Refilled drink dispenser reduces corporate plastic waste

Sydney-based smart drinks dispenser startup Refilled has announced significant progress on its mission to save 100 million single-use plastic bottles from landfill by 2030.

In its first year, the company has installed 42 of its Refiller units in the offices of large companies including Meta, Uber and Docusign.

The Refiller is a drink dispenser designed to help organisations eliminate single-use plastic bottles. Unlike traditional vending machines or at-home systems like Sodastream, the Refiller has hundreds of customisable still and sparkling drinks, poured directly into any reusable bottle or glass — without any plastic waste.

Refilled’s dispenser machines are claimed to have now prevented more than 440,000 single-use bottles going to landfill. The company has also expanded into Singapore where its first client is The Working Capitol, a co-working space with 800 members.

“We encourage our members and community to adopt more conscious behaviours right where they work,” said Ben Gattie, The Working Capitol co-founder and CEO. “With sustainable partners like Refilled, who champion the circular economy, we align with the Singapore Green Plan 2030. This initiative to reduce landfill waste by 30% by 2030 is a crucial goal as Singapore ranks first in Asia for single-use plastic consumption. As neighbourhood builders, we believe that by shaping habits at the workplace, we spark a ripple effect across and shape a better, more sustainable city.”

Companies said they have installed the Refiller in their offices for three main reasons:

1. Return to office — as more people return to the office, free drinks are a useful perk for companies trying to improve their workplace environment and employee wellbeing.
2. CSR — for companies looking to reduce waste as part of their CSR initiatives, a Refiller can reduce beverage-related plastic waste and delivery emissions to nearly zero.
3. Reduce operational costs — keeping an office vending machine or fridge in stock is costly and time-consuming. Orders must be placed, products delivered and shelves restocked. The Refiller’s operational costs are lower as it can stock 1000x more drinks than a standard vending machine.

“Businesses can make a huge difference to the planet by encouraging employees to refill their bottles,” said Eva Milbank, Office Manager at WPP. “Having a Refiller has directly supported our sustainability initiatives. As the Office Manager, Refilled has significantly benefited my role too. It’s saving us money and I'm spending much less time ordering, stocking and lifting heavy cases of drinks.”

Refilled is now pursuing a strategic investment round designed to scale its international growth and accelerate its global environmental impact. It is also seeking a local distribution partner in Singapore.

Image caption: Refilled founders Ryan Nelson and Stefan Kent with the Refiller smart drink dispenser.