Polytag’s QR Codes revolutionise the way businesses interact with customers and manage their products. From product authentication to real-time data tracking, these codes provide the tools necessary to boost engagement and drive sustainability. Explore how QR Codes can transform your brand today!Read more
- • Information
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
3 Sept 2024
- • Information
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
2 Sept 2024
Unlock the potential of Unique QR Codes to transform your brand’s engagement, sustainability efforts, and product traceability. With Polytag’s advanced QR solutions, every product becomes part of a seamless digital experience—offering item-level tracking, personalized rewards, and authentication. Whether you're looking to get QR codes for enhanced supply chain visibility or to boost customer loyalty with QR code packaging, our platform provides the tools to elevate your business. Discover how Unique QR Codes can drive innovation in your industry today!Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
22 Aug 2024
Dive into the world of Polytag's innovative QR codes and see how they transform product tracking and customer engagement. With each scan, unlock detailed insights into the product's lifecycle, enable personalised rewards, and promote sustainable practices. Learn how these QR codes integrate seamlessly into existing systems and set new standards in transparency and security. Discover the impact firsthand with examples from leading brands like Ocado Retail.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
22 Aug 2024
Explore how Polytag's unique QR codes are revolutionising the way products are tracked and recycled. With each scan, uncover new levels of product insights and engage customers with personalised experiences and rewards. From the production line to the recycling bin, Polytag ensures every product's journey is seamless and secure. Join us in setting new standards in sustainability and customer interaction.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
31 Jul 2024
Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) are essential for efficient inventory management and supply chain operations in the FMCG industry. This blog explores the structure and importance of GTINs, highlighting their role in enhancing accuracy, reducing errors, and supporting eco-friendly practices. Learn how major retailers like Tesco and Sainsbury's leverage GTINs and discover how Polytag uses them for sustainable labelling solutions. Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, understanding and implementing GTINs can significantly improve your operations and compliance.Read more
- • Information
- • Legislation
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
30 Jul 2024
Polytag explores the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act in the UK. This legislation makes producers responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products, encouraging sustainable design and reducing waste. Learn why EPR matters, the challenges it poses, and how Polytag can help your business stay compliant. From data collection to consumer engagement, our innovative solutions support your sustainability goals and streamline compliance. Join us in making a lasting impact on the environment.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • FMCG
- • Policy
29 Jul 2024
Discover how 'scan to recycle' technology is revolutionising waste management in the FMCG industry. Learn from Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, about implementing QR codes, NFC tags, and barcodes to improve recycling rates, comply with UK regulations, and engage consumers. This guide offers practical steps and real-world examples to help businesses enhance their sustainability efforts and reduce environmental impact.Read more
- • Information
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
25 Jul 2024
Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DDRS) revolutionize recycling by integrating advanced technology, making it more efficient and convenient for consumers and businesses. This blog explores how DDRS works, its benefits, real-world success stories, and the future of waste management. Embrace the digital transformation for a sustainable and greener future.Read more
- • Case study
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
4 Jul 2024
In a groundbreaking initiative, Polytag, Bower, and Ocado Retail have successfully trialed a nationwide digital deposit return scheme (DDRS) in the UK. Over 20,000 cash rewards were redeemed by consumers for recycling milk bottles using unique QR codes, demonstrating a scalable solution to boost recycling rates ahead of the 2025 DRS scheme. This innovative approach highlights the potential for digital solutions to enhance convenience and efficiency in recycling efforts.Read more
- • QR Tech
- • Information
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
- • UV tech
- • QR tech
28 Jun 2024
