EU: Brewers call for clarity on EU packaging regulation

The Brewers of Europe welcomes the European Commission’s latest guidance on the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), Freshly Bottled reported on April 9.

While it provides useful direction, brewers emphasize that critical questions remain unresolved, creating uncertainty for businesses planning their transition.

“This regulation’s environmental goals are fully supported. However, companies urgently need clarity on how certain rules will work in practice. Packaging transitions require significant investments in production and logistics. Clear guidance ensures efficiency, protects consumers, and avoids unnecessary costs,” said Julia Leferman, Secretary-General of The Brewers of Europe.

Key concerns include plastic grouped packaging, reusable labelling provisions, and unclear criteria for reuse exemptions. Without guidance, well-functioning reuse and deposit-return systems risk disruption, and premature or inefficient investments could harm both businesses and environmental outcomes.

Brewers urge the European Commission to provide clear, comprehensive, and timely guidance to support a smooth, sustainable, and economically efficient transition to the new packaging rules. Further detailed updates and Q&A are expected in 2026 to provide the legal certainty needed for implementation.

17 April, 2026