EXPRA Holds 2025 Autumn General Assembly, Reviewing Progress and Setting Priorities for 2026

On 2 December 2025, EXPRA brought together its members and partners for its Annual General Assembly, marking an important moment to reflect on a year of intense policy engagement and to look ahead to the evolving European circular economy landscape.

Opening the Assembly, Ms. Hester Klein Lankhorst, CEO of Verpact and President of EXPRA, underlined the importance of collaboration among Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs) at a time when EU waste and packaging legislation is becoming increasingly ambitious and complex. She highlighted the role of collective expertise in ensuring that Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems remain effective, transparent and fit for purpose.

Throughout 2025, EXPRA strengthened its position as a recognised voice in European and international policy discussions. Managing Director Mr. Joachim Quoden highlighted sustained engagement with EU institutions, including exchanges with the European Commission and the Joint Research Centre, as well as active participation in conferences, expert forums and public debates on circular economy and EPR implementation. 

A key development during the year was a judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union concerning the EPR system in Slovenia. The ruling provided additional legal clarity at EU level, confirming that single-PRO models can be compatible with EU law when designed to serve clear public-interest objectives — an important reference point for ongoing national discussions across Europe.

The Assembly also marked the continued growth of the EXPRA network, with the admission of new members including CITEO and PRO UK. Their inclusion further strengthens the exchange of experience and best practices across different EPR systems.

Looking ahead, discussions focused on the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation and other forthcoming EU initiatives, as well as on the role of PROs in supporting high-quality data, compliance and efficient waste management systems. Innovation and future-oriented solutions were also highlighted, including initiatives such as “Holy Grail 2030”, which aims to accelerate the transition towards more circular packaging.

As EXPRA moves into 2026, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with policymakers, Member States and international partners, supporting robust EPR systems that deliver real environmental outcomes and contribute to a competitive and circular European economy.