The Food and Drink Federation (FDF), in collaboration with the Industry Council for Packaging and the Environment (INCPEN), has announced the appointment of Karen Graley as the Head of the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for packaging’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiative.
Bringing over 30 years of experience, Karen has been instrumental in leading packaging strategies and innovations for major UK retailers, including Safeway and Waitrose. Most recently, she served as the Head of Packaging at Marks and Spencer. Graley is not only recognized for her contributions to national retailers but is also a founding member of the Board of Directors for the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL) scheme, which has significantly transformed food and drink packaging in the UK and enhanced recycling rates.
Karen has already contributed to the development of the UK’s EPR scheme, participating in the EPR Interim Steering Group that supports the deployment of the scheme and the establishment of its administrator, PackUK. Additionally, she has served on the Government’s Advisory Committee for Packaging, showcasing her extensive involvement in sustainable packaging initiatives.
The PRO is being established by packaging producers across all sectors covered by EPR, under the leadership of FDF and INCPEN. Its goal is to ensure that the fees collected from producers effectively increase recycling rates. The organisation will represent producers’ interests, drive improvements in recycling, support Local Authorities, and attract investments in recycling infrastructure.
As the Head of the PRO, Karen will collaborate with PackUK, obligated producers from relevant sectors, and key stakeholders from the UK’s four governments. Her mission is to establish the PRO and ensure it effectively contributes to a circular economy for food and drink packaging. In addition, she will oversee the PRO Steering Committee.
Karen Graley, Head of PRO, stated: “I am truly honoured to be appointed as the Head of the PRO at this pivotal moment for the future of the UK’s recycling system. The PRO’s success hinges on collaboration between producers, industry stakeholders, local authorities, and the wider community. I look forward to working together with all these partners to drive collaboration so we can achieve the shared goals of improving recyclability and ensuring resources are used efficiently and effectively.”
Jim Bligh, Director of Corporate Affairs and Packaging, FDF, remarked: “We’re thrilled to welcome Karen to lead the PRO, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge and experience leading successful recycling initiatives. Industry leadership is critical to the success of the EPR scheme, so Karen’s appointment is a big step towards unlocking its potential and building a truly circular economy, which producers want and need.”
Paul Vanston, Chief Executive Officer, INCPEN, expressed: “I’m thoroughly delighted to appoint a nationally recognised packaging industry expert with Karen’s wide knowledge, vast experience and credibility. INCPEN and the FDF are serious in our intent to create a PRO that delivers the highest quality economic and environmental outcomes for the UK, for obligated producers and across the value chain. We welcome Karen to her new role with enthusiasm and warmth at an incredibly important time to establish the PRO on firm foundations with Pack UK and the four UK governments.”
For more details about the FDF and the industry we represent, please download our manifesto here or visit www.fdf.org.uk.