UK: Beer and pub industry welcome government changes to reduce the cost impact from packing charges

UK government ministers announced on November 12 plans to make changes to glass packaging fees, announced changes to modulation calculations to reduce the future costs for the most recyclable materials like glass, as well as measures to tackle the issue of double charging pubs that the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) estimates to cost pubs collectively £50m per year (before these changes are made).

The BBPA has worked closely with government ministers and officials across government, campaigned extensively over summer with British Glass and the GMB Union (which included the production of Burnham’s Brew to illustrate the cost implications for bottled beers) and offers the following reaction to broadly welcome the news:

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association:

“Across the beer and pub sector there will be much relief that the Government will reduce the costs of glass packaging fees and is also seeking to end the pernicious double charging that has been unfairly affecting Britain’s cherished pubs.

“The direction of travel will be warmly welcomed, but it is essential that the long-term cumulative impact of the UK’s packaging policies are taken into consideration if we are to have a prosperous beer and pub sector in every post code.

“These measures could reduce cost pressures on Britain’s brewers by tens of millions. However, it is vital that the 12,000 publicans that run leased and tenanted pubs as SMEs are also be included, as otherwise over a quarter of Britain’s pubs will not equally benefit from this important change.

“We look forward to working closely with government in building on these important changes which are clear signal of intent to reduce the costs of doing business for brewers and pubs which sit at the heart of local communities throughout the country."

12 November, 2026