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N.V. announced its partnership with the , aimed at showcasing fiber bottles made from Dry Molded Fiber (DMF) technology. Avantium’s plant-based polymer polyethylene furanoate (PEF) will be integrated into the DMF bottle process, enhancing the barrier performance and sustainability of the bottles.

The Bottle Collective was launched in 2023 by PA Consulting and PulPac, a Swedish R&D and intellectual property company behind the proprietary production process of DMF. The technology uses renewable pulp and cellulose resources to produce low-cost, fiber-based packaging. The process produces lower CO₂ emissions than conventional plastic and conventional wet molding options while also reducing water use. The Bottle Collective has already developed the first functioning prototype bottles. Brand partners, including Diageo, Opella and Haleon, have also joined the Bottle Collective to continue developing and scaling fiber bottles.

Avantium will provide PEF to the Bottle Collective for injection molding and blowing liners for the fiber bottles. According to the company, the barrier properties of PEF will protect the taste and fizziness of the packaged drinks and lead to a longer shelf life. PEF also has higher mechanical strength than conventional plastics, enabling thinner packaging and thereby reducing the amount of material required.

“Together with global brand partners such as Opella, Diageo and Haleon, the Bottle Collective can fast-track the development of world-first Dry Molded Fiber bottles. Our polymer PEF can play a crucial role in enhancing the sustainability and performance of these bottles, offering superior barrier properties and mechanical strength. This partnership aligns perfectly with Avantium's mission to create innovative, plant-based solutions that contribute to a circular economy," says Bineke Posthumus, director of ´óÏó´«Ã½ development at Avantium.