UK – Walkers has announced the rollout of new paper outer bags for all Walkers Baked multipacks, set to reduce the brand’s use of virgin plastic on outer packaging by 180 tonnes per year.
The brand’s parent company, PepsiCo, says that this move is part of its health and sustainability transformation plan, which includes an ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2040.
After trialing the paper packaging in 800 Tesco stores, PepsiCo announces that it is prepared to introduce them in all major supermarkets in the upcoming months.
The company also plans to eliminate all “virgin fossil-based” plastic from its other brands, which include Snack A Jacks, Doritos, Quavers, and Wotsits.
Gareth Callan, the sustainable packaging lead for PepsiCo UK and Ireland, said, “We are continuously innovating new ways to eliminate the use of virgin plastic in our packaging. It’s exciting to see our successful trial of this paper pack leading to a nationwide roll-out.
“At this scale, the new packaging will deliver a huge reduction in the use of virgin plastic, while also contributing to the reduction of our carbon footprint.”
Walkers states that the new multipack paper packaging can be recycled along with other paper packaging in home recycling bins.
This comes after the snack producers rolled out cardboard outer packaging for millions of Walkers 22 and 24-bag multipacks.
Walkers is currently trialing new “bagless” Snack A Jacks multipacks, which use a tape-like strip to hold together individual packets.
Festive flavors and packaging
Meanwhile, the company has launched a limited-edition range of crisps with festive flavors, including both its core offering and premium Sensations brand.
The company has also released limited-edition holiday-themed packaging for selected year-round favorites. Wotsits Giants Really Cheesy and Sensations Thai Sweet Chilli have received new look packs.
New flavors, including Festive Turkey and Pigs In Blankets. A third and highly talkable flavor, Christmas Pudding, is also likely to ignite debate among shoppers.
Wayne Newton, the senior marketing director at Walkers, comments, “As sharing occasions rise during the Christmas period, shoppers are looking for savory snacks that offer something extra special and will elevate their celebrations with family and friends.
“Launching the limited-edition Walkers flavors into PMP format for the convenience channel was an obvious choice for us. These formats continue to be popular with shoppers and retailers, with PMPs remaining the top contributor to the growth in value for crisps and snacks compared to other segments.
“Our new range of holiday flavors will meet the demand of shoppers, while also generating excitement and talkability.”
