PACKAGING
HERE’S WHAT THEY SAID… Thomas Glendinning, Managing Director at Sovereign Labelling Machines, supplier of labelling and sleeving solutions: “More needs to be done to address the skills gap that is evident in printing, packaging and manufacturing more generally. I would like to see more pronounced measures that support British manufacturing. These are both obvious things that haven’t been happening. “On the other hand, with the further rise of
the national minimum wage, I’m hoping we can capitalise on this by helping our clients and potential clients to introduce more automation and ward off a hike in wage bills.”
Robbie Staniforth, Innovation and Policy Director at Ecosurety, packaging compliance expert: “Sadly, there wasn’t enough in today’s budget to support the recycling and reuse of packaging in the UK. EPR alone will not drive the systems change required. We need more over the next decade if we are to support the brilliant reprocessors and reuse systems of this country.” “The fact that the Government still thinks
in terms of a Consumer Price Index indicates just how far we have to go on the transition to a circular economy. Consumption is an outdated term from a linear world created by marketeers to sell more products. We are citizens of the planet that simply use resources, and hopefully return them to nature. When will we see a budget that encourages us to ‘consume’ less? The wait continues.”
Dr Colin Church CEnv FIMMM, IOM3 Chief Executive: “We are at a pivotal moment in UK policy development, and the vital role of materials, minerals and mining is unmistakably clear, from the government’s Industrial Strategy and recently published Critical Minerals Strategy, to the forthcoming Circular Economy Growth Plan for England. It is essential that the government’s economic priorities enable effective delivery across these areas and support the step change required to transition the UK to a low-carbon, “It is, therefore, disappointing not to see
greater recognition of our key industries and the value they bring in today’s budget speech. However, the emphasis on supporting businesses to develop in the UK and ongoing investment in clean energy and advanced materials is welcome.”
Gillian Garside-Wight, Director of Consulting at Aura, packaging strategist and consultant: “The autumn budget signals a challenging period for businesses, including the packaging sector. With income tax thresholds frozen until 2031 and overall tax take projected to hit 38 per cent of GDP by 2030, consumer spending power may tighten. This could drive greater demand for private-label value ranges, while premium brands may see a decline as shoppers adjust to reduced disposable income. Rising costs could pressure margins across the entire value chain.
content. In addition to a consultation on development for businesses seeking PPT exemptions. Companies must prepare for stricter compliance requirements, requiring more granular packaging data, associated “The broader economic outlook, with
downgraded growth forecasts, means sourcing, reducing virgin material use and investing in recycling infrastructure will not only mitigate costs but also align with sustainability expectations. “Businesses should review their exposure
to PPT and collect more granular packaging data in order to stay compliant and limit any future liabilities. They should also redouble their efforts to secure recycled material streams by collaborating with suppliers. This kind of proactive compliance will enable businesses to build resilience, and it’s months.”
Karen Betts, Chief Executive, The Food and Drink Federation (FDF): “Food and drink manufacturing employs
half a million people in communities across the UK and, as responsible employers, we want to ensure our colleagues are rewarded properly. However, we’re concerned that
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