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Whether you\u2019re reviewing sustainability goals, recovering from peak, or staying on top of packaging waste obligations, having a clear plan makes everything easier. What do you need to consider throughout 2026, and by when?<\/p>\n
This blog highlights why planning your packaging is vital this year, along with a month-by-month breakdown of key dates to add to your diaries, to make the most out of your packaging in 2026.<\/p>\n In 2026, packaging planning is critical to controlling cost, availability and performance. Businesses are facing:<\/p>\n Planning helps you secure supply, manage compliance, and avoid last-minute decisions, particularly ahead of seasonal peaks. Early conversations give you more choice, better outcomes and fewer surprises as demand increases.<\/p>\n January<\/strong> is a time for reflection and reset. It\u2019s your chance to review what worked well in 2025, identify areas for improvement and set priorities for the year ahead. This is a good month to:<\/p>\n Let\u2019s not forget some important dates for your diary, including:<\/p>\n Starting the year organised puts you in a much stronger position for the months ahead.<\/p>\n February<\/strong> is about looking forward and starting conversations early. This is the right time to:<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to note that the Plastic Packaging Tax has increased every year since its introduction in 2021 and is set to rise again to \u00a3229, per tonne from April 2026. The Government also plans to further change the tax methodology from April 2027. Reviewing materials early helps businesses remain compliant with this changing landscape and reduces additional costs.<\/p>\n March<\/strong> often bridges planning and execution. Key actions include:<\/p>\n Having clean, well-organised data now makes compliance much easier.<\/p>\n April<\/strong> is when many packaging plans move into action. Operationally, it\u2019s a is strong time to:<\/p>\n This month may include key reporting milestones, like:<\/p>\n By May, <\/strong>attention often shifts to streamlining. Simplifying processes now helps reduce pressure during busier periods later in the year. This is a good time to:<\/p>\n It may feel early, but June<\/strong> is the ideal time to begin planning for peak trading (November\u2013December). Early preparation ensures you have enough packaging and avoids last-minute spending. Focus on:<\/p>\n July<\/strong> is a practical month for action. Making changes now allows time to test and refine before peak begins. Many businesses choose to:<\/p>\n August<\/strong> can be quieter operationally, but it\u2019s a critical planning month. A little planning here helps prevent disruption later. Use this time to:<\/p>\n By September<\/strong>, peak planning should be close to complete. Confidence now means fewer surprises during your busiest months. This is the time to:<\/p>\n October<\/strong> brings another important EPR milestone. Some businesses may also need to register for future EPR obligations around this time, depending on turnover and packaging volumes. If you\u2019re already registered, you need to:<\/p>\n It\u2019s also a good month to:<\/p>\n While peak is still ongoing, November<\/strong> is an ideal time for planning. Early thinking now makes January far more productive. Consider:<\/p>\n December<\/strong> is about closing the loop. A strong finish sets you up for a smoother start to the following year. Use this time to:<\/p>\n Use this list internally to ensure you\u2019re fully prepared for the year ahead:<\/p>\n If you are curious about the Plastic Packaging Tax, Extended Producer Responsibility or PRN other key dates to remember for 2026, here is what you need to know, quickly:<\/p>\n For businesses meeting the 10-tonne threshold, Plastic Packaging Tax returns must be submitted for each accounting period:<\/p>\n Returns and payments must be made by the last working day of the month following the end of each period.<\/p>\n For 2026, these key dates are related to EPR regulations for packaging and general business reporting:<\/p>\n Download the 2026 Packaging Planning Calendar<\/strong><\/p>\n To make planning even easier, we\u2019ve created a downloadable 2026 Packaging calendar<\/a> <\/strong>that turns this guide into a simple, practical tool you can use throughout the year.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nWhy packaging planning matters more than ever in 2026<\/h2>\n
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Your 2026 packaging planning guide<\/h2>\n
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Full 2026 Packaging Checklist<\/h2>\n
Plan & Review<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Packaging Changes & Improvements<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Seasonal & Promotional Planning<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Materials & Sustainability<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Compliance & Reporting<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Supplier & Data Management<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Peak Preparation & Review<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Key dates at a glance<\/h2>\n
Plastic Packaging Tax return dates<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Key PRN & EPR Dates for 2026<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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