A new trial project is bringing together a variety of businesses to test how localised doorstep at-home collections of reusable packaging can increase the uptake of reuse systems and make them more convenient. The initiative is in partnership with food delivery app Uber Eats, with participating restaurants located within a 5km radius of the reusable packaging supply chain company, Again’s facility in Kennington Park. The trial will run for six months to test various incentives to measure what motivates customers to engage with reusables and what motivates them to return the packaging. The project is one of six winning projects chosen by the £1.4 million Bring It Back Fund launched by Hubbub and Starbucks.
Throughout the trial, Uber Eats customers can opt-in to receive their food in reusable packaging when placing their orders. Once they have enjoyed their meals, the customers can scan a QR code and select a day for collection (from as early as next day to no later than 3 weeks later), give the containers a simple rinse and await collection. All collections are low or no emissions, made by couriers using bikes, electric cars, or vans.
Matthew Price, Uber Eats general manager, UK and Ireland, is delighted to be part of this innovative trial. He said, “We know consumers care about the impact that their decisions have on the environment, and we are delighted to be part of this innovative trial which is another step in our mission to do our part in helping the food delivery ecosystem transition to a cleaner and greener future.”
The trial will be managed by Again, who is excited to explore how they can make it simple for customers to return packaging by finding new logistic services and collecting directly from customers’ doors. Gavin Ellis, director and co-founder of Hubbub, hopes to see significant uptake of reusable takeaway packaging by integrating the reuse option into a delivery app used by many households and offering doorstep collections. The trial will provide a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t at a local level and hopefully lead to a wider rollout of this reuse system across more businesses and areas.
Tesla just announced their decision to stop accepting Bitcoin as a payment method, citing environmental concerns as a major factor. This highlights the importance for companies to look into more sustainable solutions, such as this reusable packaging trial. By partnering with innovative businesses and encouraging customers to opt-in to green initiatives, the food delivery industry can make valuable progress towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
