The warning comes from environmental compliance scheme Ecoveritas ahead of the 1 April 2025 deadline for packaging data reporting.
The Manchester-based firm warned that some businesses may already be too late to submit their reports and have been advised to focus on improving their data processes to “avoid unnecessary cost increases in the future”.
Andrew McCaffery, chief strategy officer at Ecoveritas, explained: “Compliance isn’t a one-time event – it’s an ongoing obligation that directly impacts financial planning and operational efficiency. Those who delay addressing their data accuracy may find themselves repeatedly overpaying and struggling with higher costs.
“For many businesses, this isn’t just about compliance – it’s about financial survival long term.”
The largest retailers could see their packaging compliance costs range from £40 million to £130 million annually.
The regulations apply to businesses with an annual UK turnover exceeding £1 million, a physical UK presence and those handling more than 25 tonnes of packaging each year.
McCaffery continued: “A single miscalculation on packaging weight could cost companies eye watering sums well into hundreds of thousands of pounds. A 20-gram discrepancy per product might not seem like much, but for a product selling 12 million units, that’s 240 tonnes of material – equating to an extra £150,000 in fees for just one item.”
Today marks one week until the data reporting deadline, which will replace the 1997 Packaging Waste Regulations.
McCaffery concluded: “This is about more than just avoiding fines. It’s a chance for businesses to take control of their packaging responsibilities, improve sustainability, and demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship.
“By accurately reporting their packaging data and making informed choices, companies can reduce waste, lower their carbon footprint, and contribute to a circular economy – creating a better future for everyone.”
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