Study shows reusable packaging's economic viability at scale

Sushi box credit Tim Reckmann CCBY20
Sustainability

A recent study by Zero Waste Europe and Searious Business reveals that reusable packaging offers a financially sustainable alternative to single-use packaging under specific conditions.

The comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, titled "The economics of reuse systems – a study into what makes a financially viable reusable packaging system," conducted by Searious Business, identifies three crucial performance indicators for establishing financially successful reuse systems: return rates, average use cycles, and retention time.

The study focuses on three open-loop packaging categories in Spain, Italy, and Germany:

  1. Food containers for takeaway (PP)
  2. Secondary transport packaging (FIBC)
  3. Beverage containers (PET bottles)

Economic viability was assessed based on the return on investment for reusable system providers and the overall costs of single-use plastic packaging versus reusable plastic packaging for system users.

Key findings of the study include:

  • Reusable takeaway food containers offer cost savings for users, with system providers achieving return on investment between years 3 and 4.
  • In the case of secondary transport packaging, the return on investment for system providers is achieved between years 2 and 3, with user costs being comparable.
  • Reusable beverage containers provide economic advantages for users, and system providers can attain return on investment between years 5 and 6.
Sushi box credit Tim Reckmann CCBY20
Sushi box © Tim Reckmann (CC BY 2.0)


These findings confirm the business case for investing in reusable models as a system provider, demonstrating the long-term profitability of reuse for all stakeholders. With anticipated regulatory developments in Europe likely to increase the price of single-use packaging, reusable packaging will continue to gain economic advantage.

Nathan Dufour, Reuse Systems Manager at Zero Waste Europe, said: Today the question is not 'IF' but 'HOW' we need to make prevention and reuse a living reality in Europe and beyond. This study is yet another clear demonstration that in a matter of only a few years, well-designed high-performing systems for reuse will help reconcile economics with pressing environmental concerns.

By shedding light on costs and benefits, this study aims to provide valuable insights to businesses and policymakers, enabling informed decisions that confidently support the adoption of reuse.

Latest Packaging News

FACHPACK 2025: Nuremberg becomes the rallying point for the packaging industry once again
Events

FACHPACK 2025: Nuremberg becomes the rallying point for the packaging industry once again

Save the date: From 23 to 25 September 2025, the European packaging industry will gather once again...
Revolution Digital welcomes new Service Manager, John Gulliver
Supplier News

Revolution Digital welcomes new Service Manager, John Gulliver

Revolution Digital is delighted to announce the appointment of John Gulliver as the company’s new...
New edible plant-based coating aims to replace plastic wrap on cucumbers
Sustainability

New edible plant-based coating aims to replace plastic wrap on cucumbers

Akorn Technology has introduced a new plant-based coating for cucumbers and bell peppers, designed...
Starbucks Korea trials plant-based plastic straws after paper complaints
Sustainability

Starbucks Korea trials plant-based plastic straws after paper complaints

Starbucks has begun offering straws made from plant-based plastics at around 200 stores across...
The final countdown: 50 days to go until London’s premier packaging event
Events

The final countdown: 50 days to go until London’s premier packaging event

Just 50 days remain to secure your complimentary pass to London Packaging Week 2025, where the...