Reduce waste. Reduce costs. Attract new customers
Takeaway is an important part of your business, but the wasteful single-use packaging it’s served in doesn’t have to be. rePlated will help you set up a reusable takeaway container system that reduces waste, reduces your packaging bill and taps into our network of rePlated users.
In Australia we throw away an estimated 1.6 billion single-use takeaway food containers every year! We can do better.
Here are 3 reusable container system options that will help your business be part of a less wasteful, more sustainable future for takeaway.
How to set up a reusable takeaway container system
1. BYO system (easy as)
BYO is well proven in the takeaway coffee space and is a great, easy place to start. BYO takeaway containers work well for cafes, bakeries and takeaways, particularly if you are short on space or don’t have dishwashing facilities.
Customers bring their own Mealboxes and instead of putting their order in single-use container or bag, you put it in their rePlated Mealbox instead. That’s it.
We will add you to our map to tell our network of Mealbox users about your venue. You can also opt to sell Mealboxes, to encourage your customers to switch and to create an additional revenue stream.
2. Deposit system
You may have already used a reusable cup deposit system at a wine or music festival. This system also works well for takeaway food.
For a deposit system your venue will need a supply of Mealboxes (we recommend at least 10 to get started).
In exchange for a deposit, you put your customers order in a reusable Mealbox instead of single-use. The deposit is then returned when your customer returns the Mealbox. You then wash it, store it and the whole process is repeated.
This is a very customer friendly option as they don’t have to pay anything to start reusing for takeaway.
3. SWAP & WASH system
Our SWAP & WASH system has elements of BYO, in that customers bring their own Mealboxes. However, you also have Mealboxes on site (we recommend at least 10 to get started), which allows customers to order ahead and even makes delivery possible.
Takeaway food orders are put in a reusable Mealbox instead of a single-use container, and the order is exchanged for the customer’s (clean) Mealbox. You then rewash the Mealbox, store it and the whole process is repeated.
We think SWAP is a great system for food venues because the customers buy Mealboxes from you, creating an additional revenue stream. You also don’t need to worry about the administration of deposits or missing Mealboxes!
Special offers to get you started
We offer wholesale prices to cafes and restaurants setting up a deposit or a SWAP & WASH scheme for their takeaway service. Please get in touch to find out more.
How to activate your reusable system
Finally, no matter which system you choose, an essential part of a reusable system is letting your customers know that you accept reusables. Read our blog for some great ideas on how to do this.
Want to set up a reusable system? Have some questions?
We’d love to hear from you.
Our zero waste takeaway systems in action
Get inspired by some of the ways our food partners have made reusables work for their businesses.
A zero waste catering truck
Zero waste Thai delivery
Reusable containers, designed with your business in mind
We’ve designed our containers to be a sustainable alternative to single-use, that works for you and the environment.
Standard large size with a healthy 1-litre capacity and a fill line at the standard 750ml for medium/smaller sizes
Stackable and durable
Safe to be washed in a commercial dishwasher
Microwave safe, so customers can reheat leftovers in the container
Made from food grade, BPA free, Ocean Bound Certified, recycled plastic
Food safety matters. Now, more than ever
Am I allowed to accept reusables?
In Australia, food safety laws differ state by state. For example, NSW food authority says reusables are fine. And Tasmania encourages you to use them. If there's no law in your state, then it's up to you. Your customers are ready to make the change, you can help lead them there.
If you’re pumped about what we do and want to get involved, or if you have any questions, we’re here to help!