The producer-led organisation UK Packaging PRO has been appointed to manage the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR) scheme.
UK Packaging PRO is a producer-led organisation of more than 100 brands, retailers and trade bodies, which are also supported by the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN).
Karen Graley, Head of UK Packaging PRO, said UK Packaging PRO was created to give producers a ‘genuine seat at the table’.
“With strong governance in place, a clear mobilisation plan, and broad support from across the sector, we are ready to get to work – in close partnership with PackUK, governments, local authorities and organisations across the value chain to deliver a packaging system that works better for everyone,” Graley continued.
The formal appointment for UK Packaging PRO will commence on 1 April 2026, with PackUK, the scheme administrator for pEPR, maintaining oversight of the PRO.
Core administrative powers, such as final decisions on local authority payments and producer fees, will remain with PackUK.
The pEPR scheme provides funding to local authorities to drive improvements in recycling. £1.4 billion was reinvested back into recycling infrastructure in the first year of the scheme.
Circular Economy Minister, Mary Creagh, called the appointment a ‘major step forward’.
“Our packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) scheme will incentivise businesses towards more sustainable packaging choices and improve recycling services in every region,” Creagh said.
“The launch of UK Packaging PRO, led by businesses and working closely with PackUK, is a major step forward – putting industry expertise at the centre of how pEPR is delivered.”