What is the Returnity Project?
Returnity offers REUSABLE SHIPPING AND DELIVERY PACKAGING SYSTEMS FOR FORWARD-THINKING BRANDS AND RETAILERS. The project is all about saving money, material, and time – truly THE PACKAGE DEAL. It is centered on replacing conventional, single-use cardboard with durable, customized, reusable bags and boxes, together with the smart logistics systems needed to support them. In a world where every shipment counts, Returnity creates practical, circular solutions that ease the strain on retailers and the environment… all while streamlining operations.
Main Benefit of the Reuse Solution
The key benefits are evident in both operational and environmental gains. When the right systems are employed, packaging becomes an asset instead of an obstacle. Consider the impressive figures and facts highlighted by the project:
- A MILLION SHIPMENTS AND DELIVERIES A MONTH AND GROWING
- Client partnerships with billion-dollar brands like Rent the Runway, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, New Balance, Target, and Pitney Bowes
- Custom Pilots: Starting with a free, customized Reusable Packaging Analysis and rolling out data-driven tests in just 30 days
- Scalable Solutions: Transitioning from Study to Pilot to Scale within 90 days
- Increased sustainability and reduced packaging waste across distribution channels
The Packaging Problem
Cardboard and single-use packaging may seem like everyday items, but they seriously impede retailer profitability, productivity, and sustainability. In the United States alone, the sheer volume of shipping and delivery packaging is enough to pave a mile-wide cardboard road from New York City to Los Angeles and back – three times a year. This almost unbelievable statistic highlights a critical problem for modern logistics and sustainability efforts, turning the mundane act of shipping into a substantial environmental challenge.
How Circularity is Built
Circularity isn’t just a buzzword here – it’s the core of how the reuse solution is implemented. Reusable packaging requires circular systems, and Returnity’s 3P Platform ensures that these reusables remain the right choice operationally, economically, and environmentally. The platform is designed to guarantee that every package embarks on a repeated, purposeful journey rather than ending up as waste. This dynamic system combines durability with innovation, making it possible to truly close loops and boost sustainability… without compromising the efficiency or feel of everyday commerce.
Approach and Pilot Programs
Returnity’s approach is refreshingly transparent and data-driven. The project kicks off with a free, customized Reusable Packaging Analysis – a comprehensive study that includes cost analysis, volume and usage modeling, environmental impact, and an assessment of the highest-potential channels for reusable packaging. From there, the process moves into a client-specific Pilot Program with a minimum of 50 units, designed to measure performance against packaging KPIs such as cycle costs and associate feedback. This pilot phase runs for about 60 days, carefully collecting all the necessary data before moving to scale. Finally, based on pilot learnings, client-specific packaging is manufactured, training materials for associates are developed, and a collaborative launch plan is established – all within an efficient 90-day timeframe.
Applications Across Different Industries
Returnity’s innovative reusable packaging isn’t restricted to one type of business. It has various recommended use cases that stretch across internal logistics, retail operations, and even rental or try-before-you-buy scenarios. For internal logistics, robust reusable shipping boxes facilitate seamless movement of products between distribution centers and stores. In retail operations, an effective and affordable reuse system can transform existing shopping bags into truly reusable assets. And for rental, sampling, or closed-loop shipping, custom durable mailer bags or boxes ensure that products can move back and forth efficiently, while supporting a robust circular model. This versatility is a promise of flexibility and gradual transformation towards a more sustainable supply chain.
Project Impact on SDGs
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by fostering innovative logistical solutions.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through efficient internal logistics systems.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by encouraging material reuse and reduction of waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – via a reduction in waste, energy savings, and a decrease in overall environmental impact.
Industry Recognition and Future Prospects
Returnity’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. The project has earned numerous accolades such as the Beyond the Bag WINNER in the Beyond the Bag Challenge, National Retail Federation SELECTED at the National Retail Federation Innovation Showcase, and was a finalist for the Consumer Packaged Goods FINALIST at The Reusies 2022. Major publications have lauded the venture – from Packaging Europe featuring an overview of reuse metrics by CEO Mike Newman to NY POST, TECHCRUNCH, CNBC, and Modern Shipper, highlighting Returnity’s role in leading the way to a circular future. With these recognitions and success stories in hand, Returnity continues to pave the way towards a more sustainable and efficient approach to packaging – and the future looks promising indeed…
