Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
The Phoenix Convention Center, in collaboration with Bold Reuse, PepsiCo, and Aventura Catering, an exclusive brand of Aramark Sports + Entertainment, are announcing a program to introduce reusable food and drink packaging across the venue.
The reusable packaging program aims to significantly reduce waste generated at the Phoenix Convention Center, which hosts thousands of visitors annually, according to a press release.
Attendees will now enjoy their meals from the Phoenix Kitchens Downtown Food Hall in durable, reusable dishes, fostering a more sustainable event experience. In addition, all poured PepsiCo beverages will be served in Pepsi reusable cups, further reinforcing the program’s environmental impact, the release states.
“The Phoenix Convention Center is proud of this innovative partnership that not only focuses on sustainable event practices, but also enhances the experience of our guests,” said Jerry Harper, director of the Phoenix Convention Center & Venues. “We’re co-creating a blueprint for the future of sustainable venues, one that reduces waste and inspires others to join the movement.”
Aramark’s Aventura Catering, PCC’s exclusive food, beverage and retail provider, began a pilot program to switch to reuseable serveware in July 2024. Aventura engaged Bold Reuse following the pilot program’s success to bolster the venue’s commitment to reducing single use waste.
“Aventura Catering is thrilled to be part of this important initiative at the Phoenix Convention Center,” said John Erickson, general manager for Aventura Catering at the Phoenix Convention Center. “By integrating reusable serveware into our operations, we are reducing waste but also enhancing the overall dining experience for our guests. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the events industry.”
Bold Reuse, a national leader in reusable packaging solutions, will supply and manage the sanitization, delivery and inventory of reusable serveware and drinkware.
“This partnership isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about proving that sustainability is the future of the events industry,” said Heather Watkins, co-founder of Bold Reuse. “By collaborating with forward-thinking organizations like the Phoenix Convention Center, Aventura Catering, and PepsiCo, we’re showing the world what’s possible when bold ideas meet bold action.”
The partnership’s three-phase rollout will redefine sustainability at the Convention Center:
- Phase One: Durable dishes and reusable cups in food hall concessions with convenient return stations, starting December 2024.
- Phase Two: Reusable cups for PepsiCo beverages throughout the venue, launching February 2025.
- Phase Three: Transitioning larger banquets and catering to reusable solutions, transforming the entire event experience.
The program has begun with testing already underway and a successful launch at COMPOST2025 on January 27, 2025. These strategic phases aim to ensure smooth implementation while maximizing environmental impact.
