Refilled Expands After Stopping 440,000 Plastic Bottles Reaching Landfill

Sydney-based climate tech startup Refilled has marked its first year of operation with a string of major milestones, including expansion into Singapore and new clients across tech and advertising sectors.

Refilled’s drink dispenser, known as The Refiller, has been installed in 42 workplaces since the company’s launch, preventing more than 440,000 single-use plastic bottles from entering landfill. The startup aims to stop 100 million plastic bottles going to waste by 2030.

Its client list includes Meta, Uber, Docusign and WPP. Locally, Refilled also counts a major Australian supermarket and one of the world’s largest investment banks among its users.

Refiller Rollout And Office Trends

The Refiller is designed to eliminate the need for plastic packaging in workplace beverages. The system allows staff to pour a range of still and sparkling drinks directly into their own reusable bottles, reducing waste and simplifying office logistics.

Refilled’s technology offers a clear operational advantage over conventional vending machines, which require frequent restocking and ongoing supplier management. The company says its machines can store up to 1000 times more drinks than standard systems.

The machines are being used as part of return-to-office incentives, with employers offering free Refiller drinks to improve workplace conditions. Cost savings and sustainability goals are two other drivers behind the adoption.

Eva Milbank, Office Manager at advertising agency WPP, said the Refiller has supported their internal environmental targets while easing her day-to-day workload.

“Having a Refiller has directly supported our sustainability initiatives,” she said. “It’s saving us money and I’m spending much less time ordering, stocking and lifting heavy cases of drinks.”

Singapore Expansion

Refilled has launched in Singapore, with its first installation at The Working Capitol, a coworking space with 800 members.

Ben Gattie, Co-founder and Chief Executive at The Working Capitol, said the initiative aligns with the Singapore Green Plan 2030.

“With sustainable partners like Refilled, who champion the circular economy, we support Singapore’s goal to reduce landfill waste by 30 per cent by 2030,” Gattie said.

“As neighbourhood builders, we believe that by shaping habits at the workplace, we spark a ripple effect across and shape a better, more sustainable city.”

Scaling Growth

Refilled is now preparing to raise new funding to support its international growth and is seeking a local distribution partner in Singapore.

Founder Ryan Nelson said interest from global companies had helped validate the startup’s mission.

“Our first 40 customers include some of the biggest and most recognisable companies in the world,” he said. “Now our machines are proudly displayed in their headquarters, encouraging the return-to-office movement and sustainable consumption.”

Nelson said the appeal of the Refiller lies in its ability to deliver sustainability benefits while improving employee experience and cutting costs.

Refilled is based in the Blue Mountains, where the machines are manufactured. Its drinks platform allows for flavoured still and sparkling drinks with optional caffeine, vitamin and electrolyte boosters.

The startup is targeting the broader APAC region as it scales. It positions itself as a climate tech and manufacturing company focused on replacing traditional beverage systems with lower-impact alternatives.

Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Nick Ross