Major UK Supermarket Trials Refillable Detergent Station

Major supermarket chain Sainsbury’s is trialing a refillable detergent station, after partnering with eco-friendly brand Ecover UK. 

The retailer, which recently revealed it would slash its plastic waste in half by 2050, has implemented the refill station at its Harringay store in London, with plans to expand the trial to 19 other stores. 

Customers can get money off Ecover’s Non-Bio Laundry Liquid or Washing-Up Liquid by returning their empty bottles for reuse. 

‘A big difference’

A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s said: “Refillable packaging is just one initiative we plan to trial this year and goes to show how a small change can make a big difference.

“We look forward to hearing feedback from the trial with a view to rolling out more widely across the estate if successful.”

‘Disposable culture’

Global Head of Long-Term Innovation at Ecover Tom Domen added: “As manufacturers, we believe we need to totally re-think plastic – how we make it, use it, re-use it and recycle it. 

“At Ecover, we want to challenge the idea of single-use packaging and our disposable culture. This partnership with Sainsbury’s is an important step in kickstarting a REFILLUTION® in the UK and realizing our goal of making refills more accessible for everyone.”