RE-VRAC Belgium 2025, the first barometer on bulk sales and reusable (returnable) packaging in Belgium, was published as part of the EU Reuse Barometer initiative. The report, prepared by ConsomAction and Fost Plus, provides a first comprehensive and structured overview of the economic reality and structural challenges of these circular packaging models.
The sector is relatively young. Most bulk companies and new reuse initiatives were established after 2010. Bulk sales are mainly found in the food sector, while reusable packaging has a long-standing presence in Belgium through returnable and deposit systems, particularly in the beverage industry. Both segments show clear economic growth: bulk sales increase by an average of 7% per year, while reusable packaging systems grow even faster, at more than 10% annually, demonstrating significant market potential.
At the same time, the barometer highlights that consumer behaviour remains a key barrier to further adoption. While many consumers are aware of the impact of packaging waste, this awareness is not yet consistently reflected in the use of bulk or reusable systems. Factors such as convenience, habits, and perceptions of hygiene play a crucial role. Efficient return flows are essential for reusable packaging to deliver both ecological and economic benefits.
In addition to consumer behaviour, structural challenges remain. Bulk and reuse systems require adapted logistics and infrastructure investment. For some companies, complex regulations on labelling, hygiene, and traceability present additional hurdles. Without sufficient scale, reusable solutions also tend to be more costly than single-use packaging. The barometer emphasizes that bulk sales and reusable packaging provide an important complement to existing recycling systems. By avoiding or reusing packaging, waste at the source can be significantly reduced, in line with the waste hierarchy, where prevention and reuse take priority over recycling.
The RE-VRAC Belgium 2025 barometer shows that Belgium has a solid foundation and clear growth opportunities for bulk sales and reusable packaging. At the same time, the report makes clear that further progress depends on behavioural change, logistical optimisation, and supportive regulatory frameworks. The barometer provides an important reference point to monitor this evolution in the coming years.
The PDF version of RE-VRAC Belgium, Economic Barometer of the Bulk and Reusable Packaging Sector 2025, is available HERE upon simple request for IBE-BVI members.
