ThePackHub Innovation Zone Snapshot

by Paul Jenkins , Managing Director of ThePackHub .

I'm pleased to share an Innovation Zone snapshot update, which provides a glimpse into the emerging trends on ThePackHub's global packaging innovation platform. New information on our In-site Refill & Reuse Event below.

The Innovation Zone database platform is a reliable destination for keeping up-to-date with the latest global packaging initiatives. With a comprehensive collection of packaging innovations worldwide, you can stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in packaging. Visit our platform today to learn more .

Power to the pack: refillable and reusable packs keep on coming

This week, I’m taking a deep dive into the world of refillable and reusable packaging.

The Innovation Zone platform is witnessing a rise in the tracking of refillable and reusable initiatives, boasting an unprecedented 87 new entries in the first part of 2023 alone. Fussy, a UK-based reusable deodorant brand that first made its appearance on the Innovation Zone in June 2021, is projecting a doubling of its revenues this year.

In the realm of cosmetics, the sale of refillable products has skyrocketed, recording an impressive 364% upturn in the seven months leading to the end of July 2022. The skincare industry has also observed a 46% surge in refill sales from January to October 2022, as both?reported by The NPD Group.

Market analysis by Smithers predicts that the refillable and reusable market will reach?$53.5 billion by 2027. This suggests a substantial financial opportunity, corroborated by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's assertion that converting 20% of plastic packaging into reuse models could unlock a $10 billion business opportunity.

Recent legislation like Germany's mandate for restaurants and cafes to replace disposable plastic packaging with reusable alternatives are further propelling the demand for reusable packaging. These regulations not only pave the way to create a robust market for these solutions.

GIVE ME FIVE!

Here are five new refillable and reusable packaging initiatives we think you should know about recently posted to the Innovation Zone.

1. Puracy, a Texas-based plant-derived cleaning and personal care brand, has unveiled the Clean Can and Clean Can Starter Kit, a sustainable product designed to reduce single-use plastic. The innovative system uses an infinitely recyclable aluminium beverage can format that allows users to start cleaning in less than 10 seconds, providing a mess-free alternative to decanting products. The starter kit, which includes one can cartridge of Surface Cleaner, is priced at $9.99, with additional cartridges available for $3.99.
2. UK startup Let’s Rethink This, with support from the University of Lancaster's Low Carbon Eco-Innovatory (LCEI) programme, has developed a refillable deodorant pack called Nada, featuring a spherical dome case made from sustainable cork. The LCEI programme aids small businesses in their journey towards net zero, by providing access to university resources, skills, and expertise. The Nada prototype is currently seeking investment, with potential manufacturing partners and fragrance options being considered.
3. Uber Eats is conducting a trial of reusable packaging for its customers in Central London, offering an option for takeaway food to be delivered in returnable containers to combat single-use packaging. After meals, customers can arrange for low or no emissions collection of the containers by scanning a QR code, selecting a collection day, and giving the containers a rinse. The six-month trial, run in partnership with reusable packaging supply chain company Again, includes a group of restaurant partners located within 5km of the Again facility in Kennington Park.
4. Ralph Lauren is expanding its Polo Earth fragrance range with three new products, featuring refillable bottles that are easy to use and include an auto-stop, anti-spill system. The new bottles, composed of 20% post-consumer recycled glass and 30% lighter than the brand's traditional bottle, can be easily refilled using an included funnel and are available in sizes of 100 ml and 40 ml. The Polo Earth Collection, which also includes a 10ml and 150ml refill, will be available at selected retailers from April 2023.
5. Albéa Group, a French personal care and beauty packaging firm, has introduced 'Twirl', a new sustainable jar designed to meet growing consumer demand for refillable cosmetic packaging to reduce their carbon footprint. The 50ml jar is made from recyclable materials, including PP?and PET, and features a 'soft and intuitive' mechanism for easy product refills and a locking system for inner cup stability. The design prioritises innovative functionality without compromising the jar's overall aesthetic, reflecting the focus of Albéa’s innovation and marketing team.

In conclusion, the resurgence in refillable and reusable initiatives, backed by supportive policies and promising financial projections, is starting to reshape?industries like cosmetics, food, beverage and household.?As companies continue to innovate in response to consumer demand and environmental necessity, the market's growth is likely to accelerate.?The impressive performance of brands like Fussy exemplifies the potent opportunities that lie within the refill and refill sector, emphasising its potential.

ThePackHub are thrilled to launch our brand new?In-site Event?format. Our latest?packaging innovation seminar?is dedicated to?refillable & reusable?packaging, featuring an exclusive?site tour?of the established?Dizzie?reuse distribution/return centre, followed by a second tour of the impressive reusable packaging cleaning facilities at?Packaging Services Europe?(PSE).

Combined with?presentations?from industry-renowned reuse specialists, this unique event will provide solutions to the challenges of developing effective reuse systems.

Find out more and book here.

Leading brand owners, retailers, and packaging suppliers trust the Innovation Zone to stay ahead with the latest packaging innovations. Contact me to learn how membership can enhance your company's understanding.

Please?visit?ThePackHub ?or call us on +44(0)118 963 9990 to find out more about our range of packaging innovation services.?

Until next time. Happy innovating.