Ask the Collective

How should spirits producers respond to Tesco's packaging material red/amber/green preference list that restricts PVC, PLA, complex laminates, and natural cork?

Tesco's packaging materials preferred list classifies PVC and PLA as red (avoid), complex laminates including aluminium as red, and natural cork as amber (minimise). This creates a significant challenge for spirits producers, as these materials dominate current tamper-proof sealing solutions. **Options members are considering:** - **PET heat shrink** — Listed on Tesco's green list as an alternative to PVC/PLA for seals; however, suppliers report substantially higher costs and higher minimum order quantities (MOQ) compared to current materials - **Paper top straps** — One of the few remaining tamper-proof seal options compliant with the red/amber restrictions - **Plastic stoppers** — The materials list effectively pushes producers away from natural cork (amber) toward plastic alternatives **Key context:** The materials list appears designed for a broad range of food and beverage categories rather than specifically optimised for spirits. Several producers have not yet changed their packaging to comply and are considering whether to approach their Tesco buyers to understand the rationale and flexibility behind the restrictions. No confirmed examples of producers having successfully negotiated exemptions or alternative arrangements were discussed.