A major shift is underway in packaging regulation. In both the UK and the EU, new policies are redefining how packaging must be designed, sourced and measured.
The result? Compliance is no longer background noise, it is now one of the most influential drivers of packaging strategy.
The regulatory landscape: A new era of accountability
The UK’s Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) came into force in 2025, requiring businesses to pay fees based on the net cost of collecting, sorting and recycling their packaging.
The scheme is expected to generate roughly £1 billion a year to support improved recycling systems. pEPR requires:
- Accurate material reporting
- Evidence‑based design decisions
- Clear recyclability data
- Strategic material choice to limit rising fees
Meanwhile, for businesses sending goods into the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) mandates that by 2030:
- All packaging on the EU market must be recyclable
- Virgin material use must decrease significantly.
- Packaging must be minimised, with a 50% maximum empty-space ratio for grouped, transport and eCommerce packaging.
- Overpackaging will no longer be tolerated
What this look like in practice
Compliance is no longer about making small tweaks. In many cases, it requires rethinking pack formats altogether.
A strong example comes from Club L London, who replaced a traditional boot packaging format with a right‑sized, lightweight bespoke mailer manufactured by Duo Packaging. The new design:
- Reduced material usage
- Improved postal efficiency
- Eliminated unnecessary empty space
- Aligned with pEPR & PPWR expectations
- Enhanced the overall customer experience
This is the new standard. Evidence‑backed design choices that reduce cost, improve recyclability and meet regulatory thresholds.
Want the full picture?
Download ImPACKED: The Five Big Influences Shaping the Future of Packaging Strategies your 2026 playbook for navigating the new regulatory era.
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