PPWR-Compliant: Plastic, PCR, and Bio-Based Solutions for Maximum Sustainability

Which PPWR-compliant cosmetic jars and bottles does Gerschon offer for manufacturers and contract fillers?
All plastic jars and bottles offered by Gerschon meet the sustainability criteria defined by the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which mandates that all plastic packaging must be 100% recyclable. Over the coming years, packaging must progressively incorporate higher shares of post-consumer recyclate (PCR).
Gerschon is well prepared: our jars are either made from mono-material polypropylene (PP) or already contain up to 60% PCR, bringing us very close to the targets mandated by the PPWR for 2030. In addition, we provide climate-neutral, bio-based PE jars and bottles that are also 100% recyclable. Gerschon continuously advances its product portfolio in this direction.

Are Gerschon’s cosmetic containers carbon-neutral?
Gerschon offers both carbon-neutral jars and carbon-neutral bottles manufactured from bio-based PE derived from sugarcane. No dedicated sugarcane cultivation is required: the plastic and the energy needed for its production are derived exclusively from sugarcane waste (bagasse) generated during ethanol processing. Because these containers are fully recyclable and can re-enter the recycling stream, they achieve a carbon-neutral overall balance—making them a premier choice for sustainability and climate protection.

Where are Gerschon’s sustainable jars and bottles manufactured?
All plastic jars and bottles are manufactured entirely in Germany; overall, 90% of our entire product portfolio is "Made in Germany." This resource-efficient local production guarantees high quality standards and significantly lowers carbon emissions thanks to short transport distances.

What sizes and colors of recyclable jars and bottles are available from stock?
Availability depends on the specific item. Standard jar capacities—such as 5 ml, 50 ml, and 100 ml—and bottle capacities—such as 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, and 500 ml—are typically available directly from stock. Custom sizes can be manufactured upon request.
Standard stock items are supplied in white or natural (translucent), though production in any custom Pantone color is possible. Please note that darker color formulations can negatively affect the optical sorting efficiency during the recycling process.

Does Gerschon offer 100% recyclable cosmetic bottles compliant with the PPWR?
Yes. Alongside our jars, Gerschon provides bottles made from bio-based PE. These are also "Made in Germany," resource-efficient, benefit from short supply chains, and are 100% recyclable.
Starting mid-year, we will expand this range with plastic bottles featuring approximately 30% PCR content. Our goal is to continuously develop and optimize our product lines toward maximum sustainability.

Are Gerschon’s dispensers and closures also recyclable and sustainable?
Yes. Gerschon applies the same commitment to sustainable German manufacturing for all closures. Screw caps, flip-top caps, disc-top caps, and spray heads are made from recyclable PP.

For lotion pumps and dispensers, Gerschon goes a step further:

• White dispensers are crafted from Green PE.
• Black dispensers contain 50% PCR, use a carbon-free black pigment, and are designed completely metal-free (without metal springs), making automated sorting and recycling significantly more efficient.

How can cosmetic brands successfully transition to PPWR-compliant packaging?
We recommend a pragmatic "step-by-step" strategy. It is not necessary to convert an entire product line at once; rather, the key is to initiate the process by gradually introducing resource-conserving, sustainable packaging solutions into your product lines. Gerschon supports this transition with a compliant product portfolio and in-depth consulting. We welcome your inquiries.

Glass Jars & Containers – Premium, Versatile, Sustainable

In the cosmetics industry, glass is valued as a particularly exclusive material and is therefore frequently used for high-end cosmetic packaging. At the same time, glass offers optimal protection for sensitive formulas, is completely odorless, and is exceptionally easy to recycle. What is Gerschon’s perspective on this material? 

What types of glass jars and containers does Gerschon offer?
Gerschon supplies glass jars and containers for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, cosmetic manufacturers, contract fillers, and private labels. Our portfolio includes clear glass, exclusive opal glass, protective amber glass, and extraordinary violet glass (biophotonic glass).
Glass is extremely versatile and suitable for a wide range of products—from miniature jars for samples and eye creams to containers for luxury skincare and screw-top jars for supplements and tablets.

What are the ideal applications for the different glass types?
Glass primarily represents exclusivity and is ideally suited for high-quality and sensitive cosmetic formulations. It is chemically inert, releases no harmful substances, and is odorless, making it remarkably versatile:

• Clear Glass: Ideal for an aesthetic, premium presentation of products.
• Opal Glass: An exclusive, elegant alternative to clear glass containers.
• Amber Glass: Frequently used for pharmaceutical products or natural cosmetics, as it provides a higher level of light protection than clear or opal glass.
• Violet Glass: Offers exceptional light-filtering protection, making it particularly ideal for sensitive natural cosmetics. 

