Walkers Chocolates Partners with UPM and EvoPak to Launch Recyclable Paper Packaging
UPM Specialty Papers has joined forces with EvoPak to help Walkers Chocolates transition from traditional plastic wrappers to fully recyclable, paper-based packaging. This strategic collaboration aligns with Walkers Chocolates’ long-term sustainability ambitions, enabling the company to significantly reduce plastic consumption across its production sites while maintaining product integrity and consumer appeal.
The partnership combines UPM Solide™ Lucent 45 g/m² barrier base paper with EvoPak’s innovative RCM coating, resulting in a fibre-based barrier solution tailored to meet the demanding requirements of chocolate packaging. Thanks to its advanced oxygen and grease barrier properties, the new paper-based packaging delivers the same high-quality protection as conventional plastic packaging, ensuring that Walkers Chocolates’ products reach consumers in perfect condition.
Since 2024, Walkers Chocolates has been gradually implementing recyclable paper packaging for the chocolates it manufactures and supplies to major retailers and international clients. In addition, several of the company’s proprietary products, now packaged in UPM Solide Lucent combined with EvoPak’s RCM coating, are already available in stores across multiple UK retail chains and international markets, reflecting the growing consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions.
UPM Solide Lucent stands out as a highly versatile and robust barrier base paper, distinguished by its unique texture and high-density structure. Its smooth surface and premium feel provide exceptional properties for further converting, printing, and finishing, making it ideal for high-quality consumer packaging.
Tom Murtagh, Commercial Director at Walkers Chocolates, commented on the partnership: “The printability of UPM Solide Lucent is really impressive, and EvoPak’s RCM coating represents a revolutionary solution for our industry. We’ve achieved the same packaging line efficiency, maintaining the same speed as our previous plastic packaging materials with only minor adjustments. This is a game-changer for sustainable packaging without compromising operational efficiency or product quality.”
The collaboration also leverages the unique properties of EvoPak’s RCM coating, a water-soluble polymer that enables the paper to function as a reliable barrier material. This combination preserves the functional benefits of traditional plastic packaging, including durability, product freshness, and protection against grease and oxygen ingress. Tom Lock, CEO of EvoPak, noted, “We’re extremely happy with how the paper extrudes, and the print quality in flexo is exceptional. UPM Solide Lucent is our grade of choice for future sustainable packaging development, and we are confident it will set a new benchmark in our industry.”
Beyond its performance attributes, the co-created packaging solution is fully recyclable within existing fibre recycling infrastructure, supporting the principles of the circular economy. The partnership has also validated the solution through the CEPI/4EG Technical Recyclability Score (v. 2.0, January 2025), demonstrating its compliance with industry standards for sustainable and recyclable packaging materials.
The joint innovation between UPM and EvoPak highlights the growing importance of collaboration across the paper and packaging sectors to deliver environmentally responsible solutions without sacrificing product quality or operational efficiency. By moving away from plastic, Walkers Chocolates is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also meeting the increasing expectations of environmentally conscious consumers worldwide.
Samples of the co-created recyclable paper packaging solution will be showcased at UPM Specialty Papers’ stand 329, Hall 3A, during Fachpack 2025 in Nuremberg, Germany, from September 23 to 25. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the paper’s unique look and feel, its print quality, and its performance as a viable, sustainable alternative to traditional plastic chocolate wrappers.
This initiative exemplifies how the confectionery industry can embrace innovative, sustainable materials while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. With UPM Solide Lucent and EvoPak’s RCM coating, Walkers Chocolates is leading the way in sustainable packaging solutions that benefit manufacturers, retailers, consumers, and the environment alike.
