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sustainable-board-game-manufacturing-ukge-2025

Date: 11/06/2025 

UKGE 2025: Sustainable Board Game Manufacturing and Insights

The UK Games Expo 2025 (UKGE) has once again confirmed its status as a central hub for the board game industry in Europe. For us, this year’s event was more than a showcase: it was a strategic moment to connect, listen, and reflect on where the industry is heading. It was an amazing pleasure chatting with all of you and getting to know the projects that you are working on! 

Two major themes dominated conversations with publishers and creators alike: sustainability and materials in board game manufacturing and the impact of international tariffs on production models, particularly for games made in China.

Why Sustainable Board Game Manufacturing Matters

Sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have” – it’s now a key differentiator for publishers and manufacturers alike. Eco-conscious gamers are actively seeking out board games that reflect their values, while regulatory pressure continues to grow across global markets.

The most relevant sustainable manufacturing practices included:

  • FSC-certified materials: responsibly sourced paper, cardboard, and wood
  • Soy- or algae-based inks: biodegradable and non-toxic
  • Plastic-free and compostable game components, like bagasse inserts, corn-based “plastic”
  • Minimized packaging: no shrink wrap, reduced box dimensions, recyclable inserts

These solutions contribute to lower carbon footprints, better recyclability, and enhanced customer trust. Rawstone integrates these options into every project we co-develop.

Navigating Global Tariffs and China-Based Production

For years, China has been a key production hub for board game companies due to its affordability and manufacturing expertise.
However, new tariffs — such as the duties recently introduced in the U.S. — are shaking up the cost and logistics models for many publishers.
The consequences are tangible: higher retail prices, shipping delays, strategic shifts.

 

At Rawstone, we continue to support publishers producing in China by offering cost-optimization strategies, centralized logistics, and advisory support on how to navigate evolving international trade frameworks.

Our Vision Going Forward

In light of these challenges and opportunities, Rawstone is committed to helping publishers make informed, long-term decisions that combine efficiency, sustainability, and compliance. We firmly believe that environmentally conscious production is not just the right thing to do — it is also a source of long-term competitive value. 

UK Games Expo 2025 has shown us a clear path forward: one where collaboration, awareness, and innovation drive the evolution of the board game industry.

We are proud to contribute to this transformation — helping partners bring their ideas to life through sustainable, flexible, and globally aware production solutions.

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