All glass packaging reflects high value, is 100% recyclable, and represents an exceptionally sustainable packaging solution. 

What makes violet glass jars so special? Can you explain?
Violet glass contains specific minerals and functions as a selective light filter—blocking harmful visible light, ultraviolet rays, and infrared radiation, while allowing beneficial, quality-preserving light frequencies to pass through.
This provides unique protection for sensitive, natural ingredients and contributes to an extended shelf life. While significantly more expensive than other glass types, it offers the ultimate protection for sensitive, natural skincare and pharmaceutical products.

Is the protective effect of violet glass scientifically proven compared to other glass types?
Yes. Scientific studies demonstrate that violet glass protects ingredients and active nutrients significantly better, preserving natural product quality longer than conventional clear, opal, or amber glass. This makes it the perfect packaging solution for high-end, premium natural products.

Can glass jars be customized at Gerschon?
Absolutely. Glass is ideally suited for lacquering/coating, which can be applied with either a glossy or matte finish. Matte finishes are currently very trendy, creating a modern aesthetic paired with an appealing tactile feel. 
Printing can be applied directly onto the glass—whether clear, opal, amber, or violet glass—or on top of a pre-applied coating. Please note: Colors for both coating and printing should not be chosen too dark, as very dark pigments can negatively impact recyclability during sorting

Downloads & Resources:
Gerschon Decoration Inquiry Form: Printing & Lacquering (PDF)
Gerschon Information Sheet for Finishing & Decoration Inquiries (PDF)

How do you evaluate the sustainability of glass compared to plastic?
Glass is a pure natural material and is highly recyclable. While it can be melted down and reprocessed infinitely without losing quality, the process requires an enormous amount of energy — approximately 10 times higher than for plastic. In addition, glass is considerably heavier, which leads to significantly higher transport costs and CO₂ emissions per unit compared to plastic. Plastic, on the other hand, cannot be recycled infinitely and degrades in quality throughout the recycling loop. 
A generalized conclusion is therefore difficult; each material has its justification. However, the common perception that glass is unconditionally more sustainable—and the negative stigma surrounding plastic—is not entirely accurate. From an environmental perspective, recycled plastic (PCR – Post-Consumer Recycled) or refill solutions are often the more resource-efficient choice. Consequently, these options are strongly prioritized under the EU’s new PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation).

Glass Bottles – Premium Protection, Sustainable Packaging

What are the ideal applications for the different glass types?
Gerschon supplies glass bottles to cosmetic manufacturers, contract fillers, private labels, pharmacies, and pharmaceutical producers. The core selection focuses on protective amber glass and extraordinary violet glass. Glass is remarkably versatile and suits a wide range of formulations, from sample vials to bottles for lotions, oils, sensitive essences, and pharmaceutical solutions:

• Clear Glass: Ideal for a pure, transparent, and high-end visual presentation of the contents.
• Opal Glass: Serves as a particularly exclusive, elegant alternative to transparent glass bottles.
• Amber Glass: Delivers robust UV protection for light-sensitive formulations, making it ideal for pharmaceutical products.
• Violet Glass: Provides superior light-filtering protection, perfectly suited for pharmaceutical products and sensitive natural cosmetics.

All glass bottles convey high value, are 100% recyclable, and represent an exceptionally sustainable packaging solution.

What specific advantages do violet glass bottles offer for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals?
Violet glass contains specialized minerals and acts as a selective light filter—blocking harmful visible light, UV rays, and infrared radiation, while transmitting beneficial, quality-preserving wavelengths. This provides distinctive protection for sensitive, natural ingredients and enhances shelf life. Although more costly than other glass types, it offers optimal protection for sensitive, natural skincare and pharmaceutical products.

Is the protective effect of violet glass scientifically proven compared to other glass types?
Yes. Scientific studies confirm that violet glass preserves product ingredients, active compounds, and natural quality significantly longer and more effectively than standard clear, opal, or amber glass. It is the packaging solution of choice for premium, natural formulations.

Can glass bottles be custom printed and decorated at Gerschon?
Certainly. Glass is exceptionally well suited for lacquering/coating in either glossy or matte finishes. Matte coatings are currently on-trend, delivering a contemporary aesthetic and a pleasant tactile feel.
Printing can be applied directly onto the glass—whether clear, opal, amber, or violet—or onto a pre-lacquered surface. Note that colors for both lacquering and printing should not be excessively dark, as very dark pigments can impair automated sorting during recycling.

