Lightweight Containers, producer of innovative, circular plastic kegs, KeyKeg and UniKeg, has changed its name to OneCircle as a nod to the company’s global circular economy goals. The aim is that the raw materials used in its kegs are recycled and reused with the goal of creating 100% circular kegs. The kegs provide premium protection for draft beverages like beer, cider and wine, ensuring they reach the consumer as fresh as the day they were produced.
Both KeyKeg and UniKeg are fully recyclable and can be used in a circular way as raw material for new kegs. Currently, 30 percent of a KeyKeg and UniKeg is made from recycled material thanks to the collection and recycling projects established by OneCircle which operate alongside existing waste streams. There are now successful schemes in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland, Switzerland, France and Belgium, with more planned around the world.
The kegs provide other sustainability benefits including reduced CO2 emissions and water use, and there’s no need for harsh cleaning chemicals. OneCircle has also joined the Plastic Alliance and signed its declaration that its products meet the environmental criteria of the European Union so no additional tax needs to be levied on them.
OneCircle is also ensuring that its supply chain is as close to its customers as possible, with advanced production lines in the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, UK and United States and as new warehouse facilities in Spain and Australia. In addition to its own sales team, OneCircle also has a global network of certified resellers who provide in-market technical support and local market knowledge to help customers.
UniKeg A makes its debut
The company is also showing off a new UniKeg A at this year’s BrauBeviale which takes place from 12-14 November 2019, in Nürnberg, Germany. The A-fitting, also known as the German slider, is the latest addition to range and is compatible with existing MicroMatic universal coupling systems. The UniKeg portfolio also includes S and D type fittings which means that the kegs can be used on trade anywhere in the world with existing equipment.
The double wall technology of UniKeg protects the shelf-life of beverages and means that the keg is one of the safest on the market, particularly in hot climates where a single wall keg may not deliver to the brand owner’s requirements. All UniKegs are pre-flushed with nitrogen and ready to fill.
The octagonal design of the handgrip and base cup made from 100% reused material delivers a robust performance in supply chain logistics. The keg is also more sustainable than other PET kegs as over 30% of the keg is made from reused, circular materials.
In addition, the compact design means that UniKeg have a 25-30% higher loading capacity than steel kegs, meaning more can be transported in one go, reducing carbon emissions and transport costs. The kegs also dramatically reduce water usage. There’s no need to wash the keg or use harsh cleaning chemicals because the kegs are ready to fill.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.