Supermarket chain Aldi is set to reduce packaging waste by removing the protective sleeves from corks on its own-brand wine bottles in the UK.
This initiative, which reportedly marks a first for UK supermarkets, aims to cut 38 tonnes (t) of aluminium and plastic packaging annually.
The change affects 46 Aldi-branded wine selections, including Côtes du Rhone, Rioja Reserva, and Atlantique Rosé.
The company intends to implement this packaging change across all its own-label corked wines by the end of 2025, following a successful trial in stores that started in March 2024.
Aldi UK National Sustainability director Luke Emery said: “We know that sustainability is a priority for our customers, and we’re always looking for new ways to reduce packaging and offer more sustainable choices.
“Launching wines with naked corks is a step in the right direction, and we’re proud to be the first supermarket to introduce this change across our entire range of own-brand quality corked wines.”
In October last year, Aldi introduced measures to cut its plastic footprint by removing plastic windows and trays from various savoury products.
This shift towards sustainable materials was extended to its Crestwood twin slices and pork pies, and both products will no longer feature plastic trays.
These actions will allow Aldi to eliminate 127t of unnecessary plastic packaging annually.
