About
Initially supported by a group of SWR retailers, the Accord has since welcomed participants from across the value chain – from production to retail. This expansion underscores the importance of addressing glass bottle weight throughout the entire supply chain.
Participants commit to reducing the average weight of their 750ml still wine bottles to below 420g by the end of 2026. The Accord was based on in-depth research undertaken by SWR in 2022-23. That paper is available for download in the resources section below.
Why it matters
Glass bottles significantly contribute to wine’s carbon footprint. Our research indicates that roughly half of the carbon impact of wine can be attributed to the bottle. By reducing bottle weight, we can substantially lower this impact. Our findings also demonstrate that bottle weight has little to no meaningful influence on consumer purchasing decisions—challenging a common misconception that favours heavier bottles. Light-weighting wine bottles therefore presents a clear opportunity to reduce emissions across the industry.
Our goals
Remove Heavy Bottles
Eliminate the heaviest bottles as quickly as possible
Light-weighting Own Brands
Reduce the weight of own-brand wine bottles by the end of 2025.
Collaborate for Change
Work with the entire supply chain to implement these changes.
Our approach
Each BWA member will introduce phased reductions and report progress every six months. SWR will also support producers and bottlers in accessing lighter bottles and adapting their processes. Challenges will be addressed collectively to ensure effective change.
Benefits to participants
Demonstrate measurable action
on reducing the single largest component of wine’s carbon footprint.
Visibility and publicity
through SWR communications, showcasing participants’ leadership in sustainability efforts.
Access to data
on lightweight bottle availability across regions to streamline supply chain decisions.
Share best practices
and learn from peers on successful implementation of the Accord.
Regulatory compliance support
to meet current and future packaging and carbon footprint regulations.
Looking Ahead
Reducing bottle weight to below 420g is just the beginning. SWR will explore further reductions and additional measures to decrease the carbon impact of wine packaging, including lightweight sparkling wine bottles, alternative packaging, and bulk shipping.
Participants
Alko Oy
Systembolaget
Whole Foods Market
Naked Wines
Berry Bros. & Rudd
Lidl GB
Waitrose & Partners
Direct Wines
Virgin Wines
The Wine Society
Terra Vitis
AS Vinmonopolet
Tesco
Endeavour Group Limited
Catena Institute of Wine
Resources
Reports & documents
Access our comprehensive reports and official accord documents to understand the impact and progress of the Bottle Weight Accord:
Webinars & podcasts
Explore our podcast and webinar recordings to dive deeper into discussions on the Bottle Weight Accord and hear from industry experts:
Take action
Want to be part of this industry-leading commitment? Learn more about the Bottle Weight Accord or join us today by contacting info@swroundtable.org.
