Rhea Distilleries, together with Frugalpac and ITC, launches India's first paper bottle for the premium cashew Feni Fidalgo.
The launch of the Frugal Bottle marks a significant step forward for sustainable packaging solutions and trade between the UK and India. Developed by British company Frugalpac in collaboration with ITC and Rhea Distilleries, the bottle is made from 94 % recycled paper and has a food-grade inner layer, according to the company. It is five times lighter than glass and, according to the manufacturer, has up to six times less of a carbon footprint.
Rhea Distilleries is using the paper bottle for the first time for its Fidalgo Premium Cashew Feni, which is being launched in select markets in Goa.
Sustainable cooperation between the UK and India
The project is based on a partnership between Frugalpac and ITC, one of India's largest packaging companies. In addition to supplying bottles, both partners are planning to produce materials such as paper and liners locally in future and to install bottle assembly machines - known as Frugal Bottle Assembly Machines - in India. The aim is to expand production regionally and reduce transport emissions.
Frugalpac CEO Malcolm Waugh said: „This is a defining moment for sustainable packaging in India. The collaboration with ITC and Rhea Distilleries not only brings an iconic Goan spirit to the market in an eco-friendly bottle, but also paves the way for a broader transformation of the Indian beverage industry.“
ITC manager Cherian Kenneth Thomas also emphasised the importance of the partnership: „This project reflects our shared commitment to driving change in India with environmentally conscious brands.“ Rhea Distilleries Director Regan Henriques sees the move as „a modern reinterpretation of a traditional product for a new generation of environmentally conscious consumers“.
Contribution to the circular economy
With the introduction of the paper bottle, the partners are supporting India's growing efforts to reduce plastic and glass waste and establish a functioning circular economy in the packaging sector. The initiative is part of ITC's Sustainability Agenda 2.0, which focuses on climate protection, water and resource efficiency and sustainable value chains.
Source: Frugalpac
