ecoSPIRITS has teamed up with Hoste Cocktails and Apologue Liqueurs to launch Chicago’s first partner-operated ecoPLANT™, which will maximize the sustainability impact of the producer’s spirits packaged in ecoTOTE™ format, alongside commercial benefits. This activity represents the start of a new relationship between ecoSPIRITS and the Chicago-based producer, with a number of Hoste Cocktails now packaged in ecoTOTE format for distribution to bars across the region.
Big Star, a pillar concept of the major Chicago-based One Off Hospitality group, is the launch partner for the first ecoTOTEs in Chicago. Big Star’s three sites will be the first in Chicago to take spirits in ecoTOTE format, and The Publican’s location in O’Hare International Airport will carry the Espresso Martini in ecoTOTEs as well. Additionally, Chicago hospitality group 16″ on Center (160C) will pilot the ecoTOTEs at both The Salt Shed and Moneygun. Hoste plans to expand into additional accounts across the Chicagoland area this quarter.
Chicago is home to one of the country’s most vibrant and influential hospitality scenes, with a deep bench of bar talent, award-winning venues, and forward-thinking operators. The adoption of ecoSPIRITS by local industry leaders, such as Hoste and One Off Hospitality, signals a growing commitment within this community to advance sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of premium spirits. The new ecoPLANT has been installed at Hoste’s production and event space in Chicago’s Pilsen neighbourhood, so that spirits can be dispensed into 1.75L ecoTOTEs directly from the production floor. Use of the ecoSPIRITS system will lead to an average reduction of 60-90% in the carbon emissions footprint related to premium spirits packaging and distribution, as well as a significant reduction in glass and cardboard packaging.
Co-founders, Jordan Tepper and Robert Haynes, started Apologue six years ago, and soon after branched into premium bottled cocktails. The company now has two ‘arms’ of the business: Apologue Liqueurs, which are crafted from non-GMO ingredients; and Hoste Cocktails, a line of premium bottled cocktails. The team will package several drinks in ecoSPIRITS’ ecoTOTE format, including Hoste house spirits (vodka, bourbon, rye whiskey, triple sec, and two Destilado de Agave options), and a number of cocktails from the Hoste portfolio, starting with the Espresso Martini.
Jordan Tepper, co-founder, Hoste Cocktails and Apologue Liqueurs, said: “Partnering with ecoSPIRITS is a meaningful step forward – not just for Hoste, but for the future of Chicago’s drinks industry. We are proud to help set a new standard for sustainability behind the bar.”
Zdenek Kastanek, managing director, ecoSPIRITS North America, said: “ecoSPIRITS’ ability to deliver on commercial and sustainability benefits, combined with the strengths of “local hero” distillers, creates a huge opportunity to drive the transition to circular technology and eliminate event more single use packaging. We are delighted with this partnership and with the initial interest and early success to date in Chicago.”