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Get QR Code from Polytag
3 Sept 2024
author
Rosa Knox-BradleyProject Manager
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
Get QR Code from Polytag
  • Information
  • QR tech
  • FMCG
Unique QR Codes by Polytag
2 Sept 2024
author
Rosa Knox-BradleyProject Manager
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
Unique QR Codes by Polytag
22 Aug 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Polytag's QR Codes: A Leap Forward in Product Transparency and Customer Engagement
22 Aug 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Unique QR Codes for Next-Level Product Insights and Enhanced Customer Engagement
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  • Case study
  • Legislation
  • Policy
  • QR tech
The Role of Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) in the UK
17 Aug 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The UK's Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is more than just a recycling initiative—it's a push towards sustainable living. As Scotland leads the way, GS1 UK and Polytag are pioneering technologies that ensure every bottle and can makes its way back into the recycling loop. This cultural shift aims to reduce litter, enhance recycling rates, and make sustainability a seamless part of our lives.Read more
The Role of Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) in the UK
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  • Legislation
  • Policy
  • QR tech
GS1 UK and Polytag Spearhead Groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme
16 Aug 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover how GS1 UK and Polytag are transforming recycling in the UK through the groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme. Learn about the innovative use of GS1 Digital Link and QR codes to enhance consumer engagement, boost recycling rates, and achieve sustainability goals. Explore Scotland's pioneering role and the nationwide adoption of these eco-friendly practices by 2025.Read more
GS1 UK and Polytag Spearhead Groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme
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  • QR tech
GS1 Digital Link Explained
1 Aug 2024
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Explore the transformative impact of GS1 Digital Link on the FMCG industry with insights from Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag and former head of GS1 UK Retail. Learn how leveraging QR codes can enhance product traceability, improve supply chain efficiency, and boost consumer engagement. Discover practical steps for implementing this innovative technology and its real-world benefits for businesses and consumers alike.Read more
GS1 Digital Link Explained
4 Jul 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
20,000 Cash Rewards Redeemed By Ocado Retail Customers In First Nationwide DDRS Trial
  • QR Tech
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  • Sustainability
  • FMCG
  • UV tech
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Traceability
28 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Traceability
  • QR Tech
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GS1 Standards
26 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In the dynamic world of global commerce, GS1 standards are essential for businesses aiming to enhance supply chain efficiency and transparency. These standards, including barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags, provide a universal language for product identification and tracking. Polytag, a GS1-certified partner, leverages these standards to ensure compliance, accuracy, and trust in global trade. Explore how GS1 standards evolve with emerging technologies like blockchain and IoT, and their pivotal role in fostering a sustainable, efficient digital economy.Read more
GS1 Standards
21 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
QR Code Innovation: Mallows Beverages Partners with Polytag For Their New Line Of Gin Flavours
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  • Sustainability
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Digital Deposit Return Scheme Explained
21 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover the revolutionary Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) by Polytag, which enhances recycling through the use of QR codes on product packaging. This blog explores how DDRS simplifies the recycling process, incentivises consumers with financial rewards, and provides valuable insights for businesses, contributing to a more sustainable future. Learn how Polytag's innovative approach is transforming recycling efforts and promoting environmental responsibility.Read more
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Explained
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Deposit Return Scheme: What Is it?
21 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is revolutionising recycling by incentivising the return of beverage containers for refunds. This blog explores the effectiveness of DRS in countries like Germany and Sweden, highlights digital innovations by Polytag, and discusses the benefits, challenges, and future of DRS. Discover how this system is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.Read more
Deposit Return Scheme: What Is it?