Downloads & Resources:
Gerschon Decoration Inquiry Form: Printing & Lacquering (PDF)
Gerschon Information Sheet for Finishing & Decoration Inquiries (PDF)

How do you evaluate the sustainability of glass compared to plastic?
Glass is a pure, natural material and can be recycled repeatedly without quality loss. However, re-melting glass requires substantial energy—approximately 10 times more than plastic processing. Glass is also significantly heavier, resulting in higher transport costs and higher CO₂ emissions per unit compared to plastic. Conversely, plastic cannot be recycled indefinitely and experiences quality degradation over multiple cycles.
Determining which material is universally more sustainable depends on the specific use case. The generalized assumption that glass is always more sustainable—and the negative reputation of plastic—is not entirely accurate. From an environmental standpoint, recycled plastic (PCR – Post-Consumer Recycled) or refill systems are often the more resource-efficient solution, which is why they are strongly favored under the EU's PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation).

What ordering options does Gerschon provide for bottles and individual components?
Our B2B ordering system is highly flexible to match different supply needs:

• Small quantities can be ordered directly via our online shop with a low minimum order value of €25.00. Tiered volume discounts, shipping fees, and taxes are calculated automatically in the cart.
• Bulk orders of 3,000 units or more and pallet quantities receive customized quotes with daily updated rates.
• Individual components, such as spray heads, screw caps, bottles, or lotion pumps/dispensers, can be ordered separately. Fast shipping is handled via UPS, GLS, or freight forwarding.

Can customer service be contacted directly for custom inquiries or orders?
Yes. Direct customer support is a priority for us. We are available for in-depth consultations, technical questions about our product range, or guidance regarding decoration and finishing options. Orders can also be placed by phone.

• Phone: +49 (0) 6174 70 17
• Email: info@gerschon.de
  

In the online shop, you can also use the "Inquiry" (Anfragen) button on any product page; our team will reply promptly by email or phone.

Plastic Bottles – Top Sellers: Sustainable, Resource-Efficient, 100% Recyclable

Plastic is the most widely used material for cosmetic packaging; for Gerschon, prioritizing a sustainable, resource-conserving approach is therefore essential. We offer bottles made from various plastics, all of which are 100% recyclable and produced in Germany. Our selection includes classic PP, bio-based PE, and PP with 50% PCR content.

What types of plastic bottles does Gerschon offer for cosmetic manufacturers and contract fillers?
Our standard range of plastic bottles extends from 5 ml to 1,000 ml. The available designs encompass classic round bottles, oval bottles, and tottle/tube bottles. They are ideally suited for a wide variety of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products and can be combined flexibly with premium closures, spray pumps, or lotion dispensers. Thanks to the wide spectrum of capacities and closures, they are perfect for creating cohesive product lines.

Which sustainable materials are used to manufacture Gerschon’s plastic bottles?
Gerschon provides bottles in several resource-saving plastics, including PP mono-material, climate-neutral bio-based PE, and PP with up to 50% PCR content (post-consumer recyclate). All variations stand for sustainability and are 100% recyclable. The bottles are manufactured in Germany according to the highest quality standards, ensuring short transport routes that further support overall sustainability.

In which colors are the cosmetic and pharmaceutical bottles available?
By default, our plastic bottles are produced in white and/or natural (translucent). Upon request, any bottle can be customized in any desired Pantone color.

Does Gerschon offer custom decoration and finishing for plastic bottles?
Yes, our end-to-end service includes professional decoration such as lacquering/coating and printing. Gerschon draws on years of expertise to support customers in realizing a custom, high-end look for their brand. You can explore project examples on our website at www.gerschon.de/en/Finishings/.

Downloads & Resources:
Gerschon Decoration Inquiry Form: Printing & Lacquering (PDF)
Gerschon Information Sheet for Finishing & Decoration Inquiries (PDF)

How can cosmetic companies and contract fillers order bottles from Gerschon?
Gerschon supplies customers precisely tailored to their needs, from small quantities to full pallet shipments:

• Small quantities can be ordered directly and conveniently via the online shop starting from a minimum order value of €25.00. Tiered volume pricing, shipping costs, and VAT are calculated automatically in the cart.
• Bulk orders of 3,000 units or more and pallet shipments are quoted individually with daily updated rates.
• Individual components, such as spray heads, screw closures, bottles, or dispensers, can also be ordered separately. Following order confirmation, prompt shipping is arranged via UPS, GLS, or freight forwarding.

How can customer service be reached for bulk order inquiries or custom finishing requests?
Personal contact with our customers is very important to us. We are always available for consultation—whether you need comprehensive product advice, technical support, or guidance on finishing and decoration options. Orders can also be placed by phone at any time.

