
WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 18, 2025) –The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) is announcing the opening of the application period for the 14th annual Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards. The awards honor primary (end) users and suppliers who have made recognizable strides and impacts in one of three categories: a Reusable Packaging System, Design Innovation, or Product Technology. Submissions are due by May 1.
The three award categories are:
Excellence in Reusable Packaging System – The Reusable System award recognizes primary user companies and associated product suppliers that have developed and implemented measurable reusable packaging solutions in a business-to-business supply chain. Applicants are asked to provide quantified results in both environmental and economic impacts.
Excellence in Reusable Packaging Design Innovation – The Design Innovation Award celebrates the commercial use of a cutting-edge product design that led to a benefit in the market. Applicants are asked to demonstrate how the novel product design used a unique material or produced a desired feature that led to a performance improvement, overcame an obstacle, or created a new value in the supply chain.
Excellence in Reusable Packaging Product Technology – The Product Technology award salutes the deployment of smart and automated systems with reusable transport packaging. Applicants are asked to explain the technology or automation and how it improved the reusable product’s capabilities and operational gains in the supply chain.
For over 25 years, RPA has been passionate about advancing sustainable and innovative solutions within the reusable packaging industry. RPA’s award program and its winners have gained well-deserved recognition, establishing themselves as a cornerstone of the reuse community by highlighting circular, cutting-edge, and intelligent advancements in reusable transport packaging.
“This is a pivotal time for reusable packaging, with each year bringing greater innovation and progress as companies demonstrate the reuse promise and value,” says RPA President and CEO Tim Debus. “The Excellence Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements in this space, showcasing the companies leading the way in packaging system design and modernization. Their contributions are shaping a more sustainable and higher-performing supply chain,” adds Debus.
An independent panel of judges will review submissions and select the winners. Following the May 1 application deadline, winners will be notified in August to prepare for the award presentation at PACK EXPO Las Vegas, September 29 to October 1. The awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday, September 30, at the show’s Reusable Packaging Learning Center.
Primary users do not have to be a member of the RPA to enter. Primary user winners will receive a complimentary RPA membership for one year and lodging to attend and present their submission at the awards ceremony. All winners receive a commemorative trophy; RPA website, public relations and social media exposure; and posting of their case studies on the RPA website. Please see the application form on the RPA website for the complete eligibility requirements, terms and conditions for participating in the award program.
About the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA): Founded 25 years ago, RPA is a non-profit trade organization representing and promoting the common business interests of member suppliers and users of reusable packaging products and services. RPA accelerates supply chain adoption and optimization of reusable packaging systems through education and advocacy.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Amanda McCrea, Director, Marketing and Communications
813.358.5327 | amccrea@reusables.org