Greene King, the UK’s leading pub retailer and brewer, is bringing back its impactful Tub2Pub campaign in 2025, aiming to recycle plastic confectionery and cracker tubs while supporting cancer patients. Running from January 1 to February 16, the initiative allows customers to drop off clean, empty plastic tubs at one of 1,600 participating pubs across the UK.

Promoting Recycling and Sustainability

Tub2Pub targets polypropylene plastic tubs, which are often not accepted in curbside recycling programs, preventing them from ending up in landfills. Since its inception five years ago, the campaign has collected approximately 230,000 tubs, equating to 26,253 kg of plastic, and raised £24,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The recycled plastic is processed into granulated material by DCW Polymers and repurposed into sustainable products such as picnic benches and dog agility equipment. Another recycling partner, co-cre8, collaborates with Greene King to ensure the program's smooth execution.

A Simple Way to Make a Big Impact

Greene King’s Group Supply Chain Director, Vance Fairman-Smith, highlighted the program's growing success:

“Tub2Pub is becoming a key part of the festive calendar now which is so good to see. Every year we see more and more people bringing their tubs to our pubs – this is really positive for both the environment and for charity. The simplicity of the scheme makes it the success it is, and we are hoping for another record-breaking year in 2025. The appetite for recycling is becoming a part of everyday life and we are delighted to help our customers do their bit.”

Supporting Cancer Patients

In addition to its environmental benefits, Tub2Pub contributes proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support, making a tangible difference in the lives of cancer patients. Nicola Keith, Acting Head of Corporate Partnerships at Macmillan, stated:

“Every year we are delighted by the efforts of Greene King customers supporting Tub2Pub. To think people can be enjoying their festive sweets and crackers, then by simply taking the empty tubs to their local pub, it can be recycled and the proceeds help someone who is living with cancer. It really does make such a difference to people – what could have ended up in landfill has such a value to someone.”

As the campaign gears up for 2025, Greene King hopes to surpass previous records, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and community support.