Daily Newsletter

14 November 2023

Daily Newsletter

14 November 2023

Europe’s love affair with reusable packaging: a sustainable shift unveiled

European consumers are spearheading the global sustainability push, opting for reusable packaging to build a greener future.

Oumar Fofana November 13 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable packaging, one topic has recently taken center stage in Europe: reusability. This concept has captured the curiosity of consumers, while brand owners and retailers are actively exploring ways to support and implement reusable and refillable packaging solutions for everyday necessities.

As consumers increasingly seek to make environmentally responsible choices, they are confronted with a multitude of options in the realm of reusable packaging.

The allure of sustainability benefits is undeniable, yet many consumers find themselves perplexed by the variety of choices available. With a growing desire to reduce single-use plastics and minimise waste, they are eager to embrace reusable solutions but are often unsure about which options are the most effective for their daily essentials.

The need for clear and accessible information is evident, as consumers grapple with the practicalities of incorporating reusable packaging into their lives.

European consumers' preferences unveiled

The European market is at the forefront of the global sustainable packaging movement, and a recent survey has shed light on the preferences and attitudes of European consumers towards reusable and recyclable packaging.

According to the survey findings, a significant percentage of consumers in Europe are enthusiastic about the prospect of reusable packaging, viewing it as a step towards a more sustainable future. Key insights from the survey include:

  1. Eco-friendly choice: A substantial portion of European consumers prioritise the environment when making packaging choices. They express a preference for products with reusable and recyclable packaging, seeing these options as a way to reduce their environmental footprint.
  2. Quality and convenience: While sustainability is crucial, consumers are not willing to compromise on product quality or convenience. They expect reusable packaging to be durable, user-friendly, and convenient for their daily needs.
  3. Trust in brands: European consumers place their trust in brands that actively promote and implement reusable packaging solutions. Brand owners who commit to sustainability and clearly communicate their efforts are more likely to attract environmentally conscious consumers.

Europe's proposed regulations spark debate

Meanwhile, on the regulatory front, Europe has witnessed the unveiling of proposed sustainable packaging regulations, which has sent ripples throughout the industry. Stakeholders are now engaged in discussions about the future of packaging and the pivotal role reusability might play.

The proposed regulations have ignited debates about how best to align with new sustainability standards, challenging industry players to adapt and innovate in response to these changes.

As the packaging industry navigates these evolving trends, the sustainability-focused preferences of European consumers will likely continue to shape the trajectory of reusable packaging, driving innovation and encouraging brands to meet the demand for eco-friendly, reusable options.

In 2022, flexible packaging was the most used pack material in the global household product packaging industry

The packaging volume in the global household products industry was 199 billion units in 2022, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of >3% by 2027, per GlobalData estimates. Flexible packaging was the most used pack material in 2022 accounting for a share of 68.6%, followed by rigid plastics. Flexible packaging offers ease of use and storage, allowing customers to access and store household and pet care products conveniently. The lightweight nature of flexible packaging reduces transportation costs and increases efficiency throughout the supply chain.

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