Vegware Hong Kong Ltd
- HKGCC Membership No. :
- HKV0172
Going Green with Packaging
“Food waste is the largest source of municipal solid waste in Hong Kong, as it accounts for approximately 40% of the total. Even worse is this waste cannot be recycled when it is mixed with plastic packaging,” said Ceicy Wong, General Manager of Vegware Hong Kong.
The compostable food packaging organization offers a potential solution for this problem – low-carbon, plant-based and plastic-free disposable packaging that can be recycled together with food waste. The company, which was founded in the U.K. in 2006, offers more than 250 products from cutlery to tableware and takeaway packaging, but is always working on expanding its lineup. It ventured into the Hong Kong market in 2015, and the Vegware team has been developing food packaging products that are tailor-made for Asian food. “We take our clients’ needs seriously, and we are always trying to find the best solution to serve their needs,” said Wong.
She recalled a bride-to-be client who wanted to give away 200 free lunch boxes to the homeless in Hong Kong. The charitable act was made even more meaningful by choosing to use compostable lunch box packaging.
In addition, Wong stresses the importance of the quality of Vegware’s products: “Consistent service is key to customer loyalty. They will come back when they trust they will have a consistent experience each and every time they patronize your business. Bit by bit, we have earned the trust of many customers and become a well-known brand in our industry.”
While recycling tends to get more attention in the F&B sector in Hong Kong, package innovation also plays a key role in the ongoing green trend. As an industry pioneer that is experienced in sustainable food packaging solutions, Vegware aims not only to provide plastic-free packaging products, but help their clients to create carbon-conscious brands through eco-responsible packaging.
“We have been chosen by countless restaurants, coffee houses, educational institutions and event organizers. Our plastic-free products present opportunities for them to address present-day environmental concerns with a stylish, functional, economic and sustainable solution,” she said.
Increasing the awareness
Given that all their certified compostable catering disposables are the result of extensive research and thorough study, Wong strives to spread the philosophy behind Vegware via different channels. One of the most important ways is the use of social media. “It is the quickest way for our messages to get through to our customers in such a fast-paced city,” said Wong.
Apart from promoting their products online, Vegware has proactively engaged with many schools. The company has teamed up with institutions such as the University of Hong Kong, Baptist University and several international schools to call on Hong Kong society to get more involved in food recycling and composting.
“Food waste recycling is the first step to zero waste. I believe that the more knowledge consumers are given about the true environmental responsibility of various pack types, the better purchasing decisions they will be able to make,” said Wong.
Compared with other parts of the world where Vegware has introduced their green products, plant-based materials are still relatively new to the Asian market. Acknowledging the need to promote sustainable packaging in Hong Kong, Vegware is working towards attracting more locally-based clients. “Local businesses such as cha chaan tengs (tea restaurants) which have always used traditional packaging might not be aware of the idea of sustainability packaging, so it is important that we invest more time to explain to them that such a practical sustainable solution is available when it comes to food service packaging,” she said.
“I am a Hongkonger and I care deeply for our city. Everyone can do their part in protecting the environment with a sustainable lifestyle. Through our products, we hope to inspire our customers so that a small step in the right direction can end up benefiting our environment greatly,” Wong concluded.
Company: Vegware Hong Kong Ltd
HKGCC Membership No: HKV0172
Established: 2006
Website: www.vegware.hk
