Nespresso puts aluminium at the centre of capsule strategy, ends paper-based collection

Nespresso will shift its focus to its aluminium range from paper-based capsules, following customer feedback on shelf life and the overall product experience.

The Nestlé subsidiary said the paper capsules were introduced as a pilot project to give customers another option. The company said its experience showed that aluminium provides better protection for freshly roasted coffee.

Nespresso said, “Our experience has reinforced more than ever that aluminium is the best option for optimally protecting the high quality of our freshly roasted coffee all the way to the cup.” 

The company added, “For this reason, we have decided to discontinue the Paper-Based Collection and focus our efforts on our aluminium range going forward.”

To learn the future of aluminium in the packaging industry, explore our report "ALuminium in Packaging: Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics"

Paper capsules see limited run  

Nespresso launched the paper capsules in 2023 after three years of development. The compostable capsules contain 82 per cent paper packaging and were tested in 14 European markets.

In Switzerland, the capsules are expected to remain available in some Nespresso boutiques for about another month, depending on existing stocks.

Nespresso recommended using the paper capsules within four weeks after opening the pack. The company said its aluminium wrappers can protect coffee from light, air and moisture for up to a year.

Explore a wide range of aluminium packaging and recycled aluminium products from global suppliers on AL Biz.

Focus on aluminium recycling

Nespresso said the decision does not represent a step backwards on sustainability.

A life-cycle analysis commissioned by the company found that the carbon footprints of the two capsule types were almost the same. A small cup of espresso had a carbon footprint of 79 grams of CO₂ equivalent with the paper capsule and 81 grams with the aluminium capsule.

The company now plans to focus more on aluminium recycling. It aims to increase the number of capsules disposed of through standard recycling schemes.

Unlock key insights from industry experts on aluminium's applications in end-use with our magazine - End-user Revolution: Aluminium’s Impact on Modern Living

In France, 80 per cent of the population can already recycle Nespresso capsules through standard recycling schemes. The rate is 73 per cent in Switzerland, with the company aiming to increase it further.

The decision will end Nespresso’s Paper-Based Collection, while the company continues to focus on aluminium capsules and their recycling.