ecoSPIRITS Launches in Macau in Partnership with Local Spirits Company Manlek (Overflowtaste) Trading
MACAU 18 September 2023 ecoSPIRITS has launched in Macau, appointing one of the region’s most innovative spirits importers, distributors and retailers, Manlek (Overflowtaste) Trading, as its Licensed Operator for the area. Together, the two partners have set up a new joint venture, eS Operator Macau, to bring closed loop service to the Macau market, starting this month. A range of spirits will be available in low waste ecoTOTE™ format immediately, with plans to add more to the portfolio before the end of 2023. eS Macau is ready to supply low waste spirits to upscale bars, restaurants and hotels across the region, which is known for its glitz, glamour and high-end entertainment.
eS Operator Macau has a selection of spirits available in ecoTOTE format.
Manlek (Overflowtaste) Trading was founded by a dynamic and youthful team with unique ideas and a passion for high quality hospitality and drinks in the Macau area. One arm of the company is engaged in the importation and distribution of high-end spirits, liqueurs and soft drinks. It has a wide collection of unique drinks in its portfolio as well as the exclusive rights for the representation of several international brands in Macau. The company has also extended its drinks-related expertise into other areas, including retail, represented by its wine and liquor store Overflow, and the organisation of events, such as the popular citywide cocktail event, Bar Hopping Macau. The team is keen to introduce bold innovations into the Macau drinks scene, while also maintaining a commitment to local culture and the sustainable future of the country’s drinks industry.
ecoSPIRITS’ Asia network now covers Mainland China and its Special Administrative Regions (SARs), Hong Kong and Macau, which are relatively autonomous portions of China that maintain some degree of political and economic independence. Macau, on the south coast of China, was a Portuguese territory until 1999 and as such it reflects a mix of cultural influences. With a population of approximately 680,000 it is the most densely populated region in the world. In recent years it has become a major resort city and a top destination for casino visitors. Macau’s gaming industry is the largest in the world, generating a revenue that is about seven times larger than that of Las Vegas.
Macau is a destination known for its glitz, glamour and high-end entertainment.
For several years Macau has been taking steps to address the United Nations General Assembly’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It has been doing this by creating partnerships, seeking to diversify its economy, developing links with the Hengqin island area in particular, and by furthering links with mainland China. Several of Macau’s major casino operators have increased their focus on their ESG and sustainability commitments in recent years, with some pledging to reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, as well as a focus on waste diversion, reusable energy and recycling.
The Hengqin model combines urban design combined with sustainable development.
eS Operator Macau will initially launch a selection of brands from the True Believers portfolio of spirits including Widges Gin, Tried & True Vodka, Plantation 3 Stars White Rum and Plantation Dark Rum. Towards the end of the year it also plans to add agave spirits and whiskey to its portfolio.
“Through continuous efforts to expand we have established good business relations with local shops, hotels, bars and restaurants of all types across Macau, and we are looking forward to being able to offer a range of products in ecoTOTE format to these venues to help reduce single use glass waste across the region. We have a wide range of brands in our portfolio and we continue to source interesting drinks from all over the world. We can’t wait to offer these excellent products to our customers in a more sustainable and efficient way.”
“Manlek has an excellent selection of brands in its portfolio and strong relationships with venue operators – large and small – across Macau. I am confident the company will use its innovative and passionate approach to help transition Macau’s hospitality sector to the circular economy. Macau is a small but important region in Asia Pacific and we are delighted to have found the perfect partner to introduce the ecoSPIRITS system – and reduce single use glass waste – across this unique region.”
To find out more information about opportunities to partner with ecoSPIRITS in Macau, please contact James Wynn-Williams at james.ww@ecospirits.global or Hyeson Si at hyesonsi@overflowtaste.com. For media inquiries or general information on ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager at sonya.hook@ecospiritsglobal.com.
About Manlek (Overflowtaste) Trading
In 2019 Manlek (Overflowtaste) Trading became the first spirits supplier in Macau to support low-carbon waste reduction. We introduce various middle and high-end alcohol and soft drinks brands from all over the world via our main office in Macau, which has been set up to serve the whole Greater China market. Since inception, we have supplied a wide range of quality products to upscale bars, restaurants, hotels and various types of retailer in Macau. Our core objective is to understand the needs of different customers and to constantly innovate in order to serve a diverse customer base, so we also provide services including staff training, bar design and marketing. Our goal is to exceed our customers’ expectations. We strive for excellence in product variety, quality and service in order to reflect our three core values: product diversity, excellent product quality and excellent customer service. In the future, we will expand our business further, continue to provide exciting and rich products, and will continue to optimise our services to meet customers’ expectations in quality and service, and promote Macau culture.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 21 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 27 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For more information visit www.ecospirits.global.
ecoSPIRITS Partners with Carnival Cruise Line and Bacardi to Bring Circular Spirits Packaging to the Cruise Industry
MIAMI 31 August 2023 In a global first, ecoSPIRITS has partnered with Carnival Cruise Line and Bacardi to launch closed loop spirits packaging for cruise ships operating out of the Port of Miami, Florida. The collaboration brings together the world’s leading cruise line operator together with one of the world’s leading spirits producers in an effort to reduce single use glass waste in the all-important tourism and hospitality segment. To support the collaboration, ecoSPIRITS has developed a specialised 4.5L ecoTOTE™ version, the ecoTOTE 3.0SC Cruise Edition, specifically for the maritime environment. The new collaboration will initially run on a pilot basis for three months – starting this month with three Carnival ships – and with the intent to roll out to further ships in late 2023.
The new ecoTOTE 3.0SC Cruise Edition & SmartPour 2.0S BACARDÍ Edition.
This collaboration aims to showcase a more efficient way to deliver spirits to the cruise industry. Carnival Cruise Line is part of the world’s largest cruise ship operator, the Carnival Corporation, and it has a fleet of 25 ships carrying out voyages lasting between two and 31 days. For this collaboration, Carnival’s house pour rum, BACARDÍ® Superior – one of the most-ordered spirits across Carnival’s fleet – will be delivered in ecoTOTE format to three of Carnival’s ships: Celebration, Horizon and Sunrise. Each of these vessels has a capacity of up to 6,338 passengers and 1,450 crew members. The largest is Carnival Celebration, which has 16 dining areas and several bars, including the RedFrog Pub and its sister venue, the RedFrog Rum Bar, where BACARDÍ rums feature prominently.
BACARDÍ® Superior rum is one of the most ordered spirits in Carnival’s bars.
For Carnival the collaboration with ecoSPIRITS and Bacardi also represents another step towards its ambitious sustainability goals. By 2050 the company aims to ensure near 100% reuse of packaging materials throughout its operations. Carnival already recycles many of its single-use glass items and each ship in the fleet is outfitted with a recycling center, where crew members sort paper, plastic and glass recyclables. Last year, Carnival processed more than 11 million pounds of recyclables. By switching to ecoTOTE format, the Carnival ships will eliminate 95% of the single use packaging waste associated with their house pour rum, dramatically reducing the carbon footprint per spirits serve and saving weight and space onboard. Within this pilot phase, approximately 9,400 bottles will be replaced by the ecoSPIRITS packaging system.
Carnival Celebration is one of the first ships to trial circular packaging technology for spirits.
“As we continue to work towards our sustainability goals, the collaborative work of our beverage team, ecoSPIRITS and Bacardi is a great example of thinking in ways that are truly out-of-the-box, or in this case – out-of-the-bottle, to develop new partnerships and practices that further our ongoing efforts.”
Bacardi Limited is the world’s largest privately-held spirits company with a history dating back more than 160 years. The company has been family-owned for seven generations and its brands are sold in more than 160 markets. Its eponymous rum brand, BACARDÍ – which ranks within in the top ten global spirits brands by value – will be the first to be available in the ecoSPIRITS circular packaging technology onboard cruise ships, marking a milestone in the industry’s transition to circular spirits. The collaboration between Bacardi and ecoSPIRITS will not only dramatically transform the way spirits are transported and stored for cruise ship environments, but it also marks the company’s first deployment with ecoSPIRITS globally and the first time its iconic rum is available in a reusable packaging format.
The SmartPour 2.0S BACARDÍ® Edition features striking colours and branding.
The partnership with ecoSPIRITS and Carnival comes as Bacardi continues to seek out all opportunities to reduce packaging waste across its portfolio, which includes BACARDÍ Superior rum, GREY GOOSE® vodka, PATRÓN® tequila, MARTINI® vermouth and DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch whisky. The company is on track to achieve its target of removing all plastic from its secondary packaging and point of sale materials by the end of 2023, and last year made the pioneering move to remove the plastic pourer from its bottles in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, Spain and Portugal.
“We are continuously looking for opportunities to deliver our beautiful drinks in more sustainable packaging and formats, helping us to build a greener future. Innovating in closed loop packaging has been a top priority for us for a number of years, so launching our very first ecoTOTE for BACARDÍ rum on a Carnival cruise ship and seeing the doors this trial will open, is an incredibly exciting step forwards in that journey.”
