Reuse in UK Grocery Sector Could Unlock Savings of Up to £577m
A new industry-backed study suggests that adopting reusable packaging for just 30% of products sold in UK supermarkets could dramatically cut costs and environmental impact. The research points to potential annual savings of up to £577 million, with CO₂ emissions dropping by as much as 95% across the product lines in scope.
Major Cost Reductions for Producers
Producers affected by the Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) reforms stand to benefit significantly. The report estimates that switching to reusable packaging for a portion of goods could reduce pEPR compliance costs by around £136 million per year. The total cost reduction across the system – from packaging production to end-of-life disposal – could amount to between £314 million and £577 million annually, equivalent to a 12–22% cost saving compared to current single-use practices.
Environmental Gains and Waste Prevention
The environmental case is equally compelling. According to the data, such a shift would result in:
- A 95% cut in CO₂ emissions for the items analysed
- A 95% reduction in packaging material use, equating to over 300,000 tonnes of waste avoided annually
- The creation of 13,000 new jobs, helping to support the transition to a circular packaging model
These figures underline the scale of change possible through targeted, standardised reuse systems.
30% Reuse Through Just 18 Product Categories
Achieving this 30% reuse rate does not require a complete overhaul of the grocery sector. The study outlines how this goal could be met by converting just 18 high-impact product categories using 30 standardised packaging formats. These categories span both food and non-food products and include:
- Home cooking staples (e.g. pasta, rice, pulses, spices, sauces)
- Beverages including milk, coffee, fruit juice, beer, wine and spirits
- Household cleaning and laundry products
- Shower and bath products
- Dairy and chilled goods such as yoghurts, pizza and fresh pasta
- Breakfast items, ready meals, biscuits and sweet snacks
Backed by Industry and Government
The research was commissioned by GoUnpackaged and developed with support from a cross-sector advisory panel. Participants included organisations such as Tesco, Ocado Retail, SUEZ, Biffa, DEFRA, CHEP, WWF, WRAP, and Innovate UK, reflecting strong alignment between policymakers, retailers and waste management providers.
A Clear Case for Action
This study adds growing weight to the argument that reuse is not just environmentally responsible but economically attractive. As UK businesses prepare for stricter packaging legislation and rising compliance costs, reuse offers a practical, scalable solution.
Partnering for a More Circular Future
At Affordable Waste Management, we support businesses across the UK in navigating their waste responsibilities efficiently and cost-effectively. Our team ensures your general and specialist waste is collected, managed, and documented in full compliance with all regulations. As the industry shifts towards reuse and reduction, we remain your reliable partner for commercial waste solutions that meet today’s environmental and legal demands.