M&S switches to paper packaging for men’s essentials range

Marks & Spencer has transitioned the packaging of several core men’s clothing items to paper-based alternatives, aiming to eliminate nearly 5.5 million units of plastic from its Clothing & Home operations over the next year.

The move includes the complete switch to FSC-certified paper packaging for all men’s socks, men’s woven pyjama sets, and approximately 40% of the retailer’s men’s underwear range. These items are now packaged using recyclable paper materials and paper hooks, designed to be easily disposed of through household recycling systems.

M&S, a leading retailer in the UK menswear market—serving one in five male shoppers for underwear and nightwear—says the shift reflects its ongoing commitment to reducing plastic waste and offering customers more sustainable packaging choices.

Subject to the outcome of current trials, M&S plans to expand the initiative to additional products within its men’s essentials category, which could see a further 3.5 million plastic packaging units removed from its supply chain.

Katharine Beacham, Head of Sustainability in Clothing & Home at M&S, said: We know we have a responsibility to do the right thing when it comes to our packaging by reducing unnecessary plastic. This one small change to our men’s essentials range will make a huge difference by removing over 5 million units of plastic from our supply chain. It also gives our customers the confidence to make more sustainable choices more easily when they shop with us, and trust that the M&S quality products they love are made, sourced and packaged with care.

The latest changes build on earlier efforts from the brand. In 2023, M&S trialled similar paper packaging solutions across men’s and women’s seasonal accessories such as hats, gloves, and scarves, resulting in the removal of more than 4 million units of plastic.

With around 20 million pairs of men’s socks sold annually, M&S says switching to paper packaging for high-volume products represents an important step in its wider sustainability agenda.