Absolut to launch fibre-based bottle cap

The Absolut Company has announced that it is working with Swedish start-up Blue Ocean Closures (BOC) to develop a fibre-based bottle closure cap for Absolut Vodka.

The cap is made from sustainably sourced FSC fibre material with a thin top-seal barrier label and serves to reduce the amount of plastic used in packaging. Recycled as paper and ocean biodegradable, the cap is being developed to be used on current glass bottles alongside current closures, and may possibly be used for future packaging. Prototyping and testing will occur throughout 2022, with plans to use it commercially in 2023.

Director of Packaging Development at The Absolut Company Eric Näf said: “We know that collaboration across the whole value chain sits at the heart of long-term progress and true environmental, economic and social impact. As part of our circular way of thinking, we are delighted to be working with BOC to continue designing out single-use materials and using packaging innovation for the benefit of the planet.”

Lars Sandberg, CEO of Blue Ocean Closures, said: “We are proud to partner with Absolut Vodka to bring an alternative cap solution to the market. My first job was actually on the Absolut Vodka factory floor, so I’ve seen how quality is a key focus across every part of the production process.”

Ulrika Evermark, Community Manager at Blue Ocean Closures, said: “We are excited to welcome Absolut Vodka to join us in the important development of our caps, alongside industry leaders such as ALPLA and Glatfelter.”