Pouches: supporting the refill revolution

Pouches are an increasingly common option for manufacturers in many FMCG sectors including food, household products and pet food and have been around for a while.

The pouches are made from flexible plastic film which is very adaptable allowing for multiple shapes and sizes whilst also providing a high level of protection against moisture, oxygen and light. At Roberts Mart we also offer pouches constructed from recycled or recyclable materials and due to our in-house expertise in film extrusion, can tailor the perfect pouch solution for all needs.

The increasing global focus on the importance of sustainability and the tightening of packaging legislation has led to a rising trend in the pouch as a refillable packaging option, a solution welcomed by both businesses and consumers.  Refill pouches promote a circular economy and help reduce plastic waste.

According to research carried out by Smithers in their Future of Reusable and Refillable Packaging Report to 2029 the global reuse and refill packaging market is expected to grow by over $7 billion to 2029.

Using pouches to refill original packaging receptacles can make a substantial impact on plastic waste reduction, unlike rigid packaging, flexible pouch packaging is produced using fewer raw materials and generates less waste over the life product cycle.

Supporting business objectives

Developing and maintaining objectives in terms of sustainability is no mean feat for any business, keeping up with national and international laws and targets is constant and necessary.

Refillable packaging can play a pivotal role in reducing waste and promoting circularity and provides manufacturers with the opportunity to showcase their commitment to sustainable practices, reduce single plastic usage and contribute to a better future.

As pouches generally weigh less than other types of packaging, businesses can reduce carbon footprint as well as cut down on storage space due to their compact shape.

Increasing brand loyalty

Introducing refillable packaging is also a win for your consumers. It provides them with a sustainable purchase option, so as to meet their own personal goals when it comes to supporting the environment but also creates brand loyalty as they bond with manufacturers whose goals are in line with their own.

Convenience and cost are also highly attractive factors for consumers and refillable pouches offer advantages in both these areas.

In addition, the more refill packaging options that are on offer, the more consumers will take on board the refill – reuse mentality.

Staying ahead of the curve

Such commitment to sustainability not only keeps businesses ahead of the game but also sets them up as industry leaders, growing their reputation for innovation and future thinking.

The refillable movement is gaining momentum across many sectors.  We are seeing supermarkets introduce fill-your-own for everyday essentials such as dried foods, cereals, pasta etc. Consumers are now used to the concept of refillable pouches for products such as laundry liquids, personal care products and food items such as coffee.

As far back as 2023 Grocery Gazette highlighted the five most innovative refillable supermarket products which included olive oil and instant coffee.

Not all products are suitable for refill of course but pouches are without doubt a growing trend for products that are. Reduced use of materials, reduced energy consumption and carbon footprint as well as a reduction in negative environmental effects.  A win win all round.