21 Jun 2024
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Explore the revolutionary impact of QR codes on various industries, from enhancing customer engagement to promoting sustainability. This blog delves into the evolution, benefits, and future of QR technology, highlighting innovative applications like Polytag's use in product tracking and recycling. Discover how QR codes are reshaping our digital landscape and bridging the gap between physical and digital worlds.Read more
QR Code: Exploring Innovations & Impact on Industries
14 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Recycling Technology: Polytag and Biffa partner to help Ocado Retail, Co-op and Aldi gain unprecedented packaging lifecycle data
15 Dec 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Polytag achieves 50% growth fuelled by strategic partnerships
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  • FMCG
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Polytag attends Bread & Jam CHEERS! Drinks Event
2 Dec 2023
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Rosa Knox-BradleyProject Manager
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
Polytag attends Bread & Jam CHEERS! Drinks Event
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  • News
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  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
  • FMCG
Polytag and One Water enter partnership to promote ethical hydration through GS1 Digital Link QR codes
23 Nov 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Polytag and One Water enter partnership to promote ethical hydration through GS1 Digital Link QR codes
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6-Month Free Trial for Small Brands
8 Nov 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag is excited to offer small brands a six-month free trial of our cutting-edge QR code and UV Invisible Tag technology. This unique opportunity allows businesses to access vital lifecycle data and explore new marketing channels at no cost. Enhance your brand's sustainability efforts and consumer engagement by tapping into the future of on-pack communication. Start your journey towards advanced traceability and increased brand visibility today with Polytag's comprehensive trial offer.Read more
6-Month Free Trial for Small Brands
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  • QR tech
QR Codes – What’s the difference?
31 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag is transforming the QR code landscape by offering unique, future-proof solutions that extend beyond traditional barcode functionality. Our GS1 Digital Link QR Codes not only streamline inventory management for stockists but also enhance consumer engagement by providing essential recycling information. This commitment to innovation and sustainability sets us apart, driving the evolution of on-pack communication and supporting a circular economy. Discover how our technology stands out from the competition and propels the industry forward.Read more
QR Codes – What’s the difference?
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  • QR Tech
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Blighty Booch teams up with Polytag for innovative QR Codes!
30 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Blighty Booch Kombucha has partnered with Polytag to introduce innovative GS1-approved QR codes across its product lineup, marking a significant advancement in consumer-brand interactions. This collaboration uses state-of-the-art SCREEN technology for printing QR codes, enhancing the customer experience by providing direct access to product details, rewards, and more. Blighty Booch's move towards more dynamic consumer engagement showcases the potential of QR codes to bring brands closer to their audience. Dive into the details of this exciting development and explore how you can also benefit from Polytag's technology with a free six-month trial.Read more
Blighty Booch teams up with Polytag for innovative QR Codes!
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  • FMCG
  • QR tech
  • Policy
Download the Ocado Retail, Bower and Polytag report
23 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Download the Ocado Retail, Bower and Polytag report
  • News
  • Information
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
  • FMCG
The RECOUP Plastic Resource and Recycling Conference 2023
17 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
The RECOUP Plastic Resource and Recycling Conference 2023
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  • QR Tech
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  • Policy
  • Sustainability
Ocado Retail gives 20p back to customers that recycle its milk bottles in world-first with Polytag
13 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Ocado Retail gives 20p back to customers that recycle its milk bottles in world-first with Polytag
1 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Polytag delivers on-pack QR codes with Blighty Booch Kombucha
22 Sept 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
We are excited to announce the launch of our new Polytag website! Redesigned with you in mind, our site now offers an enriched user experience with enhanced features like detailed insights into QR and Invisible Tag Technology, updated blog content, and direct access to our expert team. Dive into our world to explore innovative solutions and partnerships that are shaping the future of recycling technology. Join us in navigating the advancements that Polytag brings to the environmental tech landscape.Read more
Introducing the New Polytag Website: A Fresh Look and Exciting Features!