In preparation for the cruise industry launch, ecoSPIRITS worked with Carnival and Bacardi to develop a new ecoTOTE version that is specially designed for unique demands of the onboard, and on water, environment. The new ecoTOTE 3.0SC features enhanced corrosion resistance through black aluminium anodising, as well as other modifications to improve hygiene and durability in the maritime environment. The ecoTOTE 3.0SC is compliant with the United States Public Health hygiene regulations, which are considered a gold standard in the global cruise industry. This latest ecoTOTE release builds on earlier releases of an ecoTOTE 3.0S 1.75L version for the US domestic market and an ecoTOTE 3.0W 4.5L version designed specifically for wine storage and preservation. The rum will be transferred from ecoTOTE to serving format using ecoSPIRITS’ SmartPour technology. New silver and red BACARDÍ -branded SmartPours will be placed in select bars on the three ships for beverage team members to serve cocktails made with BACARDÍ Superior rum.
The ecoTOTE 3.0SC Cruise Edition includes upgrades designed specifically for the maritime environment.
“We are extremely proud to be working with both Carnival and Bacardi on this industry first for the cruise sector. Working with forward-thinking partners like this strengthens our collective focus on sustainable practices and our shared goal to eventually eliminate packaging waste across the industry. We could not be more delighted to be welcoming BACARDÍ® to our portfolio of Climate Partners and, by launching in ecoTOTE format for the first time on board Carnival’s ships, it will send a clear message to the industry that circular packaging is the most sustainable solution for the cruise industry.”
The new collaboration with Bacardi and Carnival will also support the ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program. For each cycle of BACARDÍ® Superior ecoTOTE delivered to Carnival vessels as part of the pilot, the parties will make a donation to fund the removal of more than two pounds of single use plastic, glass and other man-made wastes removed from endangered marine environments.
The ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program funds the removal of waste from beaches and marine environments.
For more information about Carnival Cruise Line, you may contact media@carnival.com. For more information about Bacardi Limited, you may contact Erika Lam, Brand PR Director, BACARDÍ Rum on eklam@bacardi.com. For more information about ecoSPIRITS you may contact Senior PR Manager, Sonya Hook on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & pls (NYSE/LSE: CCL;NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America’s Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. For over 50 years, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 14 U.S. and two Australian homeports and employs more than 40,000 team members representing 120 nationalities. Carnival currently operates 25 ships and is in an exciting period of growth with the addition of two ships over the next two years.
For more information visit www.carnival.com and for more about Carnival’s sustainability goals, visit: www.carnivalsustainability.com.
About Bacardi Limited
Bacardi Limited, the world’s largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets and distributes internationally recognized spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDI® rum, PATRON tequila, GREY GOOSE vodka, DEWAR’S Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, MARTINI vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON’S Scotch whisky, D’USSE Cognac, ANGEL’S ENVY American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 161 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 9,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited.
Visit www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or Twitter. To find out more about Bacardi and its ESG – Environmental, Social & Governance – commitments, including its alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, visit www.bacardilimited.com/good-spirited.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 21 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas, where almost 2,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 27 countries worldwide by late 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For more information visit www.ecospirits.global.
About the ecoSPIRITS Ocean Program
The ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program complements the ecoSPIRITS Forest Program for island nations that are most at risk from rising sea levels due to climate change. Highlighted by the striking blue Ocean Conservation Edition ecoTOTE, each order of an ecoTOTE by venue partners in participating islands nations funds the removal of one kilogram of single use plastic, glass and other man-made wastes from endangered, coral reefs and waters. Using Green Steps Group’s proprietary “proof of impact” technology platform, cleanup operations are verified, monitored and reported through an industry-leading digital record. Ocean waste recovery benefits the venue partners, but is jointly funded by ecoSPIRITS and our Climate Partner brands and distributors.
For more information on Green Steps Group, please visit www.greenstepsgroup.com.
ecoSPIRITS Closes USD 10 Million Series A Fundraise Led by Closed Loop Partners
SINGAPORE 10 May 2023 ecoSPIRITS has raised USD 10 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round, led by New York-based circular economy investment firm, Closed Loop Partners. Four leading Asian and global institutional investors have also joined the funding round, including food sector private equity investor, Proterra Asia; Pavilion Capital; Convivialité Ventures, the venture arm of global wine and spirits leader, Pernod Ricard; and ecoSPIRITS’ existing venture capital investor, Wavemaker Partners. The Series A proceeds will be used to strengthen ecoSPIRITS’ leadership position in closed loop packaging technologies for spirits and wine and accelerate its research and development program.
“We are thrilled with the successful close of our Series A round, which not only validates ecoSPIRITS’ impressive progress in building a comprehensive technology platform, but also marks a significant milestone in our journey to global scale. We are equally honoured to welcome leading investors to our journey such as Closed Loop Partners, Proterra Asia, Pavilion Capital and Convivialité Ventures. The future gets brighter when more resources are invested in circular economy innovation.”
The new funding will help ecoSPIRITS scale up its hardware, software and Internet-of-Things (IoT) research and development program, expanding its investment in its Intelligent Circular™ roadmap. The funding will also be used to expand operations in key markets worldwide, including the United States, and grow its regional customer and engineering teams in Miami, London, Singapore and Shanghai. At the time of funding, the ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop technology platform is active or launching in 25 countries worldwide, including the majority of the world’s largest economies.
The new investors bring deep expertise in the circular economy, sustainability, the food sector and wine and spirits to the ecoSPIRITS journey. Series A lead investor, Closed Loop Partners, is a leading investment firm dedicated to the transition to the circular economy. A registered B Corp, Closed Loop Partners advances circular solutions across plastics & packaging, food & organics, fashion & beauty and supply chain technology.
The new funding will help ecoSPIRITS scale up its hardware, software and Internet-of-Things (IoT) research and development program, expanding its investment in its Intelligent Circular™ roadmap. The funding will also be used to expand operations in key markets worldwide, including the United States, and grow its regional customer and engineering teams in Miami, London, Singapore and Shanghai. At the time of funding, the ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop technology platform is active or launching in 25 countries worldwide, including the majority of the world’s largest economies.
The new investors bring deep expertise in the circular economy, sustainability, the food sector and wine and spirits to the ecoSPIRITS journey. Series A lead investor, Closed Loop Partners, is a leading investment firm dedicated to the transition to the circular economy. A registered B Corp, Closed Loop Partners advances circular solutions across plastics & packaging, food & organics, fashion & beauty and supply chain technology.
“There is immense opportunity to scale circular solutions across the supply chain for premium spirits and wine. Through their innovative reusable packaging technology, ecoSPIRITS is leading the transition to a less wasteful future for the industry – one that is not dependent on carbon-intensive single use glass. The Closed Loop Growth Opportunities Fund invests in scaling circular economy solutions for global industry, and we look forward to supporting the ecoSPIRITS team as they expand into new geographies and grow their global partnerships with leading wine and spirits brands.”
Proterra Asia is a private equity fund manager focused on investing in the Asian food sector. Over the past decade Proterra Asia has invested more than USD 1 billion in more than 30 companies that are contributing to the continued development of the food and agri industries across Asia. This investment was made via the Proterra Asia Food Strategy, which seeks to capitalise on the accelerating consumer demand that comes with growing urban populations and the emergence of a new generation of consumers looking for safe, high quality food products with a focus on health, nutrition, convenience, social impact and sustainability.
“At Proterra we believe firmly in the business case for more sustainable food and beverage packaging. We are incredibly excited about the potential impact of the ecoSPIRITS’ system in reducing carbon emissions and packaging waste while improving the business economics of the entire supply chain and look forward to partnering closely with Paul Gabie and his team as they continue to scale globally.”
Singapore-based Pavilion Capital is an active private equity investor across various sectors in Asia and embraces sustainability and ESG principles in its investment activities. Convivialité Ventures is the venture capital arm of the world’s second largest drinks company and leading ecoSPIRITS customer, Pernod Ricard. Through Convivialité Ventures, Pernod Ricard is partnering with and investing in start-ups that are embracing the future of hospitality, in areas such as technology, hospitality and entertainment. The investment comes as Pernod Ricard is in the process of expanding its existing technology partnership with ecoSPIRITS to markets outside of Asia.
“We are very pleased to participate in this investment, which will help develop a company that is offering such an innovative solution to our industry, by drastically reducing waste and carbon emissions. ecoSPIRITS’ approach is perfectly in line with our Group’s objectives to reduce its carbon emissions and we are looking forward to using it on a large scale around the world.”
Convivialité Ventures’ investment in ecoSPIRITS also marks the launch of a special investment program that will provide an opportunity for ecoSPIRITS’ most important global partners to support closed loop packaging innovation. Over time, the investment program will be open to key partners who are committing to the circular economy transition as part of their own supply chain innovation and sustainability programs. Customer partners participating in the investment program will be subject to confidentiality and other restrictions that guarantee universal access and equal treatment for all users of ecoSPIRITS’ global technology platform.
