In-store recycling that drives foot traffic and ESG impact

Turning hard-to-recycle consumer waste into a retail engagement opportunity

A national health and beauty retailer partnered with TerraCycle to launch a large-scale collection program for medicine blister packs, bridging the gap between ESG goals and retail growth. Medicine blister packs are a complex multi-material waste stream that cannot be processed by traditional recycling services but are commonly disposed of in household waste. This retailer sought a way to provide a convenient disposal solution for customers that would support their corporate sustainability targets and encourage physical store visits and in-store engagement.

Our solution and results:

• Strategic accessibility: Placed dedicated collection points in-store, making it easy for consumers to integrate recycling into their routine shopping trips.
• Collaborative funding: Leveraged brand-funded sponsorships to scale the program and ensure its long-term viability.
• Integrated merchandising: Utilized in-store signage and marketing to educate consumers on the recyclability of blister packs and promote the program.

The program delivered measurable impact for both the planet and the business:

• Operational success: Achieved a double-digit recycling rate relative to sales volume over several years.
• Commercial growth: Generated a documented increase in foot traffic, leading to incremental sales as customers visited stores specifically to use the recycling hubs.
• ESG leadership: Strengthened the retailer’s position as a community leader in waste reduction and corporate responsibility.