Sectors & markets
A Circular Model to Reduce Waste in Spirits
PHOTO: RAFFLES SINGAPORE, Source: businesstimes.com.sg
Market Info | Agrotech | Wine, Beer and Spirits
Date: 1 November 2025
Region: ASEAN-West
Country: Singapore
Sector: Agrotech
Sub-sector: Wines, Spirits, Beers, Ciders
Section: Players & Competition
Theme: Circular Packaging Systems for Spirits Gain Ground
Founded in Singapore, EcoSpirits is tackling the issue of glass bottle waste in the spirits industry head-on. Its co-founder, Paul Gabie, developed CircularOne, a closed-loop system based on reusable containers, which replaces the traditional single-use bottle model.
At the heart of this innovation is the EcoTote, a durable, 4.5-liter glass container that can be refilled up to 200 times. The system was initially rolled out with iconic partners, such as the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel, where the famous Singapore Sling, an iconic cocktail made with gin and liqueurs, is now served using this device.
The concept quickly spread beyond national borders, being adopted by major international groups like Diageo and Bacardi, and expanded to 35 countries. Adopting this system has allowed establishments like the Raffles to reduce their glass packaging waste by 95% and minimize their carbon footprint related to sourcing. In addition to these environmental benefits, bulk transport and the elimination of individual bottle manufacturing costs generate significant savings for bars and restaurants.
While continuing its rapid expansion in the cruise and casino sectors, the company, whose entire R&D department is based in Singapore, is exploring the application of its technology to other industries facing similar packaging challenges, such as cosmetics.
