Aldi links with Polytag for packaging traceability

Supermarket chain Aldi has partnered with recycling technology company Polytag to gain traceability of its packaging through the UK supply chain.

Polytag’s invisible UV tags will be placed onto Aldi product packaging, starting from July, with readers installed at a recycling centre in Teeside to capture data and allow the retailer to gauge how much of its packaging is actually recycled – and how well it is performing against sustainability targets, which include halving its use of plastics by 2025.

“Leading retailers in the UK are awake to the fact that the only way we will truly tackle the waste problem in this country is by using data,” said Alice Rackley, chief executive of Polytag (pictured).  

“Gaining access to real-time packaging lifecycle information will be a game-changer, enabling retailers to develop a greater understanding of their products’ journey and make meaningful progress towards their sustainability pledges.”

Earlier this year, food retailer Co-op partnered with Polytag to use the company’s tags on own-label PET two-litre spring water bottles, with serialised QR code to protect customers from potential fraud proof rewards, assign loyalty points and secure deposit redemptions.