Faerch drives sustainability with increased tray rPET supply for food packaging

Cirrec has increased its internal supply of tray-based recycled PET (tray rPET) to support Faerch, a supplier of rigid plastic food packaging, in scaling circular packaging solutions at an industrial level.

Cirrec, Faerch’s integrated recycling facility, can now provide its full annual output capacity of approximately 27,000 metric tons of pellets for internal consumption, securing Faerch Group’s access to the recycled raw material.

Tim Rademacker, divisional CEO for recycling at Faerch Group and Cirrec, says: “Faerch ensures stability and quality in food packaging by managing the recycling process through Cirrec. This control allows us to secure high standards for raw materials, consistent quality, and reliable supply.” 

“Clear and colored tray rPET offers a stable and sustainable recycled PET source, protecting customers from market volatility and supporting long-term business resilience. With our ambition, we can secure a constant supply and stable quality for all PET food packaging applications within the Faerch Group.”

Expanding recycling model

Faerch is turning post-consumer trays into new food-grade packaging. According to the company, its recycling progress is driven by collaboration across teams, partnerships throughout the value chain, and a focus on improving processes and outcomes.

The company has set a target to achieve 25–30% tray rPET content across its product portfolio this year. This goal is integrated into Faerch’s certification processes.

Last month, Cirrec advanced plastics recycling with Tomra Recycling’s flake solutions. Since installing Tomra Recycling’s units, Cirrec has seen a reduction in contaminants in its final streams.

Last year, Faerch introduced a range of CPET trays for chilled ready meals in the UK and Ireland, featuring a minimum of 40% tray rPET sourced from post-consumer and circular content.