The British Beer and Pub Association (BPPA) fears the estimated Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) fees could result in brewers leaving the glass bottle market.
The UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) recently revealed its EPR for packaging illustrative base fees.
The EPR scheme aims to hold those placing packaging on the market accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products.
Emma McClarkin, CEO of the BPPA, said: “The revised estimates for glass are an extremely worrying step in the wrong direction.”
She said the government must recognise the impact of these proposed increased costs on brewers, which would amount to an additional £160 million or 5p per glass bottle on the sector.
Such costs could force some brewers to leave the glass bottle market.
She emphasised that UK brewers operate on narrow profit margins, earning an average of 2p per bottle of beer.
Consequently, brewers would have to pass the “extra painful costs” on to consumers if they wanted to continue making their products.
She continued: “The sector is, of course, committed to a more circular economy and sustainable packaging solutions, but it is critical that the government properly considers the full impact of these fees and wider packaging reforms on our industry which will severely diminish growth and risk jobs.
“We urge them to continue to review these fees and ensure they are fairer and more sustainable, so we can continue to play a critical role for the UK’s economy and employment.”
