PPWR compliance & packaging data strategy

Packaging compliance & PPWR

Most organizations doen't struggle with understanding PPWR. They struggle with a more practical question: do we actually have enough insight into our packaging data to become - and remain - compliant?

With the first PPWR requirements applying from August 12, 2026, packaging compliance can no longer rely on spreadsheets, local files or last‑minute fixes. At delaware, we help you stay in control of PPWR by turning it into a structured packaging data strategy embedded in your existing operations.

request your free PPWR kickstart

The real challenges behind PPWR

Many organizations already deal with packaging fees, taxes or reporting. PPWR goes a step further. It introduces one consistent EU framework, clearer expectations around proof and documentation, and requirements that will tighten gradually over time.

As a result, packaging information can no longer sit in spreadsheets or inboxes. It needs to be structured once and usable everywhere. But this is what we see again and again:

Packaging information is scattered

Across ERP, PLM, PIM, spreadsheets and inboxes, or at suppliers.

New data gaps & inconsistencies appear

Weights, materials, recycled content or supporting evidence are incomplete or outdated.

Documents are created manually, every time

Teams rebuild documents, chase suppliers and rely on workarounds close to deadlines.

Quick fixes for the first deadline don't scale

What helps for the first deadline often creates more complexity later.

The companies that will handle PPWR best are not necessarily the ones that start reporting first, but the ones that get their packaging data model right. That’s where compliance, efficiency and long-term value come together.

Seth Schittekatte, Digital Sustainability Advisor at delaware

A fast-changing regulatory landscape

Although they all relate to packaging, their focus is different:
- PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation): sets EU‑wide rules on packaging design, documentation and compliance. It raises expectations on proof, consistency and long‑term compliance.
- EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility): focuses on financial responsibility. Producers contribute to collection and recycling based on the amount and type of packaging placed on specific markets.
- PPT (Plastic Packaging Tax): targets specific materials, mainly plastic. The goal is to encourage the use of recycled content through taxation.
Different rules, but they all rely on the same packaging data.
Because PPWR requires organizations to prove compliance, not just calculate or report it. Without structured packaging data:
- information can’t be reused,
- documentation becomes manual,
- and responding to changes takes more time than expected.
PPWR applies to any organization placing packaged goods on the EU market, including:
- brand owners
- manufacturers
- importers
- retailers selling under their own label
Many organizations fulfil more than one role.
No. August 2026 is the first major milestone, but requirements will continue to evolve in the years after.
That’s why focusing only on the first deadline often leads to rework later.
For most organisations, the best first step is understanding:
- where packaging data lives today,
- how reliable it really is,
- and how well it supports multiple obligations.
That’s exactly why we offer a PPWR

How delaware supports you

delaware combines regulatory knowledge, business insight and deep ERP & data expertise to support you from strategy to implementation.

Our approach in 5 steps:

1. Define & design

Together, we take inventory, identify data gaps, and define a clear packaging data strategy and target architecture.

2. Build the foundation

We structure and centralize your packaging data into a reliable, scalable foundation for compliance, reporting, and decision‑making.

3. Bring it to life

We configure systems, ingest and validate data, and enable collaboration and reporting within your existing IT landscape.

4. Connect & extend

We integrate source systems with centralized platforms to enable automated, end‑to‑end packaging reporting.

5. Deploy & grow

We roll out a compliance‑ready solution and support ongoing adoption, monitoring, and scaling as regulations and ambitions evolve.

Why choose delaware?

Business‑first, not regulation‑first
We start from commercial impact, not legal text.
Deep ERP & data expertise
We know how packaging data actually lives across SAP, Microsoft and hybrid landscapes.
One partner from strategy to execution
No hand‑offs, no slide‑only advice.
Pragmatic and future‑ready
Built for PPWR, but flexible enough for what comes next.

Ready to assess your PPWR readiness?

Schedule a free 1-hour meeting with delaware to kick‑start your reflection on PPWR compliance, and build a robust, future‑proof packaging data strategy. Or feel free to reach out to Seth directly.