Existing ecoSPIRITS investor, Wavemaker Partners, will also be participating in the Series A fundraise, building on a seed investment in the company that was completed in late 2020. A leading Southeast Asia venture capital fund, Wavemaker Partners is dedicated to investing in solutions in enterprise, deep tech, sustainability and climate tech
“Research indicates that single-use glass packaging produces the highest greenhouse gas emissions compared to other beverage packaging materials. ecoSPIRITS’ reusable closed loop distribution system decreases emissions associated with spirits by approximately 60-90% while maintaining products quality and reducing cost for suppliers. Since our initial investment in ecoSPIRITS two years ago, we’ve been impressed with their growth as they’ve expanded their presence to 25 countries and forged partnerships with major spirits players like Pernod Ricard and Diageo.”
To strengthen its governance, ecoSPIRITS will expand its board of directors with the appointment of Cohen from Closed Loop Partners. In his role at Closed Loop Partners, Cohen co-leads the growth equity investment practice focused on advancing circular solutions in various sectors. Cohen’s appointment to the ecoSPIRITS board follows the appointment of Eric Tan as independent director in November 2022.
“We would like to thank Wavemaker Partners for being such a longstanding supporter of ecoSPIRITS. Wavemaker is not only an investor in sustainability start-ups but also a leader driving the sustainability movement, so we are grateful to have its ongoing support. We are also pleased to have Bennett Cohen join our Board of Directors. Bennett’s experience in building and scaling circular tech companies across the US and Europe will be invaluable as we enter this new chapter as a company.”
More details regarding ecoSPIRITS’ expanded research and development program and the evolution of its Intelligent Circular roadmap will be released in the coming months. For more information about the Series A fundraise, please contact ecoSPIRITS’ Senior PR Manager, Sonya Hook, via email at Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Closed Loop Partners
Closed Loop Partners is at the forefront of building the circular economy. The company is comprised of three key business segments: an investment firm, innovation center and operating group. The investment firm invests in venture, growth equity, buyout and catalytic private credit strategies on behalf of global institutions, corporations and family offices. The innovation center, the Center for the Circular Economy, unites competitors and partners to tackle complex material challenges and implement systemic change to advance circularity. The operating group, Circular Services, has twelve recycling facilities in operation today, and provides holistic, circular materials management to close the loop on valuable materials for municipalities and businesses throughout the United States. Employing innovative technology within reuse, recycling, re-manufacturing and re-commerce solutions, Circular Services improves regional economic and environmental outcomes by building resilient systems to keep food & organics, textiles, electronics, packaging and more in circulation and out of landfills or the natural environment. Closed Loop Partners is based in New York City and is a registered B Corp.
For more information please visit www.closedlooppartners.com.
About Proterra Asia
Proterra Asia is a private equity fund manager focused on investing in the Asia food sector. Over the past decade Proterra Asia has invested more than USD 1 billion in more than 30 companies that are contributing to the continued development of the food and agri industries across Asia. This investment was made via the Proterra Asia Food Strategy, which seeks to capitalise on the accelerating consumer demand that comes with growing urban populations and the emergence of a new generation of consumers looking for safe, high quality food products with a focus on health, nutrition, convenience, social impact and sustainability.
For more information please visit: www.proterraasia.com.
About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirit with consolidated sales amounting to €10,701 million in fiscal year FY22. The Group, which owns 17 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive portfolios in the industry with over 240 premium brands distributed across more than 160 markets. Pernod Ricard’s portfolio includes Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur and Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes. The Group’s mission is to unlock the magic of human connections by bringing “Good Times from a Good Place”, in line with its Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap. Pernod Ricard’s decentralized organization empowers its 19,480 employees to be on-the-ground ambassadors of its purposeful and inclusive culture of conviviality, bringing people together in meaningful, sustainable and responsible ways to create value over the long term. Executing its strategic plan, Transform & Accelerate, Pernod Ricard now relies on its “Conviviality Platform”, a new growth model based on data and artificial intelligence to meet the ever-changing demand of consumers. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices.
For more information, please reach out to Emmanuel Vouin, Head of External Engagement: +33 (0) 1 70 93 16 34.
About Convivialité Ventures
Convivialité Ventures is the venture arm of Pernod Ricard. Convivialité Ventures invests in innovative and inspiring companies beyond Pernod Ricard’s traditional wine and spirits offerings in meaningful, sustainable and responsible ways. Our mission is to cultivate radically different products and services that will enhance and change the way people come together, socialize and entertain in the future. Convivialité Ventures operates globally with investments and teams in the US, Europe, Latam, China and India. The portfolio of more than 45 companies includes companies like Fever, Fetch, Avantstay, Summer Farm, Dunzo, Liquid Death, and Outdoorsy.
For more information, please visit www.convivialite-ventures.com or email anne.charpignon@pernod-ricard.com.
About Wavemaker Partners
Wavemaker Partners is Southeast Asia’s leading VC firm investing in early-stage enterprise, deep tech, and sustainability start-ups. Since 2012, it has backed 190+ companies with over US 300 million in AUM across four funds and 25 exits valued at over US 1.8 billion. These exits include TradeGecko’s acquisition by Intuit, and Moka’s and Coins.ph’s acquisitions by Gojek. Today, 85% of Wavemaker’s active portfolio start-ups in Southeast Asia are aligned with at least one UNDP Sustainable Development Goal.
For more information about Wavemaker Partners, visit https://wavemaker.vc/ or email orbit@wavemaker.vc.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants and hotels have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers and venues, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating thousands of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For information, please visit www.ecospirits.global.
ecoSPIRITS to Launch in Mauritius with Local Producer and Importer Grays
PAMPLEMOUSSES 21 March 2023 ecoSPIRITS has announced plans to launch closed loop service in Mauritius under a Licensed Operator Agreement with Grays Inc, a local spirits and wine producer and importer. Like other ecoSPIRITS island markets around the world, ecoSPIRITS Mauritius will release a fleet of Ocean Conservation edition ecoTOTEs™ and will join the ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program to fund the removal of waste from marine environments. From this month, Grays’ flagship Mauritian rum – Lazy Dodo Rum – will be one of the first spirits available in ecoTOTE format in Mauritius, alongside Seven Seas cane spirit. These will be joined soon after by other spirits participating in the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program.
Lazy Dodo Rum, which uses sugarcane from one of the oldest plantations in Mauritius, will be one of the first brands in ecoTOTE on the island.
Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean with a population of more than 1.3 million people. As one of the most developed economies in the African region, Mauritius boasts many contemporary bars, restaurants, and nightclubs as well as a plethora of stylish hotels and hotel bars. Sugar has been the island’s staple product and economic backbone for many centuries, with rum production only allowed to resume in the early 2000s. Using sugarcane juice to make alcohol was banned in Mauritius until 2000, although producers were allowed to use molasses to make rum. The country has now gained a good reputation for both its traditional rum, made from molasses, and Agricole-style rum, where the sugarcane juice is extracted for fermentation and distillation.
Many of the stylish hotel bars, nightclubs and restaurants in Mauritius overlook the island’s beautiful beaches and the Indian Ocean.
Grays is a leading producer, importer, and distributor of wines and spirits in Mauritius. The company set up the island’s first distillery in 1931 and is considered one of the pioneers of the distillation industry in Mauritius. It produces rum from the fermentation of molasses and pure sugarcane juice, and it also manages ageing cellars for its spirits. It distributes rums and other spirits through its local network, and it exports its own products to Europe, USA, Asia, and South Africa. Grays also imports wines from all over the world, including well-known brands such as Möet & Chandon, Veuve Cliquot, Glenfiddich and Jack Daniels, among others.
Grays produces rum from pure sugarcane juice, as well as from the fermentation of molasses.
Closed loop distribution in ecoTOTE format will initially start with Grays’ rum brand: Lazy Dodo Rum, named as a tribute to the now extinct bird, which was indigenous to Mauritius. The other brand which will go into ecoTOTE as part of this first phase is the Mauritian brand Seven Seas cane spirit. For the second phase, later in 2023, these brands will be joined by additional spirits from Grays’ portfolio, including New Grove Rum in two SKUS: Bourbon Cask Aged Rum and Plantation Rum, George Cambridge Blended Scotch Whisky, Kiprinski Vodka, Rover Gin, and Dukes Refined Cane Liquor.
Lazy Dodo Single Estate Rum
Lazy Dodo is matured in French and American oak barrels and is aged for a period of three to 10 years. The rum is created from one of the oldest sugarcane plantations in Mauritius. It is naturally fermented, delicately distilled, aged, and then finely blended to produce a rum offering the natural flavours of the sugar cane.
Seven Seas cane spirit
Seven Seas was launched in 1976 and is proudly made in Mauritius. It is produced with the finest sugar cane in Mauritius and goes through a triple distillation process by master distillers to obtain a crystal pure cane spirit. It is also described as “the only vertically integrated cane spirit in Mauritius”.
