Top 7 Food Packaging Wholesalers UK

Date: 05/06/2024

The United Kingdom hosts a vibrant and diverse food sector, necessitating a vast array of food packaging solutions to meet every need—from takeaway outlets to delis, and from small food manufacturers to large-scale food service providers.

This article showcases the top seven food packaging wholesalers in the UK, offering insights into their unique strengths, product offerings, and commitment to eco-friendly solutions.

Key Takeaways

• These top food packaging wholesalers in the UK offer a diverse range of products to cater to every business need, from eco-friendly options to customizable packaging solutions.

• Sustainability is a common theme, with several suppliers focusing on reducing environmental impact through recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable materials.

• Competitive pricing, customer service, and fast delivery are key aspects that make these wholesalers stand out in the food packaging industry.

7 Best Food Packaging Wholesalers in UK

1. B&P Wholesale

A family-run business located in Sheffield, B&P Wholesale has served the catering industry for over 40 years. Their focus on biodegradable, compostable, and eco-friendly products meets the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. With a wide customer base and a bespoke printing service, B&P Wholesale remains a key player in the UK food packaging industry. They stand out for their competitive wholesale prices and an ever-expanding range of eco-friendly products.

Key Selling Points:

• Competitive wholesale prices.

• Strong focus on biodegradable, compostable, and environmentally friendly products.

Product Range

• Eco-Friendly Range: A focus on biodegradable, compostable, and environmentally friendly products.

• Food Packaging: Comprehensive solutions for all catering needs.

• Cups and Containers: A wide variety for various food types.

• Catering Disposables: Essentials for catering services.

• Paper Products, Carrier Bags, and Roll Bags: Various options for packaging and carry-out needs.

• Polythene Bags and Liners, etc

​​2. Cater For You

Founded in 2003 and based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, Cater For You has set the benchmark for online wholesaling of plastic glasses and food packaging. Their comprehensive selection caters to both hot and cold food packaging needs, with an emphasis on microwave safety and customer convenience. Recognizing the increasing demand for sustainability, Cater For You has been a pioneer in providing eco-friendly packaging options, including recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable materials. Their commitment to reducing single-use plastics aligns with UK government legislation, further solidifying their leadership in the industry.

Key Selling Points:

• Broad selection of microwave-safe packaging for hot and cold food.

• Pioneering in eco-friendly packaging, including compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials.

• Extensive product details and correct disposal methods provided online.

Product Range:

• Takeaway Food Packaging: Plastic, foil, cardboard, and PET containers for warm food.

• Cold Food Packaging: Packaging for bakery/deli sandwiches, salads, baguettes, and ice cream tubs.

• Manufacturer Food Packaging: A wide range for SME food manufacturers, including tamper-evident containers and juice bottles.

• Labels: A variety of food labels for packaging products, including blank and printed options.

3. Food Packaging Direct

Food Packaging Direct excels as a disposable packaging wholesaler, delivering key essentials to the public and businesses across the UK. With an easy-to-use online ordering system and next-day delivery for orders placed by 2pm, they emphasize speed and convenience. Their extensive product range, competitive prices, and quality assurance make them a preferred choice for businesses seeking reliable food packaging solutions.

Key Selling Points:

• Wide range of disposable packaging products from big brands.

• Online ordering with next day delivery service.

• Open to everyone with no membership requirement.

Product Range:

• Disposable Packaging Essentials: A comprehensive range for the food service industry.

• Big Brand Products: High-quality items from renowned manufacturers.

• Catering Supplies: Key essentials for catering services.

4. R+R Packaging

Located in the North East, R+R Packaging is renowned for its vast array of smart, practical packaging options that ensure customer satisfaction. They offer an extensive range suitable for different cuisine types and serving styles, including eco-friendly options through their BePulp bagasse range. R+R Packaging is dedicated to reducing

Committed to customer safety with products like allergen label kits and tamper-proof containers.

Product Range:

• Hot and Cold Food Containers: Solutions for roast dinners, noodles, salads, sandwiches, cakes, and cookies.
• Fast Food Packaging and Takeaway Supplies: A variety for pop-up stores and street vendors.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: BePulp bagasse range with certified compostable products.
• Sanitation and Safety Products: Food labelling systems, allergen label kits, and tamper-proof meal prep containers.

