Walkers Chocolates introduces recyclable paper wrapper

UPM Specialty Papers has partnered with EvoPak to support Walkers Chocolates' transition from a plastic wrapper to recyclable paper-based packaging. This will help Walkers Chocolates achieve its sustainable packaging ambition while reducing plastic usage across their site.

The collaboration brings together UPM SolideTM Lucent 45 g/m² barrier base paper with EvoPak’s RCM coating, creating a fibre-based barrier solution perfect for chocolate and other demanding end-uses. Thanks to its oxygen and grease barriers, the new paper package fulfills Walkers Chocolates’ demanding standards for product quality.

Since 2024, Walkers Chocolates has provided recyclable paper packaging for the chocolates it manufactures and supplies for major retailers and international clients. Additionally, several of the company’s own products which are packed in UPM Solide Lucent with EvoPak’s RCM coating are available in stores across multiple UK retail chains and international markets.

UPM Solide Lucent is a strong and extremely versatile barrier base paper with a unique look and feel. A smooth surface and high density offer superior properties for further converting and printing.

Tom Murtagh, Commercial Director, Walkers Chocolates, said: The printability of UPM Solide Lucent is really impressive and EvoPak’s RCM coating is a revolutionary solution for our industry. We've achieved the same packaging line efficiency, maintaining the same speed as our previous plastic packaging materials with only minor adjustments.

The exceptional performance of UPM Solide Lucent combined with EvoPak’s RCM coating, a unique, water soluble polymer, has enabled EvoPak to create a breakthrough solution that maintains the functional benefits of traditional plastic packaging.

Tom Lock, CEO, EvoPak, commented: We’re extremely happy with how the paper extrudes and the print quality in flexo is exceptional. We are 100% happy in UPM Solide Lucent as the grade of choice for our future sustainable packaging development.

Recyclable in existing fibre recycling infrastructure, the packaging supports the circular economy. The co-created solution with EvoPak's RCM coating and UPM Solide Lucent barrier base paper has achieved CEPI/4EG Technical Recyclability Score (v. 2.0 Jan 2025).

Samples of this co-created solution are available at UPM Specialty Papers’ stand 329, Hall 3A at Fachpack, Nuremburg, Germany, September 23th-25th.