Explore the critical importance of traceability in ensuring product safety, quality, and compliance across various sectors. From the food industry to manufacturing, understand how advanced traceability systems like Polytag can transform business operations and consumer trust.Read more
- • QR Tech
- • Information
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
27 Jun 2024
Dive into the world of customer incentives with our comprehensive guide. Learn how leveraging innovative loyalty schemes like Polytag’s can significantly enhance customer loyalty, promote sustainability, and drive your business forward.Read more
- • QR Tech
- • News
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
21 Jun 2024
Mallows Beverages partners with Polytag to launch their new Blood Orange and Pomegranate Gin, featuring GS1 Digital Link QR codes on every bottle. This innovative collaboration enhances customer engagement with cocktail recipes and valuable insights, showcasing the power of Welsh business collaboration and technological advancement. Learn more about this exciting development in the beverage industry.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
- • UV tech
14 Jun 2024
Polytag and Biffa have teamed up with Ocado Retail, Co-op, and Aldi in RECOUP's 'Bottle to Bottle' project to provide unprecedented real-time packaging lifecycle data. Using UV 2D tags and advanced monitoring, this initiative empowers retailers with actionable insights to enhance their sustainability strategies. Discover how this groundbreaking collaboration is shaping the future of recycling and driving the circular economy forward.Read more
- • News
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
9 Apr 2024
Polytag and DDRS Alliance have joined forces to accelerate the development and adoption of Digital DRS in the UK. With a focus on leveraging GS1 Digital Link QR codes, this collaboration aims to revolutionise the recycling process by enhancing supply chain visibility and consumer engagement. Successful trials have shown strong consumer interest and the technical readiness of this innovative approach. This partnership is set to pave the way for a more efficient and convenient recycling system, benefitting brands, retailers, consumers, and the environment. Discover how Polytag and DDRS Alliance are transforming recycling at their respective websites.Read more
- • News
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
23 Jan 2024
Polytag collaborates with One Water to set new standards in the beverage industry, employing advanced QR code technology for enhanced product traceability and consumer engagement. This partnership not only boosts sustainability efforts but also offers deep market insights, crucial for navigating future regulations. Experience the future of ethical hydration with Polytag's smart QR codes on One Water products.Read more
- • News
- • FMCG
- • UV tech
- • QR tech
15 Dec 2023
Polytag, the award-winning recycling tech company, has announced a 50% growth fueled by strategic partnerships with leading UK retailers and drinks brands. To support its ambitious plans, Polytag has strengthened its team with two key appointments: Virlina Choquette as Head of Client Experience and Delivery, and Phil Bisby as Lead Developer Engineer. These new additions will enhance Polytag's innovative recycling technology, which uses QR codes and Invisible UV Tags to provide real-time packaging lifecycle data. Learn more about Polytag's mission to revolutionise the recycling industry and promote sustainability at their website.Read more
- • Information
- • QR Tech
- • News
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
2 Dec 2023
Polytag proudly sponsored the Bread & Jam CHEERS! Drinks Event at the Business Design Centre in Islington, North London. Over 600+ drinks brands attended, and Polytag's CEO, Alice Rackley, announced a six-month free trial for their innovative QR code solution. With GS1-approved QR codes, Polytag offers unmatched functionality and analytics, transforming packaging into powerful marketing tools. Brands can quickly set up accounts and access high-quality, barcode-level content to engage consumers effectively. Explore how Polytag supports the UK drinks industry and watch our presentation for more insights.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • Sustainability
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
23 Nov 2023
Polytag and One Water have joined forces to enhance ethical hydration using GS1 Digital Link QR codes. This partnership aims to improve packaging traceability, provide valuable lifecycle data, and engage consumers with One Water’s philanthropic mission. By integrating these innovative QR codes, One Water sets a new standard in sustainability and customer interaction, reinforcing its commitment as the UK’s leading ethical hydration brand.Read more
- • News
- • Information
- • QR Tech
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
- • Policy
23 Oct 2023
