New EU rules for packaging: What changes for craft businesses?

New packaging regulations will apply in the European Union from August 12, 2026. The regulation will have a particular impact on the food processing industry.

The European Union has with the Packaging Ordinance "Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation" (EU 2025/40) Uniform rules were adopted. Effective from August 12, 2026 Businesses must adapt their processes. The regulation pursues three main objectives: It reduces packaging waste, promotes recycling, and strengthens the circular economy.

The new regulations affect not only industry and trade, but also numerous craft businesses such as Bakeries, confectioneries, butcher shops as well as companies from the Construction and installation sectorBusinesses that Food products Companies that package products, sell products under their own brand, or import goods from non-EU countries bear special responsibility.

Supply chain requirements

The PPWR distinguishes between different roles within the packaging supply chain:

• Producers,
• Importer,
• Supplier,
• Distributors and
• Manufacturer. 

Different legal obligations apply depending on the role. Therefore, craft businesses should assess early on what responsibilities they assume. 

For example, companies that are considered producers have to cope with new administrative tasks: They have to issue declarations of conformity for the packaging used and keep technical evidence.

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Suppliers are obligated to provide the necessary information . Companies placing packaging or packaged goods on the market for the first time will be required to register in the national manufacturer's register . In Germany, the legislator is adapting the LUCID register for this purpose.

Strict ban on PFAS in food packaging

The regulation has particular implications for the food craftsFrom August 2026, packaging that comes into contact with food will only be permitted if... minimum quantities PFAS contain – a group of substances that have been proven to harm the environment and health. Many packages for Bakery products or Meat products Some companies still use grease-repellent coatings containing PFAS. Therefore, businesses should check early on whether their packaging complies with the new regulations and request corresponding proof from their suppliers.

Obligations for private label brands

According to PPWR , companies that have packaging manufactured with their own logo or under their own brand are usually considered the producers themselves . In this case, they bear full legal responsibility for compliance with all regulations – regardless of which company physically manufactures the packaging.

Reusable and reused packaging will become mandatory.

The new EU regulation obliges businesses to reduce single-use packaging. From February 2027 They must customer-owned containers Accept and fill them, provided they meet hygiene requirements. From February 2028 Are larger companies additionally required to have a Reusable alternative to offer disposable packaging under comparable conditions.

Micro-enterprises Businesses with fewer than ten employees are exempt, but must still bring their own [equipment/facilities]. Fill containerNew requirements also apply to transport packaging: From 2030 many Reusable transport packaging be and primarily used in the reusable system.

Liability for imports from non-EU countries

Craft businesses that source goods or materials directly from third countries are considered importers . They are responsible for ensuring that the packaging complies with EU regulations . This includes technical documentation and certificates of conformity. Importers must affix their name and address to the packaging and may not place products on the market without the required documentation.

practical tip

Craft businesses should take early action and clarify three questions:

• Check your Rolle in the packaging supply chain,
• Check food packaging for PFAS-Conformity and
• Secure technical evidence and documentation for imports from non-EU countries.

The regulation will apply directly from August 2026, from then on check The authorities will also monitor compliance. Businesses should therefore begin implementation promptly.

Source: Chamber of Crafts Cottbus

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