17 Jul 2025 Further expansion of the returnable Coca-Cola bottle project
Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) has announced the further rollout of its innovative 2L Returnable PET bottle, also known as RefPET, in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Soweto.
This project is part of the company’s commitment to make consumers’ favourite drinks more accessible and affordable, and to reduce waste.
“We have once again embarked on this initiative, which was originally launched in 2019, where we actively distribute free sample 2L bottles in local communities through identifiable and trained brand ambassadors, this time in Soweto and parts of KZN, to educate consumers and stakeholders about the 2L Returnables,” says CCBSA’s Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability (PACS) director, Bame Modimogale,
The returnable bottle system is built on a pricing model that emphasises affordability. Consumers can return their 2L Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, or Stoney Returnable plastic bottle for another returnable plastic bottle at a recommended retail price from R15.00, excluding a refundable R9 deposit.
After returning the empty bottle, consumers only pay the recommended refillable price, effectively saving around R9 each time.
Explaining the mechanics of the2L returnable bottle
Modimogale says the RefPET is a refillable PET bottle that looks similar to regular plastic bottles, but it’s specially designed to be returned, cleaned, and refilled multiple times, just like the old-school returnable glass bottles.
What makes it unique is the Green “RETURNABLE” label on the front, which helps consumers identify it easily. This design allows for the same bottle to be refilled several times before being recycled.
“This offers one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy Coca-Cola products, maximising value in every shared moment”, emphasised Modimogale, reminding consumers to return the bottle after use.
Consumers can participate in the return-and-refill system immediately, which is why CCBSA is distributing free sample 2L bottles in local communities. Consumer do not need to purchase a bottle first.
“We are also working closely with local spaza shops, tuck shops, and independent retailers to make the return process convenient and consistent for consumers. The green “RETURNABLE” label on the front of the bottle helps shoppers identify it easily in store,” added Modimogale.
Modimogale stressed that, though the packaging may look slightly different, the product inside is the same.
Beyond affordability, she adds, the returnable bottle represents a major step forward in packaging innovation. CCBSA’s production facilities use automated bottle inspection systems to ensure that every bottle is safe, clean, and ready for reuse.
It has also trialed advanced laser coding technologies to track bottle lifecycles and improve efficiency.
The 2L Returnable PET bottle is now available through participating outlets across multiple provinces. CCBSA reminds consumers to return their bottles in good condition, free from cracks, damage or tampering, to keep the refill cycle going and the savings flowing.
Source: CCBSA