Compass Group UK & Ireland is extending the use of Cauli’s technology-based reusable packaging system for food and drinks as part of its waste reduction plans.
The wider introduction comes after a proof-of-concept period intended to test and adjust reuse models in different high-volume settings across Compass’ Restaurant Associates Group, Eurest, Chartwells and Healthcare operations.
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Cauli’s packaging, including coffee cups, takeaway containers and pizza boxes, can be used as many as 400 times.
Each item has its own digital ID designed to support longer use and clearer data tracking.
Cauli co-founder Mingqiao Zhao said: “A truly circular economy relies on accountability, not just alternatives.
“Many reuse schemes fail because, without tracking, packaging simply disappears. By integrating smart traceability into the Cauli Reuse System, we keep containers in circulation and deliver data-backed waste reduction at scale.
“Partnering with Compass has allowed us to prove our technology in high-volume, cross-sector environments, and we are thrilled to expand this rollout to help more of their clients seamlessly transition to a frictionless, circular model.”
The system relies on smart tracking tools that allow customers to take and return food and drink containers.
Compass said the approach has been shown to cut waste when compared with single-use packaging. The company estimates that more than 383,000 single-use items have been removed so far.
The arrangement also covers the addition of an AI-powered reverse vending machine (RVM) at Compass locations to make returns more automated and easier to manage.
Compass recently introduced Our Planet Promise, setting out progress in its sustainability work and its next steps.
Its waste commitments include a 5% cut in food waste in FY26 against a FY25 baseline, a 30% reduction in single-use foodservice packaging by 2035, and an increase in recycling and anaerobic digestion to 65% by 2035.
Compass Group UK and Ireland environment head Ashleigh Taylor said: “We’ve been really impressed by Cauli’s innovative reusable cups and container initiative, and the statistics we’ve seen back up that the system can have a positive impact in reducing single-use packaging.
“We are now looking to roll out Cauli further within our business, which will support our commitment to reducing single-use packaging and help our clients in becoming more sustainable.”
