Retail and e-commerce – June 2025

Reusable packaging systems in the grocery sector
An LCA by Eunomia for the Refill Coalition shows that reusable packaging systems in the UK grocery sector can have significantly improved environmental performance compared to single-use alternatives. The scope of the report covers two systems, trialled by ALDI (in-store) and Ocado Retail (online), comparing them with single-use equivalents across eight grocery products. You can download the report after filling in your details.
The Umwelt Bundesamt (in German) has published a report (in German with an English summary, 12.7 MB) promoting reusable packaging systems to reduce packaging consumption. According to the report, reusable packaging is essential for avoiding packaging waste. Compared to single-use packaging, it can make an important contribution to environmental protection and resource conservation. The report looks into possible measures to establish, disseminate and optimise reusable systems.

Efficient packaging system for e-commerce
A Universidade de Vigo study (271 KB) entitled ‘Implementing A Sustainable and Efficient Packaging System for E-Commerce: An Empirical Perspective in the Household Sector’ has been published in the Journal of Industrial Engineering and Management. The results of the study show the diversity of packaging solutions adopted by each retailer analysed. The study also shows their inefficiencies and the opportunities for improvement from an economic and environmental perspective, particularly regarding the selection and quantity of materials, as well as the volumes of the external packaging. This last aspect seems to be the differential factor for the best retailers.

Retailers challenge: balance between customer experience and business efficiency
Adyen has released its 2025 Retail Index. The report combines insights from consumer and business research and industry experts to uncover how retailers can find the perfect balance between customer experience and business efficiency. As consumer experiences shift towards immersive, tech-enhanced in-store experiences, the willingness to share data in exchange for value creates new opportunities for personalisation. However, without connected data systems and a unified commerce approach, many will find it difficult to meet shoppers’ expectations for consistent, streamlined experiences.

The future of online retail
The E-Commerce Trends Report 2025 (18,3 MB) by DHL highlights how evolving consumer expectations are reshaping the future of online retail. While the report covers everything from cross-border purchasing to shoppers' views on sale days like Black Friday, four findings stand out in particular: the way AI and social commerce are transforming online shopping, the essential role that delivery plays in cart conversion, and sustainability shaping loyalty.

Dutch retail volume expected to grow by 1% in 2025
ABN AMRO (in Dutch) expects the Dutch retail volume to grow by 1% in 2025, partly due to recovery of purchasing power. However, the growth rate remains uncertain due to external factors such as geopolitical instability. Retailers, dependent on foreign countries, need to be flexible and able to switch quickly between suppliers and transport routes.

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