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Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) Explained

31 Jul 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) Explained

• Information
• Legislation

• FMCG
• Sustainability

Extended Producer Responsibility UK (EPR UK)

30 Jul 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

Extended Producer Responsibility UK (EPR UK)

• Information

• FMCG
• Sustainability

Deposit Return Scheme and Digital Deposit Return Scheme

25 Jul 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

Deposit Return Scheme and Digital Deposit Return Scheme

• QR Tech
• Information

• Sustainability
• FMCG
• UV tech
• QR tech

Traceability

28 Jun 2024

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

• QR Tech
• Information

• FMCG
• Sustainability

Customer Incentives

27 Jun 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

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• Policy
• Sustainability
• QR tech

Digital Deposit Return Scheme Explained

21 Jun 2024

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

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• QR tech
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Deposit Return Scheme: What Is it?

21 Jun 2024

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

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• Sustainability
• FMCG
• QR tech
• UV tech

Recycling Technology: Polytag and Biffa partner to help Ocado Retail, Co-op and Aldi gain unprecedented packaging lifecycle data

14 Jun 2024

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

• News

• FMCG
• Sustainability

DDRS Alliance and Polytag to align and accelerate Digital DRS

9 Apr 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

DDRS Alliance and Polytag to align and accelerate Digital DRS

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• Sustainability

Polytag secures female-led Series A funding boost to revolutionise circular economy

12 Mar 2024

Polytag teamStay in the loop

Polytag, a female-led recycling technology company, has announced the completion of Series A funding led by Collateral Good and Knop Ventures. This investment will accelerate the deployment of Polytag's cutting-edge Invisible UV Tag readers across Europe, enhancing recycling efficiency and sustainability. Polytag's technology provides real-time insights into single-use packaging, enabling FMCG brands to track and incentivize recycling. With major partnerships already in place, this funding marks a significant step towards revolutionizing the recycling industry. Discover how Polytag is transforming the circular economy through innovative technology at their website.Read more

Polytag secures female-led Series A funding boost to revolutionise circular economy

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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 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

• News

• Sustainability

Polytag brings home TWO trophies at the MRW National Recycling Award 2023

21 Nov 2023

Polytag teamStay in the loop

At the recent MRW National Recycling Awards in London, Polytag achieved a remarkable double victory, highlighting our commitment to innovation in the recycling sector. Rosa Knox-Bradley, our dedicated Project Manager, was honoured with the Rising Star Award for her impactful work in sustainable recycling practices. Additionally, our collaboration with Ocado Retail on a digital deposit return scheme pilot not only simplified recycling but also provided substantial consumer incentives, reinforcing our role as leaders in digital recycling solutions. These accolades celebrate our continuous effort to enhance recycling through innovative technology and dedicated leadership.Read more

Polytag brings home TWO trophies at the MRW National Recycling Award 2023

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• News

• Sustainability

Polytag Takes Centre Stage in the Fight Against Waste

8 Nov 2023

Rosa Knox-BradleyProject Manager

Polytag takes a pivotal role in CIWM's documentary, Leading the Way to a World Beyond Waste, premiered at the RWM Expo in Birmingham. The film explores groundbreaking initiatives, including Polytag's innovative use of data to enhance recycling processes. With a redefined approach to the 3Rs—Reduce, Re-design, Refurbish, Recycle, and Repurpose—the documentary highlights five key steps towards a waste-free future. Featuring industry insights and inspiring case studies, this documentary showcases the potential for technology and sustainable practices to drive the circular economy forward. Watch the full documentary (link provided in article) to learn more about the journey towards a waste-free world.Read more

Polytag Takes Centre Stage in the Fight Against Waste

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• Information

• Sustainability

Double Triumph at the UK Packaging Awards

20 Oct 2023

Polytag teamStay in the loop

Polytag recently celebrated a significant milestone, achieving dual honours at the UK Packaging Awards. Winning Gold for Innovation of the Year for our collaborative project with Ocado Retail Ltd and receiving a Highly Commended accolade for our CSR initiative with Co-op, these awards recognise our efforts in pioneering digital deposit return schemes and enhancing packaging traceability. This recognition underscores our commitment to driving sustainability and innovation within the packaging industry, showcasing effective, consumer-friendly recycling solutions.Read more

Double Triumph at the UK Packaging Awards

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• QR Tech
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• FMCG
• Policy
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Ocado Retail gives 20p back to customers that recycle its milk bottles in world-first with Polytag

13 Oct 2023

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

• Case study

• Sustainability
• QR tech
• FMCG

Pilots | Bower & Polytag

17 Jul 2023

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

• UV tech
• Sustainability
• FMCG

Aldi - Invisible UV Tags

31 May 2023

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

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• FMCG
• Sustainability
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Co-op Employs Polytag’s Recycling Technology

14 Apr 2023

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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• FMCG
• QR tech
• UV tech
• Sustainability

Co-op case study

4 Apr 2023

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

• News
• QR Tech

• FMCG
• QR tech
• Policy
• Sustainability

Daily Telegraph: Ocado shoppers could get cash back to scan recycling under delayed deposit return scheme

25 Nov 2022

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

• News

• UV tech
• QR tech
• Sustainability
• FMCG

Lets Recycle: Co-op and Polytag to track bottles’ recycling journey

25 Nov 2022

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

• FMCG
• Sustainability

The Grocer: Broken promises: is setting environmental targets doing more harm than good?

