Chinese Firm Launches ‘Coffee’ Suitcase Made with Recycled Materials

German materials manufacturer Covestro and China’s Ninetygo have announced the global launch of the luggage brand’s new R-GO Coffee Journey Series suitcase, made with polycarbonate containing up to 90 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) content from Covestro.

“The circular economy must prove its value in markets. The global launch of this new suitcase shows recycled materials can meet expectations for both performance and design,” said Lily Wang, President of Engineering Plastics at Covestro. “We are pleased to deepen our long-standing collaboration with Ninetygo and to help more Chinese brands differentiate globally through sustainability.”

“Ninetygo is committed to advancing sustainable travel worldwide. Today’s consumers expect not only quality and design, but also environmental responsibility,” said Alisa Shang, CEO of Runmi Technology, which owns Ninetygo. “Together with Covestro, we are bringing to market a new generation of PCR-based luggage that combines performance with sustainability, while strengthening our global competitiveness.” 

IMAGE: COVESTRO

Combining sustainability and durability

The suitcase shell is made from Makrolon R90 with up to 90 percent recycled content, sourced from end-of-life water containers. Since 2020, Covestro has collaborated with partners to recycle around 1 million 19-liter polycarbonate containers annually, converting them into high-quality PCR material for use in consumer goods, electronics and home appliances. For example, a 20-inch suitcase from the Coffee Journey Series reduces the shell carbon footprint by over 67% compared to the previous version, thanks to a higher content of circular materials.

In terms of performance, the recycled material maintains strong impact resistance at room temperature and in extreme conditions down to -20°C. It also offers excellent color versatility, with this new Coffee Journey Series available in three colors: Flat White, Americano and Latte, reflecting the material’s natural aesthetic.