What is Ditch Disposables?
CauliBox offers a complete reusable food packaging system that eliminates food business waste by letting customers borrow and return food and drink containers seamlessly. Ditch Disposables is all about reusability in foodservice—it’s the largest reuse system in the UK, proudly serving over 50 catering sites and more than 10,000 active users. The concept emerged from the innovative idea of replacing single-use packaging with a system that works in harmony with customer behavior, ensuring containers are reused up to 400 times. In essence, it’s about making reusables the new norm, cutting down on waste and greenhouse gas emissions in an engaging, practical way…
Key Benefits of CauliBox
- 50+ catering sites across the UK
- 10,000+ active users
- 1,000,900 pieces of single-use packaging saved from landfill
- Reusability: Each Cauli reuse container can be used up to 400 times
- CO2 footprint is 98.7% lower compared to compostable clamshell boxes over the same period
- Up to 40% cost savings compared to traditional compostables, with reported annual savings between £4,000 and £100,000
The Reuse System in Action
At the heart of CauliBox lies a smart and practical reuse system. Customers borrow containers using the Cauli App and earn CauliCoins, which can be redeemed over time—just a few taps on the phone and the cycle is set in motion. Then, after the delicious meal is enjoyed, customers are encouraged to return the container either at a designated kiosk or directly to staff. The process is so integrated that the regular dishwasher can be used for cleaning, or one can opt for assistance from one of the washing partners. It’s a system designed to be frictionless and user-friendly, ensuring that reusability remains both simple and effective.
Cost Savings and Operational Excellence
CauliBox not only champions sustainability but also promises significant cost reductions. Businesses adopting this system have reported annual savings ranging from £4,000 to an impressive £100,000—up to 40% less expenditure than relying on compostable alternatives. By streamlining operations with the CauliRS system, food outlets can focus on quality service while routine dishwasher cycles take care of container cleanliness. There’s an undeniable sense of operational excellence that comes from integrating reusability into the daily workflow, making this solution both economically and environmentally advantageous…
Industry Recognition and Awards
The innovative approach behind CauliBox has not gone unnoticed. Co-founders Josephine Liang and Ming Zhao, both seasoned entrepreneurs, first introduced the UK’s tech-enabled reusable lunchbox scheme in 2019. Their ability to convert 100% of trials into contracts speaks to the strength and efficiency of the system. With backing from VC funding and Innovate UK grants totalling £250k to date, the startup has rapidly gained traction across various sectors such as restaurants, financial services, and healthcare. Recognitions include features on Sifted and UKTN, as well as prestigious awards like CleanTech of the Year and the NHS Sustainability Partnerships Innovation Award.
Operational Simplicity and Customer Engagement
One of the most appealing aspects of CauliBox is how it simplifies the reusability process for both businesses and their customers. The CauliRS system allows for a self-service return mechanism, which is incentivized by earning CauliCoins—turning a simple container return into a small reward. This approach not only reduces labor requirements but also fosters a positive loop of engagement, steadily building a habit around sustainable practices. The ongoing tracking of environmental impact through an ESG dashboard further reassures businesses by providing tangible insights for CSR reports, adding another layer of transparency and accountability.
Project Impact on Sustainability Goals
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Showcasing technology-driven environmental solutions
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting the shift from single-use to reusable packaging
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions with a carbon footprint up to 98.7% lower than alternatives
Future Outlook and Market Potential
Looking ahead, the market potential for CauliBox is impressive. The startup aims to capture at least 1.5% of the £45 billion global market within the next three years—a goal supported by the solid sales pipeline and achieved traction so far. As a Climate Tech leader in Reusables-as-a-Service, CauliBox is poised to play a significant role in helping customers meet their net-zero targets. The forward-thinking model, which has already reaped benefits for tens of thousands of users, is a testament to the fact that innovation coupled with sustainability can indeed lead to a healthier planet… The momentum in the industry implies that the future of food packaging might very well be reusable, thanks to solutions like CauliBox.
