1 reply to this topic

[Rob C]

Hi ,
firstly, this site is a godsend for people like myself !! Thanks for all the info..

Just a small point to raise, I have just returned from a trip to China where I have been visiting existing suppliers ( of flexible packaging) to guage their perception and readiness for the BRC/IOP standard.
I have been met with a distinct view of "not another Quality Standard, we already have ISO etc etc "

I have found it difficult to motivate suppliers in this area - is this a common response or should we be looking at other suppliers ............?

[Simon]

firstly, this site is a godsend for people like myself !! Thanks for all the info..

Thanks Rob.

Sounds like an interesting trip. IMHO I would say that if the packaging you purchase from China is being used on or around UK Retailer Branded products then they must eventually comply with the requirements of the standard. And if they have no intentions then you should really be looking at alternative suppliers.

Whether they are interested in the BRC/IoP Packaging Standard or not it is your responsibility to ensure that the packaging is safe for use with food products and at the end of the day that's the most important thing.

What levels of hygiene / technical systems do they currently have? Are their systems built upon hazard analysis / risk management? Do they have systems and procedures along the lines of the requirements of the standard already in place? If the answers are negative then there is greater urgency to change suppliers.

Standard fatigue is quite understandable and we all suffer from it from time to time. I have some sympathy especially if your organisation or the UK is only a small part of their overall business.

Regarding motivation if you provide the ultimatum it's down to them to make the commercial decision whether you are an important enough customer.

By the way I heard recently of a new food packaging facility (not sure what) that is being purpose built in China to meet with the requirements of the BRC/IoP packaging Standard.

Hope this helps.

Simon