul was quoted by the publication as saying: “We are committed to making it easier for consumers to choose their favourite PepsiCo Beverage brands through category-leading innovation, new packaging format and choice for different consumption occasions.

“This new range is a reiteration of our effort of delivering on-the-go, convenient packaging format that is affordable and is recyclable.”

The move assumes significance in the wake of the Maharashtra Government’s ban on manufacturing, use, sale, distribution and storage of plastic materials.

Enforced in June, the ban covers single-use bags, spoons, cups, straws, plates, as well as PET and PETE bottles.

Meanwhile, the company has also revealed that it will set up a facility in Delhi to recycle used PET plastic bottles in a bid to fight environmental pollution.

The number of bottles to be collected for recycling will be equivalent to the volume of products sold by the company in the national capital.

In a statement, PepsiCo said: “The company has partnered with Gem Enviro Management to set up infrastructure for collection and recycling of used PET plastic bottles in Delhi, in line with the plastic waste management rules.”