Finland-based service station chain ABC is set to introduce all new serving trays at its restaurant outlets this year.
The chain sells millions of meals and more than ten million cups of coffee annually.
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The old trays will initially be replaced at restaurants located at 20 ABC service stations. They will be re-used in concrete roadblocks to support traffic safety.
SOK development manager Teemu Vehniäinen said: “We wanted this change to promote the circular economy, support local design and ensure that the trays were locally produced.
“Initially, we will introduce around 10,000 new trays made from renewable materials to ABC stations and recycle the old ones. We see that the change is already a significant circular economy action on a national scale.
“The new trays have a special design that allows the customers to place their mobile phones conveniently on the tray while having a break. After all, mobile phones should be used only during breaks, not while driving on the road.”
ABC noted that the new trays have been designed by Magisso and are made of wood-based UPM Formi composite to enhance the customer experience.
UPM business development director Mikko Lassila said: “Biocomposite is suitable for injection moulded and extruded products where a soft and warm feel with the appearance of renewable origin is desired.
“Use of wood-based biocomposite significantly reduces the carbon footprint of consumer products compared to non-renewable materials.”
