New EU Packaging Regulation Prompts Major Investment Requirements for Finnish Breweries

The European Union’s packaging waste regulation, which was recently approved by the European Parliament in Strasbourg, is expected to result in significant investment requirements for the Finnish brewing industry. While this regulation is a victory for the Finnish forest industry, it is a disappointment for the beverage industry. This regulation will lead to the creation of two different bottle return systems and require hundreds of millions of euros in investment from the brewing industry.

CEO of Panimiolito Tuula Loikkanen expressed hope that the industry can influence the regulation with the EU Commission’s executive instructions in the future. However, she acknowledged that the unpredictability of legislation poses challenges for the industry in making investment decisions and renewing production lines. The member companies of the Brewery Association, such as Hartwall, Olvi, and Sinebrychoff, are all impacted by this regulation. It mandates that at least ten percent of beverages must be sold in reusable packaging by 2030.

The Finnish brewing industry is concerned about how this regulation will apply to different types of drinks and whether it will be interpreted correctly. Implementing this regulation will require not only investment from the industry but also changes in trade practices and bottle return systems. Logistics systems will need to be revamped to accommodate refillable bottles, which poses challenges for breweries located in different regions. The impact on Nordic countries and differences in existing bottle return systems in Central Europe are also key issues for the industry.

In conclusion, while reducing packaging waste is important, clarity and consistency are necessary when implementing this regulation. The brewing industry hopes to work with the EU Commission to address concerns and find solutions that align with national practices and goals while still meeting regulatory requirements.