Pulpex, based in the UK, was created as an R&D collaboration between Diageo and Pilot Lite Group, later forming as an independent company in 2020 led by Scott Winston, Sandy Westwater and Simon Haworth.
Pulpex originated from a need to seek alternatives to glass bottles for beverages, due to sustainability concerns and restrictions on glass at outdoor events. Whilst exploring fibre-based packaging as a safer, eco-friendly solution, the team developed a patented process for creating PET-free fibre bottles from wood fibres for a broad range of FMCG category including cosmetics, health and beauty, homecare, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and liquid food stuffs.
In 2024, Pulpex began to scale globally with a mission to replace plastic and glass with renewable, recyclable packaging that dramatically lowers carbon footprint. The company is currently building a full-scale production plant in the UK and securing manufacturing partnerships globally.
Pulpex has developed a truly innovative packaging solution: a paper bottle using a patented wet-moulded fibre technique to form a robust, single-piece shell.
Additionally, Pulpex has developed a patented internal coating that provides a waterproof barrier without relying on plastic, replacing another packaging element that is typically achieved with plastic-based materials.
Pulpex bottles are recyclable through existing paper waste streams, with effective and at scale recycling infrastructures. They are also designed to integrate seamlessly with existing filling infrastructure, enabling rapid adoption.
Scott Winston, Sandy Westwater and Simon Haworth, co-founders of Pulpex said, “Delivering real impact at scale in sustainable packaging requires focus, collaboration, and shared ambition. L’AcceleratOR’s clear call to action, and its recognition that meaningful change can’t happen without strong partners, aligned perfectly with Pulpex’s values. Joining the programme was an obvious step for us to work together with L’Oréal to drive change faster and at scale.”