Reusable Packaging Systems for Restaurants and Delivery Services: A Study of Consumer Preferences and Adoption Barriers

Abstract

Germany, the EU’s top plastic waste contributor, sees rising demand for single-use packaging, especially in coffee-to-go, takeaway, and food delivery. To promote a sustainable circular economy, Germany amended its packaging law in 2023, mandating gastronomic businesses to offer reusable packaging alternatives. However, consumer acceptance of reusable packaging systems (RPSs), crucial for success, is relatively unexplored. This study examines drivers and barriers to RPS adoption in Germany, offering recommendations for improvement. It includes a literature review, market research, and a representative online survey of 405 participants. A binary logistic regression model identified key adoption factors. Sustainability-focused intrinsic motivations were found to drive acceptance, while time and effort to return packaging pose significant barriers. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of prioritizing both sustainability and convenience in the design of RPSs to promote consumer adoption. These insights can guide gastronomic businesses, pool system providers, and policymakers to improve RPS design and implementation, fostering public acceptance and adoption in Germany.

Keywords: circular economy; consumer acceptance; gastronomic industry; reusable packaging system (RPS); sustainability