The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has deferred extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging fees until October 2025. In an update to the scheme, posted today, Defra said there has been a decision to defer fees for one year. However, producers will still need to record packaging data. The update said that while fees were delayed, “other timescales have not changed – producers…

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has outlined plans to change retained EU laws on the production and marketing of wine. DEFRA said this week that changes will “allow wine makers the freedom to pick from a wider range of vines”, including more disease resistant varieties, and “overturn the restrictions which currently prevent the wine industry from producing new blends”. As part…

It’s an issue that has become a major focus for consumers and producers alike. Clinton Cawood looks at how the sector is getting its message across If a sustainability initiative is implemented in an orchard and no one posts about it on Instagram, fortunately it still benefits the environment. But in an age when sustainability is increasingly important to retailers and consumers alike,…

Seasonal events have always been very important, offering retailers an opportunity to promote their point of difference. Consumers are more willing to shop around during these times to treat their loved ones, so offering the right in-store environment or online activation is key to driving extra sales.  Easter is the second biggest event after Christmas, with 37% of households typically buying more, though…

Sustainability has been a part of cidermaking for generations, but it’s only recently being talked about, finds Jaq Bayles  With climate change anxieties mounting in the face of increasing evidence that the planet is under threat, it’s no surprise that drinks producers across the industry are taking steps to mitigate their impact. And cider is a sector at the forefront of this movement.  While…