UK-based sustainable packaging company Frugalpac is in discussions with South Africa’s CTP Packaging to establish a strategic partnership aimed at introducing Frugalpac’s low-carbon paper bottles to the South African market. The initiative seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of the country’s drinks industry.
Frugalpac’s Frugal Bottle, made from 94% recycled paperboard and a food-grade liner, is significantly lighter than glass and has an 84% lower carbon footprint. The partnership aims to promote the adoption of these bottles in South Africa, with plans to eventually install a Frugal Bottle Assembly Machine locally for production.
South African wineries, including Journey’s End Vineyards and Stellenbosch Vineyards, have already adopted the Frugal Bottle for select wine brands. Aldi UK has also used South African wine packaged in Frugal Bottles for its Cambalala label. Frugalpac reports receiving over 75 inquiries for its bottles from South African producers.
Malcolm Waugh, CEO of Frugalpac, highlighted the region’s potential: “South Africa exports over 300 million liters of wine annually. Moving to our paper bottles could reduce freight costs and carbon emissions, benefiting both the economy and sustainability. We look forward to working with CTP Packaging to expand the availability of low-carbon packaging for African wine and spirits brands.”
Leon Witbooi, Managing Director of CTP Packaging’s Western Cape operations, added: “We see great potential in partnering with Frugalpac to grow the market for paper bottles in South Africa. Their work globally is a significant step towards decarbonizing the drinks industry, and we hope to bring this innovation to a wider audience locally.”
The discussions follow a visit earlier this year by South African High Commissioner to the UK, His Excellency Jeremiah Nyamane Mamabolo, and Honorary Consul Bassim Haidar to Frugalpac’s UK headquarters, where they explored the company’s vision for sustainable packaging solutions.