Across the UK, flour manufacturers have been navigating a wave of packaging changes in recent years. From shifting consumer expectations to updated food fortification legislation, packaging has come under the spotlight as a critical part of compliance, efficiency and brand identity.

But as many producers have discovered, adapting to new requirements has created a fresh set of challenges — particularly when working with overseas suppliers struggling to meet demand. With global instability disrupting supply chains and sustainability standards becoming stricter, there has never been a better time to bring packaging production back home to the UK.

That’s where Peter Marsh Group, based in Liverpool, stands ready to help.

Why Flour Packaging Is Changing

Recent UK government updates to flour fortification rules have required flour manufacturers to reformulate and repackage products to meet new nutritional and labelling standards. These updates affect everything from the traceability of ingredients to how packaging communicates compliance and safety information to retailers and consumers.

At the same time, there’s growing demand for recyclable, biodegradable packaging that meets the sustainability targets set by major supermarkets and food distributors. Paper sacks must not only perform well under industrial filling conditions but also demonstrate food safety certification such as BRC AA+ accreditation, ensuring hygienic and compliant packaging from production to delivery.

For many flour producers, this combination of legislative and environmental pressure has driven a complete rethink of their packaging strategy.

The New Obstacles Manufacturers Are Facing

While these packaging changes have improved industry standards overall, they’ve also exposed weaknesses in global supply chains. Every month, more UK flour producers are reporting issues such as:

  • Delays from overseas suppliers struggling with extended lead times and shipping disruption
  • Inconsistent sack quality, resulting in failed packaging runs or damaged goods
  • Shortages of approved paper grades required for food-contact packaging
  • Increased freight costs and carbon emissions undermining sustainability commitments

Many of these problems stem from international instability. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and the Middle East, as well as trade tensions with China, continue to create uncertainty in global logistics and material availability. For a sector that relies on consistency and compliance, these risks are difficult to absorb.

Why UK-Based Production Is the Safer Choice

Flour manufacturers need packaging partners who can respond quickly, guarantee quality and maintain compliance, even when the global picture is unpredictable. By sourcing sacks from a UK manufacturer like Peter Marsh Group, producers gain:

1. Shorter lead times – faster deliveries and the flexibility to adjust orders in line with demand.

2. Stable supply chains – local sourcing avoids the risks of port congestion and international delays.

3. BRC AA+ certified production – assurance that every sack meets the highest food safety and hygiene standards.

4. Sustainability alignment – recyclable, biodegradable paper sacks produced with reduced transport emissions.

5. Direct collaboration – the ability to visit the Liverpool facility, test samples and work closely on bespoke sack design.

With nearly 200 years of manufacturing heritage, Peter Marsh Group combines historic reliability with modern, high-speed sack production designed to meet the needs of today’s food industry.

Switching Is Simpler Than You Think

Changing packaging suppliers might sound complex, especially during a period of legislative transition. However, Peter Marsh Group makes the process smooth and low-risk. Their technical experts assess your current packaging format, product type and filling equipment, then develop a like-for-like or improved alternative that maintains your efficiency while ensuring full compliance.

Many flour producers who have switched from imported sacks to Peter Marsh’s UK-made paper sacks have seen immediate benefits: consistent quality, improved delivery performance and reduced costs associated with delays and waste.

The Smart Move for UK Flour Manufacturers

In an era of supply chain disruption and regulatory scrutiny, the case for UK-based packaging has never been stronger. By partnering with Peter Marsh Group, flour manufacturers can secure dependable, compliant and sustainable packaging. All produced right here in Liverpool.

Partner with a Proven UK Supplier

If your business is facing packaging delays or quality issues, it’s time to make the switch.

Peter Marsh Group supplies BRC AA+ certified, custom-designed paper sacks to leading flour producers across the UK and beyond, ensuring your products stay protected, compliant and on schedule.

Contact our Business Development Team or visit www.petermarsh.co.uk to discuss your packaging needs and discover how local manufacturing can give your business a competitive edge.