  • Case study
  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
  • FMCG
Pilots | Bower & Polytag
17 Jul 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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 | Bower & Polytag
  • Pilots
  • QR tech
  • FMCG
  • Policy
Pilots | Bower & Ocado Retail
15 Jul 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Pilots | Bower & Ocado Retail
  • News
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  • Information
  • FMCG
  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
Co-op Employs Polytag’s Recycling Technology
14 Apr 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Co-op Employs Polytag’s Recycling Technology
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Co-op case study
4 Apr 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Co-op case study
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  • Legislation
  • Policy
  • QR tech
Legislation - Your Guide To Customer Engagement
3 Feb 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Explore the benefits of QR codes in enhancing customer engagement and promoting sustainability with Polytag. Our innovative solutions allow businesses to create branded landing pages, gain unique analytics, and support Digital Deposit Return Schemes. QR codes offer a versatile, space-efficient way to connect with customers and meet sustainability goals. Learn more about how Polytag's QR code technology can transform your business.Read more
Legislation - Your Guide To Customer Engagement
20 Jan 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In response to the government's latest consultation on the Deposit Return Scheme, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley expresses mixed feelings. While welcoming the openness to a hybrid DRS model, she voices disappointment over doubts regarding digital labelling technologies and concerns about fraud. Rackley reaffirms Polytag’s commitment to proving that their digital solutions, such as unique QR codes, can effectively reduce fraud and enhance consumer recycling practices, paving the way for successful implementation by October 2025.Read more
Statement from Polytag on the Government’s response to the Consultation Introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
12 Jan 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In a detailed response to the Society of Independent Brewers, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley emphasises the necessity of a unified approach to the UK's Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). Rackley outlines Polytag's commitment to a hybrid DRS model, combining digital solutions with traditional methods to address legislative uncertainties, prevent fraud, and ensure compatibility with existing recycling processes. Her letter highlights the successes of recent trials and Polytag's readiness to contribute to a more effective national recycling strategy.Read more
Polytag’s CEO responds to Society of Independent Brewers’s Letter to the Welsh Government
25 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Daily Telegraph: Ocado shoppers could get cash back to scan recycling under delayed deposit return scheme
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  • UV tech
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  • Sustainability
  • FMCG
Lets Recycle: Co-op and Polytag to track bottles’ recycling journey
25 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Lets Recycle: Co-op and Polytag to track bottles’ recycling journey
  • News
  • Policy
  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
Delays to DRS are in nobody’s interest
23 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, advocates for the adoption of Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DDRS) to address the UK's recycling challenges and avoid further delays in environmental policy implementation. Explore how digital solutions can save costs, enhance recycling efficiency, and support the circular economy.Read more
Delays to DRS are in nobody’s interest
  • Pilots
  • FMCG
  • QR tech
Pilots | Ocado & Polytag
1 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Pilots | Ocado & Polytag
20 Oct 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Enhance your packaging with GS1 Digital Link QR codes on the Polytag platform to communicate directly with your customers. These QR codes allow seamless access to mobile-optimized landing pages, providing consumers with detailed product information, sustainability messages, and more without needing an app download. As the future of barcodes, QR codes improve data sharing across the supply chain, support better customer engagement, and are cost-effective to implement. Learn how digitizing your label can strengthen brand loyalty and prepare your packaging for the next evolution.Read more
Pilots | QR Codes on Plastic Packaging
11 Jul 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In response to the Scottish Parliament's scrutiny of the Deposit Return Scheme, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley champions the adoption of Digital DRS as a superior alternative. Highlighting its potential to curb cross-border fraud and reduce environmental impact, Rackley argues that digital tagging of recyclables could align with current UK recycling practices, offering convenience and sustainability without the extensive use of reverse vending machines. This digital shift promises to transform the UK's recycling landscape by fostering easier and more effective recycling methods.Read more
Polytag’s CEO responds to Scottish Parliament’s Cross-party for Beers and pubs’ on Scotland’s DRS
  • Information
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
  • Sustainability
Who We Are - Pioneers of RecTech
1 Jun 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag is at the forefront of recycling technology (RecTech), offering innovative solutions to address climate challenges and help the UK achieve Net Zero by 2050. Their technology supports UK Plastics Pact and UN sustainable goals, ensuring all packaging remains within the circular economy. As sustainability becomes a commercial imperative, Polytag's tag and trace technology enables businesses to operate more sustainably and maintain commercial success. Recently approved by GS1 UK, Polytag continues to lead in maintaining and adopting GS1 standards, supporting members to grow and innovate. Explore Polytag's certified products and their commitment to a sustainable future.Read more
Who We Are - Pioneers of RecTech
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  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
Polytag CEO recognised by Innovate UK
6 May 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In a significant acknowledgment on International Women’s Day, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley was honored with Innovate UK's Women in Innovation Award. This accolade, which includes a £50,000 funding boost and expert mentoring, recognises her pioneering work in advancing sustainable packaging solutions. Alice's vision for Polytag addresses the urgent need for accountability in the lifecycle of single-use packaging, promising a transformative impact on environmental responsibility in the FMCG sector.Read more
