Aldi adds paper gin bottle to own-label range

UK discounter Aldi has expanded its range of own-label drinks in paper bottles with the launch of its Greyson’s London Dry Gin in alternative packaging.

Aldi saw major success when it launched two own-label wines in paper bottles earlier this year, making it the first supermarket in the UK to do so.

The two wines – a Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa – were available on Aldi shelves from 18 March to coincide with global recycling day, retailing for £7.99.

It has now beat the competition once again, with the launch of its Greyson’s London Dry Gin in a paper bottle, priced at £13.99 per 70cl bottle.

The paper bottle is made from 94% recycled paperboard, making it both lightweight and shatterproof. The new format for Aldi’s own label gin lands in stores from 23 May.

Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi UK, said launching the new paper bottle for gin, which is five times lighter than a standard glass bottle, was a “significant step towards fostering sustainable change” for the discounter.

She said: “The paper bottled wine has been a hit with shoppers and we’re excited to extend this out into the spirits category.”

Aldi has worked with Frugalpac, a supplier of recycled paper-based products, on the supermarket-first initiative. Frugalpac launched its Frugal Bottle in 2020, the first commercially available paper bottle for wines and spirits.

The new launch is part of the supermarket’s wider series of sustainability initiatives. Aldi is also reducing the wine label size across its Grapevine range. The new labels are FSC certified and made from 100% recycled paper fibre. The initiative is due to roll out across all permanent lines by 2026.