First Reusable Packaging Fair a great success

Government, businesses, academics, NGOs and media came together in Utrecht on Monday 27 November to see, celebrate and accelerate the transition to reuse in practice. Mission Reuse initiated and organised this reusable packaging fair, in collaboration with the Netherlands Institute for Sustainable Packaging (KIDV), the Packaging Waste Fund (now: Verpact) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

With over 500 registrations, 40 speakers, 30 exhibitors and 20 breakout sessions, the first Reusable Packaging Fair in the Netherlands was well attended. The fair brought together reuse solution providers from all kinds of sectors: cups and meal packaging, glass bottles, e-commerce, household products, retail and transport packaging. But also providers of services such as washing, technology and communication advice.

At 30 stands, providers and buyers of reusable packaging solutions came together in the B2C and B2B sectors. In 20 breakout sessions, all aspects of reuse were covered. From legislation to washing, from production to consumer behaviour, and from business models to supply chain collaboration.

Reusable packaging is an important step on the way to a circular economy in 2050. The target of 40% fewer plastic-containing single-use packagings in 2026 is only achievable through a major switch to fewer and reusable packagings. The first Reusable Packaging Fair brought all stakeholders together and boosted the transition from single-use to reuse. Many thanks to all speakers, exhibitors and visitors. Listen here to the NPO Radio 1 item about the Reusable Packaging Fair.