Reusable Packaging Systems at Hamburg's Weekly Markets
24 February 2025
In collaboration with the Mediterranean delicatessen vendor Suri Signature GmbH, the Change(K)now! project partner BEF Germany tested various reusable packaging systems at two popular Hamburg markets:
- Goldbekmarkt (local farmers, returning residential customers)
- Isemarkt (local, tourists, casual customers)
Two alternative systems piloted:
- Refill (reuser-owned): to engage customers to bring their own containers by providing them an economic purchase option.
- Return (provider-owned): a centralized pooling system for reusable bowls.
Aim:
To significantly reduce single-use packaging in food delivery systems while comparing the effectiveness and acceptance of various reusable solutions. By engaging directly with vendors and customers, we seek to raise awareness about sustainable packaging options and gather crucial data on the practicality of implementing reusable systems in market settings.
Result:
The pilot showed that reusable takeaway systems can work at weekly food markets without negatively affecting sales.
Interactive map showing pilot locations. Use the arrow keys to move the map view and the zoom controls to zoom in or out. Press the Tab key to navigate between markers. Press Enter or click a marker to view pilot project details.


