UK exporters urged to review packaging as PPWR requirements take effect

UK businesses exporting packaged goods to the European Union are being advised to review their packaging and compliance processes following the introduction of new requirements under the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

The regulation became applicable across EU member states on 12 August 2026 and affects businesses placing packaging or packaged products on the EU market, including companies exporting goods from the UK.

PPWR introduces requirements intended to reduce packaging waste and improve the use of resources across the EU. These include measures covering packaging minimisation, recyclability, reuse and recycled content, alongside restrictions relating to certain substances.

The legislation has implications for organisations throughout the supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, producers, fulfilment service providers, online sellers and product owners.

Rhenus Logistics has highlighted a number of areas UK exporters may need to consider, including the packaging they use, information provided by suppliers, supporting compliance documentation and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) requirements in individual EU markets.

The impact of PPWR is very much immediate. UK exporters must review packaging, verify supplier information and prepare and review compliance documentation and EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) obligations in each EU member state where goods are supplied.

Compliance goes beyond recyclability, encompassing harmful substance restrictions, harmonised EU labelling, conformity documentation and EPR obligations. UK exporters must review packaging, verify supplier information and prepare compliance documentation supporting the packaging used in order to remain compliant.

Rob Mulligan, UK Customs Manager, The Rhenus Group.

Businesses will also need to consider labelling and documentation requirements under Regulation (EU) 2025/40. Information provided with packaging must meet the applicable EU requirements, while QR codes may be used to provide additional details such as technical information and recycling guidance. Where physical marking is not possible, relevant information may instead be provided through accompanying documentation.

PPWR also has implications for businesses supplying customers in Northern Ireland, although the requirements differ in some areas. According to Rhenus, this includes exemptions from certain EPR obligations, EU reuse targets and deposit return scheme requirements.

Further changes are due to follow as PPWR is implemented. From 2028, additional harmonised requirements covering sorting pictograms, packaging material composition and consumer waste-sorting information are expected to apply.

Rhenus Logistics said it is working with customers on areas including packaging audits, compliance reviews and supply chain planning as businesses adapt to the regulation.

More information is available from The Rhenus Group.