Packaging Pact compliance made simple: What businesses need to do before 2026

The challenge? Understanding what the Packaging Pact actually demands, and more importantly, what businesses must change before 2026 to stay compliant.

In this blog, we break down the Packaging Pact in simple terms, including its goals, its relevance and the key regulatory shifts on the horizon. We’ll also outline the practical steps businesses should take now, the common challenges they may face and how Swiftpak can support a smooth transition toward fully compliant, future-ready packaging.

What is the Packaging Pact?

The Packaging Pact is the next evolution of the UK Plastics Pact, an initiative designed to tackle the most persistent barriers within the packaging system. While the original Plastics Pact focused primarily on plastic reduction and recyclability, the Packaging Pact takes a broader, more ambitious approach. Its aim is to accelerate the shift toward truly circular packaging at scale by driving collaboration across manufacturers, brands, retailers and the wider supply chain.

At its core, the Packaging Pact is about:

• Reducing packaging waste
• Improving recyclability
• Encouraging businesses to adopt materials that can be reused, recycled, or responsibly recovered

It supports the UK’s transition to a circular economy by promoting sustainable design principles, standardising best practices and stimulating the investment needed for advanced recycling and waste management infrastructure.

For UK businesses, the Packaging Pact is highly relevant, not only because it aligns with increasing regulatory pressure but because it sets clear expectations for packaging sustainability in the years ahead. Companies that understand and adapt to these expectations now will be better positioned to meet upcoming compliance requirements, reduce environmental impact and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Why 2026 matters: Key deadlines and regulatory shifts

The year 2026 represents a major turning point for packaging regulation in the UK. Not only will new Packaging Pact expectations begin to take shape, but significant Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) changes are also due to come into force. These reforms will shift more of the financial and operational responsibility for packaging waste onto producers, placing greater emphasis on the true environmental impact of packaging choices.

Key changes coming into force by 2026 include:

• Modulated EPR fees based on how recyclable and environmentally responsible packaging materials are.
• Stricter reporting requirements, requiring businesses to submit detailed data on the packaging they place on the market.
• Greater emphasis on recyclable and reusable materials, with hard-to-recycle formats becoming increasingly costly.
• Clearer labelling and improved packaging design, supporting better recycling outcomes and compliance with future standards.

How these regulations will influence business decisions:

• Packaging materials: Companies will need to move away from composite or difficult-to-recycle materials to avoid higher EPR fees.
• Design choices: Simpler, more uniform packaging designs will become essential for recyclability and cost reduction.
• Waste reporting: Organisations must improve their data accuracy, tracking and internal processes to meet stringent reporting obligations.

The risk of not preparing early

Businesses that delay action may face:

• Increased compliance and material costs
• Supply chain disruption
• Operational pressures during implementation
• Reputational damage as sustainability expectations rise

Preparing ahead of 2026 allows organisations to spread costs, trial new materials and transition smoothly. This ensures they have full alignment with both EPR reforms and the broader goals of the Packaging Pact.

What businesses need to change now

With 2026 fast approaching, businesses should begin implementing practical steps to ensure they meet upcoming Packaging Pact expectations and EPR requirements. Taking action now not only eases the transition but also helps avoid rising costs and compliance pressure later.

Review packaging materials

Evaluate the materials currently used across your product range.

• Identify any hard-to-recycle or composite materials.
• Explore recyclable, reusable or compostable alternatives.
• Prioritise materials that align with future EPR fee structures to avoid higher costs.

Redesign for recyclability

Packaging design has a significant impact on both compliance and cost.

• Simplify packaging formats where possible.
• Avoid mixed-material structures that hinder recycling.
• Ensure clear, consistent labelling to support correct disposal.

Strengthen waste tracking and reporting

Accurate data will be essential under upcoming EPR requirements.

• Improve internal data collection and documentation systems.
• Track packaging volumes, materials and end-of-life pathways more precisely.
• Implement digital tools or processes that support transparent, auditable reporting.

Implement sustainable packaging strategies

Sustainability needs to be built into long-term business planning.

• Conduct packaging audits to identify reduction opportunities.
• Introduce waste-minimising initiatives, such as right-sizing packaging.
• Adopt eco-friendly alternatives that balance performance with environmental impact.

Collaborate with accredited suppliers

Choosing the right packaging partner is key to staying compliant.

• Work with suppliers who understand the evolving regulations.
• Ensure materials are sourced responsibly and meet recognised standards.
• Seek expert guidance on sustainable materials, design optimisation and regulatory compliance.

Taking these steps early will help businesses stay ahead of upcoming changes from EPR and the Packaging Pact. It will help reduce risk and businesses will benefit from more sustainable and cost-efficient packaging solutions.

Common challenges businesses face

As businesses prepare for the Packaging Pact, many encounter similar obstacles. Understanding these challenges early can help organisations plan more effectively and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

1. Confusion around requirements: The evolving landscape of sustainability regulations can be complex. Many businesses struggle to interpret what the Packaging Pact and EPR reforms actually require and how these rules apply to their operations.
2. Cost concerns when switching materials: Transitioning to more sustainable materials can feel costly upfront. Businesses may worry about higher material prices, redesign expenses or changes to production processes.
3. Supply chain limitations: Not all suppliers offer compliant or sustainable packaging options. Limited availability, long lead times and inconsistent material standards can create delays and frustration.
4. Lack of internal expertise: Most organisations don’t have in-house sustainability specialists or packaging experts, making it difficult to navigate the technical aspects of recyclability, reporting and design compliance.
5. Balancing sustainability with performance: Even when sustainable options are available, businesses must ensure packaging continues to protect products effectively without compromising durability, brand experience or functionality.

How Swiftpak makes compliance simple

At Swiftpak, we support businesses through every stage of their journey toward compliance, offering tailored solutions and expert guidance.

• Expert packaging audits: We assess your current packaging, identify compliance gaps and recommend practical improvements.
• Sustainable packaging alternatives: Choose from a wide range of recyclable, compostable and eco-friendly materials designed to meet upcoming standards.
• Bespoke packaging design: Our in-house team helps you redesign packaging for recyclability, efficiency and product protection, supported by rapid prototyping.
• Technical support and ongoing guidance: From interpreting new regulations and advising on the best materials, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
• Reliable supply chain and accredited materials: We ensure consistent availability of compliant materials sourced from trusted, accredited suppliers.

Make Packaging Pact compliance simple with the right partner

With 2026 fast approaching, the need to prepare has never been more urgent. The upcoming Packaging Pact expectations, combined with significant EPR changes, will reshape how businesses design, source and manage their packaging. Starting early is the best way to avoid rising costs, supply chain disruption and last-minute pressure.

But while the regulations may seem complex, compliance doesn’t have to be. With the right partner by your side, navigating these changes becomes far more straightforward. Swiftpak provides the expertise, sustainable materials and technical guidance businesses need to transition smoothly and confidently.

If you’re ready to future-proof your packaging and ensure full compliance ahead of 2026, our team is here to help. Get in touch with Swiftpak today to explore sustainable packaging options.