DUH complaint against the catering industry

A comprehensive analysis of the DUH lawsuits and their effects

In recent months, Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) has filed several successful lawsuits against various companies for violating the obligation to provide reusable packaging. These court decisions have far-reaching implications for the food service industry and underline the importance of the legal obligation to provide reusable packaging.

The lawsuits at a glance

Action against Back-Factory from 09.09.2024 with the file number 91 O 41/24:
- Core of the judgment: Catering businesses must not only offer reusable systems, but also ensure that they are always available.
- Implications: This ruling makes it clear that simply stating that they use a reusable system is not enough. Companies must actively ensure that reusable packaging is offered at every customer contact.
Lawsuits against Edeka, Yormas, Dunkin Donuts and others (07.02.2024):
- Core of the judgment: Here, too, companies were ordered to implement the obligation to offer reusable packaging.
- Impact: These lawsuits show that DUH is not only holding small companies to account, but also large ones. It underlines the importance of the reusable packaging obligation for all players in the food service industry.
- If the defendants are found to be in breach, a fine of up to EUR 250,000 can be imposed.

Common denominators and effects

Consistent enforcement of the reusable container obligation: A sufficient quantity of reusable containers must be available at all times. This obligation is an important step towards more sustainable gastronomy and underlines the importance of the circular economy. Fines of up to EUR 10,000 can be imposed in individual cases of non-compliance with the reusable container obligation.
Increased controls: The DUH's successful lawsuits are likely to lead to increased inspections by the authorities. At the same time, more and more local authorities are introducing regional packaging taxes to strengthen the obligation to reuse packaging. Tübingen is a pioneer here.
Pressure on the industry: The food service industry is under increasing pressure to comply with legal requirements.
Opportunities for sustainable solutions: The rulings offer companies the opportunity to position themselves as pioneers in terms of sustainability and to benefit from the advantages of reusable systems

What does this mean for restaurateurs?

Implementing the reusable packaging obligation: restaurateurs must ensure that they always have sufficient reusable packaging available and actively offer it.
Seek advice: Professional advice can help with the implementation of the reusable packaging obligation.
Long-term benefits: Switching to reusable packaging is not only a legal obligation, but also offers long-term benefits such as cost savings and image benefits.

The role of circ Nette Mehrweg

In this context, circ Nette Mehrweg offers a comprehensive solution for restaurateurs. With our tailor-made reusable systems, you can meet the legal requirements and benefit from numerous advantages at the same time.
- Variety: We have the right container for almost every dish or drink.
- Quality: Our products are robust, durable and dishwasher-safe.
- Service: We offer comprehensive advice and a smooth logistics process.

Conclusion

The DUH's successful lawsuits underline the importance of mandatory reusability. Restaurateurs should see this development as an opportunity and actively promote more sustainable gastronomy. With circ Nette Mehrweg, you have a strong partner at your side.
Would you like to find out more about our solutions?

We can support you with important questions such as

the right choice of reusable containers
Determining the right quantity so that you have enough containers in stock
Discussing the right deposit amount to pass on to end customers
Hygienic return and correct rinsing

Get in touch with us!

Sales team
0551 - 99 963-90

Press contact:

Daniel Middendorf
Head of Marketing
Phone: 0551 - 69 47 - 705
EMail: Daniel.middendorf@nette-deutschland.de