In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable packaging in the drinks industry, British sustainable packaging company Frugalpac has signed a letter of intent with ITC Limited’s Packaging and Printing Business to introduce paper-based Frugal Bottles in India and South Asia. The collaboration, announced just days ahead of ProWine Mumbai, will foster a demand for eco-friendly packaging in India’s alcohol sector, which is projected to reach $55 billion by year-end.

The Frugal Bottle, crafted from 94% recycled paperboard, features a food-grade pouch to hold liquids. This innovative bottle is five times lighter than a traditional glass bottle, boasts an 84% lower carbon footprint, and has a water footprint four times lower. By bringing this product to India, ITC and Frugalpac aim to encourage sustainability-conscious consumers to make the switch from glass to paper packaging.

Strengthening ITC’s Sustainability 2.0 Vision

The partnership aligns with ITC’s Sustainability 2.0 plan, which is committed to fostering sustainable livelihoods, combating climate change, and achieving a net-zero economy. This plan underscores ITC’s dedication to water security and creating a circular economy for post-consumer packaging waste. Mr. SN Venkataraman, CEO of ITC’s Packaging and Printing Business, noted, "ITC has been at the forefront of sustainable packaging in India, and partnering with Frugalpac represents another major step in decarbonizing packaging in the Alcobev industry.”

Showcasing at ProWine Mumbai

The collaboration will be highlighted at ProWine Mumbai on November 8-9, where Frugalpac will showcase its Frugal Bottles alongside the machines that produce them. As part of a UK Department for Business and Trade delegation, Frugalpac’s presence will promote the benefits of paper bottles and sustainable packaging solutions for drinks producers across South Asia.

With over 128 SKUs of wines, spirits, and oils already utilizing the Frugal Bottle globally, Frugalpac has become a pioneer in sustainable bottle packaging, currently available in 25 countries. Malclm Waugh, CEO of Frugalpac, emphasized India’s potential: “With India’s alcoholic beverage market ranking sixth globally, partnering with ITC, a leader in sustainable packaging, allows us to bring our paper bottle innovation to this growing market. Together, we hope to drive a sustainable shift in packaging practices in the region.”o

About Frugalpac
Frugalpac’s Frugal Bottles are lightweight, sustainable, and easy to recycle. Weighing only 83g, they are five times lighter than a glass bottle, cutting carbon emissions and transport costs. Their design offers 360-degree branding, making them highly distinctive on shelves and tables. The Frugal Bottle’s eco-friendly composition not only helps wine producers reduce carbon output but also makes recycling simple with separate recyclable components.

For more details on Frugalpac, visit www.frugalpac.com or ITC’s packaging page at https://packaging.itcportal.com.