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The BBPA has urged the government to continue reviewing the new “worrying” UK extended producer responsibility (EPR) base fee for businesses that import or supply packaging, following the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ announcement.
The regulations mean that organisations, such as hospitality businesses, may be responsible for the costs of dealing with packaging waste.
Given the narrow margins UK brewers operate to, as they make an average of 2p per bottle of beer, the BBPA has also warned that this new regulation could force them to pass on extra costs to consumers if they want to carry on making their product.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), said: “The revised estimates for glass are an extremely worrying step in the wrong direction. The government must be clear-eyed that these proposed higher additional costs on brewers would land an extra £160m or 5p per glass bottle on the sector. This could force some brewers to leave the glass bottle market.
“The sector is, of course, committed to a more circular economy and sustainable packaging solutions, but it is critical that the government properly considers the full impact of these fees and wider packaging reforms on our industry which will severely diminish growth and risk jobs.”
She added: “We urge them to continue to review these fees and ensure they are fairer and more sustainable, so we can continue to play a critical role for the UK’s economy and employment.”
