Pack UK has appointed UK Packaging PRO as the Producer Responsibility Organisation for the pEPR scheme. 

Gov UK has today (23 March) said that the producer-led organisation will help drive the shift to more recyclable materials and reduce landfill. 

The UK Packaging PRO brings together more than 100 brands, retailers and trade bodies and is supported by the Food and Drink Federation and the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment. 

The formal appointment of UK Packaging PRO is set to commence on 1 April 2026. 

Karen Graley, who led the application process, will continue as head of UK Packaging PRO.  Graley comes from a background in packaging innovation, both at M&S and Waitrose, as well as being a founding director of OPRL. 

Alongside her, Sebastian Munden has been appointed as chair of the board. Munden has over 30 years’ global FMCG experience, most recently as former chief executive of Unilever UK & Ireland. 

Jeremy Blake, CEO of Pack UK, said: “I’m delighted to welcome UK Packaging PRO as the new Producer Responsibility Organisation.  

“This announcement follows a rigorous selection process, as Pack UK was committed to choosing the best candidate possible to represent the diverse interests of the packaging industry.” 

Graley added: “We’re very proud to have been appointed to play such a vital role in the Packaging EPR scheme. UK Packaging PRO was created to give producers a genuine seat at the table.   

“With strong governance in place, a clear mobilisation plan and broad support from across the sector, we are ready to get to work – in close partnership with Pack UK, governments, local authorities and organisations across the value chain to deliver a packaging system that works better for everyone.” 

Munden commented: “Many of us in the industry have been working for this moment for many years. Although it has been a long time to get here, this is only the very beginning of industry-led EPR in the UK. 

“A cost-conscious, data-driven, innovation-minded approach will be good for citizens, local authorities and producers, with benefits in standards of living and to the economy. I am looking forward to a genuine partnership between government and business.”