How Does Sustainable Packaging Benefit Foodservice Businesses?

A poke bowl in eco-friendly packaging sits on a table, with a hand holding chopsticks, highlighting sustainable dining solutions.

The planet isn’t the only one that benefits from sustainable packaging. That’s right: foodservice businesses also reap the massive benefits of using sustainable packaging in their operations.

How? As demand for eco-friendly solutions continues to grow across industries, using sustainable packaging provides foodservice businesses with a competitive edge in their market, while contributing to a greener future. In other words, restaurateurs can seize their sustainable transformation as an opportunity to meet existing customers’ expectations, gain new eco-conscious customers, and boost their business’s reputation, all while taking responsibility for the environment and their community.

Take Environmental Responsibility

By using recyclable and compostable packaging materials, restaurants and foodservice businesses can actively reduce their environmental impact and demonstrate their commitment to the planet. Beyond merely complying with new regulations, it’s an opportunity to align your values with action and make a real-world impact towards a greener future. In other words: it’s another way you can take pride in your restaurant or foodservice business. 

Comply with Regulations

Speaking of regulations: Canada’s upcoming ban on single-use plastics is set to take effect by the end of 2023. The ban encompasses many plastic items commonly used in the food service industry, including bags, straws, stir sticks, cutlery, and foam containers. This means foodservice businesses need to prioritize sustainable packaging practices in order to comply with the ban’s new regulations -- or risk being faced with legal repercussions. In addition to contributing to Canada’s sustainability initiatives, transitioning to sustainable alternatives ensures you’re aligned with the new requirements, so you can have peace of mind.

Meet Customer Expectations

With rising public awareness of environmental issues, today’s consumers are more eco-conscious than ever before. And that means they’re doing more than just buying sustainable products. They’re also favoring businesses that prioritize sustainable practices -- and that includes packaging. According to a 2022 report by Trivium Packaging, 86% of young consumers are willing to pay more for products that have been packaged sustainably, while 57% of overall consumers are less likely to buy products in single-use packaging.

Sustainability has become a primary reason for customers to try out new restaurants and for regulars to continue supporting their favorite spots. Using sustainable packaging can help attract new, environmentally-conscious customers to your restaurant, while showing your regulars that you care about the things that matter to them.

Boost Your Business’s Reputation

Did you know that sustainable packaging offers foodservice businesses new and exciting marketing opportunities? Sharing stories about your restaurant’s sustainable packaging choices and initiatives can engage customers and generate positive PR for your business. There are endless ways that you can integrate your eco-friendly practices into your branding, advertising campaigns, and social media presence. By sharing your foodservice business’ sustainability journey, you stand not only to attract new customers and build brand loyalty, you stand to create a positive impact on your community, at large. 

“Sustainability” is no longer just a buzzword: it’s become a crucial consideration for businesses looking to grow their business and thrive in today’s competitive restaurant industry. By embracing sustainable practices, foodservice businesses can exceed their customers’ eco-conscious expectations, boost their PR, all while complying with new local regulations. In a nutshell, sustainable packaging is great for the environment, but it’s also great for food entrepreneurs and the long-term success of their businesses.

Shop our curated packaging solutions made from sustainable materials.