• Phone: +49 (0) 6174 70 17
• Email: info@gerschon.de
  

In the online shop, you can also use the "Inquiry" (Anfragen) button on any product page; our team will reply promptly by email or phone.

Plastic Jars & Containers – Sustainable All-Rounders

Sustainable, resource-efficient practices are a key priority across all industries. In the packaging sector, continuous efforts are being made to develop materials that allow cosmetic and pharmaceutical products to be filled into eco-friendly, recyclable containers. Sustainability is close to Gerschon’s heart—here are our answers to the most important questions:

What types of sustainable plastic jars does Gerschon offer for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries?
Gerschon provides a comprehensive range of plastic jars, ranging from classic cosmetic cream jars to single-wall containers designed for pharmaceutical applications. Our portfolio includes models made from PP mono-material, bio-based PE, and polypropylene (PP) with PCR content (post-consumer recyclate).
This enables us to offer our customers versatile options to meet their specific sustainability requirements. All variants share the same key benefits: they are sustainable, 100% recyclable, and manufactured in Germany.

What makes the top-selling AVANTGARDE product line stand out?
The AVANTGARDE is a classic double-wall jar available in sizes from 5 ml to 250 ml, making it ideal for complete cosmetic and pharmaceutical product lines. We offer this line in all aforementioned material options: as a mono-material, in sugarcane-based Green PE, and in PP with 50% PCR content.
Produced in Germany in compliance with the highest quality standards and guidelines, this jar fully conforms to the requirements of the new EU PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation). This is why cosmetic manufacturers and contract fillers particularly value this line for its sustainability and 100% recyclability.

Which other double-wall and single-wall plastic jars are available in the product range?
As an alternative to the AVANTGARDE line, Gerschon offers the double-wall SOFTLINE range, which features a modern, rounded design currently in high demand. It is also made from mono-material, making it 100% recyclable and PPWR-compliant. Production in bio-based PE or PP with PCR content is available upon request.
In addition, we offer single-wall jars, which are especially resource-efficient due to their lower weight and reduced material consumption. For pharmaceutical products, these single-wall jars are also available with a tamper-evident (TE) closure.
Across all jar series, Gerschon consistently prioritizes sustainability.

Can plastic jars and closures be customized and decorated at Gerschon?
Gerschon brings years of expertise to professional packaging decoration and is pleased to offer this service. Both the jars and their closures can be customized through lacquering/coating or printing to highlight each brand’s distinct, premium look.
On our website at www.gerschon.de/en/Finishings/, you will find numerous project examples, an inquiry template for decoration requests, and an information sheet covering all key finishing details.

Downloads & Resources:
Gerschon Decoration Inquiry Form: Printing & Lacquering (PDF)
Gerschon Information Sheet for Finishing & Decoration Inquiries (PDF)

How does the ordering process for plastic jars and individual components work at Gerschon?
Our B2B ordering system is highly flexible and provides several convenient options:

• Small quantities can be ordered directly and conveniently via our online shop starting from a minimum order value of €25.00. Tiered volume pricing, shipping costs, and VAT are calculated automatically in the shopping cart.
• Bulk orders of 3,000 units or more and pallet shipments are quoted individually with daily updated rates.
• Individual components, such as spray heads, screw caps, bottles, or dispensers, can also be ordered separately at any time.
  

Upon receiving your order, we will contact you immediately and ensure swift delivery via UPS, GLS, or freight forwarding.

Can customer service be reached directly for custom inquiries or orders?
Of course. Personal contact with our customers is very important to us. We are always available for consultation—whether you need comprehensive product advice, technical support, or guidance on finishing and decoration options. Orders can also be placed by phone at any time.

• Phone: +49 (0) 6174 70 17
• Email: info@gerschon.de
  

In the online shop, you can also use the "Inquiry" (Anfragen) button on any product page; our team will reply promptly by email or phone.

Downloads & Resources
Gerschon Decoration Inquiry Form: Printing & Lacquering (PDF)
Gerschon Information Sheet for Finishing & Decoration Inquiries (PDF)

TOP TREND 2026:
BIOPHILIC DESIGN

There's no getting around it at the moment! We love the gentle curves of our new bottle series in biophilic design, which is based on the organic shapes found in nature. What's more, these gentle beauties are available in all colours of the rainbow in quantities of 10,000 or more – even with recycled content. We would be happy to advise you personally by phone (+ 49 (0) 6174 70 17) on this product or send us an E-Mail, please.