Why New Packaging Waste Regulations Are Reshaping the Market

The UK packaging landscape is undergoing its biggest shift in decades, driven by tighter environmental legislation, rising compliance costs and public pressure to eliminate unnecessary plastic. The introduction of new Packaging Waste Regulations, combined with the escalating cost of plastic PRNs, is forcing businesses to reassess their packaging choices.

Many manufacturers who previously used plastic sacks are now moving to UK-made paper sacks as a proactive measure to avoid increased costs, satisfy retailer requirements and meet internal sustainability targets. As a result, paper sacks have become a preferred solution across the food, feed, chemical, agricultural and construction sectors.

With further legislative changes expected, manufacturers who delay switching from plastic face rising financial and operational risks.

The Financial Impact of Plastic PRNs and Regulatory Changes

Plastic PRNs have risen sharply in cost and are expected to increase further. Businesses using plastic sacks, even partially, will face significantly higher compliance fees. For companies handling large volumes of packaging, these increases can run into tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds per year.

By contrast, paper sacks fall under recyclable, lower-cost material categories. Choosing paper over plastic reduces PRN obligations and helps businesses maintain compliance while protecting profit margins.

The new rules also place greater responsibility on producers to ensure packaging is recyclable and environmentally responsible. Manufacturers unable to demonstrate a clear reduction in plastic usage may face auditor challenges, retailer penalties or contractual restrictions.

How Retailers Are Driving Sustainable Packaging Adoption

Supermarkets and national retailers have set ambitious goals to reduce plastic waste across their supply chains. Many have already replaced single-use plastics with renewable or recyclable alternatives in key categories. Suppliers expected to meet these commitments must ensure their packaging aligns with retailer sustainability policies.

Paper sacks meet these expectations naturally. Fully recyclable and biodegradable, they support retailer demands while reinforcing a positive environmental message to consumers.

Brands that fail to adopt more sustainable packaging risk losing shelf space, facing tighter contract conditions or being excluded from certain product categories entirely.

Strengthening Supply Chains with UK-Made Paper Sacks

Beyond compliance and sustainability, supply chain stability is now a decisive factor. Manufacturers relying on imported plastic sacks face unpredictable lead times, shipping delays and fluctuating freight costs.

UK-made paper sacks offer:

  • Consistent and shorter lead times
  • Predictable pricing
  • Reliable stock availability
  • Improved quality control
  • Easier communication and faster sampling

Local manufacturing removes the uncertainty associated with overseas supply chains, helping businesses operate more efficiently and with greater confidence.

Speak to Peter Marsh Group About Switching from Plastic to Paper

If your business is reviewing packaging under the new regulatory landscape, now is the ideal time to explore UK-made paper sacks. Peter Marsh Group helps manufacturers transition smoothly by providing samples, compatibility checks and fully customised sack options.

To discuss your packaging requirements, contact the Business Development Team.