Fentimans, a well-established producer of traditional soft drinks dating back to 1905, has sounded alarm bells regarding the potential ramifications of the UK government's proposed glass tax. This tax, part of a broader initiative by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) under the banner of "extended producer responsibility," is anticipated to tack on around £300 per tonne to the expenses associated with recycling glass. The CEO of Fentimans, Ian Bray, raised serious concerns about the proposal jeopardizing the company's future, emphasizing the detrimental impact it could have on smaller businesses in the industry.
While the primary objective behind the proposed tax is to promote environmental sustainability and advance a circular economy, the brewing and soft drinks sectors have expressed staunch opposition. They argue that the additional costs imposed by the tax could create an unjustifiable strain on the industry, with predictions indicating potential price hikes for beverages. Key industry bodies, such as the British Beer and Pub Association, have urged the government to reconsider the tax, highlighting the anticipated rise in costs for consumers and the considerable financial burden on businesses. Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, underscored the significant economic implications of the proposed tax, emphasizing the challenges it could pose to breweries and consumers alike.
Paul Davies, CEO of Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company, reiterated the sector's commitment to sustainability goals and emphasized the need for constructive dialogue with the government to ensure that the implementation of extended producer responsibility aligns with shared ambitions for sustainability. The brewing industry's concerns extend beyond the immediate financial impact, touching upon the broader landscape of challenges faced, including escalating energy and material prices. British Glass, representing the glass manufacturing industry, has joined the rallying call for a postponement in the implementation of the tax, citing potential job losses as a significant consequence. Consequently, tension has emerged between glass producers and other packaging materials like plastic and aluminum, which have been granted additional time before similar waste policy costs come into effect.