Introducing Lendable
Lendable is our new approach to making packaging reuse work at scale.
No fees, no fuss, no single-use waste
Drawing on our experience in creating voluntary, industry-led schemes like the Flexible Plastic Fund and Podback, we’ve worked closely with key stakeholders - brands, retailers, and consumers - to explore how a different kind of reuse model could gain real traction.
Despite more refill and reuse options in the UK, scale is held back by three barriers: the high level of behaviour change needed from consumers, the lack of concentrated packaging volumes to drive uptake, and limited infrastructure for collection, cleaning, and redistribution.
Lendable tackles these through creative, cross-organisation collaboration.
How will Lendable work?
Watch our short explainer video to learn how the scheme is different to anything that's come before...
What makes Lendable different?
No deposit and no technology: Reusable packaging should be the default choice. Once customers are finished with their reusable packaging, they’ll simply drop it in a purple Lendable bin on the street.
Based in Bristol: Our goal is to partner with local businesses and national chains, aiming to swap 1 million pieces of single-use packaging in our first year. Though starting in Bristol, the ambition is for Lendable to be replicated in cities across the UK.
Partnering with existing, local collection and wash facilities: Our scheme partners with Bristol Waste Company, and Re-Uz, ensuring we can collect and wash reusable packaging at scale.
A recognisable brand: We created a unifying brand for the scheme's packaging, collection points, and collection system. We have trademarked ‘Lendable’ and established a clear message: Purple cup, purple bin.
Can we turn Bristol into a reuse city?
James took to the streets of Bristol to get the public's opinion on Lendable.
“We handle large volumes of on-street waste and we know that a large proportion of that waste is on-the-go, single use packaging, so we see a huge opportunity to reduce that waste through this reusable packaging scheme.”
Sarah Burns
Sustainability and Engagement Manager at Bristol Waste
Want to get involved?
Want to get involved with our pioneering scheme to help shape the future of sustainable packaging? We’re looking for established brands and Bristol-based independent businesses to join us in our journey to making Lendable a reality.
