Annabelle asked: We sensed early on that we were causing a small revolution!

Swiss Post processed 17 million parcels this April - an all-time record. While the carton piles up in many people's basements after unpacking, packaging material such as bubble wrap often ends up in the trash.

Wouldn't it be more practical and environmentally friendly if goods were sent in bags made of recycled PET that could be folded after use, dropped in a mailbox for free and reused up to thirty times? This is the idea that the St. Gallen-based start-up Kickbag is tinkering with.

Mariella Huber and Tobias Zingg, as of yet only those who shop at Stadtlandkind or Stoff & so can benefit from Kickbag. But their invention has the potential to revolutionize parcel shipping internationally. Already in discussion with online giants like Zalando or Amazon?

In this six-month pilot phase, we want to gather insights and further develop the Kickbag so that we can later offer interested parties a great product. Two weeks after the launch in mid-August, more than a hundred companies - small and large - and potential partners have already contacted us.

Not a bad response?

We sensed early on in discussions with the team and various partners that we could cause a small revolution. Nevertheless, we are overwhelmed by the extent of the feedback. It forces and motivates us to push ahead with our vision.

How big and heavy can goods be that are sent in the Kickbag?

We produced three sizes for the pilot phase. In the largest bag - 70x35x20 centimetres - goods weighing up to thirty kilograms can be shipped. All bags can be folded to the size of a B4 letter for return shipping.

And fragile goods?

Can't be shipped with the current prototype. The Kickbag has potential for improvement, and that's what drives us.

How many customers actually send it back?

During the four-week test phase in June, 75 per cent did. That's a pleasing rate, which we want to increase further by communicating even more specifically. Sustainability is important to customers. Many would even contribute a climate franc to the return.

Have you ever considered having the postman pick up the Kickbags in the same way as used Nespresso capsules?

Very good input. And it's a topic we're already discussing intensively with Swiss Post. All the partners involved are keen to make the process even simpler, more efficient and more customer-friendly. Depositing the bags in your own milk crate is one possibility.

Interview with Leandra Nef, Lifestyle Editor.
Published in the September issue of Annabelle