A Hub for Innovation and Collaboration
The Reusable Packaging Pavilion and Learning Center at PACK EXPO once again demonstrated why it is the greatest annual event in the world to see reusable packaging products and services and to learn about successful commercial reuse systems.
From September 29 to October 1, the South Upper Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center staged the product showcase and education sessions, drawing thousands of attendees eager to explore the latest developments in reusable transport packaging. This year’s Pavilion featured 43 RPA member exhibitors across 12,215 square feet, featuring advanced packaging designs, options, and technologies, with a strong focus on product identification, monitoring, tracking, and automation, reflecting the trends shaping modern supply chains.
Learning Center Insights
The two-day Learning Center provided a focused opportunity for attendees to learn directly from industry leaders, gain best practices, and explore real-world reusable packaging solutions. The program opened with the State of the Industry address from RPA President and CEO Tim Debus, who discussed the role of artificial intelligence in reusable transport packaging, setting the tone for two days of sessions on sustainability, public policy, operational efficiency, and emerging technologies.
Discussions throughout the program centered on what it takes to build a circular and efficient reusable packaging system at scale. One key theme was the end-of-utility stage for reusable crates, bins, and pallets. Although designed for repeated use, these products eventually need repair, remanufacturing, or repurposing. Experts demonstrated how materials like plastics and wood can be reprocessed into new products, preserving value, and keeping materials out of landfills. Another major focus was the growing role of technology and data in reuse systems. Companies shared how asset tracking and analytics are reducing shrink, improving inventory visibility, strengthening food safety compliance, and ensuring packaging is used to its full potential.
Speakers also explored how sustainability expectations and new regulatory frameworks are influencing the market. In the fresh produce industry, reusable packaging is helping growers and distributors reduce waste while maintaining product quality. A panel session on the true cost of ownership showed how reusable systems often become more cost-effective over time once disposal fees and repeated purchasing of single-use packaging are taken into account. With extended producer responsibility (EPR) policies expanding in several states, panelists also highlighted how reusable systems can help companies reduce or avoid packaging waste fees altogether.
Taken together, the Learning Center conversations reinforced a clear message: reusable transport packaging is not a temporary trend; it is a strategic shift that delivers operational, financial, and sustainability advantages across industries.
Attendance metrics reinforced the impact of the Reusable Packaging Learning Center. Nearly 400 professionals representing a wide range of organizations, including major brand, retailer, and OEM companies, checked in to attend sessions, demonstrating strong interest and engagement across markets.
Exhibitor Highlights
Exhibitors brought innovation to life across a wide range of categories. From durable crates and containers to pallets, the products demonstrated long-lasting utility and smart designs for packaging and unit load efficiencies. Tracking technology provides smarter inventory and asset management, and automation solutions offer greater throughput and precision. Attendees experienced firsthand how reusable packaging systems extend asset use and value, reduce waste, and create cost savings across the supply chain.
Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards
The Learning Center closed out on with the 14th Annual Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards, celebrating companies’ revolutionizing packaging sustainability. General Motors and KAMPS Pallets, Inc. were recognized for their comprehensive Reusable System, implementing a national pallet management program that unlocked cost savings, improved visibility, and reduced environmental impact. Cabka and CHEP received the Design Innovation award for introducing the Zirconic Foldable Large Container, combining engineering and sustainability to address modern logistics challenges. inotec group received the Product Technology award for developing a custom RFID label embedded in reusable trays, demonstrating smart tracking and inventory management.
And The Show Goes On
The Reusable Packaging Association invites all attendees and industry professionals to continue the momentum from PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025. Soon you can watch the Learning Center session videos (expected to be published mid-November) to dive deeper into the presentations and panel discussions shared during the event, meet and reconnect with the exhibitors from the Reusable Packaging Pavilion to explore solutions and potential partnerships, and get involved with RPA by becoming a member. Membership connects you to the largest network of reusable transport packaging professionals, along with valuable resources, educational opportunities, and collaborative industry initiatives.