PepsiCo’s Walkers brand is trialling ‘bagless’ multipack packaging for its Snack A Jacks range, with a recyclable, tape-like strip expected to reduce plastic use by 86% compared to the previous outer packaging design.

Alongside the five individual packets it holds, the outer tape has received OPRL certification for recyclability and can be dropped off at flexible packaging collection points at various UK supermarkets. The redesign currently applies exclusively to Walkers’ Salt & Vinegar, Sour Cream & Chive, and BBQ flavours sold at Tesco stores.

To carry out the trial, the company invested over £2 million into new equipment to expand reduced plastic packaging capabilities at its Skelmersdale site. It forms part of the PepsiCo Positive health and sustainability transformation plan, which sets such goals as reaching net zero emissions by 2040 and offering a 50% reduction in virgin plastic per serving.

“Our new bagless multipack design is an innovative example of the solutions we’re exploring to reduce virgin fossil plastic use across our portfolio,” said Gareth Callan, packaging sustainability lead at PepsiCo UK & Ireland. “We’re looking forward to assessing this new format as part of our commitment to creating a world where packaging never becomes waste.”

Two additional collaborations have taken place between Walkers and Tesco this year. Back in January, Smurfit Kappa helped replace the plastic outer packaging with a cardboard design in an effort to eliminate an annual 250 tonnes of plastic from its supply chain.

Later, Walkers’ Sea Salt and Cheese and Onion flavours were repackaged in paper-based packaging – a move intended to bolster recycling rates.

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