2026 is a pivotal year for food packaging in the UK — with new sustainability policies taking effect and industry events bringing together innovators, suppliers and decision-makers. From regulatory shifts to major trade shows, here’s what’s happening and why it matters for your business.
📌 New Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme Launches
In January 2025 the UK formally launched PackUK as the new scheme administrator for the Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) programme — part of broader reforms that shift the cost of managing packaging waste to businesses that produce and supply packaging. This means food and drink brands must increasingly focus on recyclability, reporting requirements, and sustainable design as the scheme evolves through 2026. More information here can be found here.
📌 UK Packaging Pact Begins in 2026
A major industry collaboration, the UK Packaging Pact, is set to launch in April 2026 with 55 founding organisations — including major retailers and packaging stakeholders — aiming to transform packaging design, use, reuse and recycling across all material types. This initiative aims to reduce waste and emissions while improving recyclability and resource efficiency across the UK supply chain.
When: 13–15 April 2026
Where: NEC Birmingham, UK
Who’s it for: Producers, retailers, food and drink innovators, packaging suppliers and industry professionals
What to expect: Product launches, packaging solutions, trend talks, awards & networking
1. Packaging Innovations & Empack – NEC Birmingham
📍 11–12 Feb 2026
A leading UK packaging trade exhibition covering sustainable materials, design, automation and new technologies across the packaging lifecycle — highly relevant for food, drink and FMCG packaging professionals.
2. Responsible Packaging Expo – ExCeL London
📍 2–3 Sept 2026 (and also shows in October)
The UK’s largest sustainable packaging event tailored to hospitality, foodservice and food brands, showcasing recyclable, reusable and innovative eco-friendly solutions plus expert seminars.
3. UKPackaging Expo – Exhibition Centre Liverpool
📍 10–11 Nov 2026
A northern UK packaging show focused on innovation, sustainability and business solutions — including eco-friendly materials and future packaging trends relevant for food & beverage brands.
🌱 Recyclability before everything else
In 2026, many brands are starting with recyclability as the baseline for new packaging projects rather than as an optional upgrade — especially important for food and beverage brands.
☘️ Eco-friendly design innovations
Simplified, lightweight packaging, compostable and bio-based materials, mono-material designs (for easier recycling), and reusable or deposit systems are gaining traction as businesses respond to policy, consumer demand and cost pressures.
With UK regulations tightening, sustainability expectations rising, and innovation moving fast, choosing the right packaging partner matters more than ever.
At Envior, we focus on what food businesses actually need in 2026:
Sustainable packaging that meets UK regulations (including EPR-ready, recyclable and compostable options)
Practical solutions for cafés, delis, takeaways, farm shops and food brands — not just theory
Clear guidance to help you make better packaging choices without the jargon
Reliable stock, fair pricing and fast delivery across the UK
Shop now > www.envior.co.uk