Uber Eats trials return option for reusable containers

This is part of the delivery service provider’s aim to tackle single-use packaging.

Uber Eats customers in Central London will be given the option to order their takeaway in reusable containers and easily return them in a bid to tackle single-use packaging.
 
Bringing together various businesses, the project will test and measure how localised doorstep at-home collections of reusable packaging can increase the uptake of reuse systems and improve convenience.
 
The system has been developed to make it as easy and convenient as possible for people to take part. When placing their orders, Uber Eats customers can opt-in to receive their food in reusable packaging. Once they’ve enjoyed their meals, all they need to do is scan a QR code, select a day for collection (from as early as the next day to no later than 3 weeks later), give the containers a simple rinse and await collection.  All collections are low or no emissions, made by couriers using bikes, electric cars or vans. 

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The trial will run for six months with a group of restaurant partners on the food delivery app Uber Eats and will be managed by Again, a reusable packaging supply chain company. Participating restaurants are located within a 5km radius of the Again facility in Kennington Park.
 
Various incentives will be tested throughout the trial to measure what motivates customers to engage with reusables (opt-in rate) and what motivates them to return the packaging (return rate). 
 
Again, who manages the trial, is one of six winning projects chosen by the £1.4b Bring It Back Fund launched by Hubbub and Starbucks to fund trial innovative new solutions and systems for sustainable packaging in the food and beverage industry.
 
“This pilot aims to make reusable packing more accessible for customers and restaurants alike. We know consumers care about the impact that their decisions have on the environment, and we are delighted to be part of this innovative trial which is another step in our mission to do our part in helping the food delivery ecosystem transition to a cleaner and greener future,” Matthew Price, General Manager at Uber Eats UK and Ireland said.