Swiss Post processed 17 million parcels this April - an all-time record. While many people's boxes end up piled up in the cellar after unpacking, packaging materials such as bubble wrap often end up in the bin.
Wouldn't it be more practical and environmentally friendly if the goods were sent in bags made from recycled PET, which could be folded after use, thrown into a post box free of charge and reused up to thirty times? The St. Gallen start-up Kickbag is working on this idea.
Mariella Huber and Tobias Zingg, as yet only those who shop at Stadtlandkind or Stoff & so can benefit from Kickbag. However, their invention has the potential to revolutionize parcel shipping internationally. Already in talks with online giants such as Zalando or Amazon?
During this six-month pilot phase, we want to gather insights and further develop the Kickbag so that we can offer interested parties a great product later on. Two weeks after the launch in mid-August, more than a hundred companies - large and small - and potential partners have already contacted us.
Not a bad response?
In discussions with the team and various partners, we sensed early on 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 shipped in a Kickbag?
We produced three sizes for the pilot phase. The largest bag - 70x35 x 20 centimetres - can hold goods weighing up to thirty kilograms. All bags can be folded to the size of a B4 letter for return shipment.
And fragile goods?
Cannot be shipped with the current prototype. The Kickbag has potential for improvement, that's what drives us.
How many customers actually send it back?
In the four-week test phase in June, it was 75 percent. A pleasing rate that we want to increase further by communicating even more specifically. Sustainability is important to customers. Many would even contribute to the return with a climate franc.
Have you ever considered having the kickbags collected by the postman in the same way as used Nespresso capsules?
Very good input. And a topic that we are already discussing intensively with Swiss Post. All partners involved are keen to make the process even simpler, more efficient and more customer-friendly. Depositing the bags in your own milk compartment is one option.
Interview with Leandra Nef, Lifestyle Editor.
Published in the September issue of Annabelle
