Case study
Drafting specifications for reusable packaging in the food service sector
Summary
Selecting and standardising two priority packaging formats for reuse in the food service sector, together with drafting the associated specifications.
Challenge
Mobilising stakeholders representative of the food service value chain in order to produce standards that are useful and impactful for the sector, prioritising two packaging formats against defined criteria (volume and diversity, stakeholder needs, technical feasibility, existing reuse loops) and drafting two sets of specifications setting out the requirements for reusable packaging.
Details
From analysis to field deployment.
Challenge
An eco-organisation responsible for professional packaging, including food service packaging, which is required to develop reuse notably through the standardisation of packaging, was faced with a multitude of packaging formats used across the sector. Circul'R selected the priority packaging formats so that standardisation efforts could be focused.
Solution
- Prioritisation of the packaging to be reused (interviews, analysis of waste stream studies, questionnaire and benchmark).
- Co-building the specifications for the selected packaging through a workshop, an interactive webinar and numerous exchanges with stakeholders and experts.
Results
Standardised packaging formats
2
Stakeholders mobilised
51
Groups of players represented
6
Deliverables:
- Two standardised packaging formats (a bucket and a jerrycan) intended for widespread use in the food service sector for many types of foodstuffs (sauces, dairy products, oils, egg products, etc.).
- 51 stakeholders mobilised for interviews or workshops, and motivated to continue.
- 6 groups of players represented (manufacturers placing products on the market, restaurant operators, distributors, packaging manufacturers, federations, reuse and washing players).
FAQ
What you need to know about us.
What is Circul'R?
Circul'R is a consulting firm specializing in the circular economy. Since 2016, we have supported over 150 large companies and public entities through consulting projects, sector coalitions, training programs, and the Circul'R Club.
How does Circul'R differ from a generalist CSR consulting firm?
Unlike a generalist CSR firm, Circul'R has specialized exclusively in the circular economy since 2016. This cross-functional expertise—covering supply chains, regulations (AGEC, EPR, ESPR), and business models—allows us to turn circularity into a measurable competitive advantage, including impact reduction, resource security, compliance, and new growth drivers.
Who is Circul'R for?
Circul'R advises large private companies—including many CAC 40 and SBF 120 groups—on strategic decisions across all sectors. We also support organizations that implement public circular economy policies, such as eco-organizations, agencies, donors, and local authorities.
What services does Circul'R offer?
Circul'R offers four complementary services: bespoke consulting to structure your circular strategy, sector-specific coalitions to solve shared business challenges, training programs to build circular economy skills, and the Circul'R Club, a network for companies committed to the circular transition.
What is Circul'R's expertise regarding circular economy regulations (EPR, AGEC, CSRD)?
Circul'R guides clients through the entire French and European regulatory framework for the circular economy, including the AGEC law, EPR schemes, and CSRD, as well as recent European legislation like the PPWR, ESPR, and CRMA. We translate these obligations into operational roadmaps, turning compliance requirements into strategic advantages.
What is the process for a consulting project with Circul'R?
A project begins with a diagnostic of your circular challenges, covering areas like supply, eco-design, business models, and regulations. Circul'R then builds a prioritized, quantified roadmap and supports the operational deployment of selected actions, right through to impact measurement and continuous trajectory adjustment.
How do you measure the results of your projects?
We define tailored circularity indicators upfront—such as materials saved, reuse rates, footprint reduction, and value generated—and track their progress throughout the project to ensure concrete business and environmental results.
Do you work only in France or internationally as well?
Based in Paris, Circul'R operates primarily in France and Europe. Internationally, we support cooperation projects, including sharing French expertise on EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) and assisting donors with their circular transition programs in emerging countries, leveraging a network of operational partners and sector experts.
How do I get started with Circul'R?
Contact the team via our website: Circul'R will analyze your challenges and propose the right solution—whether through consulting, joining a coalition, taking a training course, or becoming a Club member—to accelerate your transition to a circular economy.