What is EPR Packaging and What Does It Mean for You?

You may have heard the term EPR packaging being mentioned more often lately, but what does it mean, and how could it affect your business and customers?

At Challenge Packaging, we’re proud to offer not just high-quality packaging solutions, but also expert insight into industry developments. One of the biggest upcoming changes in the UK is the rollout of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and it’s something all businesses using packaging should understand.

Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR, is a new UK packaging regulation that places more responsibility on businesses for the full life cycle of their packaging, from design and production right through to disposal and recycling.

Put simply, if your business supplies or uses packaging for products, you will now be responsible for reporting more detailed data and covering the environmental costs linked to that packaging’s end-of-life.

This includes everything from cardboard boxes and paper mailers to plastic wrap and product sleeves. Whether you’re shipping nationwide or offering products in-store, your packaging choices now carry more weight, both legally and environmentally.

The EPR legislation has been created to help reduce packaging waste, improve recycling rates, and shift the cost of managing waste away from local councils and on to the producers, that’s businesses like yours.

This system is designed to encourage smarter, greener choices, such as switching to eco-friendly packaging UK suppliers, like Challenge Packaging, who offer sustainable alternatives to traditional, waste-heavy packaging materials.

If your business creates, imports, fills or sells products with packaging, the EPR packaging rules could have a direct impact on you.

Here’s what you need to know:

You’ll now need to provide regular, detailed data about the packaging materials you use, including the weight, material type, and how it’s sold or shipped.

You may be charged EPR fees based on the type and amount of packaging you place on the market. Non-recyclable materials could cost you more in the long run.

Choosing recyclable packaging or sustainable packaging solutions not only reduces your environmental footprint but may also lower your overall EPR-related costs.

EPR applies to UK businesses that meet these criteria:

·         Annual turnover of £1 million or more

·         Handle 25 tonnes or more of packaging per year

·         Perform at least one packaging activity (e.g. manufacturing, importing, selling goods with packaging)

If this sounds like your business, then you're likely required to register and comply with the new UK packaging compliance scheme.

We understand that the new EPR rules can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re running a business. That’s why Challenge Packaging is here to help you adapt and thrive.

We offer a wide range of eco-friendly packaging solutions, including:

·         Recyclable and biodegradable boxes

·         FSC®-certified materials

·         Custom branded packaging that stands out while supporting your sustainability goals

With our guidance, you can make packaging decisions that are not only visually impressive but also EPR-compliant and cost-effective in the long term.

While EPR might sound like just another bit of red tape, it’s actually a huge opportunity. Businesses that invest in sustainable packaging UK suppliers now will not only stay ahead of regulations but also demonstrate clear environmental responsibility to customers.

By switching to greener packaging solutions, you show that your brand values sustainability and is future-ready.

If you’re unsure how EPR packaging compliance affects your business, or you’d like expert help choosing the right sustainable packaging solutions, our team at Challenge Packaging is here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s make your packaging work harder, for your brand, your customers, and the planet.