About this article
Get a behind-the-scenes look at how we carefully source our reusable packaging products. Our category manager, Stiina, shares insights on the factors that influence product selection, including durability standards, design elements, and certifications that ensure safety and compliance. You'll also find out how we stay ahead of market trends.
28 Oct 2024
7 min
Stiina Ottender
At Verive, developing our reusable packaging range is a continuous journey. With the mission of making sustainable food packaging simple, affordable, and accessible, every product in our range is carefully sourced to align with our values.
To give you a behind-the-scenes look at this process, we sat down with Stiina, our category manager for reusable products, to explore what goes into sourcing reusables and how we continually strive to lead the way in innovation.
What factors are most important to you when sourcing reusable packaging solutions for Verive?
“When sourcing reusables for Verive, we consider several factors. First, we want the range to be uniform, meaning the products can come from different suppliers but should still form a cohesive offering. All of the suppliers we work with for reusables are based in the European Union, reducing transportation costs and impact.”
Stiina highlights that quality is a top priority. As there is no formal EU legislation for reusable packaging yet, Verive has set its own durability standards.
“We’ve determined that each product should withstand at least 125 washes.”
What design elements are essential when sourcing reusables?
Design is another crucial factor.
“The products need to be lightweight, stackable, and ideally, partially transparent so the contents are visible. Good sealing is also essential to prevent leaks,” Stiina explains.
Versatility is also important—the packaging should suit both hot and cold foods, be microwave and dishwasher-safe, and durable enough to resist scratches. Additionally, all items can be personalised with a client’s branding to be custom made, adding significant value for businesses.
What certifications are currently in place for reusable food packaging?
The certification landscape for reusable packaging is still evolving, as Stiina explains: “With reusables, the landscape isn’t as established as it is with disposables. The EU doesn’t have a set standard yet for durability and safety.”
At Verive, we rely on two main certifications to ensure product safety. “The first is the Declaration of Compliance, which applies to all food packaging. This ensures that our products are food-safe and won’t pose any risk to human health.”
Stiina adds, “The second certification is the Three Migrations Test, which verifies that after repeated use and washing, no harmful chemicals are released into the food.”
How Verive ensures compliance with EU regulations and industry standards
While there has been a lack of clear definitions around reusables, the Netherlands recently introduced the NTA-8515-2024 standard. This states that a cup can be considered reusable if it withstands at least 125 washes, in line with the EN12875-1 / 2 standards.
Products meeting this standard benefit from lower waste management taxes and are exempt from single-use plastic fees. While not a legal requirement, Verive ensures all its reusable cups, containers, bowls, and plates meet or exceed this durability threshold.
How Verive stays ahead of trends in the reusable packaging market
To stay ahead, the Verive team collaborates with in-house sustainability experts, attends trade shows, talks to suppliers, and gathers customer feedback. We’re always on the lookout for new ideas, whether suppliers bring them to us, or we seek them out. “There are a lot of material innovations right now, like reusables made from recycled PET and PP, which is something we’re exploring.” Stiina shares.
Verive also benefits from Bunzl’s in-house sustainability experts, who engage with ministries, trade unions, and industry stakeholders to enhance our sustainability expertise.
What’s your favourite reusable product?
“The premium coffee cup is my favourite, and it’s become our most popular product by far. It’s available in five sizes now and can be customised, offering plenty of options for personalisation.”
When asked why it’s a successful reusable, Stiina points to the market’s maturity.
“Coffee cups are an easy starting point for many customers wanting to implement reusable systems. Most people drink several cups of coffee a day, so switching to a reusable cup makes a bigger impact compared to, say, a reusable bowl, which might only be used once.”
The opportunity for personalisation is also a strength, adding an extra layer of appeal for businesses.
“It’s a great example of where reusables can go,” Stiina concludes.
Check out this video to see how our reusable coffee cups are made.
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To learn more about how integrating reusables can future-proof your business, contact us today for expert advice.
