77% of Young Brits Are Ready to Reuse – What’s Stopping Them?
Shoppers Call for Reuse and Refill Systems
A growing number of British consumers are advocating for reuse and refill options in their local shops. According to new research conducted by sustainability consultancy GoUnpackaged, 68% of UK adults believe all retailers should offer reusable or refillable solutions. This sentiment is even stronger among younger shoppers, with 77% of those aged 18 to 34 expressing a willingness to adopt reuse systems in their weekly shopping—provided they are convenient.
The Benefits of Reuse: A Simple Shift with Big Impact
The benefits of switching to reusable packaging are immense. If every UK household reused just one item per week, over 1.4 billion pieces of single-use packaging could be eliminated each year. Beyond environmental impact, half of the survey’s participants stated that they actively prefer shopping with brands that prioritise reuse and refill schemes, making it clear that sustainability is becoming a key factor in consumer loyalty.
The Barriers to Reuse Adoption
Despite strong support, many shoppers face challenges when it comes to adopting reuse systems. Over 54% of respondents reported that they struggled to find reuse or refill options at their usual supermarkets. Additionally, 47% said that existing schemes are confusing or hard to use, highlighting the need for clearer instructions and better accessibility.
Interestingly, 40% of consumers admitted that their motivation for reuse and refill stems from the desire to reduce household waste. Fewer packaging materials mean less clutter in their homes and less time spent sorting recyclables—a win-win for convenience and sustainability.
The Path Forward: Making Reuse the Norm
These findings make it clear: consumers are ready for change, but businesses need to meet them halfway. Retailers can drive the shift towards sustainability by making reuse and refill systems more accessible, intuitive, and widespread. By doing so, they not only help protect the environment but also build stronger relationships with eco-conscious customers.
It’s time for retailers to embrace reuse – not just as a trend, but as a commitment to a sustainable future.