Transforming Consumption: Unilever Refill Store Partnership Launches SKUBU in Johannesburg

The Unilever Refill Store Partnership with Sonke introduces SKUBU, a smart refill store model reducing waste and lowering consumer costs.

South African startup Sonke launched SKUBU in Johannesburg to provide affordable essentials and tackle the country’s growing plastic pollution problem.

Plastic waste remains a major concern in Southern Africa. Studies show South Africa generates 35% of the region’s marine plastic pollution.

A Smart Refill Model for Local Communities

In partnership with TRANSFORM, Sonke built SKUBU to promote refill culture and reshape consumer behavior in underserved communities.

Unilever Refill Store Partnership plays a key role by integrating trusted Unilever brands like Handy Andy and Sunlight into SKUBU’s system.

This collaboration allows customers to refill containers at reduced costs while avoiding single-use packaging that pollutes land and water.

Shoppers can save up to 60% on essentials. They simply bring their containers, refill from smart machines, and pay less.

Tech-Driven Refill Innovation with Real-Time Support

SKUBU includes IoT-enabled features such as automated inventory tracking, live sales data, and real-time stock alerts for efficient restocking.

These features help store owners respond faster to community needs, improving access to affordable goods with no excess plastic waste.

Additionally, SKUBU employs trained ambassadors to assist shoppers with using refill stations and understanding the environmental benefits of the model.

By combining digital innovation and personal support, Sonke creates a practical and human-centered approach to sustainable shopping experiences.

Driving Lasting Change with Cross-Industry Collaboration

TRANSFORM supports Sonke through funding, expertise, and business integration. It helps build infrastructure needed for sustainable business models like SKUBU.

Eben de Jongh, Founder of Sonke, emphasized accessibility. He believes refill models must align with the daily routines of communities.

Angela Kow from Unilever highlighted how the Unilever Refill Store Partnership empowers local enterprises while addressing global plastic challenges simultaneously.

By removing entry barriers, the model encourages sustainable behavior and makes the refill process easier, faster, and more approachable.

The refill store is located at Chuma Mall in Diepsloot, Johannesburg, marking the first step in a larger refill movement.

TRANSFORM’s Mission to Support Refillable Business Models

TRANSFORM combines grant funding with strategic support to help enterprises scale plastic-free systems in Africa and Asia efficiently.

By supporting refill startups like Sonke, TRANSFORM champions innovation, inclusivity, and access to cleaner, more sustainable shopping solutions.

Their mission focuses on long-term change through cross-sector collaboration, digital integration, and support for locally rooted business models.

Discover How Refills Can Change the Future

Experience the impact of the Unilever Refill Store Partnership at SKUBU and join the movement toward smarter, sustainable consumption.

Explore more sustainability breakthroughs and innovation news on this website.