Polytag CEO recognised by Innovate UK
  • Pilots
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
Pilots | Demonstration Day
10 Mar 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In early 2022, Polytag hosted a series of demonstration days at AMRC Cymru, welcoming over 100 guests from 50 top brands. These sessions showcased Polytag's cutting-edge technology, including high-speed serialized QR code printing, UV tagging, and Digital Deposit Return Schemes. Attendees saw firsthand how Polytag enables real-time packaging data access and direct-to-consumer marketing through intuitive dashboards and apps. This technology supports brands in meeting upcoming legislation requirements, such as DRS, PPT, and EPR, while fostering a circular economy. Learn more about Polytag's innovative solutions and their impact on sustainability and packaging traceability.Read more
Pilots | Demonstration Day
  • Information
  • Legislation
  • Policy
  • QR tech
Legislation - Digital Deposit Return Schemes
6 Dec 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag introduces Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DDRS) as a revolutionary approach to recycling. Leveraging existing kerbside infrastructure, DDRS offers a convenient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional recycling methods. Our technology uses serialised tags and a smartphone app to streamline the recycling process, increasing engagement and reducing carbon emissions. Discover how DDRS can benefit consumers, businesses, and the environment.Read more
Legislation - Digital Deposit Return Schemes
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  • Sustainability
  • QR tech
  • UV tech
How Polytag Technology Works
20 Nov 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag technology is at the forefront of optimizing the packaging circular economy, enabling sustainable practices through Digital Deposit Return Schemes, Extended Producer Responsibility, and Plastic Packaging Tax compliance. By providing describe, tag, and trace solutions, Polytag ensures full supply chain visibility and data sharing, benefiting governments, brands, packaging producers, printers, and recyclers. Discover how Polytag supports a more sustainable future by enhancing the traceability and reprocessing of packaging materials, ultimately reducing reliance on virgin materials and minimizing environmental impact.Read more
How Polytag Technology Works
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  • Legislation
  • Policy
  • QR tech
Legislation - Understanding Digital DRS
5 Nov 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag's Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) offers a transformative approach to recycling by leveraging QR codes and app-based technology. This innovative solution integrates seamlessly with existing kerbside collections, making it easy for consumers to recycle and reclaim deposits from home. Learn about the benefits of DDRS, its impact on reducing waste, and how it supports a circular economy. Discover how Polytag is leading the way in digital recycling technology and book a demonstration today.Read more
Legislation - Understanding Digital DRS
  • News
  • Information
  • Policy
  • QR tech
  • Sustainability
Kerbside deposit return schemes prove their value to brands and households
7 Oct 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The Kerbside Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) pilot in Conwy, North Wales, marked a significant success, with an impressive 97% of participating households engaging in the initiative. This pilot, leveraging Polytag technology and supported by the Welsh Government and local councils, demonstrated the effectiveness of at-home QR code scanning for recycling, underscoring the potential of digital DRS to foster sustainable practices and offer valuable insights into consumer recycling behaviors.Read more
Kerbside deposit return schemes prove their value to brands and households
  • Pilots
  • Policy
  • QR tech
Pilots | Conwy Pilot
21 Aug 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In 2021, Polytag partnered with the Welsh Government, Conwy Council, and WRAP Cymru to deliver the UK’s first Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) pilot. Conducted in Conwy, North Wales, this groundbreaking initiative aimed to integrate DDRS technologies into existing council waste collection services. With an impressive 97% engagement rate from participating households, the pilot demonstrated the potential of DDRS to revolutionize recycling practices. Wales, a leader in recycling, is committed to becoming a zero waste country by 2050. This pilot marks a significant step towards achieving that goal, showcasing the importance of collaboration and innovation in creating a circular economy.Read more
Pilots | Conwy Pilot
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  • QR tech
  • FMCG
  • Policy
Polytag’s becomes GS1 UK partner
21 Jun 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
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
Polytag’s becomes GS1 UK partner
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  • Information
  • QR tech
  • Policy
  • Sustainability
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Pilot - Getting Ready With Conwy
26 May 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag is set to commence its much-anticipated Digital Deposit Return Scheme pilot in Conwy, Wales. After fine-tuning our technology and conducting successful tests with partners like Allied Recycling, we are ready to demonstrate the power of RFID technology and unique digital identifiers in real-world recycling. This pilot promises to revolutionise recycling practices, offering a seamless integration of technology and community engagement for effective waste management. Join us in this innovative journey starting June 2021.Read more
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Pilot - Getting Ready With Conwy
  • Pilots
  • QR tech
  • Sustainability
Greasby Digital DRS Pilot
18 Jan 2020
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In 2019, Polytag, in partnership with Ecosurety, conducted a successful Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) pilot in Greasby, North-West England. Engaging 50 households, the pilot tested Polytag's innovative technology to enhance recycling practices. Each household received uniquely coded items to scan with Polytag’s app, resulting in a 91% engagement rate and significant recycling success. Participants were motivated by environmental awareness, the excitement of digital recycling technology, and donations to local schools. The trial's success demonstrated the feasibility of Digital DRS without extensive infrastructure, leading to further pilots and solidifying Polytag's role in driving towards a zero waste future.Read more
Greasby Digital DRS Pilot
  • What are QR Codes?
