Schulz Organic Dairy is releasing a new Australian-made returnable glass milk bottle in Victoria from 1 July, marking the return of bottle production to Australia after nine years.
Produced in South Australia in partnership with Orora Group, the bottle is based on the bespoke design created by Contain Design in 2018. The refreshed packaging features branding by Swear Words and printing by Cutler Graphics. The company said making the bottle in Australia also makes it available for other industries to adopt in their own circular economy systems.
Founder Simon Schulz said bringing production onshore had been a long-term goal.
“From the beginning, we hoped one day to bring production of our bottle back to Australia. It’s been a long journey with plenty of setbacks along the way, but we never lost sight of that vision. To finally see an Australian-made bottle on shelves is something we’re incredibly proud of.”
Schulz Organic Dairy first introduced organic milk in returnable and refillable glass bottles at farmers markets in 2017. A community crowdfunding campaign in 2018 attracted 1,182 supporters who contributed more than $106,000, enabling the product to launch into retail stores the following year.
The company said its reusable packaging system has prevented more than 62 tonnes of plastic from entering landfill since the retail launch.
Schulz said, “This achievement has only been possible because of the support of our customers, retail partners and the wider community. We’re grateful to everyone who has backed the journey from the very beginning.”
