Foldable reusable plastic containers (RPCs) are a key element in the supply chain of fresh produce. Growers use them to pack their products and for shipment to the retailer. IFCO, the leading global supplier of RPCs, has launched a new branding campaign “A better supply chain serves us all. Let’s eat.” to highlight its commitment to responsible business practices.
Leave positive impression
“With this campaign, we are showing what it is that we do,” says Daniel Walsh, President of IFCO North America. “We want to contribute to feeding the world in a better, more responsible way and it is our objective to leave a positive impression with our customers. We also want to support our customers in delivering the highest quality food product. In short, IFCO RPCs are good for growers, retailers and consumers, and good for the planet,” shared Walsh.
Consumers prefer RPCs over cardboard boxes
In the months leading up to the start of the campaign, IFCO conducted a consumer survey among 2,200 consumers in 11 countries to determine grocery shopper preferences in relation to produce packaging of RPCs versus cardboard boxes. The findings of the survey showed that:
- 59% find RPCs more attractive over cardboard boxes
- 50% believe RPCs deliver fresher produce than cardboard boxes
- 50% believe RPCs deliver higher quality produce than cardboard boxes
- 45% said they would pay more for fresh produce packed in RPCs, while 20% said they would pay more for produce packed in cardboard boxes.
“The results are very positive and show that consumers are becoming more educated about the difference between the two package options. Preference, however, depends on the demographic,” according to Walsh. “Younger people value RPCs much higher and increasingly require RPCs instead of cardboard boxes. We also shouldn’t underestimate the concern of retailers and the impact of their sustainability programs. Increasingly, they prefer to work with RPCs.”
Double-digit growth over last decade
Today, the bulk of the fresh produce market is still made up of cardboard boxes. “However, the share of RPCs is growing,” mentioned Walsh. “We have recorded double-digit growth numbers for the past ten years,” he added. IFCO sees opportunities for growth across the globe. Europe is the most mature market, but still growing. The company has made acquisitions in Latin America (Colombia and Chile) as well as Japan. “In addition, we’ve added business in China and Japan and are now working with our first partner in Russia,” said Walsh. This shows there are ample opportunities to grow. Last year, IFCO’s business grew 16 percent globally across all markets, including fresh produce, meat, bread and fish.
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For more information:
Hillary Femal
IFCO Systems US