Discover the impressive outcomes of the partnership between Ocado Retail, Bower, and Polytag through our latest report. In just 56 days, our Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) facilitated over 20,000 rewards, as customers embraced QR code scanning to recycle their milk bottles. With 80% of participants expressing strong likelihood to use such digital methods for deposits in the future, our initiative not only demonstrates the effectiveness of DDRS but also marks a significant step forward in sustainable consumer practices.Read more
- • News
- • Information
- • QR tech
- • UV tech
- • FMCG
17 Oct 2023
Recently, Polytag's Project Manager, Rosa Knox-Bradley, participated in the RECOUP Plastic Resource and Recycling Conference 2023, a pivotal gathering within the plastics recycling sector. This event not only fostered connections among SMEs, NGOs, and government bodies but also showcased groundbreaking solutions driving the industry forward. The conference was a vibrant platform for discussing future-oriented strategies and celebrating the achievements of those leading the charge in plastic sustainability. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and witnessing further innovations at next year's conference.Read more
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • Information
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
- • Policy
- • Sustainability
13 Oct 2023
Ocado Retail is set to launch a groundbreaking recycling incentive program, a first in the world, where customers can earn 20p for each Ocado Own-Brand milk bottle they recycle. By scanning a unique QR code on the bottle and using the Bower app, consumers can directly receive their rewards, demonstrating a practical and convenient digital deposit return scheme. This initiative, starting July 14, not only offers financial incentives but also aligns with future national recycling strategies, making it easier and more rewarding for customers to recycle.Read more
- • QR Tech
- • News
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
1 Oct 2023
Polytag has teamed up with Blighty Booch to revolutionize direct-to-consumer sales and engagement using unique-every-time QR codes. This partnership enables Blighty Booch to offer detailed product information, health benefits, and direct shopping links via customisable landing pages. The innovative QR code solution also provides valuable consumer insights, helping shape future marketing strategies and boosting sales. Learn how Polytag’s technology is transforming customer interaction and promoting sustainability in the beverage industry.Read more
- • Case study
- • Sustainability
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
17 Jul 2023
Polytag has teamed up with the Bower app and Ocado Retail to incentivise recycling by rewarding shoppers with 20p per item recycled from their homes. The Swedish app, recently launched in the UK, uses unique-every-time QR codes provided by Polytag to reduce fraud and offer larger rewards. This partnership encourages more recycling and provides brands with valuable lifecycle data on their packaging. Discover how Bower is revolutionizing recycling by generating coupons or money for everyday items, and join the movement towards a more sustainable future.Read more
- • Pilots
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
- • Policy
15 Jul 2023
Polytag has partnered with Ocado Retail to launch an innovative recycling initiative, rewarding shoppers with 20p per item recycled from home using the Bower app. The pilot project, which started in November 2022, features unique-every-time GS1 Digital Link QR codes on Ocado's milk packaging. These codes ensure fraud-proof redemption and direct customers to a sustainability-focused landing page. This world-first printing method gives each package its own identity, providing Ocado with deeper insights into the packaging lifecycle. The success of this pilot demonstrates the potential for a Digital Deposit Return Scheme, paving the way for future expansion.Read more
- • News
- • Information
- • FMCG
- • UV tech
15 Jun 2023
Aldi is intensifying its environmental initiatives by focusing on acquiring more detailed recycling information, a move that underscores its commitment to sustainability. This effort aims to refine the retailer's packaging strategies and contribute significantly to broader ecological objectives, demonstrating Aldi’s proactive approach in promoting responsible recycling practices among its consumers and within its supply chain.Read more
- • Pilots
- • UV tech
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
31 May 2023
Aldi has partnered with Polytag to gain unprecedented packaging traceability data using invisible UV tags on milk packaging. This collaboration allows Aldi to capture real-time recycling data at Biffa Teesside, providing insights into the quantity of packaging recycled and enabling the retailer to track its sustainability performance accurately. Polytag’s CEO, Alice Rackley, highlights the importance of data in tackling the waste problem, while Luke Emery, Plastics and Packaging Director at Aldi UK, expresses excitement about using this technology to accelerate their sustainability goals. Explore how Polytag’s innovative technology supports retailers in making significant progress towards sustainability.Read more
