AWS partners pour efforts into Britvic sustainability strategy

Green Custard joins forces with other AWS partners to help develop software for drinks giant’s eco-friendly beverage dispenser

Soft drinks maker Britvic has turned to AWS partner Green Custard to develop the IoT software for a new range of drinks dispensers aimed at cutting single use plastic usage.

The new dispensers are designed to allow consumers in large supermarkets, large businesses and other high footfall locations to refill their reusable water vessels with flavoured drinks. Alongside other AWS partners, Green Custard has developed the software that underpins the dispenser's smart tap, which is operable via touchscreen technology.

The scheme forms part of Britvic's long-term sustainability strategy to reduce refrigeration, transport and manufacturing costs which translates into a lower carbon footprint across the product life cycle.

Although channel partners are under growing pressure to cut their own emissions, they are also uniquely positioned to help customers cut emissions via the technology they offer. Microsoft recently released a report outlining five ways its partners can help customers decarbonise, while Gartner recently highlighted three emerging environmental sustainability technologies it believes will see early mainstream adoption by 2025.

Using a touchscreen-controlled interface built using AWS mobile, cloud and IoT capabilities, customers of Britvic's new dispensers can place their reusable water vessels under the flavour tap, select their preferred flavour.

Britvic said this will remove the need for a single-use plastic bottle the drink would have usually been sold in.

"The drinks industry has historically been heavily reliant on single use plastic and other non-eco-friendly processes," said Jonathan Custance, who co-founded Cambridge-based AWS Advanced Consulting partner Green Custard in 2009.

"With our deep knowledge of AWS IoT services, combined with our expertise in embedded software and mobile app development we've been able to support Britvic in their drive to introduce sustainable working practises by developing IoT products quickly and cost effectively."