UK to Cut Glass Packaging Fees for Pubs, Restaurants

12:05 AM EST, 11/12/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The UK government plans to exempt glass drink containers sold directly to pubs, restaurants, and other licensed hospitality venues from packaging fees starting in April 2027, ending duplicate waste charges for the sector, according to a Wednesday release. The exemption from Extended Producer Responsibility fees is expected to save pubs up to 870 pounds sterling per year. The measure is also part of broader efforts to support the British glass industry and reduce packaging waste charges on easily recyclable materials. The government intends to consult businesses on adjusting future packaging fees, which could reduce charges for the most recyclable materials by up to 40% per year while increasing fees on hard-to-recycle packaging.