In recent years, France has emerged as a European leader in the fight against waste and the advancement of a circular economy. The French Anti-Waste Law for a Circular Economy, commonly referred to as Loi AGEC, and the upcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) from the European Union, are driving significant changes across industries. For businesses operating in France, adapting to these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a strategic opportunity to demonstrate environmental leadership, meet consumer expectations, and future-proof their operations.
With packaging waste accounting for a significant portion of France’s annual waste stream, policymakers have turned their attention to the packaging sector. Loi AGEC, which came into force in 2020, mandates a reduction in single-use plastics, improved recyclability, and increased use of recycled materials. It also emphasizes product traceability, consumer information, and the overall reduction of waste through eco-design.
Meanwhile, PPWR, which will soon be enforced across all EU member states, will harmonize packaging rules and introduce even more stringent requirements for waste reduction, recyclability, and reporting. The convergence of these two regulations marks a pivotal moment for companies that rely on packaging—be it for shipping, retail, or manufacturing.
But how can companies in France not just comply, but thrive under these new rules? The answer lies in innovative packaging solutions, such as those offered by Packsize.
Loi AGEC and PPWR set ambitious targets and introduce complex compliance requirements. Key challenges companies face include:
For many organizations, these requirements can seem daunting, particularly when existing packaging processes are entrenched and optimized for cost or speed, rather than sustainability.
One thing is certain: France’s Anti-Waste Law (AGEC) has already driven significant change across various industries. Fast-food chains must now use reusable tableware for dine-in; retailers are banned from destroying unsold non-food items, and electronics manufacturers must display repairability scores. These measures are part of France’s push to cut single-use plastics, boost recycling, and advance a circular economy. The French Ministry for the Ecological Transition reported earlier this year on some of the most significant changes the country has seen since the AGEC passed five years ago.
Packsize stands at the intersection of innovation and sustainability. As a global leader in On Demand Packaging® technology, Packsize helps companies transition from traditional, wasteful packaging methods to right-sized, sustainable solutions that not only meet but often exceed regulatory requirements such as those set out in Loi AGEC and PPWR.
On Demand Packaging is a technology-driven approach where each package is custom-made to fit the exact dimensions of the product being shipped. This eliminates the need for oversized boxes, excess filler material, and the waste typically associated with standard packaging sizes.
One of the most effective ways to understand the impact of right-sized packaging is by exploring real-life examples from companies that have successfully implemented it. One example is POCO Einrichtungsmärkte GmbH, one of Germany’s leading furniture discounters that offers a comprehensive range of home furnishings and renovation products. The company currently has almost 7,000 employees in more than 129 furniture stores and nine logistics locations throughout Germany. With a streamlined packaging process to meet constantly growing packaging requirements and different packaging solutions in use to right-size every box for every order.
“With standard boxes, you need a lot of filling material - otherwise, the ordered items are thrown around and possibly get damaged. On-Demand Packaging is a win-win situation for us - it saves shipping and material costs and protects the environment,” said Christian Strödter, Project Manager at POCO.
Embracing regulations like Loi AGEC and PPWR is not just about compliance. It’s about gaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Here’s how Packsize empowers companies to turn regulatory challenges into strategic advantages:
Packsize’s On Demand Packaging solutions are designed to help businesses meet the strictest sustainability standards. Packaging produced using Packsize technology is 100% recyclable and can be made from recycled materials, supporting both the letter and spirit of Loi AGEC and PPWR.
Furthermore, Packsize’s systems can be integrated with ERP and warehouse management systems, making it easier to track, report, and document packaging usage - Key for meeting the transparency and traceability requirements of French and EU law.
By eliminating oversized packaging and reducing the need for filler materials, companies can dramatically cut their packaging waste. According to Packsize data, businesses can reduce their corrugated cardboard use by up to 40%, directly supporting Loi AGEC’s waste reduction targets.
Sustainability often goes hand-in-hand with efficiency. Packsize’s solutions help companies save money by reducing material costs, optimizing warehouse space, and cutting shipping expenses. These operational efficiencies can be reinvested into other areas of the business, enhancing overall competitiveness.
French consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, with growing demand for brands that take real action on sustainability. By adopting right-sized, recyclable packaging, companies can visibly demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship, strengthening their brand and building consumer trust.
The regulatory landscape is evolving rapidly. By investing in flexible, scalable packaging solutions now, companies can ensure they’re ready for future changes—not only in France but across the entire European market.
Many leading brands in France and across Europe have already partnered with Packsize to transform their packaging operations. By implementing On Demand Packaging, these companies have:
These successes showcase the tangible benefits of aligning packaging operations with the goals of Loi AGEC and PPWR -benefits that extend far beyond compliance.
"As the penalties for non-compliance with PPWR become inevitable, Packsize empowers companies with Smart Packaging for a Healthy Planet®. Our On Demand Packaging solutions are flexible, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. They help businesses align with PPWR, reduce waste, and strengthen their brand reputation, all while ensuring seamless integration and expert support," said Edin del Mar, Sales Director France, Packsize.
Packsize offers a consultative approach to packaging transformation:
This end-to-end approach ensures that every company, regardless of size or industry, can make meaningful progress towards a circular, sustainable packaging model.
Cubing Analysis Results: Proven Compliance and Savings
These advantages are more than just theory. They are demonstrated in real customer results. For example, a leading Dutch automotive parts distributor recently analyzed its order data to evaluate different packaging approaches. The findings were striking:
This example demonstrates how Packsize doesn’t just help companies comply with new regulations. It delivers measurable resource savings, boosts efficiency, and provides a clear, competitive advantage in today’s sustainability-focused marketplace.
Loi AGEC and the forthcoming PPWR represent a new era for packaging in France. One defined by sustainability, circularity, and innovation. While the challenges are real, so too are the opportunities. By partnering with Packsize, companies can not only comply with regulatory demands but also unlock significant business value through cost savings, operational efficiency, and enhanced brand reputation.
Now is the time to take action. As sustainability becomes a central pillar of business strategy and consumer expectation, right-sized, recyclable packaging is no longer a nice-to-have. It’s a must-have. With Packsize, your business can lead the way towards a cleaner, greener, and more profitable future.
Ready to align your packaging with Loi AGEC and PPWR? Contact Packsize today to start your journey towards sustainable packaging excellence.
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