Innovation

Refresh Juice co. sells their juices in glass, reusable bottles which can be brought back to the store for a 1$ refund. The store then cleans and reuses the bottles to promote sustainability and reduce waste. Customers can also keep the bottle and reuse it how they please. By partnering with local companies they reduce pollution created from transporting produce and creating jobs and economic growth in Guelph. They also support sustainable growing practices through the use of local, organic products.

They support another UN SDG by using a cold press technique while making their products, many nutrients that are typically lost in juice making processes are preserved. Their juices and cleanses are made of fresh and healthy ingredients that contribute to Canada's food guides recommended fruit and vegetables servings. This helps promote a healthy living and contributes to UN goal 3.

Government of Canada. (2017). Canada's Food Guide. Retrieved from Government of Canada Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canada-food-guides.html

Inspiration

Co-owner of Refresh Juice Co., Amanda states that the idea of using reusable bottles and sustainable practices "was never even a question" and "always part of the plan." The two founders got their start in farmers markets prior to opening their own store in downtown Guelph. Even in the early start of their company, their sense of purpose was inspired by a desire to help the environment and promote healthy lifestyles.

Overall impact

The reusable bottle innovation helps reduce the impact that consumers have on the environment by reducing waste in landfills. This is a long-term solution for the greater Guelph area's waste control. By using local companies, they are fostering economic growth by creating and sustaining jobs in the Guelph community.

Due to the fact that they use local partners, they cut down on exhaust created when transporting goods in the short term. The local farmers they receive their produce from use sustainable farming practice that ensure environmental security in the long term.

By encouraging customers to consume their products they are helping them live a more healthy lifestyle. This promotes healthy living and helps to decline the obesity rate in Ontario.

Business benefit

Using reusable bottles in their business plan does not create profit for the company. Amanda states that she pays $1 for the bottle and only charges customers $1 for their use, "I don't make any money from it."

Despite not making profit from this, customers may feel better about purchasing Refresh Juice co. above other companies because of the benefits it provides to the environment. This may result in more customers choosing to shop at Refresh.

Refresh Juice Co.'s employees and owners also receive the benefit of well-being and a feeling of accomplishment for implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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Social and environmental benefit

Refresh Juice Co.'s innovations benefit society by creating and sustaining jobs in the community and by keeping their customers healthy. This cuts down on healthcare costs and ensures healthy consumers.

They benefit the environment by reducing their waste and the communities landfill. Their local partners help the environment through the use of their sustainable farming practices and cutting down on transportation costs.

Interview

Amanda, Co-Owner

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