London-based cleantech start-up Again, which harnesses robotics and automation to allow brands to reuse packaging, has secured £2.55m in pre-seed funding.
This funding will enable the company to launch a pilot programme of its CleanCell system with Budweiser Brewing Group, Diageo, and Biffa Waste Management Service.
The start-up is working to develop a decentralised network of automated micro-cleaning facilities which enable businesses to reuse packaging. Its CleanCells are also designed to provide data on both packaging inventory and potential cost savings.
According to Again, its CleanCells use 76% less water and 90% less energy, while being able to clean thousands of packaging each month. Its technology also means that it costs the same as single-use packaging for smaller brands, Again added.
Matt Kennedy, founder and CEO, Again, explained: “Reusable packaging is the future but today it’s prohibitively expensive for brands. We’re in the early stages of building a circular economy and we see our role being the infrastructure that underpins the packaging aspect of this on a mass scale.
“This can only be done with buy-in from across the value chain and we’re excited to be working in partnership with renowned brands.”
This funding round was led by Eka Ventures, with additionally investment coming from Maersk Growth.
Jon Coker, general partner, and founder at Eka Ventures, added: “Again’s focus on using the existing logistical infrastructure and using technology and data to make reusable packaging as simple and affordable as single-use is exactly the kind of company we look to back at Eka.”
