Extended Producer Responsibility for Professional Packaging
Stemming from the AGEC Act, which extends extended producer responsibility to new categories of packaging, EPR for professional packaging (EPRO) covers all so-called "professional" packaging: industrial, commercial, transport, storage, and handling packaging used in B2B (industry, commerce, logistics, catering, etc.). This includes, for example, crates, pallets, plastic film, cardboard boxes, drums, cans, as well as primary or secondary packaging for products intended for professional use.
From July1, 2026, this new EPR will apply to all market operators: manufacturers, importers, distributors, or industrialists who place these packages—or packaged products—into professional channels. These players must now take responsibility for the end of life of their packaging, either by joining an eco-organizationor by setting up an individual system to ensure collection, recycling, or reuse.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR IT?
The specifications and scope of the EPR for professional packaging were published on December 18, 2025, in the Official Journal in accordance with Directive EU94/62/EC transposed into French law:
Key steps to remember
February 28, 2026: submission of applications for approval by future eco-organizations.
July 1, 2026: entry into force of the obligations, without retroactive effect.
What this means for producers
All producers involved in the marketing of products and their packaging known as "professional" must:
- Join an eco-organization such as Léko as soon as it is approved in order to be compliant as of July 1, 2026.
- Submit their 2026 marketing forecasts upon joining, then submit their actual figures in January-February 2027.
Léko offers you a one-stop shop for all your packaging needs.
With the arrival of its dedicated professional packaging division, Léko Pro offers a simple and quick solution to meet your EPR obligations.
You will be able to centralize all your obligations related to professional and household packaging within a single point of contact. Membership, declarations, and monitoring will be harmonized for greater consistency, efficiency, and visibility across all your packaging flows.
In addition, Léko Pro will support its producers in their eco-design and reuse initiatives in accordance with the requirements of the specifications.
YOU ARE AFFECTED BY THE PROFESSIONAL PACKAGING REP IF:
You manufacture in France or import products intended for the general public on the French market sold in a package (from the first product sold).
You are located outside France and sell packaged products directly to French consumers.
You pack products yourself in your store/restaurant for home delivery, shipment to or pick-up by consumers in France.
You are an intermediary or marketplace offering packaging compliance services to companies or third-party vendors.