The countdown is officially on! In just 100 days, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will open its doors at the NEC Birmingham on 12 and 13 February 2025, uniting the brightest minds and the most advanced technologies from the packaging industry. The UK’s flagship packaging exhibition has rapidly established itself as a vital gathering for professionals eager to delve into the future of packaging.
As the premier event for the entire packaging supply chain, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 offers a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and innovate. With over 430 exhibitors and more than 7,000 visitors expected, attendees will gain exclusive access to the latest trends and technologies in packaging design, materials, machinery, and sustainability.
Naomi Stewart, Marketing Manager at Easyfairs UK, emphasises the event's significance: “As 2025 approaches, businesses face growing pressure to meet sustainability targets. Packaging Innovations & Empack provides the ideal platform for collaborative initiatives to navigate upcoming opportunities.”
From smart packaging and food service innovations to the latest sustainable solutions, the event will showcase the future of packaging across various industries. Dedicated zones will spotlight key growth areas, including Food Service, Label & Print, and Smart Packaging.
Nikki Grainge, Packaging Technician at Marks & Spencer, reflects on the importance of such events, stating, “It’s about reconnecting with suppliers and making new connections.” Director of Resources & Waste at Defra, Emma Bourne, adds, “There’s always a diverse selection of exhibitors and a real sense of networking and learning going on, creating a fantastic atmosphere.”
Collaboration is at the heart of the event, with Felix Gruenewald from McKinsey & Company noting, “Collaboration will be the most important aspect of our efforts to change the industry.” Meanwhile, Margaret Bates, Head of the UK pEPR Scheme administrator, highlights the rare opportunity Packaging Innovations & Empack provides: “There are very few occasions where you can gather almost the entire sector in one place.”
Exhibitors will engage with a rich pool of prospects from top brands and sectors, including food and beverage, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), pharmaceuticals, beauty, and e-commerce. Companies like Autajon Packaging, Simply Cartons, FlexPET BV, Coveris UK, and AstroNova® will present their attention-grabbing latest innovations.
Prestigious attendees will include renowned UK brands Waitrose, PZ Cussons, Diageo, Sainsbury’s, and Amazon, making this a vital platform for networking and discovering cutting-edge solutions. Exhibitors like OPRL, Taghleef, Sun Branding, Elopak, and Hazel 4D will showcase to attendees innovative packaging approaches that drive growth and sustainability.
Rob Thompson, Senior Packaging Manager at Co-Op, shares, “I’ve been attending Packaging Innovations at the NEC for over 20 years. It’s the UK’s premier event for anyone looking to network with other packaging professionals.”
Hannah Pollard, Packaging Technologist at Iceland, adds, “I thoroughly enjoy Packaging Innovations & Empack; it showcases a diverse range of exhibitors and always delivers an eclectic mix of talks on key topics. I make new connections and draw inspiration from the Innovation Awards areas, making it a fantastic show.”
The event sees the return of the Future Trailblazer Awards spotlighting the industry's most promising talent, while the Packaging Start-Up Awards, sponsored by Ocado Retail, celebrate packaging's groundbreaking start-ups. The Innovation Gallery will also showcase exceptional projects from the past year.
“By showcasing these innovative projects, the event underscores its commitment to celebrating creativity and encouraging collaboration among industry professionals,” added Stewart. “Together, these initiatives create an environment ripe for inspiration and connection, ensuring that Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 remains at the forefront of the evolving packaging landscape.”
Secure your free visitor pass today and experience the future of packaging firsthand. Connect with industry leaders, discover the latest innovations, and attend the 50+ speaker conference programme packed with expert insights. From sustainability to cutting-edge technologies, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 promises to inspire and drive the industry's future.