REPASYS
Reusable food packaging in B2C systems
2025-2028
Project objective
REPASYS aims to gain insight into the economic and practical feasibility of reusable food packaging through a systemic approach. The project focuses on the development of new business models and collaboration structures that enable the implementation of reusable packaging within Business-to-Consumer (B2C) systems.
Why REPASYS?
Pressure on the food packaging value chain is increasing rapidly. Upcoming PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) legislation will soon ban single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables under 1.5 kg. At the same time, societal expectations to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently continue to grow.
Many companies are willing to move towards reusable packaging, but face a complex challenge:
How can reusable packaging systems be implemented in a way that is technically feasible, logistically efficient and economically viable for all stakeholders involved?
REPASYS addresses this question by providing concrete, practice-based insights.
Research approach
REPASYS combines real-life testing, economic analysis and co-creation with stakeholders across the entire value chain. The project is built around four complementary pillars:
1. Pilot study on reusable packaging for fresh produce
A pilot study on reusable packaging for fresh produce is conducted in the Mechelen region. The focus lies on consumer acceptance as well as technical and logistical challenges. Data and insights from this pilot form the basis for analysing different logistics scenarios and assessing economic feasibility.
2. Behavioural research with consumers and retail staff
Consumer research is a key element of REPASYS. Through surveys and observations, the project maps behaviour, perceptions and barriers related to reuse. In addition, retail staff are actively involved, as they play a crucial role in day-to-day operations and strongly influence the success of reusable systems.
3. Logistics and economic analysis
REPASYS develops and evaluates multiple logistics and business model scenarios with a view to upscaling. In co-creation with stakeholders, logistics flows, cost structures and role distribution among value chain partners are analysed, resulting in realistic and broadly supported upscaling scenarios.
4. Knowledge sharing and matchmaking
The project places strong emphasis on knowledge building and matchmaking within the food packaging value chain. Insights are shared through targeted communication, and matchmaking events are organised to connect relevant stakeholders.
Target group
The transition towards reusable packaging requires changes across the entire food packaging value chain as well as in consumer behaviour. REPASYS therefore addresses a broad range of stakeholders, including:
- agricultural producers
- food manufacturers
- packaging and plastics processing companies
- logistics providers and washing facilities
- retailers
- technology suppliers
- recycling companies
Project partners
REPASYS is managed and coordinated by Flanders’ FOOD and is an intercluster project in collaboration with VIL. The project is implemented together with Pack4Food and Reuselab – Universiteit Antwerpen.
Interested in participating?
Companies can participate through the project’s advisory board and closely follow the project results. Participants are involved in consultation meetings, gain access to events and workshops, and strengthen their network within the food packaging value chain.
Participation requires membership of Pack4Food, Flanders’ FOOD or VIL. Interested in joining? Please contact us at a.vermeulen@pack4food.be.
