The new EU Packaging Regulation is coming—is your packaging ready?
On August 12, 2026, most of the requirements of the new European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will take effect. The regulation establishes, for the first time, a uniform legal framework for packaging throughout the EU and applies to nearly all companies that manufacture, fill, or place packaging on the market.
For many companies, this means new obligations in the areas of documentation, record-keeping, material compliance, and supplier management. At the same time, the PPWR offers the opportunity to make packaging solutions more future-proof and sustainable.
What will change starting August 12, 2026?
The most important requirements include:
- Proof of Packaging Compliance
- Technical Documentation for Packaging Solutions
- EU Declarations of Conformity
- Expanded Requirements for Ingredients and Material Compositions
- New limit values for certain substances, including PFAS in food-contact packaging
- Clear Responsibilities for Manufacturers, Importers, and Distributors
Many other regulations—such as those concerning recycled content, recycling classes, or labeling systems—will not take effect until the coming years. Therefore, it is important to lay the groundwork for future PPWR compliance today.
What does this mean for our customers?
Companies in the food, luxury goods, cosmetics, chemical, retail, and consumer goods sectors, in particular, face the challenge of evaluating their packaging and labels in light of the new requirements.
The good news is: You don't have to go through this alone.
Kolbe-Coloco is already actively engaged in the implementation of the PPWR. Together with customers, suppliers, and industry partners, we are working on practical solutions to implement the new requirements in a timely and cost-effective manner. Technical documentation and proof of compliance have already been prepared for several customer projects.
Our Support for You
As specialists in labels, packaging labeling, and POS solutions, we can assist you with:
- the evaluation of existing packaging and labeling solutions
- the provision of relevant material and product information
- the preparation of necessary documentation
- coordination with raw material and supply vendors
- preparing for future PPWR requirements
Our goal is to continue to position your products safely and in compliance with the law on the European market.
Moving Successfully Toward the Future of PPWR Together
The PPWR will bring about lasting change in the packaging industry. Companies that prepare early on will not only ensure legal certainty but also strengthen their competitiveness.
Do you have questions about the new requirements, or would you like to find out how the PPWR affects your packaging and labels?
Contact us—we'll guide you through the implementation process and work with you to develop the right solution for your products.