Packaging Changes: Preparing our Partners for what’s next
** Mikes Minutes October 2026 **
We explore what upcoming packaging changes mean for our suppliers, retail customers and on-trade partners.
From packaging information and labelling to deposits and container collections, changing regulations will have practical implications across the drinks industry. At Beyond Wines, our focus is on understanding these developments and helping our partners prepare through clear communication and coordinated planning.
Deposit Return Schemes: planning for October 2027
Deposit Return Schemes are due to launch from 1 October 2027, covering eligible PET plastic bottles, aluminium and steel cans from 150ml to 3 litres. Wales will also include glass within its scheme, creating additional considerations for wine suppliers and customers operating across different UK markets.
For Beyond Wines and our winery partners, preparations will include product registration, compliant packaging and barcode changes, alongside systems to account for deposits. Early planning will help align artwork and production schedules with customer requirements.
For retailers, the changes extend beyond the products on shelves. Those required to operate a return point will need to consider space, staffing, refunds and the storage of returned containers. Return points can be manual or automated through reverse vending machines, with exemptions available in certain circumstances. Funding has also been announced to support qualifying small independent retailers installing RVMs.
For pubs, bars, restaurants and their wholesalers, the practical priorities include invoicing, till systems, cash flow and empty-container collections. In England and Northern Ireland, venues serving drinks for consumption on the premises can choose not to charge the deposit to customers, retaining the containers for collection and reclaiming the deposit instead. This makes clear processes and staff communication particularly important.
Packaging requirements for Northern Ireland and the EU
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces requirements affecting packaging placed on the EU and Northern Ireland markets. It does not currently apply to packaging placed on the market in Great Britain, but remains relevant to businesses supplying customers who trade across these markets.
For our suppliers, this means being ready to share accurate packaging specifications and supporting compliance information. For customers, it means understanding which requirements apply to their products and supply routes.
Beyond Wines can support this process by coordinating information between wineries and customers, helping identify gaps and bringing future packaging changes into commercial and production planning.
EPR: understanding the cost of packaging
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) shifts the cost of managing household packaging waste towards obligated producers and encourages packaging that is easier to recycle.
Reliable information on packaging materials and weights is therefore increasingly important. For Beyond Wines and our suppliers, this supports accurate reporting and informed packaging decisions. For customers, it provides a stronger basis for understanding costs and planning future ranges.
Working together
The implications will vary by product, market and customer. Our priority is to work closely with our partners to understand those differences, prepare the necessary information and coordinate changes with as little disruption as possible.
As further guidance becomes available, we will continue sharing relevant updates with our customers and suppliers.
If you would like to discuss what these changes could mean for your business, please contact the Beyond Wines team. Mike is on hand to help with any questions.