With the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation and increasing pressure on brands to reduce their environmental impact, one question we’re hearing more than ever is:
“Can we shave a few grams off our glass packaging?”
At Glassworks International, the answer is yes – and more importantly, we know how to do it without compromising on quality, performance or shelf appeal.
What Is Lightweighting?
Lightweighting is the process of reducing the weight of a glass bottle or jar, without altering its shape or weakening its structural integrity. It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about smart design, precision engineering and decades of experience.
When done well, lightweighting helps:
That’s why more and more food and beverage brands are turning to us, to help them meet environmental goals and manage rising compliance costs.
Why Work With Glassworks?
There’s no shortcut to experience and ours is more than 100 years old.
Lightweighting is part science, part art and we’ve mastered both.
Common Questions About Lightweighting
Is it really safe to reduce the weight of my jar or bottle?
Yes – when done properly. Every design we recommend is tested rigorously to ensure it performs well on filling lines, during transport and on-shelf.
Will customers notice a difference?
Most won’t. Lightweighting doesn’t mean weaker or thinner glass. In fact, we help customers retain the same shape and feel – just with less unnecessary material.
Can I really save money?
Yes. Even saving 20g per unit can translate into tens of thousands of pounds saved annually – both in manufacturing and EPR fees.
Is this just a trend?
Not at all. Lightweighting is becoming standard across the industry. And with modulated EPR fees coming in 2026, based on recyclability and environmental impact, being ahead of the curve matters more than ever.
Myth-Busting: Lightweighting Isn’t Cutting Corners
We’ve heard it all:
“It’ll be too fragile.”
“The product will feel cheap.”
“My branding will be compromised.”
None of these are true – when you work with a partner who knows what they’re doing. Lightweighting doesn’t mean accepting less. It means doing more with less, in a way that benefits the planet and your bottom
Let’s Make Packaging Smarter
We’re proud to help some of the UK’s most innovative food and beverage brands take meaningful steps toward sustainability – without losing the essence of what makes their products special.
Whether you’re a small startup looking for a smart packaging solution or a household name aiming to improve your sustainability metrics, our team is here to help.
Ready to talk lightweighting?
Drop us a message. We’ll review your current packaging and let you know where and how we can help you save weight, money and emissions.
Glassworks International takes pride in keeping up to date with the latest technologies and trends within glass manufacturing and production.