“Grays is already a very eco-conscious business, but this partnership with ecoSPIRITS fits well with our sustainability efforts to date and helps us progress to the next stage of our vision. We are thrilled that our flagship brand Lazy Dodo will be one of the first to pioneer this system in Mauritius, and we hope this will help propel our brands as sustainable spirits pioneers onto the global stage. It’s very exciting to have this innovative technology in Mauritius because as an island nation, man-made waste is always at the forefront of our minds and we all want to play our part in looking after the environment.”
“I’m pleased to announce Grays as ecoSPIRITS’ Licensed Operator for Mauritius. Grays had the vision to create the first distillery on the island, where it has been producing high quality spirits for almost a century. Grays is now continuing to revolutionise Mauritius’ wine and spirits industry by introducing ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop technology. It’s been a pleasure to work with Grays’ highly skilled team in all areas of its business, across Production, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Sales. ecoSPIRITS Mauritius will significantly reduce the number of single use bottles imported to the island, remove 90% of the waste, and, via the ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program, it will remove man-made waste from its beaches.”
As part of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Mauritius is working on protecting its marine ecosystems in the face of climate change. Like Bermuda, Cayman Islands, and the Seychelles, ecoSPIRITS Mauritius will join the ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program to fund the removal of waste from marine environments. As part of this, Lazy Dodo Rum will be deployed in the Blue Ocean Conservation ecoTOTE, which is used for Island nations. Grays will also host and operate ecoPLANT No. 033, acting as an expert operational partner for closed loop spirits processing for the region.
For more information about ecoSPIRITS Mauritius please contact Iain McPherson, Sales Director for Europe, on Iain.McPherson@ecospirits.global. Brands, bars, restaurants, and hotels interested in joining the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program in Mauritius may contact Mauritius@ecospirits.global. For media enquiries about ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Senior PR Manager, Sonya Hook on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Grays
Since 1931, Grays has forged itself the reputation of being a reliable producer and marketer of the best wines, spirits, and liqueurs in Mauritius. Our wines are imported from the best cellars in the world including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and other varieties, offering a great selection of wines from around the world; France, Chile, Italy, South Africa, Argentina, Spain, New Zealand and more. Additionally, we are proud to market rums through our local distribution network, giving our customers the taste of the local know-how, and export our products to Asia, Europe and USA.
For more information on Grays, please visit www.grays.mu
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants, hotels, and retailers have adopted the technology. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries by early 2023. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For information, please visit www.ecospirits.global
About the ecoSPIRITS Ocean Program
The ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program complements the ecoSPIRITS Forest Program for island nations that are most at risk from rising sea levels due to climate change. Highlighted by the striking blue Ocean Conservation Edition ecoTOTE, each order of an ecoTOTE by venue partners in participating island nations funds the removal of one kilogram of single use plastic, glass and other man-made wastes from endangered, coral reefs and waters. Using Green Steps Group’s proprietary “proof of impact” technology platform, cleanup operations are verified, monitored and reported through an industry-leading digital record. Ocean waste recovery benefits the venue partners but is jointly funded by ecoSPIRITS and our Climate Partner brands and distributors.
For more information on Green Steps Group, please visit www.greenstepsgroup.com
ecoSPIRITS Releases Second Generation Portfolio of SmartPour Technologies
SINGAPORE 16 March 2023 ecoSPIRITS has launched a second–generation portfolio of its SmartPour™ technology, offering enhanced capabilities, intelligent features and new design elements. The revamped SmartPour lineup now comprises the SmartPour 1.1S and the SmartPour 2.0S, for the company’s spirits brand partners; and, for the first time, a SmartPour dedicated to wine preservation and dispensing, the SmartPour 2.0W. With this latest release, SmartPours are now available to pair with both the 4.5L and 1.75L versions of the ecoTOTE™. Each of the second generation SmartPours is powered by CircularONE™, ecoSPIRITS’ cloud-based software platform that is central to its ambitious Intelligent Circular™ roadmap.
The SmartPour is ecoSPIRITS’ proprietary electronic dispense unit, designed for the safe and hygienic transfer of spirits or wine from ecoTOTE to reusable glass bottles or directly to serving glassware. The first generation SmartPour was first released in November 2020 to give hospitality outlets the option to dispense a variety of accurate spirits measures, which can be pre-programmed to suit the needs of the venue and the local market. The latest generation of patent-pending SmartPour hardware has been enhanced by the CircularONE software platform, with a range of security, data and IoT features, allowing ecoSPIRITS to collect and send performance and supply chain data to and from each partner company. This includes accurate depletion data, as well as cloud-based location tracking for the global ecoTOTE fleet, whereby each individual ecoTOTE is tracked through its entire lifecycle of closed loop operations, including in the venue, when it is linked to a SmartPour for dispense. This all forms part of the ecoSPIRITS Intelligent Circular vision, which is powered by CircularONE, and will eventually offer the comprehensive integration of hardware and software to make circular much more robust, scalable and cost-effective.
The SmartPour 1.1S is designed for ease of operations in the back-of-house area and as such, it offers all the basic SmartPour functions. This slimline unit is well suited to venues that require high volume bottle refilling, and its range of one push pour options allow for the fast, hygienic and accurate transfer of spirits from ecoTOTE to bottle. Its ergonomic design means that it is not only quick and straightforward to assemble, but it fits neatly on top of the ecoTOTE, without taking up unnecessary space. This user-friendly accessory, which perfectly complements the ecoTOTE, is also easy to store away. Each SmartPour 1.1S comes complete with accessories, including silicone inlet and extension hoses, which are used to extract the spirit brand from the ecoTOTE; a USB-C charging cable to charge the digital unit; and a pouring spout, to dispense spirits into bottles or glassware.
The SmartPour 1.1S is designed for ease of operations in the back-of-house area.
The SmartPour 2.0S is the second spirits dispense solution in the ecoSPIRITS SmartPour portfolio. Unlike the 1.1S, which is a simplified but easy-to-use dispense attachment, the 2.0S is designed with a visually striking outer casing, which fully encloses the ecoTOTE, giving venues the opportunity to make a feature of the circular hardware on the bar, where it can be made visible to consumers. These WiFi-enabled SmartPours offer the full range of ecoSPIRITS’ Intelligent Circular features, and they are also equipped with the company’s patent-pending Verified Sustainable Refill™ (VSR) feature, which uses NFC-based refill bottle authentication to ensure the spirit inside the ecoTOTE matches the brand on the bottle.
The SmartPour 2.0S offers the full range of ecoSPIRITS’ Intelligent Circular features.
Completing the trio of SmartPours is the innovative SmartPour 2.0W, which has been designed specifically for preserving and dispensing wine. This intelligent wine system pairs with the specialised ecoTOTE 3.0W for wine to make the sustainable reuse of branded wine bottles possible. An enhanced version of the SmartPour 2.0S, the 2.0W also offers inert N2 gas blanketing and wine temperature management, to allow for the hygienic and fresh transfer of wine from ecoTOTE to wine bottles, glassware, carafes and decanters. Like its SmartPour siblings, the 2.0W offers a fast, accurate pour every time, and has NFC-based bottle authentication with VSR. Both the SmartPour 2.0S and 2.0W have brand plate lighting, giving users the option to light up the digital display and the brand plate; an added feature for venues wanting to make their circular innovation visible to consumers.
The SmartPour 2.0W pairs with an N2 gas canister for wine preservation and management.
The new generation of SmartPours are available as standard Forest Green or Oceans Blue options or they can be developed with partner spirits and wine brands as a fully co-branded design. These can be showcased by venues, giving both the technology and branding high visibility to consumers. Co-branded SmartPours have already been deployed by several of ecoSPIRITS’ global customers, including Diageo, which now has co-branded Smirnoff Vodka SmartPour 2.0S’ in venues in Indonesia; and Pernod Ricard, which has co-branded Beefeater Gin, Havana Club and Absolut Vodka SmartPour 2.0S’ available for the Singapore market. Both companies are looking at expanding their footprints to cover additional regions. Meanwhile, in the UK, Remy Cointreau now has co-branded hardware for its Cointreau and Mount Gay rum brands. ecoSPIRITS adapted the SmartPour 2.0S Cointreau Edition to ensure the perfect dispense of Cointreau, because liqueurs behave differently to higher proof spirits. In addition, the True Believers brand, Los Arcos Destilado de Agave, saw its UK debut this month, sporting co-branded SmartPour 2.0S units. ecoSPIRITS is also preparing to launch co-branded versions of the SmartPour 2.0W in Australia with industry leader Accolade Wines, featuring one or more of their eco wine brands.
“ecoSPIRITS developed its software platform, CircularONE, to give the company the ability to collect and send performance and supply chain data at real time to and from each partner, leading to improved closed loop efficiency. To link this with the ecoSPIRITS hardware required upgrades to the full portfolio, and this second generation of SmartPours represents the latest piece of this puzzle. For me, this is an exciting development because it brings to life ecoSPIRITS’ vision of a global Intelligent Circular network of IoT hardware, powered by software and data. As we develop CircularONE we will be adding new features and capabilities to these SmartPours, throughout 2023 and beyond.”
