18.07.2026
New EU packaging rules: Pfeifer begins implementing the PPWR
Under the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), uniform requirements for packaging and its documentation will apply across Europe from August 2026. The Pfeifer Group is already preparing intensively for implementation. The aim is to reliably meet the legal requirements and, going forward, provide customers with all necessary product information efficiently and transparently.
New EU rules strengthen the circular economy
With the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), the European Union creates a new, uniform legal framework for packaging. The regulation replaces the previous Packaging Directive and aims to reduce packaging waste, improve recyclability and further strengthen the circular economy across Europe.
From 12 August 2026, the new requirements will apply directly in all EU member states. In future, companies will need to document in more detail what materials their packaging is made of, how it can be recycled, and which legal requirements it meets.
Pfeifer analyses products and processes
For the Pfeifer Group, the PPWR mainly affects products used as packaging or packaging components. These include, in particular, pallet components, pallet blocks, and packaging materials used to ship products.
The current preparations therefore focus not on fundamentally changing existing products, but on systematically compiling the required information and evidence. The aim is to be able to provide customers with all relevant details quickly and reliably in future.
Wood offers the best starting point
Wood-based packaging components already offer many of the qualities the new regulation is aiming for. They are made from a renewable raw material, are durable, and can be recovered effectively at the end of their life cycle.
At the same time, however, the PPWR raises the bar on documentation. Going forward, customers will increasingly request information on material composition, compliance with legal requirements, and product-specific properties.
One thing remains constant: the Pfeifer Group primarily supplies packaging components. Responsibility for the complete packaging and its legal compliance lies with the respective packaging manufacturer or the party placing it on the market.
Practical implementation with clear processes
To meet the new requirements, Pfeifer is currently working on a company-wide implementation concept. The focus is on Supplier Compliance Declarations (SCDs), risk assessments, and standardised internal processes.
Specific assessments are being drawn up for different product variants – for example, standard pallet blocks and products containing reclaimed wood. This allows potential risks to be documented in a traceable way and customer enquiries to be answered consistently and efficiently in future.
In parallel, suppliers’ packaging materials are also being reviewed, and the necessary product and environmental information is being captured systematically.
Competitive advantage through transparency
The PPWR is far more than a regulatory requirement. At the same time, it creates an opportunity to present the advantages of wood-based packaging solutions even more transparently.
By preparing early, the Pfeifer Group is strengthening its competitiveness and laying the groundwork to meet regulatory requirements efficiently. At the same time, customers benefit from clear product information, standardised evidence, and fast processing of their enquiries.
Preparations under way ahead of the deadline
Existing measures will continue to be expanded until the regulation takes effect in August 2026. This includes finalising the Supplier Compliance Declarations, coordinating risk assessments with the relevant departments, and establishing standardised processes for future customer enquiries.
This ensures the Pfeifer Group implements the PPWR requirements reliably – with clear procedures, transparent documentation and practical solutions for customers and partners.
