The Bulk Barometer is the first true snapshot of the sector
The first Economic Barometer of bulk sales and reuse in Belgium, conducted by ConsomAction and Fost Plus, provides an unprecedented overview of a sector that is both mature in its practices and constrained in its development.
On the bulk side, the report reveals a young but stabilised sector: 90% of companies were created after 2010, and 83% show a high level of operational maturity. Yet economic viability remains fragile: two-thirds generate less than €1 million in turnover, despite an average annual growth of 7% between 2022 and 2024. Food products largely dominate the market, and only 25% of operators manage to source mainly Belgian products. Consumers’ lack of routine, logistics constraints and hygiene rules are identified as major obstacles.
The reuse sector is rooted in a strong historical foundation, especially in beverages. Belgium stands out with 83% reusable commercial and industrial packaging (92% excluding cardboard). However, its growth is hindered by costs still higher than single-use — linked to washing, reverse logistics or losses — and by a still limited demand. Companies call for more standardisation, shared washing infrastructure and a clear, incentive-based regulatory framework.
This first barometer highlights significant potential: the complementarity between bulk and reuse could enable Belgium to become a European leader in circular distribution, provided that infrastructure, logistics and public awareness continue to be strengthened.
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• Sylvie Droulans joined The Retail Influencer podcast : https://20centretailfr.substack.com/p/le-barometre-du-vrac-est-une-premiere
• More details about the barometer via: https://www.consomaction.be/en_GB/blog/etudes-8/re-vrac-belgium-les-chiffres-qui-demontrent-le-potentiel-du-vrac-et-du-reemploi-158
Sylvie DroulansConsomactionBaromètreDurabilitéSustainabilityDuurzaamheid