“We released our first SmartPours in November 2020 and via this innovative piece of equipment we have been able to transform the dispense experience for hundreds of venues all around the world. Now, just over two years later, we have evolved the functionality and look of the SmartPour, and linked it with our software platform. Our second-generation portfolio offers a range of options, depending on whether venues require high volume bottle refilling, Intelligent Circular features, or options to suit wine or spirits. We can also now give partner brands and venues the ability to make a feature of this technology as a co-branded unit at the bar, presenting this as a sustainable talking point for consumers to engage with.”
ecoSPIRITS has submitted patent applications for its latest SmartPour technologies and its Verified Sustainable Refill feature. These join existing patent applications in its system of closed loop technologies, including the ecoSPIRITS’ third–generation ecoTOTE 3.0, and the SmartKiosk™, which was launched in September last year. The latest generation of SmartPour hardware uses dual-frequency IoT module so it is capable of connecting to two different wireless frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. They also have programmable dispense volume buttons, enabling venues to set their own range of push pour options for the easy transfer of accurate measures of spirits or wine from the ecoTOTE. Additional smart features will be developed for the SmartPour portfolio over time. For media enquiries or general information about ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager, at Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by mid 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For information, please visit www.ecospirits.global
ecoSPIRITS to Launch in Denmark with Spirits Distributor Local Spirits
COPENHAGEN 1 March 2023 ecoSPIRITS is to launch in Denmark, appointing one of the country’s leading independent spirits distributors, Local Spirits, as its Licensed Operator for the country. ecoSPIRITS Denmark will bring closed loop spirits to the Danish market, with venues in Copenhagen among the first in the country to receive closed loop spirits service. A range of Local Spirits’ spirit brands will be available in low waste ecoTOTE™ format by this summer, to be joined later in the year by other spirits producers participating in the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program. This partnership paves the way for the expansion of closed loop service across Scandinavia, alongside its recently launched neighbour, ecoSPIRITS Norway, and it builds on Denmark’s position as the greenest country in the world in 2022, according to the Environmental Performance Index (EPI).
Venues in Copenhagen will be among the first in Denmark to receive spirits brands in ecoTOTE format.
Local Spirits is a Danish drinks company, which distributes predominantly local and organic spirits to the on and off-trade sectors. The company was founded in 2016 by the entrepreneurs behind some of the country’s most popular craft spirits, including Skotlander Rum, Herbie Gin and Den Klodsede Bjorn Vodka. Local Spirits now sells and distributes more than 300 products from 25 different Danish producers, as well as a few international craft brands. Local Spirits is focused on sustainable products and practices, and partnering with ecoSPIRITS represents the latest stage of its sustainability journey. The company makes an effort to work with producers who are respectful of the environment, particularly those which use local or organic ingredients. Currently around 40% of its portfolio is certified as organic.
Great Dane Rum and Bay Boy Coffee Liqueur will be two of the first brands in ecoTOTE format in Denmark.
Denmark, which has a population of around 5.8 million people, is made up of the Jutland Peninsular and more than 400 islands in the North Sea. The largest of the islands is Zealand, where the country’s capital Copenhagen is located, while the second largest city, Aarhus, is Jutland’s major urban centre. Copenhagen is also Denmark’s foodie capital and is a city known for its Michelin stars. ecoSPIRITS Denmark will initially launch in Copenhagen, where most of Local Spirits’ activity currently takes place. The first brands to go into ecoTOTE will be Bad Company Spirits’ Bad Boy Coffee Liqueur, Bad Dog Orange Liqueur, Lemon Says Hello Limoncello; Local Spirits Distilled Vodka and Local Spirits Distilled Gin; Great Dane Rum, and Ellenor Elderflower Liqueur.
Bad Company Spirits
Bad Company Spirits is a Danish producer of niche spirits, including the organic Bad Boy Coffee Liqueur, Bad Dog Orange Liqueur and Lemon Says Hello Limoncello. Bad Boy Coffee Liqueur is made from cold brew coffee to extract a more concentrated and less bitter taste. Bad Dog Orange Liqueur is the first orange liqueur made in Denmark.
Local Spirits Distilled
This collection includes an organic gin and an organic vodka. The former is a handmade organic Danish gin, made using organic botanicals including lemon peel, coriander seeds, liquorice root, and juniper berries. The handmade organic vodka is a wheat-based alcohol made using double-filtered water to create a smooth and silky spirit.
Great Dane Rum
This rum is an exclusive blend of rums from selected distilleries in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, Jamaica and Panama. First, the rum is distilled and stored in ex-bourbon casks in a tropical climate. After arriving in Denmark, with its much cooler climate, the rum is given a cask finish in vessels previously used by the award-winning Danish Skotlander Rum.
Ellenor
Ellenor is an organic elderflower liqueur, which offers an intense flavour of aromatic elderflowers and fresh lemons. Ellenor was created in partnership with mixologist Hasse Johansen from the cocktail bar St Paul’s Aphotek in Aarhus, Denmark. This award-winning spirit can be enjoyed neat over ice or as a base for cocktails.
The Danish government aims to make Denmark a green front-runner in global climate action to inspire and encourage the rest of the world. Its government has introduced a binding Climate Act with a national target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% below 1990 levels by 2030, and climate neutrality by 2050. This – and other efforts – helped Denmark rank first in the Environmental Performance Index 2022. Companies from all around the world are looking to Denmark for inspiration, with respect to its environmental achievements. Denmark has the world’s leading Deposit and Return System, which ensures the recycling of disposable beverage packaging made of plastic, aluminium and glass. Currently, more than 2.2 billion bottles and cans are handled by the system annually, and with a population of 5.8 million, this equates to every Dane depositing a bottle or can daily. The system does not include bottles and packaging for spirits and the ecoSPIRITS technology is therefore a perfect fit with the Danish market.
Denmark is considered the greenest country in the world and wants to be a green front–runner in global climate action.
Under this latest ecoSPIRITS Licensed Operator partnership, ecoPLANT No. 037 will be commissioned in Copenhagen, starting this month, and ecoSPIRITS closed loop service is set to commence in May, starting with bars, restaurants, and hotels in Copenhagen. Denmark will also participate in the ecoSPIRITS Forest Program, planting one tree for every ecoTOTE delivered to hospitality venues.
“For several years now, we have been pioneering the use of spirits in bulk format to bars and restaurants. For us this has been a way to reduce the waste from single use glass, but it has also given us an opportunity to reduce the price of locally produced and organic products by removing the bottle and bottling costs. Partnering with ecoSPIRITS is a natural progression for the work we have done so far in exploring sustainable packaging and distribution solutions, and it will enable us to extend our reach and capacity. Our partner venues are very excited to take this next step in an even more sustainable direction with us.”
“At ecoSPIRITS we place a great deal of importance in building strong relationships and finding a partner that knows the market well, and we believe Local Spirits is the perfect fit. The company has a track record of working with – and supplying – some of the best venues and events in Denmark, and it’s clear that Anne, Martin and Jeppe have a great enthusiasm to bring the #nosingeuseglass revolution to the wines and spirits industry in Denmark. We can’t wait to get started!”
Bars, hotels, restaurants, distributors and brands that are interested in joining the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program in Denmark can contact Iain McPherson, Sales Director for Europe at ecoSPIRITS on Iain.McPherson@ecospirits.global or denmark@ecospirits.global. For more information about ecoSPIRITS you may contact Sonya Hook, ecoSPIRITS Senior PR Manager, on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Local Spirits
Local Spirits was founded in 2016 under the name Nordic Spirits. The company was founded by a number of the first small independent spirits producers in Denmark such as Skotlander Rum, Herbie Gin and Den Klodsede Bjørn Vodka with the aim of creating a distribution platform for the Danish micro-producers. Local Spirits currently sells over 300 products from 25 different Danish producers. In addition to specialist shops, our customers include restaurants, bars, festivals and hotels, including many of Denmark’s most high-profile brands such as the Roskilde Festival, the Guldsmeden hotels and Villa Copenhagen. Ever since our foundation, we have had an ambition to help promote ecology to our growing number of eco-focused customers. Through our close collaboration with Roskilde Festival and the 100% organic hotel chain Guldsmeden Hotels, we have sought to make local organic products part of the core of our business.
For information, please visit www.localspirits.dk
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants and hotels have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers and venues, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating thousands of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For information, please visit www.ecospirits.global
ecoSPIRITS Launches in Italy in Partnership with Leading Spirits Distributor Velier SpA
GENOA 17 February 2023 ecoSPIRITS has expanded into the Italian market, appointing one of the country’s leading independent spirits distributors and producers, Velier SpA, as its Licensed Operator. Together, the partners have set up a new joint venture, eS Operator Italy SpA, to bring closed loop spirits to the Italian market starting this month. A range of spirits will be available in low waste ecoTOTE™ format immediately, including Portofino Dry Gin, Hampden Estate Jamaican Rum, Clairin Communal Rum from Haiti, Yaguara Cachaça and Los Arcos Destilado de Agave. With this latest market launch, ecoSPIRITS’ European network now covers the region’s four largest economies: Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy.
