May 2018

BPIF Cartons has its say on Late Payment legislation and the potential for a tax on single use plastics

BPIF Cartons has recently been lobbying government departments, on behalf of its members, to ensure that the UK carton industry's voice is heard. At the moment, two important topics are under discussion that can have a significant impact on packaging businesses.

The UK's HM Treasury has issued a call for evidence on ‘Single Use Plastics Waste'. The document's aim is to build a case to significantly reduce single-use plastics through a mix of new taxes and other measures. BPIF Cartons has been able to respond and clarify the unmatched environmental credentials of the carton industry. Cartonboard, the industry's source material, is produced from managed and sustainable forests and is readily recyclable even if a coating is used to extend its properties.

BPIF Cartons has also been able to clarify its members' position in relation to the EU Late Payment Directive 2011/7/EU. In reality, for many members, this legislation has made no difference to companies engaged in B2B contracts. The balance of power in the supply chain still firmly dictates onerous payment terms that in some instances are up to 120 days.

Jon Clark, General Manager – BPIF Cartons, said: "BPIF Cartons has used its contacts - and the fact that it represents over 90% of the UK carton industry – to make our stance on these subjects very clear. Paperboard products are in a unique position of being the only truly sustainable packaging material. It is important however that our trading conditions are also sustainable and unjust business practices are prohibited."