“Our business started from the need to reuse logistics platforms resulting from the logistical support for American troops in World War II. In the past years, we have moved the discussion from the area of ​​resource use and disposal to the area of ​​resource sharing.

We offer logistics platforms – in Romania we are better known for blue pallets – but our business is much more complex and we offer – in Western Europe – even kegs for beer producers.

It is much better to reuse or share resources than to buy and then find solutions to replace those resources,” Gabriel Ivan, General Manager, CHEP Romania & Bulgaria said at Circular Economy Conference organized by The Diplomat-Bucharest and Sustainability-Today.

Key statements:

• For almost 14 years in Romania, we have been offering supply chain efficiency solutions to the industry and, very importantly, we work closely with all players, whether we are talking about manufacturers or large retailers. Our collaboration also targets empty miles, because these transport capacities are not always available. But if we collaborate with manufacturers and retailers, we can share these transport capacities that are examples of good practices in the circular economy area.
• We have a very appreciated business model and I think we have succeeded in inspiring other companies to enter the circular economy. We need to build a necessary framework to develop the circular economy in Romania. We are making progress and we see that people are talking about components of the circular economy and not just about recycling.
• Our business model involves 100 percent reuse. There is still potential for growth in Romania regarding the circular economy.
• A change in mentality is needed. We need to continue to explain why it is good to rent and not buy. We need collaboration and trust between stakeholders.