Addressing the challenges in the UK packaging industry: How Record Packaging provides effective solutions

The UK packaging industry is currently navigating a complex landscape marked by regulatory pressures, rising costs, and evolving consumer expectations. Businesses in sectors such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods are facing significant challenges that demand innovative solutions. Record Packaging, with its extensive experience and comprehensive product offerings, stands poised to assist companies in overcoming these hurdles.

Navigating Regulatory Pressures

The introduction of the UK’s Plastic Packaging Tax in April 2022 has imposed new requirements on businesses: plastic packaging must contain at least 30% recycled material to avoid a £200 per tonne charge. This has prompted companies to reassess their materials and packaging strategies. Additionally, the UK government is preparing to implement the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme by 2026, which will shift the financial responsibility for packaging waste to producers.

Record Packaging supports compliance through machinery that minimises material use and supports recyclable formats. Our automated solutions reduce waste and streamline packaging processes – helping businesses stay ahead of evolving legislation while improving efficiency.

Mitigating Rising Costs

Energy prices, raw material shortages, and inflation are putting serious financial pressure on UK manufacturers. According to the British Retail Consortium, packaging costs have risen by over 30% in the last 18 months, driven largely by energy spikes and material scarcity. A Packnode report underscores how these challenges are cutting into margins and threatening business sustainability.

Record Packaging offers cost-effective alternatives through energy-efficient machinery and automation. Our in-stock and refurbished equipment allows businesses to acquire high-quality systems without the price tag of brand-new models – making capital expenditure more manageable during uncertain times.

Meeting Consumer Expectations

Today’s consumers are more sustainability-conscious than ever. According to DS Smith, over half of the plastic food packaging currently used in the UK could be replaced with environmentally friendlier alternatives. Shoppers are paying close attention to the environmental impact of products and packaging alike.

Record Packaging addresses this shift by offering machinery compatible with recyclable and biodegradable materials. Our systems make it easier for brands to switch to greener options without compromising on performance, helping them align with customer values and market trends.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

The packaging industry is also battling a labour shortage. Fewer young people are entering the field, and many businesses are struggling to maintain skilled production teams. Research from Sheffield Hallam University highlights the urgency of addressing this growing gap to secure the industry’s future.

Record Packaging offers automation and user-friendly interfaces that reduce reliance on manual labour. By improving production line speed and reliability, we help businesses do more with fewer resources – critical in an environment where talent is scarce.

In summary

The UK packaging sector faces a perfect storm of rising costs, tightening regulations, shifting consumer values, and workforce shortages. In this environment, the right packaging partner makes all the difference.

Record Packaging delivers modern, adaptable solutions that help businesses stay compliant, competitive, and efficient. With machinery designed for the challenges of today – and scalable for the opportunities of tomorrow – we’re a reliable ally in an industry undergoing rapid change.

For more on how Record Packaging can support your business, contact us today.