Olyns collaborates with Mars Wrigley for collection and recycling of rigid plastics

Olyns, a leader in innovative recycling technologies, is collaborating with Mars Wrigley, a manufacturer of treats and snacks, to launch the Sweet Rewards Challenge, a new approach to the collection of rigid plastic candy and gum containers.

Beginning this week, individuals in Northern California who deposit qualifying candy containers in an Olyns Reverse Vending Machine will have a chance to win thousands of dollars in rewards.

"Packaging waste is a challenge that requires new and innovative solutions. At Mars, we're committed to contributing to a circular plastics economy where no packaging becomes waste," Justin Comes, vice president of R&D, Mars Wrigley North America, said in the announcement. "We're excited to work with Olyns on this innovative approach to the collection and recycling of rigid plastics."

Olyns' plug-and-play RVM Cubes feature a 65-inch HD video display, offering a uniquely sustainable way for advertisers to reach consumers in-store. During the Sweet Rewards Challenge, in addition to ads and sustainability messaging, the screen will display colorful slot machine images and "winner" announcements every time a recycler wins a reward.

"Rigid plastic containers, like those used for gum and candy, may slip through the cracks of traditional recycling systems because they're just too small. And because states don't offer redemption value, there is limited incentive to recycle them," Philip Stanger, co-founder and CEO of Olyns, added in the announcement. "We're changing that by combining convenient recycling with the potential to win big rewards. Every time you deposit a candy container in one of our RVM Cubes, you'll earn points and a chance to win. We've set it up like a slot machine, but instead of inserting a coin to play, you deposit an empty candy container."

The Sweet Rewards Challenge will run at select retailers in the San Francisco Bay Area for a limited time beginning October 25, 2022.