The ANWR Group sees a significant need for improvement in the practical implementation of the European Packaging Regulation (PPWR). Complex reporting obligations, short-notice specifications, and differing requirements across EU member states are a particular burden for small and medium-sized retailers.
The international retail cooperation supports the fundamental goals of the PPWR – less packaging waste, higher recyclability and EU-wide uniform standards. However, it is crucial that the requirements remain practically feasible for medium-sized enterprises too.
„We support the objectives of the PPWR to make packaging more sustainable and consistent across Europe. However, the new regulation must not create an additional competitive disadvantage for small and medium-sized enterprises,“ says Frank Schuffelen, CEO of the ANWR Group. Short-term clarifications and complex reporting obligations would tie up resources and generate additional costs.
Greater planning reliability for retailers
According to the ANWR Group, many retailers currently lack the necessary planning certainty. New regulatory requirements should therefore be checked for clarity, practical feasibility and economic consequences together with medium-sized businesses before their introduction.
The trade association also calls for adequate transition periods, simplified procedures and as uniform an implementation as possible within Europe.
Supply chain responsibility
ANWR sees a particular need for action regarding the distribution of obligations within the supply chain. „Retailers must not be held liable for product, packaging or conformity information that only manufacturers or importers can provide,“ said Schuffelen. The relevant data must be available completely, in a standardised format and digitally along the supply chain.
Together with industry associations, the ANWR Group aims to represent the interests of its affiliated retailers in political dialogue. At the same time, according to its own statements, it supports them with advice, knowledge sharing and digital formats for exchange in implementing regulatory requirements.
The ANWR Group, based in Mainhausen, is one of Europe's major retail cooperatives. According to its own figures, the group achieved a trading volume of 19.3 billion euros in 2024. Its four business divisions include retail and cooperation with international cooperative groups for the footwear, sports, and leather goods sectors. These support affiliated retailers with purchasing, marketing, e-commerce, and data management, among other things.
Source: ANWR
