BRC Packaging Level AA explained: what does it mean for you?
BRC certification is more than a sticker. What does it mean for your audit process, material choices and line speed?
BRC Packaging Level AA: what does this actually mean?
BRC. Three letters that feature on countless data sheets. Often accompanied by a sticker or logo. But what does it actually mean? And why does it matter whether a supplier is at Level A, AA or AA+? A clear explanation, from your perspective as a customer.
What is the BRC Global Standard for Packaging?
BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) is an internationally recognised food safety and quality standard. The Packaging version is specifically for packaging materials. The standard is currently applied in more than 130 countries and is mandatory or strongly recommended by most major retailers in Europe, the United Kingdom and North America.
The audit is carried out annually, on-site, by an accredited third party. It assesses production processes, hygiene, traceability, risk management, product development, storage and personnel.
A, AA, AA+: the difference
The audit result is translated into a grade. The main levels are:
A. Complies with the standard. A limited number of minor non-conformities. Standard result for solid manufacturers.
AA. Significantly fewer non-conformities than A. Requires a higher level of process maturity and documentation.
AA+. The highest level, including an unannounced audit component. Only a small minority of producers achieve this consistently each year.
Hobon is at level AA.
What AA means for you
Three specific benefits for you as a customer.
Lower risk costs in your own audit. Many large retailers and food companies relax their requirements for conducting their own audits of suppliers once those suppliers are certified to BRC AA or higher. Time and money saved in your supplier management.
Faster handling of complaints and non-conformities. AA requires a well-established and proven complaints system with root cause analysis. Should an issue ever arise, you will receive a documented response more quickly.
A stronger case in your tenders. Do you win contracts based on your quality record? Your film supplier’s BRC AA status is a selling point you can highlight.
What AA does not mean
To be honest: AA does not guarantee perfect film. It guarantees process maturity and risk management. An AA-certified manufacturer may still propose the wrong grade for your application if there is no prior technical consultation. That is why pre-purchase advice and technical dialogue remain just as important as the certification itself.
Do you want certainty in your audit file and technical advice when choosing your film? Discuss your packaging requirements.