When Aldi approached us with a challenge to repurpose 16,000 discontinued store baskets from its Irish stores, the Linney Regenerate team saw endless possibilities. Aldi, known for its commitment to sustainability, wanted to find creative ways to upcycle these plastic baskets in line with its ethos of reducing waste and embracing a circular economy. Our team responded with a series of innovative concepts that breathed new life into these old materials, offering practical solutions with minimal environmental impact.
We explored several avenues for repurposing the baskets, each with a different focus. One exciting option was transforming the baskets into in-store fixtures – such as seating or recycling bins – demonstrating Aldi’s sustainability initiatives directly to customers. These fixtures would provide practical benefits while reinforcing the stores’ eco-friendly credentials.
Another idea involved turning the baskets into outdoor furniture, which could be placed in Aldi stores or within local communities. By creating benches, planters or picnic tables, we helped reimagine these discarded materials into something that benefits both Aldi and the wider public.
Additionally, we considered repurposing the baskets into middle-aisle products or items that could be sold for charity. By grinding down the plastic and remoulding it into new forms, we envisioned a range of upcycled products such as keyrings, plant pots or quirky garden accessories. Each item would not only highlight Aldi’s environmental commitment but also serve as a physical reminder of the company’s recycling efforts.
From in-store fittings to outdoor furniture and charity products, this project exemplified how waste materials could be given a fresh purpose. By upcycling Aldi’s discontinued baskets, our team offered creative, sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact while reinforcing Aldi’s ethos of sustainability. The Aldi baskets project is yet another example of how the Linney Regenerate team continues to innovate with a strong focus on sustainability.
