As the owner of a food business, chances are you’re well aware of the shift towards a greener, cleaner future.
Over the past few years, governments around the world have finally started to take the plastic pollution epidemic seriously, with restrictions now placed on many items that were once the norm.
But while some business owners may be annoyed by these additional restrictions, the more savvy among you will be intrigued to learn how greener packaging can benefit not just the planet, but your business too.
So here we’ll be going into precisely how going green is beneficial for your business. While some of the points raised may be obvious, others may surprise you.
Abide By Law
The main reason your business can benefit from going green with its packaging is that there are now new rules in place and failing to abide by them will land you in hot water!
Since September 2023, food businesses have been banned from using single-use packaging. The ban includes all online and over-the-counter sales and it covers packaging items from new and existing stock.
Trading Standards departments will have the authority to fine and prosecute any business not complying with the rules. So to avoid hefty fines, it’s best to abide by the rules and stick to biodegradable packaging.
So first and foremost, to help keep you out of the clutches of the law, biodegradable packaging is a necessity.
Building Brand Loyalty
When customers notice a business is environmentally responsible, they’re more likely to develop a sense of loyalty towards the brand.
So by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, businesses can create a deeper connection with their customer base, leading to repeat purchases and increased loyalty.
Increased Custom
With sustainability such a hot topic and more and more people wanting to do their bit to protect the planet, customers are now favouring brands that align with their environmental ethos.
By embracing sustainability, businesses can even attract like-minded customers who are willing to pay a premium for products and services, meaning you could even turn it into a profit-maker!
So if you’re looking to boost custom, a great way to do so is by demonstrating your green credentials with some eco-friendly offerings.
Protects Your Reputation
As well as attracting eco-conscious customers, going green will also help you avoid any damage to your reputation.
One way to shine a negative spotlight on yourself is by showing customers you have a flagrant disregard for the law. If customers notice you’re failing to stick to the rules on single-use plastic, customers may start to wonder what other rules you’re failing to comply with, which could see them shopping elsewhere!
Ways To Make Your Business Greener
Before we wrap up, let’s take a quick look at some of the most obvious ways to make your business more eco-friendly. These include:
Biodegradable Packaging:
As we’ve established already, you’ll need to cut single-use plastic to stick to the new rules.
Switching to biodegradable or compostable options such as kraft paper or bagasse packaging materials is a great way to do this, and it can also significantly reduce the environmental impact of food packaging.
These materials break down more easily in the environment compared to traditional plastics, helping to minimise waste and pollution.
Meat-Free Options:
If you don’t have any vegetarian and vegan options on your menu, now might be the time to add some.
Meat is one of the biggest producers of greenhouse gases, so if you’re looking to reduce your impact on the planet then one way to do that is by offering more plant-based options.
From vegan burgers and kebabs to plant-based pizzas and curries, catering to plant-based eaters is a great way to make your business greener, while you’ll also make your menu more inclusive, which is always a bonus!
Reduce Energy/Water Consumption:
Let’s face it, most food businesses go through a lot of energy, what with the ovens and other equipment constantly blurring. But while some energy use is inevitable, there are still ways you can reduce your consumption.
Likewise, water consumption should also be a concern, especially considering the increasing number of droughts and shortages of drinking water around the world.
Start by ensuring all your lighting is powered by LEDs. You’ll be surprised by how much you can save by just making this change. When it comes to water, there are many ways you can reduce the amount your business is going through.
By cutting back on your utilities usage, you’ll not only help save these precious resources, but you’ll also cut down your bills to help boost your bottom line.
Offer Recycling Bins:
By providing recycling bins in your takeaway, this is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to going green.
Make sure these are clearly and visibly marked so your customers don’t get confused. And if you notice not many are putting their rubbish into the right bins, you could always give them a polite and friendly reminder as you hand over their food.
So that’s how going green can help your business. As well as keeping you out of trouble, as you can see, there are multiple advantages to improving your green credentials.
If you would like to find out more about how Elpack Packaging Solutions can assist your business, or discuss your bespoke packaging needs, get in touch with our expert team today! Call us on 01425 524021 or drop us an email at info@elpack.co.uk
