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New Reuse Alliance
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As we reflect on the 6th edition of the International Refill & Reuse Trade Fair, co-organised by New ERA in collaboration with Réseau Vrac et Réemploi and RCube, the excitement of the event still lingers. Held on May 13-14, 2024, in the heart of Paris at the Parc Floral, this year’s event marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the refill and reuse industry. For the first time, the fair opened its doors beyond France, drawing together over 2,000 professionals, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the globe.
With 160 exhibitors from various industries, including FMCG, packaging, logistics, and home equipment, the event offered an unparalleled opportunity to explore innovative solutions driving the transition to a truly circular economy. Attendees engaged with over 75 speakers in 33 conferences and masterclasses, gaining valuable insights into market trends, policy developments, and practical implementation of reuse systems. As co-organisers, New ERA proudly hosted 21 of its members among the innovative reuse and refill solutions, fostering a fertile environment for networking, knowledge sharing, and partnerships that will drive the industry forward.
One of the highlights of the event was the reuse learning expedition organised by New ERA and Réseau Vrac et Réemploi. This half-day journey through Paris provided participants with a firsthand look at some of the most innovative refill and reuse practices in action. We kicked off the day with a sustainable sip at Starbucks from reusable mugs, followed by a visit to the cutting-edge Acquarys washing centre and a bustling Loop corner at one of the over 150 Carrefour stores in France. We then marvelled at the innovative technology behind an intelligent reusable container collector in an office setting and observed a refill station in action at a local pharmacy. Our journey concluded with a zero-waste lunch at the inspiring La Maison du Zéro Déchet, offering a perfect opportunity to network with fellow reuse and refill advocates.
While the event was a success, it highlighted significant challenges in scaling reuse systems. Key hurdles include logistical issues like efficient collection and cleaning, standardising reusable containers, and balancing consumer convenience with circularity. High upfront costs deter smaller businesses, and larger corporations often resist change to protect profits, slowing progress toward scaled reuse systems.
Regulatory and regional differences also impede adoption, underscoring the need for harmonised European regulations. Additionally, there is a crucial need for economic viability studies to make strong business cases for different reuse models.
Investment in infrastructure for collection and cleaning, alongside public-private collaboration, is essential. Consumer behaviour research can guide effective communication and incentives, while technological innovation can improve system efficiency. Supporting regional reuse associations will strengthen local efforts, and engaging major industry players is vital for broader adoption.
Addressing these challenges through focused investment, regulation, and collaboration will create a strong foundation for scaling reusable packaging systems and driving the industry toward a sustainable, circular economy.
The success of this year’s Trade Fair underscores the growing momentum of the reuse revolution. Legislative frameworks in France, like the Anti-waste and Circular Economy Law (Loi AGEC) and the 3R Implementing Decree, along with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, are paving the way for continued industry advancements. However, as we look to the future, it’s clear that overcoming the challenges of scaling up reuse systems will require continued innovation, collaboration, and policy support.
We are already gearing up for the next edition of the trade fair on 26-27 May 2025, where we anticipate an even larger gathering of global leaders in the refill and reuse sectors. Until then, we remain committed to supporting our members and partners in their efforts to innovate and expand the impact of reuse systems worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for another groundbreaking show. See you in Paris in 2025!