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • Information
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
- • QR tech
- • UV tech
14 Apr 2023
Co-op is setting a new standard in sustainable packaging by partnering with Polytag to apply unique QR codes and UV tags to its own-label spring water bottles. This initiative provides unparalleled visibility into the recycling journey of each bottle, offering real-time data to Co-op and supporting the advancement of a circular recycling economy. The technology not only aims to improve recycling rates but also empowers consumers and businesses to track and manage the lifecycle of packaging materials more effectively.Read more
- • Pilots
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
- • UV tech
- • Sustainability
4 Apr 2023
Co-op and Polytag are setting a new industry standard with the introduction of unique-every-time QR codes and UV tags on Co-op's own-label spring water bottles. This groundbreaking technology offers the retailer unprecedented visibility of packaging during the recycling process, enabling real-time insights and supporting a circular economy. The QR codes, compliant with GS1 standards, provide consumers with information about Co-op’s sustainability efforts and can be used for loyalty rewards and deposit redemptions. The UV tags, invisible to the human eye, capture detailed recycling data. Polytag’s CEO, Alice Rackley, and Co-op’s Packaging Manager, Rob Thompson, highlight the significant impact of this innovation on sustainability and packaging accountability. Explore how this technology is shaping the future of recycling and sustainability.Read more
- • News
- • QR Tech
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
- • Policy
- • Sustainability
25 Nov 2022
Ocado trials innovative QR code technology on milk bottles to simplify recycling and cash-back process for customers. This pioneering initiative, developed by Polytag, aims to improve recycling rates and combat littering ahead of the UK's anticipated deposit return scheme in 2024.Read more
- • News
- • UV tech
- • QR tech
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
25 Nov 2022
Co-op partners with Polytag to enhance recycling transparency using UV tag technology in a new trial in North Wales. Discover how this initiative will provide Co-op with detailed data on the recycling journey of plastic bottles, aiding in the development of more efficient recycling practices and supporting UK sustainability goals.Read more
- • News
- • FMCG
- • Sustainability
25 Nov 2022
Explore the impact of ambitious but unmet environmental targets set by brands and retailers. Polytag CEO Alice Rackley discusses with The Grocer how improved data accuracy can drive genuine sustainability progress and help companies meet their environmental goals more effectively.Read more
- • Pilots
- • FMCG
- • QR tech
1 Nov 2022
Polytag has partnered with Ocado Retail to launch the world's first unique-every-time QR code Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) pilot. Over 12 weeks, 1.6 million of Ocado's recyclable milk bottles will feature QR codes, allowing consumers to access detailed recycling information and participate in a revolutionary recycling initiative. This trial not only promotes eco-friendly practices but also provides Ocado with a direct marketing channel and valuable insights into consumer recycling behaviors. Discover how this innovative technology could transform the future of recycling in the UK.Read more
- • Case study
- • UV tech
- • FMCG
13 Jul 2022
Polytag's groundbreaking pilot at Wells Dairy Farm successfully printed 40,000 unique-every-time QR codes using standard plate-printing technology. These GS1-compliant codes are essential for implementing a digital Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which offers numerous benefits to consumers, retailers, local authorities, and brands. By enabling precise tracking of packaging throughout its lifecycle, Polytag's innovation promotes a more efficient circular economy. Scanning these unique QR codes directs customers to informative landing pages, enhancing engagement and supporting sustainability efforts. Discover how Polytag is revolutionizing recycling and waste management.Read more
- • Information
- • News
- • Sustainability
- • FMCG
16 Feb 2022
Polytag collaborates with esteemed partners such as AMRC, Conwy Council, Ecosurety, GS1 UK, WRAP, and the Welsh Government to advance sustainable practices and successful Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) worldwide. These partnerships support impactful initiatives, including ESG regulations and the UK Plastic Packaging Tax, driving innovations in recycling technology. Learn more about our partners and their contributions to creating a sustainable future.Read more
- • News
- • QR tech
- • FMCG
- • Policy
21 Jun 2021
Polytag has achieved a significant milestone with the GS1 UK partner approval, validating its describe, tag, and trace technology against stringent global standards. This certification ensures that Polytag's solutions adhere to GS1 identification keys and can effectively support the recycling process. Joining forces with GS1 UK, Polytag is set to present at LARAC Wales 2022, discussing digital DRS and EPR compliance, crucial for enhancing local waste and recycling services.Read more
