Britvic partners with Wireless Logic to improve sustainability within the soft drinks industry

LONDON, UK – 1 September 2024 – Wireless Logic, the leading global Internet of Things connectivity platform provider, is working with Britvic, a leading soft drinks business, to support its latest initiative focused on reducing single-use plastic waste and improving sustainability within the soft drinks sector. Leveraging Conexa, Wireless Logic’s purpose-built mobile network, Britvic will gain invaluable telemetry data from its Aqua Libra Flavour Taps. This data will enable Britvic to develop more agile and accurate flavour distribution strategies, boosting adoption of its healthy and packaging-free hydration solutions.

While Britvic is renowned for its iconic brands such as Robinsons, Tango and J2O, it also plays a significant role in producing and distributing PepsiCo's soft drinks, including Pepsi MAX, 7UP and Lipton Ice Tea. In line with its Beyond the Bottle strategy – which seeks to reduce unnecessary packaging – Britvic introduced the Aqua Libra Flavour Tap, a digital dispenser providing flavoured water as an alternative to single-use plastic bottles. Featuring sugar-free and additive-free flavours like Cucumber, Mint & Lime, and Raspberry & Peach, the eco-friendly tap is tailored for workplaces, hospitality and retail environments.

Each machine is equipped with six flavour cartridges, capable of saving up to 10,000 single-use plastic bottles or cans before any replacement. The system also uses recycled plastic for tap bases and several internal components, promoting healthier and more environmentally friendly choices for all.

"In an environment where sustainability regulations are tightening and consumer preferences are shifting, we saw a significant opportunity to adapt and innovate,” said Scott MacKenzie, Director of Beyond the Bottle Platforms at Britvic. “Launching our digital taps amid the challenges of the Covid pandemic was just the beginning. Now, as we look to expand, scalability and reliable connectivity are crucial. While we initially tested the waters with a Software as a Service model during our trial phase, recognising its market potential, we needed a trusted connectivity partner to support our growth."

By introducing a telemetry capability, Britvic transitioned to a direct connection, collecting firsthand user insights within their own environments. Wireless Logic enables the secure transmission of that data directly from the Flavour Taps to Britvic’s Amazon Web Services Cloud environment.

“With Wireless Logic as our connectivity provider, we have secure, reliable and real-time access to data on flavour preferences and consumption patterns,” continued MacKenzie. “This has already revealed unexpected trends, challenging our assumptions and informing our strategic decisions. By using these insights to streamline our forecasting and logistics, we've enhanced our overall agility and responsiveness, enabling us to adapt production and flavour distribution strategies based on seasonal variations and shifting consumer behaviours.”

Britvic selected Wireless Logic following a robust market review of IoT connectivity providers. Wireless Logic's dedicated IoT network, global coverage and sophisticated management platform, SIMPro, separated it from its competitors.

Security was also a top priority for Britvic. As the products are installed onsite in customer facilities and locations, ensuring the safety of these networks was crucial. Conexa was selected because it is secure by design, with advanced on-SIM applications and network services to enhance data security.

“It's always inspiring to witness technology being used for positive impact, and Britvic’s drive to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable soft drink consumption is a great example of that,” said Oliver Tucker, Founder, and CEO of Wireless Logic. “What started as a trial project during the pandemic has now blossomed into a viable product with global potential. This goes beyond offices and retail spaces – there are exciting opportunities to introduce Aqua Libra Flavour Taps across travel, sports and leisure. Conexa was designed with flexibility, scalability and usability in mind. We're proud to be part of Britvic's journey as it reshapes the beverage industry with more eco-friendly consumer choices.”