A third of businesses say that cost is a major hurdle when making the transition to sustainable packaging, although the majority of businesses are researching or implementing sustainable packaging, according to the latest survey from Europe-based canmaker Eviosys.

The survey is the third annual Europe-wide consumer survey commissioned by Eviosys, but this year also includes views from manufacturing, retail, and consumer packaged goods businesses.

It showed that 3% of companies have made a major investment in sustainable adaptations, although 90% were either examining the possibility of transitioning or in the process of implementing sustainable packaging.

Nevertheless, cost was considered the major obstacle to sustainable packaging among 33% of businesses, consumer interest was cited as an issue by 19%, supply chain issues by 19%, regulatory challenges by 12%, and the availability of suitable materials by 14%.

However, businesses said they were optimistic about the future of sustainable packaging, with 45% of businesses expecting to use 100% recyclable packaging within one to three years, and 90% within the next decade.

The main factor that drove business decisions was consumer demand, according to 90% of businesses surveyed.

Amongst consumers, preference for metal packaging was strong with 82% of consumers more inclined to purchase products in metal packaging, and 57% willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.

Frustration about the excessive use of plastic in supermarkets was expressed by 59% of consumers, and 63% said metal was a more sustainable alternative. The survey showed that 70% prioritised reusability and recyclability over luxurious or specially designed packaging.

Laetitia Durafour, marketing director at Eviosys, commented: “Our research and development focuses strongly on addressing the dual challenges of economic viability and environmental responsibility,” adding, “We work with our customers to provide products which best meet their needs and the needs of their consumers, as well as educating them on how best to drive a sustainable transition in packaging. Ecopeel is a testament to our commitment to innovation that meets the market’s current and future needs.”

The survey was commissioned by Eviosys and conducted by Focaldata between December 2023 and March 2024. The participants consisted of 500 consumers and 150 businesses from each of the UK, France, Germany and Spain, making up a Europe-wide total of 2,607 responses.