Burger King rolls out reusable packaging model in TerraCycle Loop partnership

23 Oct 2020 --- Burger King is trialing a new reusable packaging model to help cut down on packaging waste across its global branches.

As part of its Restaurant Brands for Good framework, the fast food chain has launched a partnership with TerraCycle’s circular packaging service, Loop. The joint endeavor will pilot a closed-loop system with zero-waste packaging that can be safely cleaned and refilled to be reused.

“As part of our Restaurant Brands for Good plan, we’re investing in the development of sustainable packaging solutions that will help push the food service industry forward in reducing packaging waste,” says Matthew Banton, head of innovation and sustainability at Burger King Global. 

“The Loop system gives us the confidence in a reusable solution that meets our high safety standards, while also offering convenience for our guests on-the-go.”

Together with Loop, the trial will offer restaurant guests the option to order Burger King brand staples like the Whopper sandwich, soft drink or coffee in reusable sandwich containers or beverage cups.

Global rollout of closed-loop dining
Starting in 2021, select Burger King restaurants in the US cities of New York City and Portland, and in Tokyo, Japan, will be among the first to implement the model. More cities are expected to be added in the coming months.  

Participating restaurants will feature a collection system, in which guests can return the packaging to be safely cleaned through Loop and reused at Burger King restaurants.

Those who opt for the reusable packaging are charged a deposit at the time of purchase, and receive a refund when the packaging is returned.

This initiative follows a similar move by McDonald’s, which is set to launch a reusable cup model for hot beverages in partnership with Loop in 2021.Burger King touts its partnership with Loop as aligning the rigorous safety procedures around cleanliness and hygiene, which have become even more pressing during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Loop’s cleaning systems have been created to sanitize food containers and cups, meaning each will be hygienically cleaned and safe before every use.

“During COVID, we have seen the environmental impact of increased takeaway ordering which makes this initiative by Burger King all the more important,” says Tom Szaky, TerraCycle and Loop CEO.

“This enables Burger King consumers to easily bring reusability into their daily lives, and whether they choose to eat-in or takeaway, they will be able to get some of their favorite food and drinks in a reusable container.”

This initiative follows a similar move by McDonald’s, which is set to launch a reusable cup model for hot beverages in partnership with Loop in 2021.

Future sustainability commitments
Through the global Loop partnership, Burger King is also collaborating with Kraft-Heinz and others who will provide insights, expertise and resources to the pilots, helping expand its impact.

To support the sustainable production of packaging materials, 100 percent of guest packaging will be sourced from renewable, recycled or certified sources by 2025. 

While working towards reducing the use of virgin materials and single-use packaging, the brand is also tackling the challenge of improved waste diversion, with a commitment to recycle guest packaging in 100 percent of restaurants in Canada and the US by 2025.

Edited by Benjamin Ferrer

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