Portofino Dry Gin, which is made using local botanicals from the picturesque town of Portofino, will be one of the first brands available in ecoTOTE™ format.
As the fourth largest economy in Europe and the fourth largest hospitality sector in the world, Italy is a natural extension of ecoSPIRITS’ global closed loop network. The country attracts 94 million foreign tourists each year and it has a reputation for some of the world’s finest food and drink, along with a vibrant hospitality scene. Having made aggressive commitments for tackling climate change, including a plan to cut carbon emissions by 60% by 2030, Italy is also the first country in the world to make sustainability and the climate crisis compulsory subjects at school.
Italy has a vibrant hospitality scene and attracts millions of tourists each year.
Led by industry icon Luca Gargano since 1983, and with a history stretching back more than 70 years, Velier SpA is one of the world’s most respected independent spirits and wine distributors, serving nearly 12,000 hospitality and retail customers across Italy. In addition to a wide-ranging portfolio of more than 200 leading artisanal wines and spirits, Velier is the exclusive Italian importer for William Grant & Sons, Edrington and SPI Group. It is also the sole importer for a selection of brands from Brown Forman and the Sazerac Company. Velier has a history of pioneering innovation in Italy. In 1991, it brought Latin American white spirits – cachaça, pisco, and mezcal – to the Italian market for the first time. Under Gargano’s leadership, the group became renowned worldwide for its own bottlings of fine rum, including the legendary Caroni releases.
Velier SpA has a wide-ranging portfolio, which includes its own bottlings of the legendary Caroni rum.
“I am very proud to bring ecoSPIRITS’ circular spirits packaging technology to Italy. The Italians have a long and deep history with spirits production and enjoyment. Italian consumers are very sophisticated, and always on the lookout for new and amazing products. Furthermore, there is a nationwide commitment to working towards a sustainable future: there is a genuine thirst for sustainable solutions across the industry. ecoSPIRITS’ innovative closed loop technology tackles numerous waste and supply chain problems, while providing an elegant serve to enjoy.”
“We have long admired Velier’s reputation for innovation and quality and after we were introduced to Luca by our partners in ecoSPIRITS France, La Maison du Whisky, the rest was history, as they say. We have worked closely with Luca and his team for the past year and could not be more excited to now launch a platform for closed loop spirits together. We have a shared vision of a sustainable future in the Italian spirits market, and have the joint expertise and resources to help bring about that vision.”
In the first phase of the launch, ecoSPIRITS Italy will offer a range of spirits in ecoTOTE format, from the Velier and the La Maison & Velier portfolios. These include:
Portofino Dry Gin
Produced in an antique Italian Distillery, Portofino Dry Gin features 21 botanicals, which are carefully selected for their natural aromatic properties. Juniper, lemons, lavender, rosemary, marjoram, sage, iris, and rose are organically grown on the Portofino hills and combined with locally handpicked ingredients.
Los Arcos Destilado de Agave
Los Arcos celebrates the traditional production processes of tequila by using ancestral tools and methods to showcase Blue Weber Agave in its best form. Los Arcos uses only mature agave to deliver a structured, full-flavoured agave profile. It is designed to be ideal for cocktails and for sipping.
Yaguara Cachaça
This small batch Brazilian artisanal cachaca is based on the Menaghel family’s traditional recipe, which has been followed for five generations. Using handcut organic sugarcane, the spirit is fermented with local yeast and rested for 10 months. A perfect base for the Brazilian classic cocktail, the Caipirinha.
In the first phase of the launch, ecoSPIRITS Italy will offer a range of spirits in ecoTOTE format, from the Velier and the La Maison & Velier portfolios. These include:
Portofino Dry Gin
Produced in an antique Italian Distillery, Portofino Dry Gin features 21 botanicals, which are carefully selected for their natural aromatic properties. Juniper, lemons, lavender, rosemary, marjoram, sage, iris, and rose are organically grown on the Portofino hills and combined with locally handpicked ingredients.
Los Arcos Destilado de Agave
Los Arcos celebrates the traditional production processes of tequila by using ancestral tools and methods to showcase Blue Weber Agave in its best form. Los Arcos uses only mature agave to deliver a structured, full-flavoured agave profile. It is designed to be ideal for cocktails and for sipping.
Yaguara Cachaça
This small batch Brazilian artisanal cachaca is based on the Menaghel family’s traditional recipe, which has been followed for five generations. Using handcut organic sugarcane, the spirit is fermented with local yeast and rested for 10 months. A perfect base for the Brazilian classic cocktail, the Caipirinha.
“We are thrilled to be part of this initiative with Velier and our dear friend Luca Gargano, who introduced us to the ecoSPIRITS vision. When we first talked about this project, we were fascinated by the innovative nature of ecoSPIRITS’ sustainable technology. It corresponds precisely with our ambition to reduce our ecological footprint while meeting our quality standards. The ecoTOTE system developed by ecoSPIRITS is a milestone in the spirits industry and we look forward to seeing it spread across Italy.”
Closed loop service will first be made available in northern Italy and key cities across the country, supported by ecoPLANT No. 021 in Genoa. Over the course of 2023, ecoTOTE distribution will be expanded to additional regions in Italy. The host company for ecoPLANT No. 021 is AZ Servizi & Logistica, a third-party logistics and warehouse business for packaged and bulk goods, which is located in northern Italy. As the ecoPLANT host company, AZ Servici & Logistica provides licensed premises for the ecoPLANT site, as well as experienced production staffing and quality control systems.
For more information about ecoSPIRITS Italy, please contact ecoSPIRITS’ Sales Director for Europe, Iain McPherson on Iain.McPherson@ecospirits.global. Bars, restaurants, hotels, distributors, and brands that are interested in joining the ecoSPIRITS’ Climate Partner program in Italy may contact Fabrizio Galliano via email at italy@ecospirits.global. For more information about ecoSPIRITS, please contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager, ecoSPIRITS, on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Velier
Velier is a historic family business from Genoa, Italy, that is active in the import and distribution of spirits, liqueurs and wines. Founded in 1947, it has developed a reputation for the quality, passion, and conviviality behind each of its products and its people. A world leader in the rum sector thanks to the tireless discovery work of President Luca Gargano, Velier has also been a forerunner in launching the natural wine movement. As early as 2003, the ‘Triple A’ protocol saw the light of day: producers who are ‘Farmers, Artisans, Artists’, in absolute harmony with Velier’s values: quality and authenticity. Among the more than 200 imported brands are Caroni, Bally, Clairin, Neisson, Hampden rums; Macallan, Glenfiddich, Balvenie, Nikka, Buffalo Trace whiskies; Hendrick’s Gin, Stolichnaya Vodka, Rooster Rojo, Fortaleza and Alipus agaves, Billecart champagne, Chartreuse liqueur, and Fever Tree soft drinks.
For information, please visit https://www.velier.it/it/
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific,Europe and the Americas. More than 1,500 leading bars, restaurants and hotels have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers and venues, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating thousands of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For information, please visit www.ecospirits.global
ecoSPIRITS to Launch in Dominican Republic With Local Craft Producer Candela
SANTO DOMINGO 23 December 2022 ecoSPIRITS has announced plans to launch closed loop service in Dominican Republic under a Licensed Operator Agreement with KOI DOMINICANA SRL, the producer of Candela Mamajuana, a premium spiced rum based on a recipe which is native to the region. Like other ecoSPIRITS island markets around the world, ecoSPIRITS Dominican Republic will operate an ecoPLANT 1.0S Lite, deploy a fleet of Ocean Conservation edition ecoTOTEs™ and will join the ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program to fund removal of waste from marine environments. Starting in early 2023, Candela will be the first spirit available in ecoTOTE format in the Dominican Republic, to be joined soon by other spirits producers participating in the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program. Resorts in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo will be among the first venues to receive closed loop spirits service.
Mamajuana, a traditional native drink of the Dominican Republic, is a blend of Dominican rum, natural spices, and honey. Candela, meaning “on fire” in Spanish slang, was created in 2016 by Alejandro Russo and his mother Lillian Arinoviche, who wanted to create the finest expression of this local drink to share with the rest of the world. Candela is the leading brand of mamajuana and it is designed to be enjoyed neat or mixed in speciality cocktails. It is known for its smooth sweet taste, rich rosewood and honey aromas and long finish with warming spices. The spiced rum is handcrafted in the Dominican Republic with all-natural ingredients. It is distilled from fresh-pressed sugarcane juice, and then aged in American oak barrels. Candela is proud of its quality production methods and its focus on sourcing local ingredients. The company has a big focus on sustainable practices and its production processes are powered by renewable energy.
