Unpacking Consumer Adoption: Understanding Design Drivers and Barriers of Adopting Reusable Packaging Systems in the Food Retail Sector

Growing sustainability concerns regarding single-use packaging and packaging waste are driving significant packaging innovations. Among these innovations is the emergence of reusable packaging systems (RPS) as a potential sustainable alternative. This research provides a comprehensive analysis of RPS and the reasons behind their limited widespread adoption among consumers, considering factors influencing their acceptance and rejection. This study scoured the Scopus and Google Scholar databases for articles published between 2017 and 2023, utilizing specific keywords related to RPS, barriers, and drivers. Articles primarily focusing on RPS weremeticulously selected for analysis, with additional inclusion of relevant manuscripts referenced within these selected articles. Findings reveal a complex landscape where environmental consciousness, perceptions of product quality, and sustainability concerns emerge as primary drivers, while convenience issues, initial investment costs, and food safety perceptions pose significant barriers. The study underscores the importance of addressing these factors to promote widespread RPS adoption, facilitating a transition to more sustainable packaging practices in food retail.