A new kind of vending machine is offering Filipinos a chance to clean up not just their homes, but also their habits.
Sabon Express, a local refill company founded during the pandemic, officially launched its Blue Box soap and detergent vending machine at the BJMPMBAI Corporate Center on Saturday, July 5, as part of the organization’s 24th anniversary celebration.
The project has drawn backing from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the EcoWaste Coalition, both of which advocate for science-driven, sustainable consumer practices.
Touted as the first fully automated refill station in the country for cleaning products, the Blue Box aims to cut down on single-use plastic packaging by encouraging consumers to bring their own bottles.
Each machine dispenses dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, and fabric conditioner in small increments—P5 gets you 50ml.
“Before, I was just like any other consumer,” said Sabon Express founder and CEO Mellany Zambrano. “But when I realized the plastic I used could last 400 to 500 years on earth, I knew I had to do something.”
That realization, coupled with her events business shutting down during the pandemic, pushed Zambrano to start exploring refill-based systems. She began with manual stations and slowly developed them into motorized units.
The current Blue Box version is automated, user-friendly, and consumes minimal electricity. A full eight-hour day of operation costs just around P130.
What sets Sabon Express apart, Zambrano said, is the hygiene and structure behind each refill.
“There are already existing businesses that offer the same refilling service,” she said. “But we wanted a system that’s clean, scalable, and value for money.”
Each machine is equipped with real-time stock monitoring and an optional solar-powered setup for outdoor deployment.
Through a smart portal, Sabon Express can respond to malfunctions or refill needs immediately. Franchisees, meanwhile, get trained on how to operate and maintain the units.
Zambrano also said the products inside the Blue Box aren’t inferior. “Our formulations are developed with DOST chemists and licensed chemical engineers,” she said.
“We use the same raw materials as the leading brands, but we don’t have to pass on marketing or supermarket costs to the consumer.”
One liter of refill from the Blue Box can save up to seven plastic sachets from being thrown away. While finished products in plastic bottles are still available to introduce the brand to new users, the company says its main focus is to make refills mainstream.
“We’re not here to compete with big soap brands,” Zambrano said. “We’re here to give people another option—one that’s practical, affordable, and better for the environment.”
