Lidl confirms plans for store shake

Lidl has announced plans to expand its refill product stations for laundry detergent after a successful trial conducted in three stores. Launched in 2022, the initiative aimed to encourage customers to use reusable packaging, thereby reducing plastic waste. The trial took place in Swadlincote, Lichfield, and Kingswinford, where refill machines were installed to dispense various detergents from the Formil range. The supermarket chain reported that the trial was "successful" and received positive feedback from customers. As a result, Lidl is now working on plans to implement the refill concept in more locations. The company emphasized that the trial remains "ongoing," with intentions to explore additional elements and innovative solutions to enhance the refill experience. The refill machines, designed by Chilean sustainability startup Algramo, allow customers to fill and refill pouches and bottles without removing the cap, minimizing spillage. Customers who reuse their pouches benefit from a 20p discount on their purchases. The machines dispense four different types of Formil detergents, including Super Concentrated Bio and Non-Bio, as well as Tropical Lily and Honey Petals, with refill prices set lower than initial purchases. Lidl highlighted that the refill stations are not only environmentally friendly but also space-saving and labor-efficient, aligning with the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation in retail practices.