Getting Ready for Reuse in Retail
March 11, 2025
Every day, 225,000 tons of single-use packaging are used in the U.S. Research and in-market tests over the last decade have shown the importance of reuse in recovering material value and reducing single-use waste. Retail stores––as central hubs of consumer interaction––are uniquely positioned to lead this transition to reuse.
In partnership with the U.S. Plastics Pact, this study by the Center for the Circular Economy analyzed the 10 consumer product categories that account for over 90% of purchased packaged goods sold in U.S. grocery retail stores, and identified the top five retail categories best suited for near-term adoption of reuse––including food, personal care, home care and more.
The report delves into insights and opportunities within each category, including its potential to deliver environmental benefits, and achieve operational alignment and consumer acceptance. The insights aim to serve as a guide for businesses looking to pinpoint packaging formats best suited for reuse, to help meet single-use waste reduction goals.