Why consider an all-in-one reusables program?
Reuse is on the rise. It’s in restaurants, on college campuses, and even at this summer’s Olympics.
As more college campuses learn about the value of reusables, they are considering which type of program is best for their campus. For years, the only options were container-only or tech-only programs – which is why USEFULL built an all-in-one reusable takeout solution. Unlike inventory-only or tech-only options, an all-in-one solution provides all components of your reuse program, and can easily be scaled to maximize impact on campus.
Why consider an all-in-one solution for sustainable takeout? This blog breaks down what this type of program is, and the key benefits for your food service operations.
What is an all-in-one solution?
An all-in-one takeout solution covers all of your takeout needs. This includes:
Inventory: 100% plastic-free, stainless steel containers.
Technology: Inventory management technology to ensure containers come back.
Customizable marketing suite: All the materials you need to educate your students about the exciting new reuse program, from email copy to table tents.
24/7 customer support: Our customer support team handles any questions about the reuse program, so your dining staff doesn’t need to worry about it.
Why consider an all-in-one solution?
In talks with dining and auxiliary services leaders, we have learned that food service administrators have a lot on their plates. So, when food service leaders switch to reusables, they don’t need the added task of piecing together a takeout solution.
That’s where an all-in-one takeout solution comes in. Read on to learn the top benefits of all-in-one takeout.
Simple transition
Often, the initial transition is a primary challenge for campuses considering reusable takeout. An all-in-one solution makes it easier to implement that change in operations. On the contact side, there is no need to hunt down two separate inventory and technology providers, or juggle multiple contracts. During launch, you will have a point person to manage any transition needs, from inventory to integrating technology with your campus card solution.
Cost savings
Many reusables systems require a sizable up-front investment because dining operations have to buy thousands of reusable containers. Often, this can be a significant barrier to entry for campuses considering reusable takeout.
An all-in-one solution like USEFULL eliminates the need for large capital expenditures. Instead of asking our clients to buy containers up-front, we wrap our entire system into one flat monthly fee, which includes all aspects of your reuse program. As a benefit, our partners have noticed savings of more than 20% compared to single-use compostables.
Starting plastic free
The future of takeout is plastic-free not just because stainless steel is the optimal choice for the environment – but also because it’s the optimal choice for health. All plastic containers release microplastics – especially when microwaved or when in contact with acidic food. On the other hand, food-grade stainless steel containers are non-reactive and safe for all food. Stainless steel containers also last much longer than their reusable plastic counterparts.
Switching to an all-in-one solution like USEFULL ensures that you only need to introduce a new reusables system once. We encourage clients to make the switch to plastic-free takeout now, rather than introducing plastic reusables and then later changing to plastic free. Bring sustainable and food-safe takeout to your students today!
Do you have any additional questions about all-in-one solutions? Drop us a line! We would love to chat with you.