25 Nov 2022

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

The Grocer: Broken promises: is setting environmental targets doing more harm than good?

• News

• Policy
• Sustainability
• QR tech

Delays to DRS are in nobody’s interest

23 Nov 2022

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

• News

• Policy
• Sustainability

Polytag comments on Prime Minister’s recycling remarks

26 Oct 2022

Polytag teamStay in the loop

Phil Sutton, founder of Polytag and a leading voice in sustainability, addresses the Prime Minister's recent statements on recycling, emphasising the critical role of plastics in product protection and the importance of advancing recycling technologies. By collaborating with the Welsh government, Polytag demonstrates high engagement in recycling initiatives, showcasing the potential for significant environmental impact through innovative deposit return schemes.Read more

Polytag comments on Prime Minister’s recycling remarks

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• QR tech
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Who We Are - Pioneers of RecTech

1 Jun 2022

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

• News

• Sustainability
• QR tech
• UV tech

Polytag CEO recognised by Innovate UK

6 May 2022

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

• Information
• News

• Sustainability
• FMCG

Polytag Partners

16 Feb 2022

Polytag teamStay in the loop

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

• Information

• Sustainability
• QR tech
• UV tech

How Polytag Technology Works

20 Nov 2021

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

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• Information

• Policy
• QR tech
• Sustainability

Kerbside deposit return schemes prove their value to brands and households

7 Oct 2021

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

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• Information

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• Policy
• Sustainability

Digital Deposit Return Scheme Pilot - Getting Ready With Conwy

26 May 2021

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

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• Information

• Sustainability
• QR tech
• UV tech

Polytag’s technology partnership with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC Cymru)

5 May 2021

Polytag teamStay in the loop

Polytag collaborates with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre Cymru, leveraging state-of-the-art facilities to validate and enhance its revolutionary tag and trace technology. This partnership aims to optimise printing technologies, secure data transfer, and integrate digital deposit return schemes with financial systems. Join us in pioneering sustainable packaging solutions.Read more

Polytag’s technology partnership with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC Cymru)

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• QR tech
• Sustainability

Greasby Digital DRS Pilot

18 Jan 2020

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

What is DRS (Deposit Return Scheme)?
A Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is an environmental policy designed to promote recycling through the use of a refundable deposit on beverage containers. When consumers purchase drinks, they pay an extra amount, known as a deposit, which they recoup when returning the container to a collection point. This initiative not only encourages the recycling of packaging materials but also reduces the volume of waste going to landfills. Deposit return schemes operate on a simple principle: incentivise the return of recyclable materials. Upon purchasing a product, a consumer pays a small deposit which is then refunded when the packaging is returned intact to designated return facilities or vending machines. These programs are effective in ensuring high rates of bottle and can returns. Polytag has proven that Digital Deposit Return Schemes are possible with partnerships with Ocado, Aldi, Co-op Water and many other retail partners. If the Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) isn’t accepted by the UK government then we can confidently suggest rewards for recycling strategies for retail businesses after successful pilots with our partners. Otherwise, our QR codes can be used to share information with customers and educate them on how to recycle properly.
What is DDRS (Digital Deposit Return Scheme)?
The Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) represents a significant leap in recycling initiatives, combining technology with eco-conscious behaviour. At its core, a DDRS is a modernised approach to incentivising recycling efforts among consumers by using digital technology. Unlike traditional deposit return systems that require physical return points for containers, a DDRS allows you to scan a serialised code, typically a QR code, on your drink container using a smartphone app. This scan enables you to redeem a financial deposit directly. The container can then be placed in your usual kerbside recycling bin. This method's purpose is clear: to increase recycling rates by making the process more convenient, thereby reducing litter and enhancing the quality of recycled materials. QR codes serve as the cornerstone of DDRS, enabling a seamless interaction between consumers, products, and recycling facilities. By scanning a serialised QR code on a drink container, users can instantly redeem financial deposits, bypassing the need for physical return points. This not only simplifies the recycling process but also encourages higher participation rates. Polytag’s GS1-certified QR codes ensure that each scan is secure and valid, directly contributing to the efficiency of the recycling workflow.
What Is Polytag Smart Labelling?
Smart labelling facilitates a seamless flow of information between consumers and brands. By embedding a smart label onto a product, we encode a vast array of data that can be easily accessed with a simple scan. This process is enhanced through our GS1-certified QR codes and UV Tags, which offer a universally recognised format for data exchange, ensuring our labels are ready for global deployment. The operational mechanics behind smart labelling involve encoding information into a QR code or a UV tag, which is then affixed to the product packaging. Upon scanning the label with a smartphone or a dedicated reader, consumers are directed to a digital portal containing detailed product attributes, authenticity verification, and other pertinent data. This direct line of communication fosters transparency, enabling consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. Our smart labels embody the confluence of technology and sustainability, offering brands a robust tool for engagement, compliance, and insight generation. As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings, smart labelling stands as a testament to our commitment to transforming how products communicate in the digital age.