PepsiCo has started testing new paper-based outer packaging for its Walkers Baked multipacks as part of its efforts to reduce the use of plastic.
The trial pack is recyclable and will replace plastic outer wrapping on more than 300,000 six-pack multipacks of two Walkers Baked flavours – Sea Salt and Cheese and Onion.
The new packs are available in 800 Tesco stores across the UK.
Rachael Smith, Senior Marketing Manager for Walkers, commented: “With this latest trial, people can buy a selection of Walkers Baked multipacks in paper-based outer packaging that can be easily and widely recycled with regular recycling at home. Feedback is so important in helping us deliver the best possible experience for consumers, and we can’t wait to hear people’s thoughts when the packs land in stores.”
Last year, the company introduced new cardboard outer packaging for its Walkers 22- and 24-bag multipacks following trials.
PepsCo stated that the latest packaging trial marks another step in its journey towards eliminating virgin fossil-based plastic from its crisp and snack bags across Europe by 2030.
Gareth Callan, Packaging Sustainability Lead at Pepsico UK & Ireland, said: “We’re always exploring new packaging solutions that can help us reduce virgin fossil plastic use, in pursuit of our broader sustainable packaging goals. After more than two years in development, we’re looking forward to testing this paper-based outer material with our consumers to better assess the role it could play in our future packaging portfolio.”
NAM Implications:
- A pointer for others?
- Prompting shopper expectation of a total switch to paper packaging?
