What is ReFlex PCR™?

ReFlex PCR™ is Farnell Packaging’s proprietary packaging film made with post-consumer recycled plastic. Post-consumer resin (PCR) is plastic that has been used by consumers, collected through recycling programs, and processed back into a reusable material. By incorporating PCR into packaging film, ReFlex PCR™ gives plastic a second life and directly reduces the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or oceans.

Unlike packaging made from virgin plastic, ReFlex PCR™ decreases demand for new plastic production, which in turn reduces the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing. It’s a practical, measurable step toward more sustainable packaging that brands can communicate clearly to their customers.

ReFlex PCR™ was developed as part of Farnell’s Full Picture Packaging approach, which ensures that sustainability goals are met without compromising on packaging performance, brand impact, or supply chain reliability.

What is Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Plastic?

Post-consumer recycled plastic is material that has completed its first use cycle as a consumer product — things like plastic bottles, containers, and packaging — and has been collected through recycling programs, cleaned, and reprocessed into resin that can be used to manufacture new products. PCR is distinct from post-industrial recycled plastic, which is sourced from manufacturing waste rather than consumer waste. Learn more about the differences on our sustainable packaging materials page.

PCR is a key component of the circular economy because it keeps plastic already in circulation rather than extracting and processing new raw materials. Using PCR packaging also directly addresses consumer concerns about plastic waste, giving brands a tangible sustainability story they can share.

Key Benefits

Made with Recycled Plastic

ReFlex PCR™ incorporates post-consumer recycled plastic, reducing the amount of virgin plastic needed and keeping reclaimed material in productive use. This helps brands lower the environmental impact associated with their packaging.

Supports the Circular Economy

By using plastic that has already been through the consumer recycling stream, ReFlex PCR™ contributes directly to the circular economy. This makes it an effective choice for companies with sustainability commitments that go beyond simply making their packaging recyclable.

Meets Consumer Demand

Consumers increasingly seek out brands that demonstrate environmental responsibility. Packaging made from recycled materials is easy for consumers to understand and appreciate, making ReFlex PCR™ a strong choice for brands looking to align their packaging with customer values.

Protects From Damage

Despite being made with recycled content, ReFlex PCR™ delivers the strength and flexibility you’d expect from a premium packaging film. It is resistant to punctures and tears, keeping products secure during packing, shipping, and retail handling.

Applications

ReFlex PCR™ is suitable for a wide range of consumer products where brands want to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. It is a strong fit for food and beverage packaging, household goods, pet food, personal care products, and any application where communicating environmental responsibility to consumers is a priority.

For brands that need enhanced transparency to display their products, Farnell also offers recycle-ready films with superior clarity: Glacier™ for premium seafood and Claropac™ for produce and consumer goods. For companies looking to move beyond plastics entirely, Farnell’s TerraFlex™ is a fully compostable alternative.

About ReFlex PCR™ at a Glance

ReFlex PCR™ is a packaging film incorporating post-consumer recycled plastic. It is strong, flexible, and resistant to punctures and tears. It supports the circular economy by reducing reliance on virgin plastic, and it helps brands meet sustainability targets and consumer expectations. ReFlex PCR™ is produced by Farnell Packaging as part of its commitment to sustainable packaging solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

ReFlex PCR™ is a proprietary packaging film from Farnell Packaging that incorporates post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic. It helps brands reduce their use of virgin plastic and contribute to the circular economy while maintaining the durability and protection their products need.

PCR stands for post-consumer resin (or post-consumer recycled plastic). It refers to plastic that has been used by consumers, collected through recycling programs, and reprocessed into material that can be used to make new products.

Post-consumer recycled plastic comes from products that consumers have used and recycled — such as plastic bottles and containers. Post-industrial recycled plastic is sourced from waste generated during the manufacturing process. Both reduce reliance on virgin materials, but PCR directly addresses the problem of consumer plastic waste. Learn more on our sustainable packaging materials page.

Yes. In addition to being made from recycled plastic, ReFlex PCR™ is itself recyclable, meaning the material can continue to be part of the circular economy through multiple use cycles.

Yes. ReFlex PCR™ is strong, flexible, and resistant to punctures and tears, offering the same level of product protection you would expect from a premium packaging film made with virgin materials.

Farnell Packaging offers a range of proprietary sustainable films, including Glacier™ for premium seafood with enhanced clarity, Claropac™ for produce and consumer goods, and TerraFlex™, a fully compostable packaging film. Learn more about all of Farnell’s sustainable packaging materials.

About ReFlex PCR

  • Recycle-ready packaging film that incorporates recycled post-consumer plastic.
  • Reduces plastic waste by being part of the circular economy.
  • Robust film that is resistant to puncture and tears and helps preserve freshness.

Contact Farnell Packaging

For companies looking to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and the circular economy, Farnell Packaging recommends ReFlex PCR™. For more information about ReFlex PCR™ or to discuss your packaging needs, contact us today.