Mars Wrigley has announced that is presenting its iconic Mars bar in the UK in recyclable paper packaging, as part of a new pilot test to explore different options therein.
The Mars bars wrapped in recyclable paper packaging will be available for a limited time at Tesco UK stores.
Richard Sutherland-Moore, packaging expert at Mars Wrigley UK’s research and development centre in Slough, commented, “We are exploring different types of alternative packaging solutions for our confectionery products.
“For [the] Mars bar, the challenge was to find the right paper packaging solution with an adequate level of barrier properties to protect the chocolate whilst guaranteeing the food safety, quality and integrity of the product, to prevent food waste.”
Plans For Irish Market
Although the plan is for the packaging to be introduced to the UK, Irish and Canadian markets, at present, it is being introduced in Tesco UK stores only, on a trial basis.
A date has yet to be announced for when this packaging will be introduced to Irish retailers.
Brendan McLoughlin, general manager, Mars Ireland, said, ”We are delighted to see this progress being made in the design of recyclable packaging alternatives as part of Mars’ contribution to the circular economy.
“We look forward to seeing the results of the UK trial in the coming months, and using these learnings and insights to further develop our sustainable packaging strategy.”
Trial Learnings
After extensive development work and investments, the trial will achieve a ‘significant’ reduction in plastic on the physical Mars bar – a major step on the company’s journey to innovate toward its packaging commitment.
Following the trial, Mars will use the learnings from the launch with Tesco to inform other trials across the region, all in the name of the company’s Sustainable in a Generation plan.
Adam Grant, general manager, Mars Wrigley UK, said, “With our Mars bar pilot project, we are taking a big step to see how paper-based packaging works in everyday life. From the test, we will derive insights for our sustainable packaging strategy.
“While challenges may impact the pace of progress towards our vision, we at Mars, Incorporated are committed to scaling up viable solutions where recycling options exist, and to test, learn, partner and advocate where they don’t.”
Read More: Mars Wrigley Ireland Announces Return Of ‘Chew for Change’ Initiative
© 2023 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more packaging stories, click here. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