How Polytag’s Smart Labelling Can Help FMCG Businesses
Smart labels, incorporating technologies such as QR codes and UV Tags, significantly boost product traceability. We design smart labels that not only adhere to global standards, thanks to our partnership with GS1 UK, but also offer our clients the ability to track products seamlessly through our QR codes. This sophisticated level of traceability ensures products can be followed through every step of the supply chain, reducing the risk of counterfeit goods and enhancing consumer trust. Industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage now rely on this technology for its crucial role in maintaining the integrity of product information from production to purchase. Smart labelling solutions pave the way for unprecedented levels of consumer engagement. By scanning a QR code on a product, consumers gain access to a wealth of information, including sourcing details, instructions for use, and recycling information. This access empowers consumers to make informed purchasing decisions and fosters a deeper connection between brands and their customers. Our collaboration with Aldi exemplifies how smart labels can be used to promote sustainability and recycling, highlighting the benefits of informed consumer choices and their positive impact on the environment. The FMCG industry faces constant pressure to ensure product freshness and comply with safety regulations. Smart labels, including QR codes and UV tags, offer an effective solution by providing consumers with instant access to a wealth of information, from nutritional content to allergen presence. Furthermore, these labels can help companies communicate their sustainability efforts, such as sourcing practices and recyclability of packaging, to consumers.How Recycling Initiatives Can Boost Consumer Incentives
Partnering with Polytag streamlines the implementation of effective customer incentives related to recycling. As a digital recycling facilitator, Polytag offers comprehensive support, from creating QR codes and UV Tags that trace the recycling journey of products to setting up fully-fledged recycling initiatives tailored to your brand's needs. Engaging with Polytag simplifies the intricacies involved in tracking recycling metrics and offers transparent, real-time insights into customer participation rates. By partnering with Polytag, you leverage our expertise in digital recycling solutions and our recycling technology, ensuring your incentives resonate well with customers and contribute significantly toward sustainability goals. For customer incentives to be effective, they must foster long-term engagement. Short-term boosts in sales or recycling rates are beneficial but the ultimate goal is to build lasting relationships with customers. Polytag’s approach of integrating customer incentives with environmental initiatives provides an excellent platform for ensuring long-term engagement. Customers are more likely to remain engaged with a brand when they feel their actions contribute to a larger purpose, such as sustainability.What Is GS1 Digital Link?
GS1 Digital Link extends the capability of traditional barcodes by transforming them into dynamic online content carriers. By embedding a GS1 identifier, such as a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), into a QR code alongside a web link, it creates a singular, scannable gateway directly to detailed product information hosted online. This standard allows every item to be uniquely connected to the digital world, offering consumers instant access to a wealth of information ranging from product origins, nutritional content, to instructional videos—all through the scan of a smartphone. GS1 Digital Link serves as a bridge, linking physical products to the vast expanse of digital data on the internet, thereby enriching the consumer experience and empowering informed purchase decisions. GS1 Digital Link, a transformative update on the QR code retains the versatile, easily scannable benefits while incorporating globally recognised GS1 standards. This upgrade ensures uniformity and widespread acceptance, making it invaluable for brand owners and retailers worldwide. With the introduction of GS1 Digital Link in 2018 and subsequent enhancements such as data compression for more compact URLs, it’s now feasible to store more information in smaller spaces, enhancing print efficiency and readability across various applications. GS1 Digital Link significantly alters how consumers interact with products. By scanning a QR code, consumers gain immediate access to a wealth of information, from origin stories to instructional videos, directly on their smartphones. This not just enhances the consumer experience but also bolsters brand engagement by providing more depth and transparency about the product, thus fostering trust and loyalty.