5. GM Packaging

Operating from Seaham, GM Packaging provides innovative solutions in takeaway and delivery food packaging since 2001. Their recent expansion into a new 15,224 sqft warehouse underlines their commitment to fast and efficient service. Offering a range of environmentally friendly products, GM Packaging takes pride in their community engagement and bespoke branding services, making them a versatile partner for businesses across various sectors.

Key Selling Points:

• Wide product range catering to diverse sectors.
• Strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• Fast dispatch and delivery across the UK.

Product Range

• Takeaway and Delivery Food Packaging: Paper cups, disposable plastic plates, sandwich wedges, pizza boxes, salad containers, and cake boxes.
• Eco-Friendly Products: Biodegradable and compostable packaging options.
• Specialized Items: Products tailored to specific needs, such as fishing industry boxes.

6. CupsDirect

CupsDirect focuses on food service disposables and takeaway packaging, catering to the home delivery market, street food vendors, and coffeehouses among others. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their selection of recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable packaging materials. Operating from Colchester, Essex, CupsDirect has become a leading supplier due to their competitive pricing, vast product range, and exceptional customer service.

Key Selling Points:

• Extensive range of sustainable packaging solutions.
• Competitive prices and high-quality products.
• Rapid delivery services with a live inventory control system.

Product Range

• Food Service Disposables: A broad range for takeaway packaging, street food, and more.
• Material Options: Recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable food packaging.
• Product Categories: Catering trays & scoops, chicken & deli boxes, clams & meal containers, foil trays, soup & noodle pots, microwavable containers, deli pots, portion pots & soufflés, and more.

7. Takeaway Packaging

With over 30 years in the trade, Takeaway Packaging champions eco-friendly food packaging solutions across the UK. Their product line, made from recycled and biodegradable materials, demonstrates their commitment to sustainability without compromising on style or functionality. They offer a comprehensive design service to help brands create appealing and environmentally responsible packaging.

Key Selling Points:

• Strong focus on eliminating single-use plastic waste.

• Comprehensive design service for stylish and sustainable packaging.

• Certified carbon neutral packaging solutions.

Product Range

• Eco-Friendly Takeaway Packaging: Products made from recycled, recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials.

• Hot Food Packaging: Items made from organic and recycled materials for hot food service.

• Drinks and Beverages: A range of biodegradable cups for the beverage industry.

FAQs

Q: What options are available for eco-friendly food packaging in the UK?

A: The UK boasts a wide range of eco-friendly food packaging options provided by leading wholesalers. These include compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable materials, catering to businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Companies like B&P Wholesale and Cater For You are pioneers in offering such sustainable solutions, emphasizing the importance of meeting consumer demand for responsible packaging.

Q: Can businesses obtain wholesale food packaging in the UK easily?

A: Yes, obtaining wholesale food packaging in the UK is straightforward thanks to a plethora of wholesalers that cater to a diverse range of business needs. From large-scale food service providers to small cafes, businesses can choose from an extensive selection of packaging solutions, including eco-friendly options, customizable packaging, and products suitable for both hot and cold foods.

Q: How do food packaging wholesalers in the UK support sustainability?

A: Food packaging wholesalers in the UK are increasingly focused on sustainability by offering products made from recycled, recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials. This commitment helps reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste and supports businesses in their efforts to align with consumer expectations and legislative requirements for greener operations.

Q: Can I get custom branding on my food packaging in the UK?

A: Yes, several wholesalers like GM Packaging and B&P Wholesale offer bespoke branding services to personalize your food packaging. This allows businesses to personalize their packaging with logos, brand colors, and specific messaging. Custom branding is an effective way to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement while ensuring that the packaging meets both functional and aesthetic requirements.

Q: Are there affordable options for small businesses seeking food packaging solutions?

A: Yes, small businesses can find affordable food packaging solutions from wholesale suppliers in the UK. These wholesalers provide a variety of options at competitive pric