European harmonised packaging labels have been published in the proposal of the Joint Research Centre and will serve as the basis for the implementing acts under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which the European Commission is required to adopt by August 2026.
This is the right moment to map your portfolio, develop initial mock-ups of the new labels, and carry out an internal assessment of costs and timelines. Early planning helps avoid last-minute improvisation and rushed packaging adaptations — a scenario that typically consumes more time, budget, and internal resources than a well-structured preparation strategy.
Companies that start modelling future labels now and evaluating the impact on design, printing, and logistics will gain a clear advantage once the implementing acts enter into force.
The question is: are you already preparing, or still waiting for the official act?
Source: JRC 2026
Note: The images show preliminary sketches of label application across EU Member States, based on an analysis of national sorting rules. They are intended solely for visualising combinations and supporting implementation planning.
