Circularity, Compliance, and Consumer Trust: What We Learned at Expo West 2025

At Bay Cities, sustainability is not just a value—it’s our guiding principle. And with Earth Month reminding us of the urgent need to think about our environmental impact, our recent presence at Natural Products Expo West 2025 felt especially meaningful. As the world’s leading tradeshow for natural, organic, and conscious products, Expo West is a hub of innovation and inspiration for companies striving to regenerate the planet while delivering integrity-based consumer experiences. The alignment between the Expo’s mission and Bay Cities’ vision of cradle-to-cradle packaging and environmental stewardship makes our presence not only relevant but also deeply purposeful. 

Why Natural Products Expo West 

The natural and organic products industry has shown consistent resilience and growth—boasting a 5.7% increase in 2024.* This surge is powered by brands and consumers alike who are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices, ethical sourcing, and climate-conscious innovations. For Bay Cities, a leader in sustainable packaging, this event is a chance to showcase our commitment and collaborate with like-minded companies.  

Expo West offers a unique platform to deepen relationships with brands who value sustainability in their supply chains and packaging decisions. We connected with CPG leaders who recognize that sustainable packaging isn’t a luxury—it’s a business imperative. 

Key Takeaways

One of the most powerful sessions we attended was The State of Sustainable Packaging hosted by One Step Closer (OSC). The session featured a powerhouse panel of packaging visionaries from Resonance, TRUE Zero Waste, U.S. Green Building Council, Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), and SpecRight. The discussion shed light on how policy, innovation, and consumer demand are shaping the next generation of packaging. 

Here’s what stood out: 

1) Circularity is Now the Standard 

A recurring theme from the session and presentation was that circular packaging systems—where materials are reused and recycled—are no longer aspirational; they are essential. This echoes Bay Cities’ own commitment to designing for recyclability and reducing waste across the supply chain. 

2) Consumers Want Proof, Not Promises   

The presentation detailed key policy trends – from California’s SB 54 law requiring all packaging to be recyclable or compostable by 2032, to the review of the FTC’s Green Guides, which provide clarity and legal boundaries around how businesses can truthfully describe their products or packaging as “recyclable,” for example. As legislation is accelerating, brands must stay ahead of regulatory shifts to maintain credibility and compliance. 

At Bay Cities, we see regulation as a roadmap—not a roadblock. In fact, our low Scope 1 and 2 emissions already outperform industry benchmarks, and we’re actively pursuing Science-Based Targets and renewable energy procurement to lead by example. 

4) Tech & Transparency Are the Future   

We agree—sustainability starts with knowing your data. That’s why Bay Cities partners with carbon accounting experts and digitizes our production metrics to support Scope 3 tracking, packaging audits, and customer sustainability disclosures.   

They’re Versatile and Cost Effective

Not only are POP displays associated with many benefits, but they’re also remarkably versatile and cost-effective. According to one Harvard study, a POP display can cost as little as $0.03 for every 1,000 shoppers. Available in temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent designs, POP displays can also be mobile and malleable at any given time, depending on your needs. 

Helping Our Clients Walk the Walk 

As the demand for sustainability grows, our clients need partners who walk the walk. Our sustainable packaging solutions allow conscious brands to meet regulatory goals, impress eco-savvy consumers, and reduce their carbon footprints—all without sacrificing quality or brand identity.  

We're is investing in:  

• Circular economy innovation  
• Scope 3 supply chain transparency  
• Policy and legislation education and guidance
• Strategic partnerships 

Let’s Build the Future—Together  

Attending Natural Products Expo West 2025 only reaffirmed what we already knew: the path to a circular economy starts with smart, responsible packaging. And Bay Cities is ready to help brands lead the charge.  

Want to future-proof your packaging? Let’s co-create solutions that protect both your products and the planet. Contact us today.  

* New Hope Network's Nutrition Business Journal