ORBIS RPM Expands Reach, Looks to the Future of Reusable Packaging Management

ORBIS RPM: key growth sectors include Mexico, electric vehicles, and metal racks

ORBIS Corporation’s division, ORBIS RPM (Reusable Packaging Management), has been expanding its offerings while continuing to gain traction. In a recent interview, Scott Krebs, Senior Director of ORBIS RPM, spoke with Reusable Packaging News about RPM’s latest developments. “ RPM is not just a services provider but a true supply chain consultant for our customers,” Krebs said. “It’s the unique combination of packaging and services that drive consistent returns on investment, making things sustainable, efficient, and reliable for businesses.”

RPM’s Unique Approach: Combining Data Analytics with Actionable Services

ORBIS RPM is filling a gap in the market by taking a unique, hands-on approach to supply chain data. Unlike software-only providers, ORBIS RPM doesn’t just gather data or provide software dashboards. And unlike 3PL providers, it doesn’t just focus on warehousing and transportation. Instead, RPM bridges both functions – tracking and physical asset management. The company provides what Krebs describes as “feet on the street”—meaning RPM team members engage directly in the field to implement solutions based on real-time data insights.

“We understand that data and systems are critical for customers, and we don’t stop at just showing them the numbers,” Krebs explained. “We identify KPIs and potential risks in the supply chain, but beyond that, we take responsibility by actively working to mitigate those risks and improve efficiency on the ground.”

Through RPM, ORBIS offers extensive lifecycle management services for reusable packaging, which includes tracking, demand planning, inventory management, reverse logistics, and more. “While other providers may offer data insights or warehouse management, we’re out there helping rebalance inventory and contacting suppliers to ensure smooth operations,” he said. This commitment to practical, in-field application has become the hallmark of ORBIS RPM’s service philosophy.

Targeting Ideal Customers with a Comprehensive Service Approach

According to Krebs, the ideal customers for ORBIS RPM are companies looking for more than just basic information services. “It’s not the customer that’s only seeking dashboards or insights who will benefit most from RPM,” he noted. “Our clients are the ones who want insights but also need help doing the work—who need us to implement changes that add value to their returnable packaging systems.”

For clients with established 3PL relationships, ORBIS RPM serves as a complementary partner, “plugging into” existing networks to optimize reusable packaging programs rather than replacing them. “The companies that approach us tend to see the value in optimizing their packaging network, but they need the expertise and on-the-ground support to make it happen,” Krebs shared.

Growth in Key Sectors: Mexico, Electric Vehicles, and Metal Racks

ORBIS RPM is experiencing growth in key sectors, particularly in Mexico and the electric vehicle (EV) market. “We’re seeing a lot of onshoring in Mexico,” said Krebs, emphasizing the growing automotive production in the region, including investments by Chinese auto manufacturers in the Mexican market. ORBIS RPM is uniquely positioned to assist clients operating in complex loops across North America, helping them manage returnable packaging networks across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.

The EV market that Krebs highlights presents unique challenges due to its demanding packaging requirements. Unlike traditional automotive parts, EV components—especially batteries—require strict handling standards. “We can’t just send packaging back in its regular condition; it has to be clean and reliable, as it often goes from OEM back to the clean room environment for battery cell manufacturing,” he explained. ORBIS RPM supports companies in the EV sector by ensuring that packaging meets these higher standards through additional services like cleaning, sorting, and maintenance.

Another growing area for ORBIS RPM is metal rack management. Metal racks have long been used in the automotive industry, but demand for higher levels of service in rack management is growing. “Whether it’s plastics or metals, ORBIS RPM can handle a variety of packaging materials,” Krebs noted, underscoring RPM’s flexibility and unbiased approach to packaging materials.

Balancing Expendable and Returnable Packaging: A Holistic Perspective

For longer transportation lanes in the automotive sector, there are still some expendable packaging applications where customers are looking strictly from the lens of a cost-per-part basis. Many companies, however, see the value in standardizing reusable packaging to eliminate problems such as part damage, repacking and solid waste generation.

“There’s still some expendable packaging in use, but we’re seeing more clients willing to look at the big picture,” Krebs said. “They prioritize standardization and consistent parts flow, understanding that while some loops may be challenging, the overall benefits are significant.” He estimates that in U.S.-based OEM facilities, the majority of incoming parts—from 75% to 85%—now arrive in returnable packaging.

Next Steps for ORBIS RPM: Automation, Network Management, and Pooling Solutions

Looking to the future, ORBIS RPM has identified three primary growth opportunities. First is increased automation within RPM’s service centers. “Automation is a major focus,” Krebs shared, “allowing us to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and ensure consistent quality. Automation also helps our customers streamline their network, achieving higher throughput without adding labor.” Automation is particularly valuable for high-precision tasks, reducing human error and enhancing quality.

Network management is another area of growth. ORBIS RPM aims to support customers looking to maximize return on investment in their returnable packaging programs without needing a full service center network. “Many clients don’t require an extensive network initially; they just need help proving ROI on their reusable packaging,” Krebs said. By providing network planning and analysis services, ORBIS RPM assists these customers in understanding the economic value of their packaging programs, allowing them to make informed decisions.

Pooling solutions represent the third opportunity for ORBIS RPM. Traditionally, service networks have been set up for individual customers, but ORBIS RPM sees potential in pooling resources. “We’re exploring optimization opportunities where a service network could add value for multiple customers instead of only serving one,” Krebs explained. “This approach could help tier suppliers and other clients gain the benefits of a shared network, making the system more efficient and less costly.”

He highlighted ORBIS RPM’s fundamental mission: “We always say you want to have the right packaging in the right place at the right time,” he said. “If you do those three things well, you’ll gain all the other benefits.”

Krebs encourages potential clients to reach out, even if only to gain a broader understanding of returnable packaging options. “We want people to benefit from a returnable program,” he said. “Every customer is different, and connecting with a company like ORBIS gives them access to awide portfolio of solutions.”

To find out more, visit ORBIS Reusable Packaging Management.

See the full overview of ORBIS Corporation’s reusable packaging systems.

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Rick LeBlanc

Rick LeBlanc, EMBA, is the founder and editor of Reusable Packaging News (subscribe to the free newsletter) and editor of Western Pallet Magazine. A supply chain journalist with more than 30 years of experience, he specializes in pallets, reusable packaging, material handling and related operations. Rick is co-author of Pallets: A North American Perspective and Pallets & Progress: A Collected History of Pallets and Palletized Handling 1922–1945. He is also an advisory board member of the Virginia Tech Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design. Read Rick’s full bio.