UK thermoformed packaging manufacturer Macpac has achieved BRCGS AA+ accreditation for packaging materials, reinforcing its commitment to quality, product safety and recyclable packaging for confectionery and other food manufacturers.
The Stockport-based company secured the certification following an unannounced audit, during which no non-conformances were raised.
AA+ is the highest grade available under the BRCGS Packaging Materials Global Standard and provides customers with independent assurance that Macpac’s manufacturing processes meet stringent requirements covering product safety, quality, legal compliance and operational performance.
The accreditation is particularly relevant to Macpac’s food-sector customers, which include confectionery manufacturers requiring packaging capable of combining product protection, presentation and consistent manufacturing standards.
Macpac specialises in thermoformed packaging and produces bespoke solutions including assortment trays, clam packs and single- and multi-compartment trays for confectionery applications.
Strengthening packaging quality and safety
The BRCGS Packaging Materials Global Standard is designed to help packaging manufacturers demonstrate product integrity and consistent quality while meeting regulatory and customer requirements throughout the supply chain.
Macpac said achieving AA+ status through an unannounced audit demonstrates the strength of the systems operating throughout its manufacturing facility.
Graham Kershaw, Managing Director at Macpac, said the accreditation represented a strong endorsement of the standards maintained by the company’s team and reflected its focus on continuous improvement, functionality and product protection.
He added that the achievement should provide UK and international customers with greater confidence that thermoformed packaging leaving the company’s Stockport facility is manufactured to high standards of quality, safety and performance.
For confectionery manufacturers, packaging quality can play a particularly important role in protecting delicate products while ensuring they reach retail shelves in the intended condition.
Thermoformed trays can provide separation and protection for individual chocolates, pralines and other premium confectionery products while helping brands create visually distinctive presentations at the point of sale.
Combining recyclability with confectionery design
Alongside quality and food safety, Macpac is placing increasing emphasis on the environmental performance of its packaging.
The company says its confectionery packs are manufactured using at least 80% recycled material and are 100% recyclable, supporting customers seeking to reduce reliance on virgin plastic while retaining the functional benefits of thermoformed packaging.
Macpac works directly with confectionery manufacturers to develop bespoke packaging concepts, with its design, tooling and production capabilities brought together within an integrated manufacturing operation.
Available formats include fully bespoke thermoformed packs, loose or product-gripping designs, assortment trays, clam packs and single- or multi-compartment configurations.
Keeping these capabilities under one roof is intended to shorten development and manufacturing lead times while helping customers respond to product launches, seasonal ranges and changing retailer requirements.
The company’s Manchester-area manufacturing operation handles volumes ranging from several thousand packs to tens of millions, supplying customers in the UK and overseas.
Macpac said the new AA+ accreditation strengthens its position as a packaging partner capable of combining regulatory compliance and product safety with recyclable materials, manufacturing quality and customised design.
As confectionery manufacturers face increasing pressure to balance shelf appeal, product protection, sustainability and compliance, the certification provides additional independent assurance around the standards governing Macpac’s packaging production.
