World Environment Day

World Environment Day is a global reminder that every action we take matters. It's a call to rethink how we consume, how we package, and how we protect our planet. At Forrest Fresh Foods, we believe sustainability isn't optional - it's essential.

At Forrest Fresh Foods, we're committed to doing more for the planet!

Sustainability is at the heart of how we operate, from reducing waste in our own processes to partnering with brands that are leading the way in greener practices.

With Extended Producer Responsibility legislation on the horizon, we're also helping our partners stay ahead by supporting smarter, more sustainable packaging solutions.

One standout example is our partnership with When in Rome. Their planet-friendly, recyclable paper bottles offer a carbon footprint up to six times lower than traditional glass. They're lightweight, shatterproof, and built for a greener future of wine.

Together, we're making better choices for the planet and for future generations—because when the rules change, it pays to be ahead of the curve.

Extended Producer Responsibility – The Low Down

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)… what you need to know and getting ahead of the game, with Forrest Fresh Foods and When in Rome.

EPR has big implications for thousands of FMCG businesses across the country, especially those in the beers, wines and spirits sector. In a nutshell? If your business produces packaged goods in the UK, quite soon you'll be responsible for the full cost of managing it at the end of its life. From glass bottles to cardboard sleeves and everything in between, the onus has shifted onto businesses to ensure packaging is more sustainable and recyclable.

The Details

• From 2025, you'll have to pay fees based on the type and recyclability of your packaging. The idea is to incentivise the use of cheaper, greener materials — for example, paper bottles and cans will have lower fees than glass.
• Fees are paid to local authorities to cover the costs of managing household and packaging waste.
• Reporting based on packaging specifics, turnover and other criteria is already underway, with invoices due in October 2025.

The Takeaway

If you haven't already, now's the time to explore lighter, more recyclable packaging. Here at Forrest, we strongly support any initiatives that move the planet towards a greener future. We look forward to working with our suppliers and customers in shaping the future landscape with greener packaging solutions that work not only for the planet, but for your business and the end consumers.

EPR in Numbers

• EPR Cost per When in Rome Paper Bottle: £0.02 per 75cl bottle
• EPR Cost per Single Use Glass Bottle: Upwards of £0.07 per 75cl bottle

CO₂ Stats per Format

• When in Rome aluminium cans generate up to four times less CO₂ than the equivalent in single-use glass bottles.
• When in Rome paper bottles generate up to six times less CO₂ than the equivalent in single-use glass bottles.

At Forrest Fresh Foods we're committed to driving sustainability across everything we do, including the brands we choose to work with.

From Nestlé and Fairy to When in Rome, we proudly stock products that are leading the way in sustainable packaging and reducing environmental impact.

Whether it's recyclable paper wrappers, reduced plastic use or lower carbon alternatives to traditional glass, we work closely with suppliers who are actively making positive changes.

Together we're building a more responsible supply chain for our customers, our communities and the planet.