Guide to Retailer Packaging
and Sustainability Requirements
Make Retail Packaging Your Easy Sustainability Win
Many EcoAllies start by selling direct-to-consumer — but growth often means expanding into major retailers. With that shift comes new packaging expectations: sustainability standards, logistics requirements, and retailer-specific policies.
EcoEnclose helps brands build packaging strategies that meet retailer guidelines while advancing their environmental goals. Get in touch with us today to get started with our packaging experts.
Read on to explore sustainable packaging requirements by leading national retailers, plus tips on how we can support your journey.
Amazon
Updated October 1, 2024
Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging (FFP) is a set of guidelines Amazon sellers must adhere to with their packaging. There are three tiers of certification, from basic to the most advanced.
Walmart
Updated October 1, 2024
Walmart encourages sustainable packaging through their Project Gigaton and implementing THESIS scoring.
Packaging Legislation Resources
Retailer Requirements
Plastic Bag & Polystyrene Bans
Ulta Beauty
Updated October 1, 2024
For brands to be featured as having Sustainable Packaging within Ulta’s Conscious Beauty line, they must ensure their packaging is made from recycled or bio-sourced materials, or is recyclable or refillable.
Sephora
Updated October 1, 2024
Sephora's Clean + Planet Positive seal is given to brands who meet strict guidelines across four areas: climate commitment, sustainable sourcing, responsible packaging, and environmental giving.
Credo Beauty
Published October 10, 2024
Credo is committed to fostering a circular economy by encouraging recycling, using recyclable materials, and supporting brands that share these values.
DICK'S Sporting Goods
Updated October 1, 2024
DICK'S Sporting Goods is implementing sustainability initiatives like custom-fit shipping and packaging materials to reduce waste and emphasize recyclability.
Target
Updated November 12, 2024
Brands interested in being part of Target Zero should make their packaging reusable or refillable, from less or no plastic, with recycled content, or compostable.
Whole Foods
Updated November 12, 2024
Whole Foods was at the forefront of sustainability initiatives like banning plastic bags and straws. They continue to reach high sustainability goals today — with strict requirements for owned brands and outside vendors and suppliers.
Costco
Updated November 12, 2024
Costco’s unique member warehouse club model attracts customers in hundreds of stores in eight countries. Costco has high standards for its suppliers and is increasingly focused on sustainability.
CVS
Updated November 12, 2024
CVS is dedicated to sustainability efforts throughout its operations, including rethinking packaging to reduce waste.
Kroger
Updated November 12, 2024
Kroger applies sustainability throughout their business and uses clear targets and reporting to measure their progress.