Walkers is trialling new multipack packaging for its Snack A Jacks range. Packs on shelves in Tesco stores across the UK will now use 86% less plastic on their outer packaging when compared with the previous multipack design. In a first for Snack A Jacks, the new ‘bagless’ multipack is made from a tape-like strip which holds together five individual packets of Snack A Jacks.
The new packaging format is now available to buy exclusively at Tesco stores across the UK across three popular flavours: Salt & Vinegar, Sour Cream & Chive and BBQ.
The new outer tape as well as the individual packets qualify as officially recyclable under the UK On-Pack Recycling Label Scheme (OPRL) and can be recycled at flexible packaging collection points in supermarkets across the UK.
It marks Walkers’ third major sustainable packaging trial with Tesco in recent months, after the two companies trialled a new cardboard design on Walkers multipacks to replace its outer plastic packaging, and piloted paper-based outer packaging earlier this year for Walkers Baked multipacks.
The trial has been made possible by the company investing over £2 million in new equipment to enhance reduced plastic packaging capabilities at Walkers’ Skelmersdale site in Lancashire, where Snack A Jacks are made.
It forms part of PepsiCo Positive, Walkers parent company’s health and sustainability transformation plan, which includes an ambition of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.
Across PepsiCo Europe, the company also plans to eliminate virgin fossil-based plastic in crisp and snack bags by 2030. This ambition will apply to UK brands including Snack A Jacks, Walkers, Doritos, Quavers, Wotsits, and Pipers, and will be delivered by using 100% recycled or renewable content.
Gareth Callan, Packaging Sustainability Lead, PepsiCo UK & Ireland said:
“Our new bagless multipack design is an innovative example of the solutions we’re exploring to reduce virgin fossil plastic use across our portfolio. We’re looking forward to assessing this new format as part of our commitment to creating a world where packaging never becomes waste”.