Heineken Returnable Bottle

WhatsApp Campaign

WhatsApp CampaignSustainabilityRecycling

The Challenge

In 2024, Heineken South Africa deepened its commitment to sustainability with the launch of a returnable glass bottle system — a smart initiative aimed at reducing packaging waste and promoting a circular economy. To bring this to life, Heineken partnered with Techsys to design a campaign that would drive bottle returns, incentivise eco-conscious behaviour and build long-term consumer engagement.

Encourage Bottle Returns

Drive consumers to return glass bottles at participating outlets

Promote Sustainability

Build awareness around circular economy and environmental responsibility

Consumer Engagement

Create long-term engagement and brand loyalty through rewards

Heineken Returnable Bottle Challenge

Our Solution

Consumers were encouraged to return their Heineken bottles at participating outlets. Each return was logged via a custom-built WhatsApp bot that tracked submissions and rewarded participants with instant prizes and draw entries.

WhatsApp Integration

Custom-built WhatsApp bot for seamless submission tracking and prize distribution

Instant Rewards

Immediate gratification with instant prizes and entry into larger prize draws

Outlet Network

Strategic partnership with participating retail locations for convenient bottle returns

Massive Impact, Minimal Friction

The campaign was a resounding success in driving both sustainability and engagement at scale.

4M+
Bottles Returned
Major environmental milestone
1.45M
WhatsApp Entries
Processed via custom bot
458,975
Prizes Awarded
To loyal recyclers
150,343
Consumer Opt-ins
For future Heineken updates
"The Heineken Returnable Bottle campaign exemplifies how digital innovation can drive real-world sustainability. By leveraging WhatsApp's accessibility and combining it with instant rewards, we created a seamless experience that motivated consumers to participate in the circular economy. The impressive return rates and engagement levels demonstrate that when technology meets purpose, the impact can be transformative."

Neil Hutchinson

Head of Key Accounts

Technology Behind Success

Advanced WhatsApp API integration with custom reward systems and real-time tracking.

WhatsApp Business API

Custom bot development for automated interactions and prize management

Real-time Tracking

Live monitoring of bottle returns and reward distribution

Reward Management

Automated prize distribution and entry tracking system

Data Analytics

Comprehensive reporting on campaign performance and user engagement

Outlet Integration

Seamless connection with participating retail locations

Mobile Optimisation

Responsive design for perfect mobile user experience

Ready to Create Impact?

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