    QR codes function as a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned using a smartphone camera, linking the user directly to specific information or websites. Unlike traditional barcodes, QR codes carry information both vertically and horizontally, which allows them to hold significantly more data. This capability makes QR codes incredibly versatile, supporting a wide array of data types. When scanned, the QR code processing application reads the patterns within the code, translating them into readable data. The sophistication of QR codes lies in their error correction feature, which ensures that the codes remain functional even when dirty or partially damaged. This resilience, coupled with their capacity to store ample information, makes QR codes a reliable tool for businesses and consumers alike, facilitating quick, straightforward access to digital resources. Polytag has leveraged this technology to enhance product tracking and recycling in the FMCG industry for our partners. By embedding QR codes on our partners’ products, we offer a unique solution that bridges the gap between digital convenience and environmental responsibility. Through partnerships with leading retailers like Ocado, Aldi, One Water, M&S and Co-op, Polytag demonstrates the practical benefits of QR codes, from incentivising recycling through cashback schemes to providing valuable insights on recycling behaviours. This innovative use not only reinforces the versatility of QR codes but also showcases their potential to drive positive environmental outcomes.
  • How QR Codes From Polytag Are Unique
    Polytag’s successful partnership with Co-op Spring Water utilised unique-every-time QR codes and UV tags on their PET 2-litre spring water bottles offering the convenience retailer unprecedented visibility of its packaging during the recycling process. The unique-every-time QR codes were applied to the pack labels by Co-op’s bottled water supplier at standard label application speeds, meaning no loss to production efficiency. The QR codes are GS1 compliant and take consumers to a Co-op landing page detailing information about both the retailer’s sustainability and charitable commitments. Within the unique-every-time QR code there is a serial number which can be used to handle fraud-proof rewards, assign loyalty points and secure deposit redemptions. A UV tag layer invisible to the human eye was printed by Tipografic using UV flexographic inks and applied across the label. This UV tag layer enables barcode level information to be captured in the recycling centre and is uploaded to Polytag’s intuitive, cloud-based analytics dashboard, providing the retailer with real-time insights on whether packaging is actually recycled, and in what volumes. Both the visible QR codes and ‘hidden’ UV tags pave the way for a cost-effective, Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS). In future, scanning the unique QR code on used product packaging, has the potential to allow consumers to reclaim their deposit via their smartphones, from home. The printing of UV tags provides key supply chain stakeholders – manufacturers, retailers and recycling authorities – access to unique packaging lifecycle data, including where and when it was produced and the percentage of recycled material it contains, protecting against fraud.
  • GS1 Standards & GS1 Digital Link
    GS1 standards represent a suite of globally recognised codes and symbols designed to streamline the identification, capture, and sharing of information about products, services, and locations across various industries. These include universally understood barcodes such as our innovative QR codes. At the core of GS1 standards is the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), enabling every product to be uniquely identified and tracked throughout its lifecycle, from manufacture to end consumer. We take pride in the fact that Polytag is GS1 certified. This certification underscores our commitment to facilitating seamless trade and compliance with global supply chain standards. Every QR code or UV tag we generate from our platform not only aligns with GS1 standards but also ensures that all legal processes are duly followed and verified. Our adherence to these standards is pivotal in enhancing the integrity and reliability of product data, thereby fostering trust and efficiency in global commerce.