The August 12, 2026 Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste, commonly referred to as PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation.
The new regulation introduces a harmonised European framework covering the entire life cycle of packaging and also involves the sector vending.
What changes from August 12, 2026
The PPWR introduces new requirements regarding sustainability, composition, recyclability, information and documentation relating to packaging.
For operators in the vending sector it therefore becomes important to correctly distinguish the product from the packaging, because the obligations of the regulation concern the latter.
The glasses used in vending
The regulation also considers as packaging items designed and intended to be filled at the point of sale when they perform a packaging function.
This logic also includes the glasses intended for dispensing drinks, which therefore assume relevance for the purposes of the PPWR.
It is therefore necessary for manufacturers, distributors and customers to have access to the technical information and declarations required for the packaging in question.
And the coffee stirrers?
It is important to make a distinction here.
The palette itself is not packaging.
It is the product intended to be used by the consumer to mix the drink and, as such, does not become packaging simply because it is used in vending.
The case is different with individually wrapped spatula.
In this case it is the wrapping of the spatula to perform the packaging function and therefore fall within the scope of the PPWR.
This means that, for the purposes of PPWR documentation, it is necessary to precisely distinguish:
- unwrapped spatula: the product is not packaging;
- wrapped spatula: the spoon remains the product, while the wrapping constitutes the packaging;
- vending glass: when intended to be filled at the point of dispensing and to contain the drink, it performs a packaging function.
Why this distinction is important
With the implementation of the new regulation, customers and supply chain operators will be able to request more detailed information from their suppliers on the characteristics of the packaging used.
It is therefore important that the technical documentation clearly identifies:
- the product concerned;
- which component constitutes the packaging;
- the materials used;
- the information required by applicable legislation;
- the necessary documentation along the supply chain.
Arepla and the PPWR
Arepla has already prepared the update of its documentation relating to the products affected by the PPWR, with particular reference to the glasses and the wrappings of the stirrers.
The goal is to enable customers to receive the information they need to address the new regulatory framework with clear documentation consistent with the type of product purchased.
For specific requests regarding the PPWR documentation of Arepla products, please contact:
qualità@arepla.it
Frequently Asked Questions
Since when does the PPWR apply?
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 applies, unless otherwise specified, from August 12, 2026.
Does the PPWR also apply to vending?
Yes. When items that perform a packaging function are used in vending machines, they fall within the scope of the regulation.
Is the coffee stirrer packaging?
No. The scoop is the product. In the case of the individually packaged scoop, it is instead the wrapping to perform the packaging function.
Is the vending cup packaging?
A glass designed and intended to be filled at the point of dispensing and which performs the function of containing the beverage falls within the definition of service packaging as defined by the PPWR.
Where can I request the PPWR Arepla documentation?
Requests relating to technical and regulatory documentation can be sent to qualità@arepla.it.
Regulatory source
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 December 2024 on packaging and packaging waste.
Commission Communication C/2026/3084 – Guidance document for Regulation (EU) 2025/40.