Spirits consumption in the Dominican Republic is dominated by rum, and mamajuana is one of the most popular drinks, featured on menus in most bars and clubs across the island nation. Some of the nation’s most well known cocktails are rum based such as Piña Colada, the Coco Loco and the Passionfruit Mojito, and are often sought out by tourists on their arrival at the beach. For rum production in the Dominican Republic, producers must harvest the sugar cane, ferment, distill, and age the spirit in oak barrels for a minimum of one year, and it all has to happen within the country’s borders.
Closed loop distribution in ecoTOTE format will initially start with the popular tourist area of Punta Cana. This glamorous seaside resort town, in the easternmost region of the country, boasts a plethora of hotels and hotel bars including several luxury venues. Closed loop service will next be made available to the nation’s capital, Santo Domingo, which is well known for its energetic nightlife, Latin music, and rum-based drinks. Santo Domingo is the largest city of the Dominican Republic and the biggest metropolitan area in the Caribbean by population. It is the nation’s cultural, financial, political, commercial, and industrial centre and it also serves as the chief seaport of the country, with the port handling heavy passenger and freight traffic. Other destinations on the list include La Romana, Puerto Plata, Cabarete, and the Samaná Peninsula.
The Dominican Republic, one of the world’s top tourist destinations, is the tenth largest economy in Latin America and the largest in the Caribbean region open for commercial trade. In 2019, the Dominican Republic set out plans to invest in new sustainability initiatives specifically focused on its tourism industry, with the aim of boosting the nation’s ‘ecotourism’ image. As part of this, the government pledged to reduce marine and land-based pollution, cut the consumption of materials, and diminish waste arising from tourism with targets such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030. Following in the footsteps of the Bermuda, the Seychelles and the Cayman Islands, ecoSPIRITS Dominican Republic will participate in the ecoSPIRITS Ocean Program, which works with island nations that are most at risk from rising sea levels due to climate change. Each order of an ecoTOTE in the Dominican Republic will fund the removal of one kilogram of single use plastic, glass and other man-made wastes from endangered coral reefs and marine environments.
“We are delighted to be partnering with ecoSPIRITS to bring circular spirits service to the Dominican Republic. We are proud to have Candela Mamajuana, an authentic Dominican product, lead the way into sustainable business practices. We hope Candela Mamajuana becomes an example of eco-conscious values and sets the standards for other brands to follow. We are excited to be operators of the country’s first ecoPLANT, and we look forward to seeing this closed loop technology in action.”
“The Dominican Republic is a nation that loves to celebrate and enjoy life, as well as many delicious rum-based cocktails! It has a thriving tourism scene with several luxurious and world-renowned hotels. All of this makes it perfectly positioned to transition to the circular economy, and we are excited to work with Candela Mamajuana to launch our low waste and low carbon packaging technology in our fourth island market. Together, we can make a progress in ending single use glass in the Dominican Republic.”
For more information about ecoSPIRITS Dominican Republic, please contact ecoSPIRITS’ Sales Director for North America, Jessica Berry on Jessica.Berry@ecospirits.global. Brands, bars, restaurants, and hotels interested in joining the ecoSPIRITS Climate Partner Program in the Dominican Republic may contact Alejandro Russo via email at DR@ecospirits.global. For media inquiries about ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Senior PR Manager, Sonya Hook on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global
About Candela
Candela Mamajuana is the finest expression of the Dominican Republic’s legendary spiced rum. Known for its smooth taste of the finest rum, exotic spices, and honey, this spirit is made with all-natural ingredients and distilled from fresh-pressed sugarcane in its native country. The approachable spirit can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or mixed in a speciality cocktail. Co-founded in 2016 by the mother and son duo, Lillian Arinoviche and Alejandro Russo, Candela is distributed throughout Florida, California, New York, New Jersey, and the Dominican Republic.
For more details on Candela Mamajuana, please visit the website: www.drinkcandela.com
About the ecoSPIRITS Ocean Program
The ecoSPIRITS Oceans Program complements the ecoSPIRITS Forest Program for island nations that are most at risk from rising sea levels due to climate change. Highlighted by the striking blue Ocean Conservation Edition ecoTOTE, each order of an ecoTOTE by venue partners in participating islands nations funds the removal of one kilogram of single use plastic, glass and other man-made wastes from endangered, coral reefs and waters. Using Green Steps Group’s proprietary “proof of impact” technology platform, cleanup operations are verified, monitored and reported through an industry-leading digital record. Ocean waste recovery benefits the venue partners, but is jointly funded by ecoSPIRITS and our Climate Partner brands and distributors.
For more information on Green Steps Group, please visit www.greenstepsgroup.com.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels, and retailers have adopted the technology. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For more information, please visit www.ecospirits.global.
ecoSPIRITS USA Activates First Two ecoPLANTs in Florida and California
MIAMI 15 December 2022 ecoSPIRITS USA, the United States operating partner of ecoSPIRITS, has announced the locations of its first ecoPLANTs in the United States, which will be managed in partnership with well-regarded distilled spirits plant (DSP) operators Mango Bottling in Florida and Chareau in Southern California. Both new partners join ecoSPIRITS’ growing network of ecoPLANT hosts around the world, playing a critical role in the launch and scaling of closed loop spirits and wine service. ecoSPIRITS USA now has plans to bring additional ecoPLANTs online in the United States in the second half of 2023. The news also paves the way for the launch of closed loop ecoTOTE™ service in both California and Florida next month.
ecoSPIRITS’ global closed loop network is anchored by its proprietary ecoPLANT technology, which are semi-automated, containerised spirits and wine processing plants. The containerised design provides a highly scalable modular solution for geographically distributed spirits and wine processing. To improve the safety and efficiency of ecoPLANT operations, ecoSPIRITS looks to partner with experienced local operators, often leading distilleries, or bonded warehouse companies, to host each ecoPLANT. Hosts provide licensed premises for the ecoPLANT site, as well as experienced production staffing and quality control systems.

Around the world, ecoPLANT hosts play an essential role in ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop network.

Around the world, ecoPLANT hosts play an essential role in ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop network.

Around the world, ecoPLANT hosts play an essential role in ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop network.

Around the world, ecoPLANT hosts play an essential role in ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop network.

Around the world, ecoPLANT hosts play an essential role in ecoSPIRITS’ closed loop network.
Mango Bottling, which is located north of Miami in the Cocoa Beach area, Florida, has commenced operations of ecoPLANT No. 032, which is an ecoPLANT 2.0W model capable of processing both spirits and wine and will provide service to both South Florida and the duty-free hub in Miami port. Perfectly located to service the fast-growing Southern Florida region, including Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, ecoPLANT No. 032, is also near the Miami headquarters of ecoSPIRITS USA, which is a joint venture between Park Street Technology Ventures and the Edmund Pillsbury family. Mango Bottling started as a producer of spirit-based brands and later, in 1995, it extended its services into contract bottling. It now works with both new and established brands and all sizes of spirit-based products.
ecoPLANT No. 032 will service the Southern Florida region, including Miami, Orlando and Tampa.
“My vision for Mango is utilizing our team’s strengths to modernize the manufacturing production facility while preserving the goal of creating efficiencies, decreasing waste, and ultimately reducing the company’s carbon footprint. Our executive team members, Jared Shammah, Mango’s COO, and Dan Holmes, our Sales Director, are also delighted to partner with ecoSPIRITS USA to support environmentally sound products for our customers and the alcoholic beverage market.”
Chareau’s spirits facility is located north of Los Angeles in Ventura County, California. As part of the new partnership, ecoPLANT No. 031, which is also an ecoPLANT 2.0W model, is hosted in a dedicated production and warehouse facility to be operated by Chareau staff, who will be trained and supported by ecoSPIRITS’ global Closed Loop Operations team. The Chareau brand and business is the brainchild of Kurt Charron, who was inspired by the rich agriculture and natural beauty of California. Chareau spirits are designed to be made as naturally as possible from plant-based ingredients. Chareau is also a social purpose company, which means it cares about the wellness of its staff, customers, and the community at large. These attributes of caring for both the environment and those who interact with the business make Chareau an exceptional fit for ecoSPIRITS and its mission to end single use glass in the spirits and wine industry. ecoPLANT No. 031 will offer closed loop ecoTOTE service to Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
“We are excited to join ecoSPIRITS on their global mission to eliminate single use packaging waste and significantly reduce carbon emissions in the spirits industry. We formed our company as a Social Purpose Corporation to not only make the best quality spirits, but also to operate with intention, increase our sustainability efforts and make a difference in the world. We are proud to partner with a company operating with a similar ethos.”
“The U.S. market has now shown that it is ready to embrace the low carbon revolution on a much greater scale than we expected. We have an exceptional group of brands, distributors and hospitality operators committed to join our Climate Partner Program here in the U.S. Our launches in California and Florida, and our partnerships with Mango Bottling and Chareau, are the perfect first step in the world’s most exciting market for circular spirits and wine.”
