PackUK names industry-led packaging PRO to oversee pEPR

PackUK has chosen UK Packaging PRO as the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for the UK’s packaging EPR (pEPR) scheme. 

UK Packaging PRO is a producer-led organization representing more than 100 of the country’s largest brands, retailers, and trade bodies, supported by the Food and Drink Federation and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment.

The pEPR scheme administrator says that an industry-led PRO represents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to shape the delivery of the pEPR scheme and strengthen the partnership between the government and industry. 

UK Packaging PRO will be appointed formally on April 1, with responsibilities introduced gradually. PackUK will oversee the PRO and “ensure its accountability to the governments of the UK’s four nations.”

Industry representation

PackUK will maintain core administrative powers, such as final decisions on local authority payments and producer fees. 

“I’m delighted to welcome UK Packaging PRO as the new PRO. This announcement follows a rigorous selection process, as PackUK was committed to choosing the best candidate possible to represent the diverse interests of the packaging industry,” comments Jeremy Blake, chief executive officer at PackUK.   

“The appointment of the PRO will further enhance the scheme by unlocking the benefits that an industry-led organization can bring.” 

Karen Graley, head at UK Packaging PRO, adds: “We’re proud to have been appointed to play such a vital role in the pEPR scheme. UK Packaging PRO was created to give producers a genuine seat at the table.”

“With strong governance in place, a clear mobilization plan, and broad support from across the sector, we are ready to get to work — in close partnership with PackUK, governments, local authorities, and organizations across the value chain to deliver a packaging system that works better for everyone.”

Producers from the flexible plastics and foodservice packaging sectors previously told Packaging Insights that expectations around the pEPR remain unclear. 

Funding circularity

The pEPR has supported local authorities with a £1.4 billion (US$1.9 billion) investment in Year 1 of the scheme to improve packaging waste collection and recycling, while incentivizing producers to reduce their material footprint. 

Circular Economy Minister, Mary Creagh, adds: “This government will accelerate the circular economy transition. Our pEPR scheme will incentivize businesses toward more sustainable packaging choices and improve recycling services in every region.”

“The launch of UK Packaging PRO, led by businesses and working closely with PackUK, is a major step forward — putting industry expertise at the center of how pEPR is delivered.”