Market-leading drinks systems provider KLIX has uncovered a number of new trends and consumer insights into drinks products and their environmental impact.

KLIX, who are leading the way in vending industry recycling, conducted an in-depth research project into sustainability with Harris Interactive. This research demonstrated that consumers are becoming increasingly environmentally aware, put mounting pressure on their employers, and rate recycling as top of the agenda. It also discovered that consumers desire products that have minimal environmental impact, making it easy for them to ‘do their bit’. 

KLIX identified a number of corporate and social responsibility measures most important to consumers when it comes to product purchase decisions. Recycling was the single most important factor, followed by the amount of packaging and working conditions at source. However, respondents were not prepared to compromise on taste, freshness and quality when purchasing a product.

Initially paper cups were rated as the most sustainable drinks solution but, in reality, most paper cups aren’t recyclable. Plastic cups, as used in KLIX drinks systems, are completely recyclable and KLIX marks its cups with the recognised recycling symbol. KLIX also optimizes material usage so that its cups use as little material as possible whilst maintaining their high quality.

“Our business goes beyond commercial targets to acknowledge our role in economic, environmental and social terms,” explains Richard Marris, UK  Market Director. “These latest consumer insights reinforce the importance of this approach and strengthen our commitment to providing customers with high-quality products that are produced in ways that minimise our environmental impact.”

As well as the ongoing presence of an effective environmental management system (EMS) that closely monitors the company’s environmental performance and carbon footprint, KLIX has also launched a number of green initiatives as part of its ‘Brighter Tomorrow’ programme, that support the research findings. These include:

• ‘Save a Cup’ scheme – this is a non-profit making organisation that was established to collect and recycle plastic cups. As a founding member of this initiative, KLIX is committed to encouraging customers to take part so that cups consumed can be recycled to make a range of products including keyrings, fridge magnets and cup-carrying trays.
• The WEEE Directive – KLIX has been proactive in responding to the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive and, in conjunction with the Vending Association, has set up the C10C machine recycling scheme.
• Fair trade – as well as leading the way in recycling and the environment, KLIX also supports the concept of Fair Trade in its drinks production. 
• Landfill - in the last two years, KLIX has reduced the waste sent to landfill from its UK factories by 40%, whilst increasing the amount it recycles.
• Packaging reduction – KLIX continually strives to minimise the use of packaging in all products whilst ensuring the consumer still receives the best possible quality drink.

For more information on KLIX and its environmental programmes visit www.brightertomorrow.info.