Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) has officially launched the rollout of its innovative 2L Returnable PET bottle, known as RefPET, in parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Soweto. This move underscores the company’s commitment to making beloved beverages more accessible and affordable, while also supporting environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste.
More than just a refreshing drink to share with family and friends, these returnable bottles offer consumers tangible savings through a community-oriented, circular packaging initiative.
Bame Modimogale, CCBSA’s Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability (PACS) Director, explains: “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 in Soweto and parts of KZN, to educate consumers and stakeholders about the 2L Returnables, while also highlighting its role in creating joyful, shared experiences. Most importantly, we also want to emphasise its affordability. Our consumers can enjoy more moments together while being part of a sustainable journey.”
How the returnable bottle system works
Built on a pricing model designed to prioritise affordability, the returnable bottle system allows consumers to return their empty 2L Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, or Stoney Returnable PET bottle and exchange it for a refill at a recommended retail price starting from R15.00, excluding a refundable R9 deposit. After returning the bottle, customers only pay the refill price—effectively saving around R9 on each purchase.
Modimogale further explains the mechanics of the RefPET bottle: “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, which helps reduce packaging waste.”
“This offers one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy Coca-Cola products, maximising value in every shared moment,” Modimogale emphasises, reminding consumers to return the bottles after use. “Through the RefPET, we want to enhance the magic of shared moments through cost-effective enjoyment by incorporating returnable bottles into everyday life, making Coca-Cola accessible and enjoyable for all occasions.”
Consumer access and retail partnerships
Consumers can participate in the return-and-refill system immediately, as CCBSA is distributing free sample 2L bottles in local communities to promote adoption. Notably, consumers do not need to purchase a bottle first to join the programme.
“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,” Modimogale adds.
Despite the new packaging, the product inside remains unchanged in quality and formulation. “Though the packaging may look slightly different, the product inside is the same and made with the same ingredients, to the same high standards. Consumers can enjoy their favourite beverages with the confidence and trust they’ve come to expect from Coca-Cola,” she reassures.
Innovation meets sustainability
Beyond affordability, the returnable bottle represents a significant leap forward in packaging innovation. CCBSA’s production facilities employ automated bottle inspection systems to ensure every bottle is safe, hygienic, and ready for reuse. The company has also trialled advanced laser coding technologies to track bottle lifecycles and optimise operational efficiency.
The outcome is a bottle that delivers genuine value throughout its lifecycle, from first sip to final recycle, supporting both consumer savings and environmental responsibility.
The 2L Returnable PET bottle is now available at participating outlets across multiple provinces. CCBSA urges consumers to return bottles in good condition, free from cracks, damage, or tampering, to maintain the refill cycle and keep savings flowing.