“Our fast-growing ecoPLANT network plays an essential role in circular spirits – without distributed processing, local closed loop service would not be possible. Finding the right host for each ecoPLANT have proven to be a key to safely and efficiently scaling production operations. By working together, our ecoPLANT hosts, such as Mango Bottling and Chareau, and ecoSPIRITS’ Closed Loop Operations team, are building the world’s first truly standardized, truly global closed loop production network. This is an exciting challenge for everyone involved.”
Closed loop service in both Florida and California will commence in January 2023. Additional details on early Climate Partner brands, distributors and outlets in the United States will be released soon. For more information about ecoSPIRITS USA, please contact Zdenek Kastanek on Zdenek@ecospirits.global or Jessica Berry on Jessica.Berry@ecospirits.global. For more information about ecoSPIRITS you may contact Senior PR Manager, Sonya Hook on Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About Mango Bottling
Mango Bottling is a privately owned corporation, based in East Central Florida, licensed as an Alcoholic Beverage Distiller and Producer. Mango was established in 1992 to manufacture pre-filled test tubes with flavored liqueurs carrying the Tooters brand name. The goal was simple, to add an element of fun through a unique ready to drink packaging. Then in 1995, Mango expanded its business model by offering contract bottling services to start-up and established Spirit brands. The focus was to establish ourselves as a niche co-packer that could facilitate standard and custom packaged products. In the past 30 years since its inception, Mango Bottling has continued to be creative and innovative within our product offerings and a reliable resource for contract bottling customers.
For more information visit www.mangobottling.com.
About Chareau
Chareau is a low ABV plant-based spirit made with real California Aloe. The founder, Kurt Charron, developed Chareau to be an honest spirit free of artificial colors and flavors, while bringing a much-needed sense of wellness and transparency to the industry. The company takes a mindful approach to creating light, refreshing, and delicious spirits using local California ingredients, and the brand is a gift from the hands and hearts of California’s farmers and artisans. Chareau is named after Kurt Charron’s great-grandparents, Arthur Charron and Florence Favreau, hard-working farmers who moved the family out west, where Kurt Charron has lived ever since.
For more information visit https://chareau.us/.
About ecoSPIRITS USA
ecoSPIRITS USA is introducing ecoSPIRITS’ award-winning circular distribution technology to the world’s largest premium spirits and wine market. Starting with closed-loop service in California and Florida and January 2023, ecoSPIRITS USA is building and operating a ‘first to market’ circular distribution system that will eventually service metropolitan markets across the United States. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Miami, FL, and its investors include, among others, Wavemaker Partners, Park Street Technology Ventures, and the Edmund Pillsbury Family.
For more information, please contact usa@ecospirits.global
About Park Street Technology Ventures
Park Street Technology Ventures (“Park Street Ventures”) is an affiliate of Park Street, a technology-enabled services company that helps emerging and established alcoholic beverage suppliers and brand owners cost-effectively and securely scale and manage their businesses. The company is trusted by thousands of brands from new-to-market entrepreneurs to well established multi-brand global portfolios. Park Street Ventures invests in early-stage start-ups and established growth companies in the alcoholic beverage industry. The firm’s investment mandate focuses on transformative technologies and green initiatives.
For more information, visit: www.parkstreet.com
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.
For more information visit www.ecospirits.global.
ecoSPIRITS Expands Investment in Intelligent Circular Vision With Independent Board Member and CTO Appointments


SINGAPORE 8 December 2022 ecoSPIRITS is marking a major expansion of its investment in its Intelligent Circular™ roadmap, which includes its CircularONE™ software platform, with two senior technology appointments. Eric Tan has joined the ecoSPIRITS Board of Directors as an independent board member and Derek Tang has been appointed to the newly-created role of Chief Technology Officer. Together, the new appointments add five decades of technology, software development and Internet-of-Things IoT (IoT) leadership experience to ecoSPIRITS’ board and executive leadership team. Messrs. Tan and Tang will help direct ecoSPIRITS’ expanded financial investment in the development of its software, IoT and data solutions. ecoSPIRITS’ Intelligent Circular roadmap is anchored by its CircularONE software platform, which integrates a complex global supply chain of hardware packaging assets into an IoT network. Through this integration of hardware and software, ecoSPIRITS is able to use data and automation to deliver real-time commercial insights, traceability and supply chain security, and unique performance features such as the patent-pending Verified Sustainable Refill™ technology. Having completed the first phase of development of CircularONE, ecoSPIRITS is now embarking on an intensive second phase of software development, which will see new features and capabilities released over the course of 2023.
Tan joins the ecoSPIRITS Board of Directors as an independent board member, with a mandate to mentor ecoSPIRITS’ CEO Paul Gabie and newly-appointed Tang in the development of its software vision. Tan currently sits on the Chief Information Officer (CIO) advisory boards of Gartner and the Wall Street Journal, and has spent many years working for PwC in various leadership roles. He brings to ecoSPIRITS a wealth of experience in technology, AI/ML, and cybersecurity. Tan currently holds the role of CIO and Senior Vice President for Technology at Coupa, the California-based, NASDAQ-listed global SaaS company for business spend management. In 2022, he was a Bay Area’s ‘CIO of the Year’ at the ORBIE Awards for his outstanding leadership and innovation. He is a Certified Public Accountant, and holds a Masters in IT and Bachelors in Accounting.
“ecoSPIRITS’ mission to end single use glass by transitioning the spirits and wine industry to circular packaging technologies is an inspiring one. Developing an integrated platform powered by IoT and data is an immense undertaking, but one well worth pursuing. A future where we waste less and save more is possible. I look forward to working closely with my fellow board members and the leadership team at ecoSPIRITS.”
“Our Intelligent Circular roadmap will help us, and our customers, deliver circular solutions at unprecedented scale. I am delighted to welcome Eric to our board as ecoSPIRITS’ navigates the challenges and opportunities of building a global Intelligent Circular network. His wealth of technology leadership will be invaluable in helping our board and leadership team make smarter strategic decisions as we expand our investment in this all-important roadmap.”
In the newly-created role of Chief Technology Officer, Tang will be responsible for overall product and technology development at ecoSPIRITS. Leading a team of hardware and software engineers, Tang will take charge of bringing to life ecoSPIRITS’ vision of a global Intelligent Circular network of IoT hardware powered by software and data. In this role, he will oversee ecoSPIRITS’ entire product portfolio, including its ecoPLANT™, ecoTOTE™, SmartPour™, SmartKiosk™ and CircularONE™ technologies. In his new role, one of Tang’s first tasks will be to expand ecoSPIRITS’ team of hardware, IoT and software engineers in both Singapore and Shanghai. Tang has spent his 20-year career on the forefront of IoT and software development and innovation. Prior to joining ecoSPIRITS, Tang was most recently a founding member and Head of Engineering at Singapore-based SaaS logistics start-up Spares CNX, where he built and led a software development team of 30 engineers. Previously, Tang held senior software development and IoT leadership roles at Amazon Web Services, Accenture, Intel Corporation and GE Aviation. Throughout his career, he has focused on digital transformation strategies, with a specialization in IoT software platforms.
“Over the past few years IoT has become one of the most important technologies of the 21st century and I have dedicated my career towards understanding and developing ways in which the physical world of products meets the digital world. I am delighted therefore to be able to use my experience and passion about future technology to work with ecoSPIRITS, a company that is dedicated to the sustainable future of our planet.”
“Over the past four years, ecoSPIRITS has built an industry-leading hardware product portfolio. We have also completed the first phase of development of CircularONE, which has now deployed with some of our largest customers. Over the next three years, we will be investing heavily in software, IoT and data integration to power our network. Derek’s extensive technology development and leadership experience, and his specialisation in IoT are the perfect fit for this next chapter in ecoSPIRITS’ journey.”
The ecoSPIRITS circular packaging technology is now operating in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Americas, with network coverage on pace to expand to 25 countries by early 2023. For media inquiries or general information on ecoSPIRITS, you may contact Sonya Hook, Senior PR Manager at Sonya.Hook@ecospirits.global.
About ecoSPIRITS
ecoSPIRITS is a circular economy technology company that has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste distribution technology for premium spirits and wine. Our patent-pending closed loop system nearly eliminates all packaging waste in the supply chain. By dramatically reducing packaging and transport, ecoSPIRITS provides both a powerful cost advantage and a transformative carbon footprint reduction. Founded in Singapore in 2018, the ecoSPIRITS technology is now available in more than 15 countries across Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas. More than 1,000 leading bars, restaurants, hotels and retailers have adopted the technology, including Michelin-starred restaurants, World’s 50 Best and Asia’s 50 Best bars and iconic hotels. ecoSPIRITS is now rapidly building a global network of closed loop service, with coverage to grow to 25 countries worldwide by early 2023. Together with our brand partners, importers, distributors, wholesalers, venues, and retailers, we are already making a difference. Each year, ecoSPIRITS and our partners are eliminating hundreds of tons of single use glass waste, planting tens of thousands of trees, and inspiring others to change.