Walkers Chocolates has introduced a recyclable paper wrapper, developed in collaboration with UPM Specialty Papers and EvoPak.
This initiative marks a move away from plastic wrappers, aligning with the company’s commitment to reducing plastic usage across its operations.
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The partnership has resulted in the creation of a fibre-based barrier solution, combining UPM SolideTM Lucent 45g/m² barrier base paper with EvoPak’s RCM coating.
This packaging is intended to meet the quality standards required for chocolate and other sensitive products, featuring effective oxygen and grease barriers.
EvoPak CEO Tom Lock stated: “We are 100% happy with UPM Solide Lucent as the grade of choice for our future sustainable packaging development.”
Since the beginning of 2024, Walkers Chocolates has been supplying its chocolates in recyclable paper packaging to major retailers and international clients.
Several of its products, packaged in UPM Solide Lucent with EvoPak’s RCM coating, are currently available in UK retail chains and global markets.
The new packaging is compatible with existing fibre recycling systems, contributing to the circular economy.
The collaborative effort has achieved a CEPI/4EG technical recyclability score (v. 2.0 January 2025).
Walkers Chocolates commercial director Tom Murtagh stated: “The printability of UPM Solide Lucent is really impressive and EvoPak’s RCM coating is a revolutionary solution for our industry.
“We’ve achieved the same packaging line efficiency, maintaining the same speed as our previous plastic packaging materials with only minor adjustments.”
Samples of the new packaging solution will be showcased at UPM Specialty Papers’ stand during FachPack, which will take place in Nuremberg, Germany, from 23 September to 25 September 2025.
